I'M ON A VACATION, SORRY

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY...

Every moment wasted looking back keeps us from moving forward. ____________________________________________________________________________________ FUN FACTS AND A GREAT WAY TO MAKE EXTRA INCOME WITH MJ-HLC, - AND - CHECK OUT " WWW.MELODYSHAPPYWORLD.COM" FOR A FREE WAY TO BRING HAPPINESS TO THE WORLD AND LOTS OF IT TO THE WORLD WE LIVE IN!! - YOU CAN REACH MELODY AT; - 949 -706- 0887 - _____________________________________________________________________________________ WWW.MELODYSHAPPYWORLD.COM - "True happiness is not looking back with regret, but looking forward to the future and creating your own exciting, magnificent destiny and masterpiece, YOUR LIFE!" MELODY JENSEN IS THE MOST WONDERFUL PERSON AND THE GREATEST HUMANITARIAN I KNOW. CHECK OUT MELODY'S HAPPY WORLD, IT'S FREE!! ASSOCIATIONS: WWW.MELODYSSECRET.COM - YOU CAN REACH MELODY AT; 949 -706- 0887 -

The Secret to Soft, Glowing Skin

Think exfoliating products are just a sales gimmick? Dermatologists say they really do help you get a healthy glow on. Read on to learn how to make the most of a scrub… Drugstore beauty aisles are full of products claiming to exfoliate skin, but many women don’t know how and when to scrub. Or what it actually does for complexions. Turns out, it’s a key way to keep skin soft and glowing. Especially as we age. Here’s why exfoliating helps: The top tier of skin (the epidermis) is made of layers of dead, flattened cells. Over roughly four weeks, these move from the bottom of the epidermis to its surface, where they naturally fall off, exposing newer, fresher-looking skin underneath. But as we age, our body’s ability to shed dead cells slows, leaving skin looking dull. That’s why kids have a rosy radiance and many adults don’t. By removing the topmost layer, exfoliating speeds up the skin’s shedding process, says New York City-based dermatologist Doris Day, M.D., author of Forget the Facelift (Avery). But exfoliating too often or using the wrong products may dry out or irritate skin. So how do you make sure you don’t rub skin the wrong way? Read on for the dermatologists’ top do’s and don’ts. Do know what exfoliating does for your skin. A gentle scrubbing offers more than a temporary rosiness and softer, smoother skin. Over the long term, regular exfoliation “can visibly minimize pores and rejuvenate the skin’s surface,” says Patricia Wexler, M.D., associate clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai College of Medicine in New York. Exposing fresher cells evens out texture and tone – including acne scars – and unclogs pores. And it makes pigmentation and fine lines less noticeable, because you’re removing some discolored, sun-damaged skin. Exfoliating can also boost penetration of other skin products – those that moisturize or fight wrinkles, acne and discoloration. It also makes self-tanners look more natural and last longer. Don’t think all exfoliants are created equal. Exfoliants fall into two categories: physical and chemical. To understand their differences, imagine a sink of dirty pots and pans. Both a scouring pad and dish soap will clean them, but in different ways. Physical exfoliants (also called mechanical exfoliants) use gritty materials – beads, grainy scrubs, loofahs and even shaving – to send dead skin packing. Chemical, or liquid, exfoliants use a mild acid to dissolve the “glue” that binds dead cells to the skin’s surface, Day says. These include beta hydroxy acids (salicylic is one) and alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic and lactic. Which is best for you? It depends on your skin type. If you have extremely dry, sensitive or acne-prone skin, choose chemical exfoliants over grainy scrubs. The latter can be too abrasive, leaving skin inflamed and irritated. Salicylic acid is particularly good for acne sufferers because “it exfoliates the surface layer of dead skin cells and cleanses away acne-forming bacteria,” Day says. And whatever your skin type, use physical scrubs with ground fruit pits, nuts or shells only on your body, not your face. These may sound safe because they’re made with natural ingredients, but they can tear delicate facial skin with their harsh, jagged edges, exacerbating acne and other skin conditions. Do know when to exfoliate. All skin types benefit from a good scrubbing, Wexler says. “I advise all my clients to exfoliate regularly, no matter their skin condition – whether aging, acne-prone or sensitive – for optimum cell renewal and a glowing complexion,” she says. But how often you exfoliate depends on your skin type. If your face is oily, exfoliate at least once a week. Women with drier, more sensitive skin should stick to only once a week or every two weeks, Day advises. Body parts like knees, elbows, ankles and feet can be rubbed and scrubbed every other day. That’s because skin is thicker in these areas and can tolerate more friction. Plus, dead, dry skin cells tend to pile up there. But don't scrub if you have an active infection, cold sore, sunburn, extremely dry skin, redness or inflammation for any reason. Let skin heal before exfoliating or you may worsen the conditions. Don’t overdo exfoliation. While a little can make a big difference in your complexion, over-exfoliating can damage skin, aggravating acne or increasing dryness. That’s because dead surface cells retain moisture, “so constantly removing this protective layer keeps it from staying hydrated,” says Manhattan based-dermatologist Paul Jarrod Frank, M.D., associate professor of dermatology at New York University Medical Center. You’ve gone too far “if skin bleeds, stings or burns after exfoliating. That’s a sign “you've over-stripped the outer layer of skin,” Day says. Another common problem: Using too many exfoliants at once. It’s an easy mistake. How many times have you washed your face with a physical exfoliant (like a loofah or grainy scrub) and then applied a chemical exfoliant (a skin cream with alpha-hydroxy-acids)? Do know how to exfoliate. Pretty much every body part can be exfoliated, but here are tips to make it more effective. On your face, use a light hand and apply exfoliant to damp skin – it causes too much friction on dry skin. Exfoliate your lips with a toothbrush, washcloth or an exfoliant made for lips to remove dry flakes and boost blood circulation. Dry brush the rest of your body three times a week before stepping in the shower, advises Susan Ciminelli, owner of the Susan Ciminelli Day Spa in New York City and author of The Ciminelli Solution: A Seven-Day Plan for Radiant Skin (William Morrow). Use a natural-bristle body brush, loofah sponge or loofah gloves (all available at a health food store and some drugstores); they’re not as harsh than synthetic versions. Start at your feet, using gentle, circular, counter-clockwise motions, and work your way up legs to the torso, chest and arms. Don’t assume you have to use expensive products. Physical and chemical exfoliants are sold in a variety of price ranges at drugstores and department stores. In fact, you might have all the ingredients for an effective scrub right in your kitchen. “Oatmeal is one of my favorite ingredients because it’s gentle in abrading off the upper layers of skin cells,” Day says. “It’s excellent for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin.” Here are two do-it-yourself scrubs Day recommends: Oatmeal-Aloe Vera Facial Scrub 1/2 cup coarsely ground, raw oatmeal 1/4 cup organic honey 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel 2 teaspoons water 1. Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Apply to face and neck with gentle, circular strokes for about a minute. Rinse with lukewarm tap water or wipe off with a warm, damp washcloth. Finish with a splash of cold tap water to tighten pores, and pat dry. Oatmeal-Salt Body Scrub 1/2 cup sea salt 1/4 cup ground, uncooked oatmeal 6 tablespoons flaxseed oil 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 8 drops geranium oil 1. Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Massage over your body and feet in the bath or shower for a few minutes. Finish with a rinse of cool water and pat skin dry. Do care for skin after exfoliating. Because exfoliating makes other products penetrate better, be careful with lotions and potions that you apply afterward. If your skin gets too sensitive to them after exfoliating, apply them on days you don’t scrub. If you have skin dry skin, apply moisturizer immediately after exfoliating so it really soaks in. Headed outside? Freshly exfoliated skin is more sun-sensitive – because you’re removing the epidermis’ top layer – which increases the risk of sun damage and sunburn. Be extra vigilant about avoiding the sun and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen (that protects against ultraviolet A and B rays) daily. Michele Bender writes frequently on skin care for Lifescript. For more information, visit our Skin Heath Center. Are You Skin-Care Savvy? The skin is a living, breathing organ, and what you don't know about taking care of it could keep your complexion from looking fantastic. If your skin-care knowledge could barely fill a pillbox, you need a refresher course. Do you know how to put your best face forward?

Decoding Your Health Test Results Get the 411 On 9 Critical Medical Tests

Your doctor ordered a blood test. But do you understand the numbers? Or if you’re bordering on a heart attack, diabetes or underactive thyroid? We asked the experts to explain these critical medical test results – and what they say about your health... You look and feel great, but are you really in optimal health? Routine medical tests can tell you – if you know how to interpret the results. “A person who understands the significance of tests and results is better able to make decisions about their care,” says cardiologist Janet Wright, M.D. Read on to find out which tests you need, what’s being measured and the next steps to take if you don’t ace the exam. 1. Blood Pressure Blood pressure is simply a measurement of the force of blood pushing against artery walls as your heart pumps blood through the body. Your doctor will read off two numbers. The top, or systolic, is the pressure that occurs when your heart beats. The bottom, or diastolic, measures pressure when your ticker rests between beats. If your blood pressure is higher than normal, you have hypertension, which “damages arteries, leading to strokes, kidney failure, blindness and heart attacks,” Dr. Wright says. What’s optimal for your health: 120/80 mmHg. (That stands for millimeters of mercury, which is used to measure blood pressure.) What’s not: A top number over 140 or a bottom number higher than 90 indicate high blood pressure. A systolic number of 120-139 or a diastolic of 80-89 suggests pre-hypertension, which means you’re likely to end up with high blood pressure if you don’t exercise more or change your diet. Some people have low blood pressure, but this is a problem only if it causes fainting or dizziness. 2. Cholesterol The body needs some of this waxy, fatty substance to help it make hormones and vitamin D, for example. But too much cholesterol can accumulate on your arterial walls and “lead to heart attacks and strokes,” Dr. Wright says. You have a tougher time managing cholesterol levels if you have diabetes, leading to a condition called diabetic hyperlipidosis. Your body produces two kinds of cholesterol: HDL, or “high-density lipoprotein,” is good for you because it helps keep arteries clear. The higher this number, the lower your risk of heart disease. Bad cholesterol, or LDL or “low-density lipoprotein,” can build up in arteries and form plaque, a hard substance that can slow or block blood flow. Two other types of bad cholesterol, triglycerides and Lp(a) cholesterol, also contribute to arterial plaque buildup. Learn how to lower your cholesterol levels. What’s optimal for your health: Total blood cholesterol should be below 200 mg/dL (which means milligrams per deciliter of blood). HDL should be over 50 for women LDL, less than 100 is optimal; 100-129 is near-optimal What’s not: Total blood cholesterol of 200-239 is borderline high; over 240 is high. HDL: below 50 for women LDL: 130-159 is borderline high; 160-189 is high; 190 or above is very high 3. C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Your liver produces this protein, and levels rise when arteries are inflamed or swollen. It’s a sign of cardiovascular disease. A test called the hs-CRP (highly sensitive C-Reactive Protein) measures how much CRP is in your blood. / People with high levels have twice the risk of heart attacks than those with low levels, according to the American Heart Association. What’s optimal for your health: An hs-CRP level of less than 1.0 mg/L (milligrams per liter) indicates low risk; 1.0 to 3.0 mg/L means average risk. What’s not: An hs-CRP level more than 3.0 mg/L indicates a high risk. CRP levels too high? Get doctor-recommended tips for a healthy heart. 4. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) This simple blood test will tell you if your body is producing enough THS. The hormone is produced by the pituitary gland to help control hormones produced by the thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland in the lower part of your neck just above the collarbone. The thyroid controls many body processes, including bowel function, energy level and menstruation. An underactive thyroid slows metabolism, creating hypothyroidism. Symptoms include unexplained weight gain, decreased appetite, feeling too cold, oversleeping, constipation, hair loss, reduced sex drive, infertility, depression and excessive fatigue. An overactive thyroid speeds up your metabolism, a condition called hyperthyroidism. Symptoms include unexplained weight loss, increased appetite, feeling too hot, sleeping troubles, pounding heartbeat, diarrhea and feeling wound-up. “Your TSH will be elevated as it tries to push your gland to produce more thyroid hormone,” says Laura C. Knobel, M.D., a family physician in Walpole, Mass., and a member of the Board of Directors of the American Academy of Family Physicians. “If too much thyroid hormone is being produced, your TSH will be very low, or not even detected.” What’s optimal for your health: TSH from 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L (milli-international units per liter) What’s not: Over 4.0 mIU/L indicates hypothyroidism. Under 0.4 means hyperthyroidism. 5. Blood Sugar A blood glucose test can indicate if your body is processing blood sugars properly and whether you're at risk for diabetes, one of the leading causes of disability and death in the U.S. When you eat, food is converted into blood sugar. In healthy people, a hormone called insulin, which is secreted by the pancreas, ushers glucose into cells throughout your body so it can fuel growth, cell repair and other functions. In some people, insulin doesn’t do its job, either because the pancreas, a gland behind the stomach, doesn’t make enough or because the body is resistant to it. The result: Too much glucose stays in the blood and diabetes develops. Over time, excess blood sugar can damage blood vessels, heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves. Three medical tests measure blood sugar levels: Hemoglobin A1C, fasting plasma glucose test (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Most doctors will do an FPG or OGTT, but the hemoglobin A1C is considered the most reliable. “It [shows] how high blood sugars have been over the last three months,” Dr. Knobel says. Find out how to prevent diabetes. What’s optimal for your health: An A1C under 5.7%, an FPG under 100 mg/dL or OGTT below 140 mg/dL What’s not: An A1 from 5.7%-6.4% indicates pre-diabetes; over 6.4% is considered diabetes. FPG: 100-125 mg/dL indicates pre-diabetes; over 125 indicates diabetes OGTT: 140-200 mean pre-diabetes; over 200 is diabetes 6. Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Doctors use bone mineral density tests to gauge skeletal health. The denser your bones, the stronger they are. But when they lose calcium (their primary substance) because of aging, poor diet, lack of exercise or a genetic predisposition, they become less dense, resulting in osteoporosis. Similar to an X-ray, a BMD test measures bone density against that of a healthy 30-year-old woman. The comparison is used to determine a T-score. A score of zero means your bones are equal to that of a healthy 30-year-old. Higher numbers indicate stronger bones; lower indicates weaker ones. With a BMD test, you may also get a Z-score, comparing your bone density to women your age. A Z-score is a less accurate way to diagnose osteoporosis, but it can tell your doctor if you’re starting to lose calcium. Find out how to build your bones. What’s optimal for your health: A T-score of minus 1 to plus 1 and a Z-score above minus 2 is normal. What’s not: T-scores from minus 1 to minus 2.5 indicate low bone density — a condition known as osteopenia. A T-score lower than minus 2.5 indicates osteoporosis. Z-scores below minus 2 require more testing. Here are two other non-lab health tests that offer clues to your well-being: 7. Body Mass Index (BMI) Doctors use BMI to determine if – and by how much – you're over- or underweight. It's calculated with weight and height. Isn't weight enough of an indicator? Not according to Erin E. Tracy, M.D., an obstetrician/gynecologist at Massachusetts General Hospital. “BMI is more accurate,” she says. Here’s why: Consider two women who each weigh 140 pounds. If one is 4 feet, 8 inches, and the other is 5 feet, 8 inches, the first woman with a BMI of 31.4 would be considered obese. The second? Her BMI of just 21.3 would be healthy. As your BMI goes up, so does your risk for several conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. To figure out your BMI easily, use this calculator. What’s optimal for your health: A BMI of 18.5 -24.9. What’s not: An underweight BMI (less than 18.5 inches) means you’re probably not eating enough and not getting the nutrients your body needs, increasing your risk of anemia, osteoporosis and menstrual problems. Overweight: 25-29.9. Obese: 30 or over. 8. Waist Circumference This critical number tells you how much fat you have in your abdominal area. Nobody wants a flabby belly, but having one isn’t only about looks. Too much belly fat – also known as visceral fat – threatens your health. It surrounds your abdominal organs and secretes hormones that raise your risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes. “Waist circumference is a better indicator of obesity than BMI since it measures central obesity, or the fat that accumulates around the middle section of the body,” Dr. Knobel says. Even normal-weight women need to watch their waistlines. Studies – including the Harvard School of Public Health’s Nurses’ Health Study, which followed 238,000 nurses – have found that women with excess waist fat die younger from cancer or heart disease than those with smaller middles, even if they're not overweight. You can do this one at home: Put the tape snugly around your waist around your belly button – and don’t hold your stomach in. What’s optimal for your health: Under 35 inches for women What’s not: Anything higher Will You See Your 80th Birthday? What is your life expectancy? Can you rely on good genetics to keep you thriving through the years, or do you need to do more to raise your odds of living longer?

Don’t Let Depression Destroy Your Relationship

If you’re depressed, you could be dragging your mate to the dumps with you. Here are 5 common symptoms that wreck relationships – and expert advice on how to get love back on track… When you’re in a relationship and feeling depressed, two people suffer. Karen S., a business executive in her late 20s, had been with her boyfriend eight months when she fell into a funk. She no longer enjoyed her favorite activities, preferring to spend weekends sleeping in and watching TV. Her boyfriend missed the fun-loving, outgoing woman he’d fallen for. Their sex life was nonexistent. He thought she wasn’t interested in him anymore. A few months later, Karen's doctor diagnosed her with depression. She eventually got the help she needed, but it was too late - the relationship didn’t survive. That doesn’t surprise Miami marriage and family therapist Lisa Paz, Ph.D. “Depression makes the non-depressed partner feel helpless and confused,” she says. “[Faced with] silence, withdrawal, and no sex or desire to do anything, partners think this is the turn the relationship is taking – that this is the way it’s always going to be.” Depression isn’t just occasional sadness. It’s a collection of symptoms, including irritability, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, feelings of worthlessness or helplessness, a loss of enjoyment in your usual activities, and sometimes suicidal thoughts. If you experience five or more symptoms for at least two weeks, you could have clinical depression, also known as major depression. It’s a serious condition you should have evaluated by a doctor or mental-health professional immediately, for the sake of your own well-being and your relationship. “Getting treatment and taking positive steps toward helping yourself are some of the best things you can do for you - and your relationship,” says Andrea Bonior, Ph.D., a professor of psychology at Georgetown University. “Working on getting better and assuring your partner that you’re on that path can go a long way.” To rekindle the romance, we’ve outlined five classic symptoms of depression that erode a relationship. Plus, we asked therapists for their best strategies to help you and your partner survive depression together. 1. Your sex drive tanks. When your mood plummets, it usually takes libido with it, says Paz. Since sex is often the glue that bonds couples, and your guy doesn't get why you haven't been intimate lately, he may think you’re not attracted to him or don’t love him anymore. What you can do: Explain that it really is you, not him. And that while your desire has evaporated, it’s not a reflection of your feelings for him. If your doctor recommends antidepressants, ask if you can take medication that will alleviate symptoms without dulling your sex drive even more. “Many antidepressants can exacerbate low desire,” says marriage, family and sex therapist Stephen Betchen, DSW, LMFT, author of Magnetic Partners: Discover How the Hidden Conflict That Once Attracted You to Each Other Is Driving You Apart (Tantor Media). One that doesn’t: bupropion (Wellbutrin). What your partner can do for you: Focus on being close without any expectations about the outcome. “I tell couples to create a situation where it’s not about sex, but physical intimacy,” Bonior says. “Some couples end up cuddling on the couch. Others have sex anyway.” 2. You squabble more. Are you nagging more, or acting short-tempered, impatient and cynical, which leads to fights? “People think depression is about being tearful all the time, but it also comes out as irritability and negativity,” Bonior says. What you can do: Acknowledge that your mood is affecting your behavior. And give him permission to remove himself from the fight, says Bonior. “Some couples work out a script in advance so they have a plan to extricate themselves from arising conflicts.” What your partner can do for you: Though it’s common for the depressed person to pick on a partner, he doesn’t have to take the bait, says Betchen. Instead, he should look for ways to diffuse situations before they blow up. A good start, says Bonior, is saying something like: We’re fighting a lot more. Let’s try to understand what’s going on here. Also, he needs to realize he’s not responsible for making you better. “It’s very common for the nondepressed partner to get angry and frustrated with the person who’s depressed because they haven’t been able to fix or cure them,” Betchen says. “You can help, but don't try to take on the doctor role.” 3. You’re isolating yourself. Depression makes you want to withdraw into your own island of despair. You might be ashamed you can’t pull yourself out of the funk. Or if you don’t have the energy to connect with your partner, you might drop out until you feel better. “There’s an emotional checkout with depression,” Paz says. “You’re not present in anything but your darkness.” What you can do: If you can’t talk face-to-face, send emails or leave notes for your partner that say I love you, Thanks for your patience, Bear with me, You’re the best. “That way you can stay connected on some level,” Paz says. What your partner can do for you: Stay nearby, so you can both feel close even if you’re not interacting. “Showing you’re supportive but not smothering is the best act of love in this tough time,” Paz says. 4. You don’t want to go out. When you don’t feel like doing anything, it’s tempting to curl up on the couch and order takeout. While that may be all you can manage, eventually even the most devoted partner will get cabin fever and resent your diminishing social life. “Part of depression is being turned off to things you used to be enthusiastic about,” Bonior says. Giving up hobbies and not keeping up with friendships hurts relationships. “To the partner, it can seem like the person they knew isn’t there anymore,” she says. What you can do: Find an activity outside the house that brings you joy. Gardening, yoga, talking a walk, listening to music, laughing with a friend. “That’s a lifeline. Even if it’s just an hour, it can make you feel better for that time,” Bonior says. What your partner can do for you: Look for opportunities to take you out even for a short time. A midday movie could be a good choice. “This requires minimal conversation – which can be exhausting – and you don’t have to get dressed up,” Paz says. And if you’ve been considering getting a dog, now’s the time: Walking and caring for a pet will get you out of the house and can lift you out of your funk. It worked for a client of psychologist Stephanie Newman, Ph.D., of the Psychoanalytic Institute at New York University Medical Center. When she wouldn’t leave the house, her partner got them a dog. “Having something to love changes your perspective a bit. The dog can break through the loneliness and isolation,” she says. 5. You’re letting yourself go. Maybe you don’t notice – or care – that you haven’t changed out of your pajamas for days. “When you’re depressed, everything feels overwhelming," Paz says. "You feel like you can’t do all of it, so why do any of it?” Without understanding why you’re gaining weight, not doing your hair or putting on nice clothes, your partner could interpret your lack of effort as disinterest in the relationship. “He wonders why she doesn’t want to look nice for him anymore,” Bonior says. What you can do: Instead of getting overwhelmed by the process, take baby steps. “Go minute by minute,” Paz says. “Ask yourself, 'Can I get to the bathroom and just brush my teeth?' Then 'Can I get in the shower now?' If it becomes too much, sit down or get back in bed.” And cut yourself some slack occasionally. “Give yourself permission to wear a sweatsuit and go without makeup,” Paz suggests. “When you don’t force yourself to rally, it often frees you up to feel like you can rally because you don’t have the pressure.” What your partner can do for you: Convey support, not criticism. Suggesting that you jump in the shower because it’s been a while since you touched soap and water: criticism. Preparing a soothing bath filled with your favorite scented oils and offering to wash your hair: supportive. Also, some comfy, yet fashionable clothes, such as yoga pants, would make a great feel-good gift, suggests Paz. Of course, all these tips can be modified if your partner’s the one who’s depressed and you’re struggling to cope. Either way, dealing with the situation now can create an even better relationship once the fog lifts. “Couples that navigate the really tough times are usually stronger,” Betchen says. “They feel that they can conquer just about anything.”

Treating Uterine Fibroids: Key Questions Answered

Are uterine fibroids cancerous? Do they affect fertility? Which treatment is right for you? Read on as experts answer your top questions… Your period is so heavy, you avoid leaving the house a few days each month. Sex is painful. And you’re spotting regularly. The likely diagnosis – uterine tumors called uterine fibroids – is scary. But it’s common: As many as 80% of women develop a uterine fibroid tumor in their lifetimes, says Michele Curtis, M.D., a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Texas in Houston. Symptoms vary: Some women have excessive bleeding, pelvic pressure and pain. Others notice nothing. Only 25% of women have tumors that require treatment, which can range from simple birth control pills to a life-altering hysterectomy to remove the uterus. To find out how fibroids affect your body and the best ways to treat them, we asked gynecologists these key questions: 1. How did I get uterine fibroids? Doctors don’t know what causes these tumors – sometimes called leiomyomas or myomas – but there’s a strong genetic link. You’re three times more likely to develop fibroids if your mother had one, according to the National Women’s Health Information Center (NWHIC). They’re also more common among obese and/or African-American women. Research suggests the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which stimulate the uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy, also play a role in fibroid growth. Fibroid tissue contains more estrogen than normal uterine cells, and fibroids seem to be fueled by the presence of these hormones. When a woman enters menopause, and her estrogen levels decrease, fibroids shrink. Estrogen doesn’t cause fibroids, but it does feed them. 2. Can they become cancerous? It’s extremely rare – less than one in 1,000 fibroids is cancerous, according to the NWHIC. If they begin to grow rapidly, they’re more likely to be cancerous. Your gynecologist will track them through a routine manual pelvic exam or by ordering an annual ultrasound. Questionable tumors will be removed and tested for malignancy. 3. What other factors determine severity? Depending on its location, a small tumor can cause more problems than a larger one. For example, a 1-centimeter fibroid in the uterine cavity that’s causing profuse menstrual bleeding would require treatment, says Serene Srouji, M.D., of Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. But a 7-centimeter tumor in the outer wall that isn’t causing discomfort wouldn’t. 4. Do all fibroids need treatment? “There are no specific treatment guidelines in terms of size, location or number of fibroids,” Dr. Srouji says. “These decisions depend on symptoms.” If you don’t have any symptoms – such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pain during sex, frequent urination, constipation and abdominal bloating – fibroids don’t require treatment. If your fibroids are asymptomatic, they won’t cause other health problems, Dr. Curtis says. 5. Why do fibroids make my periods heavier? If the fibroid is inside the uterus, it increases growth of endometrial tissue that’s normally shed during menstruation, says Pasquale Patrizio, M.D., director of the Yale Fertility Center. 6. Can heavy bleeding cause other problems? Sometimes it can lead to iron loss and anemia. Iron makes hemoglobin, the protein that turns blood red and allows it to carry oxygen throughout your body. With a deficiency, you can feel weak, cold, dizzy and irritable. If iron-deficiency anemia is suspected, your doctor should check iron levels in your blood. Low levels are treated with iron supplements to improve strength. 7. Can fibroids affect my ability to have children? Fibroids alone rarely cause infertility, Dr. Curtis says. If they do, it’s often because of their location. A fibroid in the uterine wall can distort the uterus and prevent an embryo from implanting, resulting in first-trimester miscarriages. Or it can block or distort the fallopian tubes so the sperm and egg can’t get through. Removing the fibroid will fix both problems. 8. Do I need to have fibroids removed to become pregnant? Not necessarily. “If a woman [who wants to become pregnant] is diagnosed with a fibroid, we tell her to try getting pregnant,” Dr. Curtis says. “If she can’t, or if she has repeated miscarriages after a year, we may recommend removing the fibroid.” If you get pregnant and the fibroid is obstructing the cervix, your doctor may recommend a Cesarean delivery. 9. Do I need surgery to remove my fibroids? If your symptoms are limited to heavy bleeding, birth control pills or a progesterone intrauterine device (IUD) can reduce your flow. So can other less-invasive procedures, like endometrial ablation. But these aren’t recommended for women who want to get pregnant because they change the uterine lining: Uterine artery embolization (UAE). This procedure is commonly done when excessive menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) is the primary symptom and the surgical risk is judged unacceptable or the patient declines surgery, Dr. Curtis says. A radiologist inserts a catheter tube through a small groin incision, then finds and catheterizes uterine arteries and inserts small, nonradioactive particles. These form a clot to stop blood flow to the fibroid, making it shrink. (There’s radiation from the imaging used to guide the radiologist during the procedure. It’s comparable to two chest CT scans.) Many women are hospitalized for 1-2 days after this procedure for pain, Dr. Curtis says. You may feel severe cramps lasting more than six hours at a time. While the procedure is considered safe, it’s not known if the radiation exposure causes any long-term effects. Endometrial ablation. This technique works for only fibroids in the uterine lining. Gynecologists use heat, cold or high-energy radiofrequencies to burn, scar or remove the uterine lining, destroying fibroids in that area and reducing menstrual bleeding. It’s usually done as an outpatient procedure, and women recover in 1-2 days. Some side effects, such as cramping, nausea and vaginal discharge, can last a week or two. 10. What are options to preserve my fertility? Your gynecologist can perform a myomectomy, an operation to remove the fibroids. This is often done through a minimally invasive abdominal incision, such as a laparoscopy, in which a thin instrument is inserted into the abdominal wall. In some cases, it’s possible to insert an instrument (known as a hysteroscope) through the vagina into the uterus to shave down the fibroid. This is an option when fibroids are just underneath the uterine lining and there aren’t many in the uterus’ muscle wall. Because the fibroid isn’t fully removed with this procedure, and they’re fueled by estrogen, it’s likely to grow back within 3-5 years if you’re still menstruating. 11. Will this get rid of severe symptoms? If symptoms are severe or the fibroid is large, your gynecologist may prescribe gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH) agonists. These drugs mimic menopause, reducing the amount of estrogen in the body. “Estrogen is fibroid food,” Dr. Patrizio says. “They shrink in its absence.” That’s why fibroids shrink when women enter menopause naturally. This treatment can shrink large fibroids so they’re easier to remove. It will also stop bleeding so an anemic woman can gain back strength before surgery. Gn-RH agonists can’t be used alone for more than 6 months, however, because side effects include bone loss, which can lead to osteoporosis. Other side effects are similar to those of menopause, including hot flashes and vaginal dryness. 12. Is there a way to get rid of fibroids permanently? A hysterectomy – surgery to remove the uterus – is the only permanent solution. If you have persistent problems and don’t plan to get pregnant, ask your gynecologist whether it’s right for you. 13. What are my options for a hysterectomy? You have several choices, all of which are covered by most health insurance plans. Recovery time is 4-6 weeks: Vaginal hysterectomy: The uterus is removed through the vagina. This isn’t an option if your uterus is enlarged or there’s scarring from previous surgeries. If that’s the case, you’ll have to have one of the options below. Abdominal hysterectomy: An incision, either vertical or horizontal, is made in the abdominal wall. This option may be necessary if the uterus is large. Laparoscopic hysterectomy: A thin, lighted tube with a camera is inserted through small abdominal incisions. This surgery takes longer than abdominal surgery, requiring more time under general anesthesia, but you’re left with a smaller scar. 14. Are there new treatments being developed? Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound ablation was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2004 and is available at some large teaching hospitals. This outpatient technique – with local anesthesia and a sedative – is typically used to treat uterine-wall fibroids that are larger than 3 centimeters. Because it’s expensive, not covered by insurance (the other treatments mentioned are) and isn’t suitable unless your fibroids are large, it’s not available at most hospitals. Single-treatment sessions last about three hours, and about 50% of women require a second-treatment session within 12 months, Dr. Curtis says. “But patients are able to return to normal daily activities the day after the procedure,” she adds. 15. How does this treatment work? A radiologist uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to locate the tumor and a highly focused ultrasound heat beam to kill and remove fibroid cells. It can be painful, but most patients return to their regular activities the next day. Because this procedure destroys some uterine tissue, it could hurt fertility, so doctors don’t recommend it for women who want to become pregnant. Although the beam is targeted, it also can damage nearby tissue, so it’s not recommended for fibroids near other organs, such as the bowel. Because this procedure is so new, there aren’t any long-term studies of risks and benefits. 16. If I have my fibroids surgically removed, are they gone for good? Those fibroids won’t grow back – but new ones can. Within five years of fibroid removal, about 50% of women develop new tumors, Dr. Srouji says. But because they differ in size and location, they might not require the same treatment. Consult your doctor if you think you’re experiencing fibroids.

Need Low Back Pain Treatment? Just Say ‘Om’ 6 Yoga Exercises for Chronic Back Pain

Is your aching back making even the simplest movement difficult and painful? Yoga – offering pain relief through stretching, strengthening and de-stressing – is a great low back pain treatment. Here are 6 gentle ways to use yoga for back pain. The key? Go slowly and breathe deeply... Chronic back pain may be partly in your head. "Back pain is a classic mind-body problem,” says Vijay Vad, M.D., sports medicine specialist at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, author of Back Rx (Gotham), and host of the PBS special "Stop Back Pain." That's why it’s so hard to get lower back pain relief through conventional medicine – typically a combination of physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications and/or narcotics. It's also what makes yoga, which uses deep breathing to reduce stress, such a powerful back-healing tool. "For every 10 people I treat for chronic back pain, only one or two of them have a purely physical issue, such as a damaged disk, pinched nerve or spasming muscle," Dr. Vad says. Besides those two, he adds, a couple more have a purely psychological issue, such as stress, triggering their chronic low back pain, and the rest have a combination of the two. Yoga can work on all three, according to a 2009 randomized control study at West Virginia University. Researchers found that bi-weekly yoga sessions resulted in significant reductions in pain, use of pain medication, functional disability, and depression – and these benefits lasted up to six months after classes ended. To use yoga to treat your back pain, Dr. Vad recommends doing the following six exercises three times a week for 15-20 minutes, breathing deeply – so that the belly expands with each inhale – as you do them. "Exercise and deep breathing increase blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to discs, which helps them heal," Dr. Vad says. Consult your physician before starting and expect soreness in the first 2-3 weeks. That's because the muscles in your back have likely been frozen in a perpetual spasm, and these exercises call on those muscles to release and start working again. Don't walk in to any yoga class during a flare-up and expect to keep up with a vigorous sequence of poses. But by week 8, you should see noticeable lower back pain relief, Dr. Vad says. "If you stick to it, the long-term benefits far outweigh the early discomfort," he says. The first week, start by doing any three of the following poses in each of your sessions, making sure to incorporate the two reclined poses included here. The second week, do all six poses in each session. Try to hold each stretch for 5-7 breaths, breathing slowly and fully through the nose. Lower back pain relief pose #1: Lumbar Rotation with Leg Crossed What it does: Stretches the outer leg and muscles that support the lower spine. How to do it: Lie on your back with legs straight and arms outstretched in a T. Slowly bend your left leg and drag the left foot along the floor until it rests next to your right knee. Inhale and allow your left knee to fall across your body to the right. With each exhale, let gravity pull your left knee closer to the floor. Hold for 4-6 more breaths. Return to the starting position, then repeat with the right leg bent. Lower back pain relief pose #2: Seated Forward Bend with Straight Legs What it does: Stretches the hamstrings and lower back muscles. How to do it: Sit on the floor with legs outstretched. Inhale and lengthen and lift up the spine gently. Exhale and bend forward at the hips, reaching fingers toward your toes. Hold 4-6 more breaths, gradually reaching your fingers closer to your toes. Only go as far as feels comfortable. Return to sitting up straight on an inhale. Lower back pain relief pose #3: Seated Twist with One Knee Bent What it does: Stretches the outer hip and muscles that support the lower and middle spine. How to do it: Sit on the floor with both legs straight. Bend the right knee and place your right foot on the floor outside the left knee. Place your right hand on the floor behind your right hip for support. Inhale and lift the spine tall. Exhale and rotate your torso to the right, placing your left elbow on the outside of your right knee. Place your right hand on the floor for a deeper twist. Turn your head to look over your right shoulder. Hold 4-6 breaths. Return to the starting position, then switch legs and twist to the left. Lower back pain relief pose #4: Seated Bound Angle What it does: Stretches the hips and inner thighs. How to do it: Sit upright with both legs straight. Bend both knees and bring the soles of your feet together. Gently grasp your ankles with your hands. Inhale and lift the chest. Exhale and round forward over the legs. Hold 4-6 more breaths. Return to sitting on an inhale. Lower back pain relief pose #5: Cross-Legged Seated Forward Bend What it does: Stretches the hips and lower back. How to do it: Sit on the floor in a comfortable cross-legged position. Inhale and lift up your spine tall. Exhale and fold your torso forward over your hips, walking your hands out as far as you can comfortably reach. Keep your spine extended to minimize hunching the shoulders. Hold 4-6 more breaths. Inhale to return to the starting position. Change the cross of your legs so that the opposite leg is in front and repeat. Lower back pain relief pose #6: Reclined No. 4 Stretch What it does: Stretches the outer hips and hamstrings. How to do it: Lie on your back with both knees bent, feet on the floor. Rest your right ankle on your left knee as you inhale. Grasp the back of your left thigh and gently draw the left knee in toward your chest as you exhale. Hold 4-6 more breaths, then repeat with the left ankle resting on the right knee. How Bad Is Your Back Pain?

A Codec Moment

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY...

Thank you, God, for this good life and forgive us if we do not love it enough. _____________________________________________________________________________________ FUN FACTS AND A GREAT WAY TO MAKE EXTRA INCOME WITH MJ-HLC, - AND - CHECK OUT " WWW.MELODYSHAPPYWORLD.COM" FOR A FREE WAY TO BRING HAPPINESS TO THE WORLD AND LOTS OF IT TO THE WORLD WE LIVE IN!! - YOU CAN REACH MELODY AT; - 949 -706- 0887 - _______________________________________________________________________________________ WWW.MELODYSHAPPYWORLD.COM - "True happiness is not looking back with regret, but looking forward to the future and creating your own exciting, magnificent destiny and masterpiece, YOUR LIFE!" MELODY JENSEN IS THE MOST WONDERFUL PERSON AND THE GREATEST HUMANITARIAN I KNOW. CHECK OUT MELODY'S HAPPY WORLD, IT'S FREE!! ASSOCIATIONS: WWW.MELODYSSECRET.COM - YOU CAN REACH MELODY AT; 949 -706- 0887 -

People Who Cut Themselves and Why An Expert Discusses the Mysteries of Self-Harm or Cutting

Cutting with razors and other sharp objects is a troubling trend among women, especially teenagers. Disney starlet Demi Lovato sought treatment for the disorder, along with bulimia and bipolar disease. Why do young women engage in such self-destructive behavior, and are these disorders connected? One of the nation’s top psychiatrists, Mark Hyman Rapaport, M.D., explains... Often, people who cut themselves hide their injuries out of shame and embarrassment. But some of that stigma faded last year, when fresh-faced teen singer and actress Demi Lovato, then just 18, admitted she has wrestled with cutting and bulimia since she was 11 years old. "It was a way of expressing my shame on my body," she told "20/20," ABC’s newsmagazine. "There were times where my emotions were just so built up, I didn't know what to do,” she says. “[Cutting was] the only way I could get an immediate release." While undergoing treatment last winter at an Illinois rehabilitation center, Lovato was also diagnosed with bipolar disease. Now she speaks publically about all these issues. Lifescript decided to dig deeper to understand why a beautiful young woman like Lovato – who seemed to have it all – would engage in such self-destructive behavior. So we turned to Mark Hyman Rapaport, M.D., chairman of the department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. In this exclusive Lifescript interview, Rapaport explains self-harm and cutting and what may cause these painful disorders. Why would someone engage in self-harm or cutting behavior? It can be [a sign] of someone under tremendous pressure and distress. They’ve found this sort of dysfunctional behavior releases that. It’s also a behavior that some people outgrow. Are bipolar disorder, bulimia and cutting connected? There are certainly adolescent people who have bipolar disorder and manifest it by a variety of different behaviors, but cutting doesn’t mean somebody has bipolar disorder. It can be a sign of a variety of different dysfunctions. How can parents spot signs of self-harm or cutting? The first thing is to have a good enough relationship with your children that you know they’ve got a problem. [It's] important that there’s enough trust that the child is willing to work both with the family and outside experts to get help. That’s very difficult with adolescents – to have an open and non-judgmental relationship so they can come to you when they’re in distress. Should parents nose around more in their children's lives? More than nosing around, [we should develop] the best relationship we can with our children and not take things for granted. Our lives are all so busy [that] it’s easy to say, ‘There has been a change in my child’s behavior, but since it’s not creating a problem within the family now, I don’t have time to deal with it.’ We need to address [the problem]. What are the top warning signs of people who cut themselves? What questions should parents ask? 1. Has there been a precipitate change in this person’s friends, the types of people they’re hanging out with? Have they withdrawn from them? 2. School performance and grades: Has that person also withdrawn from activities they used to enjoy and be part of? Have they gotten out of playing in the band? Are they no longer interested in participating in theater at school? Has there been a change in those activities and behaviors? 3. [Has there] been a change in their sleep-wake cycle, eating patterns [or other] day-to-day behaviors? 4. Is the child much more withdrawn, aggressive or assertive? Are we seeing more angry outbursts or tearfulness? These are all [behaviors] that suggest that children are drifting [toward trouble] – whether it’s mood, eating or alcohol- or substance-use disorders. Why is it so difficult for children and teens to talk about cutting? Many times, kids, by nature, want to try and handle it on their own. They feel ashamed about it, and don’t want to be controlled by their parents at this point. They’re trying to be more independent. That’s why open communication and acceptance is good. What happens to people who cut themselves if you don’t deal with it head on? Other [harmful] behaviors are experimentation with drugs and alcohol. It's a major problem [that] can begin as early as junior high school and increase in high school. Frequently, there are issues around eating disorders, particularly with young women. That was the case [with Lovato]. She had been teased about her weight and developed eating disorders. If teen girl has bulimia, is she more likely to practice self-harm or cutting? One frequently sees [an array] of behaviors when someone has an eating disorder. It’s not just either binging or purging, food restriction or over exercising. It can be more basic or primitive behaviors, such as cutting. Is peer pressure a cause? We really don’t know how much of it is [due to] the pressure these young children are under – the pressure to grow up faster, to succeed in school [or] act more [grown up] than they may be developmentally ready to do. How tough is it for people who cut themselves to accept their diagnosis? For anyone to come to grips with this – let alone an adolescent whose body is changing, and who still doesn’t have the wisdom or experiences adults have had – is tough. Healing takes a long time. A young person needs to get used to the fact that they have a chronic disease. That is a tremendous burden to bear suddenly. Your friends don’t have a disease, but you do. You feel very different [and] stigmatized. How can adults minimize the shame people who cut themselves feel? It’s important to realize that these are disorders of circuitry in the brain. They’re the same types [disorders] we see in the rest of the body. They just manifest differently. The brain is the most complex system in the body. The mind and the body are connected – that’s why God made the neck. What sort of treatment is best for people who cut themselves? Intervention, whether through psychotherapy, medication or a combination of those approaches. Can doctors treat people who cut themselves without medication? Yes, sometimes, it can be very effectively treated by psychotherapy, depending on the reasons for the cutting, because – remember – cutting is a symptom. It’s not necessarily a disorder. What kind of psychotherapy is most effective for people who cut themselves? [Dialectical behavioral therapy or DBT] can be a very effective treatment for these types of destructive impulses. [DBT uses cognitive-behavioral techniques and meditation to teach patients to cope with stress, regulate emotions and improve relationships.] Have there been advances in drug and other treatments for these disorders? We’ve made tremendous progress and will continue to make it. Not just in terms of new compounds and medications, but even more importantly, we’re beginning to understand the basic biology behind [such self-destructive behavior]. What have you learned? We’re beginning to understand the role of stress and early-life trauma in [the development of] brain disorders later in life. We’re beginning to understand the role of chronic perceived stress in triggering events and changing the biology of people. Through our works in genetics and epigenetics [the study of how environment and choices can influence genes], we're learning individual factors that put someone at greater risk or resilience. This will allow us eventually to better tailor treatments. Should we be optimistic about the future of treating brain diseases? I want to emphasize the importance of hope. Just because somebody has a symptom of something like cutting or a brain disorder, it’s not necessarily going to negatively impact the rest of their lives. Many people with brain disorders have wonderful lives. What do people who cut themselves need to know most? If they’re cutting, they shouldn’t be ashamed – they should realize people understand that it’s because they’re in distress. They need to know it’s OK to get help. How Do You Deal with Difficult Emotions? It's natural to experience anger, jealousy, hurt - even though your mother told you that "a frown doesn't suit your pretty face!" But have you ever felt overwhelmed by these emotions, or think that you spend too much energy getting over them? Everyone could use some healthy options for dealing with difficult emotions.

More Antioxidants in Organic Tomatoes

When it comes to antioxidant levels, organic tomatoes have been shown to grind conventionally grown tomatoes to a pulp. That's the conclusion of a Spanish study published in the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry which found that organic tomatoes work harder for consumers as they contain higher levels of phenolic compounds, plant-based compounds that are known to carry a host of health benefits. After analyzing a species of tomatoes called Daniela, scientists from the University of Barcelona identified 34 different phenolic compounds, levels of which were higher in organically grown tomatoes compared to conventionally grown plants. Scientists explain that when tomatoes are grown without the use of fertilizers and pesticides, plants are forced to respond by activating their own defense mechanisms which increases levels of all antioxidants. "The more stress plants suffer, the more polyphenols they produce," explains study co-author Rosa M. Lamuela. Meanwhile, the jury is still out when it comes to the health benefits of organic produce versus conventionally grown fruits and vegetables. For example, a 2010 study published in the same journal found that organically grown onions, carrots, and potatoes contained about the same levels of antioxidants compared to traditionally raised crops using pesticides and fertilizers.

High-Dose Vitamin D Prevents Fractures

A new analysis of nearly a dozen studies testing vitamin D in older individuals has concluded that it takes a daily dose of at least 800 international units (IU) to consistently prevent broken bones. A dose that high was found to reduce the risk of hip fracture by 30 percent and other breaks by 14 percent. Lower doses didn't have any effect. The report, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, also suggests that too much calcium -- perhaps more than 1,000 milligrams (mg) per day -- can weaken the benefit. "These hip fractures cost a lot and are a really serious event. They are usually the end of independent life for a senior person; 50 percent do not regain their mobility. Reducing the risk by 30 percent with just a vitamin supplement would be an enormous public health opportunity," study researcher Dr. Heike Bischoff-Ferrari of University Hospital Zurich in Switzerland told Reuters Health. The Institute of Medicine recommends that most adults get 1,000 to 1,200 mg of calcium per day and 600 to 800 IU of vitamin D. It sets a recommended upper limit at 2,000 mg of calcium and 4,000 IU of vitamin D. Bischoff-Ferrari said the lack of benefit seen in other studies "may be explained by adherence to treatment and vitamin D supplements taken outside the study medication." Dr. Richard Bockman, a hormone expert at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, said the findings are an important counterbalance to last month's widely-reported recommendation by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. The government-backed task force advised against taking doses of less than 400 IU of vitamin D with 1,000 mg of calcium and concluded the evidence was unclear for higher doses. It also said the supplements carry a risk of side effects such as kidney stones. Bockman said the best trial is a 2003 study, known as the Trivedi trial, in which volunteers received an average of 800 IU per day as a single 100,000 IU dose every four months. "It clearly showed a reduction in fracture risk in people who were getting vitamin D," he said. In an editorial, Dr. Robert Heaney of Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, said the problem with the conflicting studies may be that most have failed to consider each person's vitamin D levels to start with. Giving it to people who already have enough, or not giving enough to people with very low levels, may show no benefit, he said. "In this regard, as in several other respects, nutrients are unlike drugs. Once an adequate concentration has been achieved, additional intake has no effect," said Heaney. Bischoff-Ferrari said the new results came without directly including the Trivedi results. "The authors lost the data sets to a computer accident," she said. The new analysis is based on 11 trials that tested various regimens of oral vitamin D in people age 65 and older, mostly women, against an inactive placebo. Some of the trials also included calcium. Overall, there were 4,881 hip and other fractures (not including breaks of the spine) among more than 31,000 people. Vitamin D did not cut the rate of hip fracture significantly, and the drop in other fractures was small. When the researchers looked at people getting the highest doses of the vitamin, typically 800 IU daily, the benefits were clearer, with a 30-percent drop in hip fractures and 14-percent decline in other broken bones. "Notably, there was no reduction in the risk of hip fracture at any actual intake level lower than 792 IU per day," the researchers said. The benefits at the higher dose were seen regardless of age, additional calcium intake, whether the patients lived at home or in an institution, and baseline levels vitamin D. Bischoff-Ferrari said the clearest impact was seen in nursing home patients, who were given the highest doses of vitamin D and regularly took their pills because the nurses were giving them. Just as important is the discovery that too much calcium - more than 1,000 mg per day - may dilute vitamin D's benefits to bones, she said. Because many supplements contain 1,000 mg, the calcium people get in their diets may send people over the limit. "This is a very, very important public health message," Bischoff-Ferrari said. "There are still doctors around who are giving calcium without vitamin to hip fracture patients. Imagine giving a calcium supplement and increasing the fracture risk." In an earlier study, she added, fewer than 10 percent of the people coming into the hospital for a hip fracture had been taking the vitamin. And 60 percent of them had suffered another fracture in the prior decade, yet "the red flag is not coming up." "In the medical world, vitamin D seems like a very low priority. It may be the lack of lobbying for it, the fact that it costs almost nothing" and some people think it's too good to be true, she said. "But the data are impressive."

Knowing These Stroke Symptoms Could Save Your Life Read more: Knowing These Stroke Symptoms Could Save Your Life Important: At Risk For A Heart Attack? Find Out Now.

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Internet Stroke Center. Every year, about 795,000 Americans suffer a stroke, and more than 140,000 die from stroke. It's also the leading cause of long-term disability. Although strokes are associated with aging — in fact three-fourths of all strokes occur in people over the age of 65 — they can strike at any age. People who suffer a stroke often don't recognize the symptoms and signs which makes it difficult for them to get rapid, effective treatment. "People who don't know what a stroke is may lie down to sleep thinking it will get better or avoid calling 911 because of the concern that an ambulance is too expensive," said Dr. Cheryl Bushnell, associate professor of neurology at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. "However, doing either one of these things right after the onset of stroke symptoms will delay treatment. "Recognizing the symptoms and signs is critical in order to receive treatment in the window of three to four and a half hours." A stroke is the sudden death of a portion of brain cells due to the lack of oxygen due to blood flow to the brain becoming blocked or damaged. Symptoms can vary depending on what causes the stroke — either a blood clot (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic), exactly where in the brain the stroke occurs, and its severity. Stroke is a true medical emergency, and there are signs and symptoms that you need to know in order to save your own life and the lives of others. Bushnell suggests that everyone know the following signs of a stroke and what to do if someone is experiencing a stroke. Stroke signs and symptoms: • One side of the face is weak, numb or paralyzed • Inability to speak or understand clearly • Blurred vision or loss of vision • Dizziness or loss of balance • A sudden and severe headache If you suspect someone is having a stroke, remember the FAST acronym: • FACE: Ask the person to smile, and see if one side of their face droops. • ARMS: Ask the person to raise both arms to See if one arm drifts downward. • SPEECH: Listen to see if their speech is slurred or strange. • TIME: Every minute counts. If the individual is having difficulty with any of these tasks, call 911 immediately. If you are evaluated for stroke, you may undergo blood tests, such as a CBC (complete blood count), coagulation tests (such as prothrombin time to see how quickly your blood clots), blood chemistry tests (such as glucose), and blood lipid tests to measure your cholesterol. You may also specialized tests such as a CT scan or MRI that show images of the brain in order to diagnose stroke. Don't ever assume that a symptom is unimportant if it goes away on its own. Always consult with your doctor, and never try to make a diagnosis by yourself.

How to Heal Your Back Problem Top Specialist on How to Fix and Protect a Painful Back

We shell out billions of dollars a year in search of back pain relief. But which treatments are worth the money? In this exclusive Lifescript interview, a top orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist explains what to do when you’re laid low by a painful back, and how to keep your spine healthy the rest of the time... Muscle and joint complaints have surpassed the common cold as the leading reason for doctor visits, and lower back problems lead the charge. An astonishing 80% of Americans are walloped off their feet with back trouble at some point in their lives, says Nicholas DiNubile, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon in Havertown, Penn., who specializes in sports medicine. In his best-selling book FrameWork (Rodale Books), DiNubile explains how to safely start, maintain and build a lifestyle and exercise program to boost muscle, bone and joint health. A follow-up book, FrameWork for the Lower Back (Rodale Books), provides common-sense advice for preventing and treating disk problems, sciatica, and other conditions that leave us with stiff, achy backs. If you’ve ever had back pain, it’s especially important to practice healthful habits, he says. Even a brief back episode can put you at risk for trouble later. “The No. 1 predictor of a [future] back problem is a previous back problem,” he says. “It’s like a warning shot.” DiNubile should know. Not only has he worked as an orthopedic consultant to the Philadelphia 76ers pro basketball team and Pennsylvania Ballet, but he’s also had his own longstanding back issues. In this edited Lifescript interview, he shatters myths about bed rest, back surgery and medical imaging techniques, and explains safe ways to stay active when you’ve literally been knocked flat on your back. How did your back problem start? I had a friend, [and] we used to clown around every year on the beach. He’d come find me, and tackle me just to say hi, and we’d laugh it off. But one year, he came from behind and just hyper-extended my back in a way it was never meant to move. I wound up on all fours and had a hard time standing up. That was the beginning of some big struggles. How did you deal with your back problem? For a while, I put up and just tried to work around it. And there are plenty of days now when I have tightness and aches, and I suck it up and carry on. You’re a surgeon – did you consider surgery for your back problem? No. I knew there wasn’t a surgical option that would apply. The majority of back problems don’t require surgery. There’s probably way too much back surgery in this country. What finally helped you? A combination of things. I changed my mattress to one that was more accommodating, with a layer of memory foam on top. And I modified my exercise routine to put the focus on core workouts. But what really helped me was a chiropractor. How did that help? For 12 years, I was the doctor for the 76ers, and we had an excellent chiropractor. At games, when the players were on the court, I would have him work on me. Because of the injury, my back is vulnerable and tightens up. He’d mobilize the affected [muscles] and get them functioning. I’d use the opportunity to do my own work on my back problems, especially core strengthening and stretching. Many people who never suffered a traumatic injury wind up with a chronic back problem and pain. Why? You don’t have to get tackled by a maniac. The spine is pretty vulnerable, and little things can get to you. People hurt themselves bending over to tie a shoe. I tell people to watch their BLT’s – bending, lifting and twisting. What are other common triggers of back problems? Sitting too much. People think it relieves stress, but it puts heavy force on the spine. Poor aerobic condition also makes you more vulnerable. Muscles need oxygen, and disks and ligaments need a good blood supply to stay healthy. That’s one reason smoking is damaging to your entire frame, especially the spine. Being overweight [can also cause a back problem]. The more your frame has to support, the harder it works and the more susceptible to injury it becomes. Are women at higher risk for a painful back? Pregnancy definitely takes a toll. Postural changes put pressure on the spine. Ob-gyns say once you deliver it will go away. Well, sometimes it does, but [it can leave them] more vulnerable [to future back problems]. Plus, now they have kids to take care of. They’re bending and lifting all the time. It’s a breeding ground for back pain. What role does stress play with back trouble? It’s like putting lighter fluid on a fire. It might not cause back pain, but it certainly keeps it going. How does aging affect our backs? Gray hairs and wrinkled skin aren’t the only consequences of getting older. There are musculoskeletal changes – cellular, chemical and mechanical. Even if you don’t have a painful back, if you take an MRI you’ll probably see disk degeneration and some arthritis. What does disk degeneration look like? The disk is like a little jelly donut between each of your vertebrae. It keeps the bones from rubbing against each other. When you’re young, they’re bright and water-filled. With age, they start darkening and shrinking. It’s like grapes turning into raisins. They’re accidents waiting to happen. We’re the first generation to try to stay active all our lives, and we’re living longer. We’re pushing our bodies. So there’s an explosion of musculoskeletal problems. There’s a mismatch between longevity and durability. We weren’t designed to go as long as we’re going. Does that mean a back problem is inevitable? Changes in the body are inevitable, but problems aren’t. You can rebuild muscle at any age. Studies involving 90-year-olds found that after a 12-week strength-building program, strength improved dramatically. Those who had used walkers were able to get around with canes, and those who had used canes walked without them. What activities are best for back health? Being more fit aerobically protects against back pain. There was a famous study of firefighters on disability claims. The people who had the worst aerobic fitness were most likely to miss work from lower back problems. How does heart and lung fitness help your back? We’re not sure. It probably helps with microcirculation, the blood supply that nourishes the nooks and crannies of your musculoskeletal system. And it keeps your weight down. But cardiovascular fitness by itself it isn’t enough. What else can help prevent a back problem? Core strength is really important. That’s not just six-pack abs. It’s your back muscles, obliques [the muscles on the sides of your abdomen], the back extenders and the muscles of the pelvis. They’re the support structure around the spine. I recommend a routine that works out all of these muscles. The exercises should be done every other day. Many “core” exercises you recommend are based on yoga – for example, the cobra and cat poses. How does yoga prevent or relieve a back problem? Yoga is great for back strength, enhanced flexibility and learning to relax. Many people are competitive about exercise. They’re out there playing hard, trying to outdo everyone else. The nice thing about yoga is it’s not a competition. What other fitness disciplines do you like for backs? A lot of the martial arts, especially the soft styles like tai chi, are great for posture and strength. What are back-friendly options for an aerobic workout? Walking. Swimming is fantastic, even if you have an acute back episode or just a run-of-the-mill chronic backache. If you’re not a swimmer, or your lower back is just too sore for you to swim, try water walking, water jogging or even water aerobics. The water supports your body, and it’s a comforting environment if you have a painful back or back spasms. You can do things that might be too uncomfortable on land, with gravity working against you. Any nutritional advice to promote back health? Vitamin D deficiency is a much bigger deal than we thought. Some studies have linked it with back pain. I make sure all my patients, men and women, [get] enough vitamin D3 [the more absorbable form] and calcium. When people have really bad back pain, shouldn’t they just rest? The old days of bed rest are over. We usually suggest a day or two off your feet, if you need that, to get into positions that are more comfortable. After that, it’s counterproductive. Why? Motion is lotion! I see a lot of people who are on disability for life – they have sedentary jobs, they’re not digging or building things or using their backs for work. If you’re staying home, hooked on soap operas and taking pain medication, you’re not getting better. If all you can do is get in a pool and move around a little, you should do that. But people often worry that movement will aggravate the problem. You need to learn the difference between hurt and harm. Many lower back problems are so painful that people get frightened and assume that movement will harm them. It’s not true. If you can deal with the hurt and work around it, you [won’t] harm yourself or make things worse. Should you get a magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] scan to figure out what’s wrong? You probably don’t need one. I had an X-ray after I was tackled, but I’ve never had an MRI. I knew it wouldn’t change my treatment. Still, spine MRIs can be very helpful in cases of [severe,] chronic back pain or if there’s significant leg weakness or numbness. It’s best to talk to your doctor. Should people take painkillers for back pain? Narcotics can help in the very short term, but they can lead to secondary problems like addiction. I’ll reluctantly prescribe them for a few days if patients need them to get comfortable and move around. I prefer the over-the-counter pain meds such as NSAIDS [non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including Advil and Aleve] for short-term use. But [drugs] won’t solve a back problem. Is massage helpful? I’m a big fan of massage for pain relief. But it [won’t] cure anything – you shouldn’t rely only on passive modalities, in which someone else does all the work. If you get some relief from it, you should use that period of improvement to do things [that] make yourself better. What are those things? It’s a lifestyle change and an attitude. You have to create new habits and stay active. You have to have the right mindset. I can tell when I walk into [an examining] room [that] if the patient is stressed out or negative, it’s going to be impossible to get them out of their back pain. Remember, you are part of the solution to any health problem you face. For more expert advice and information, visit our Chronic Pain Health Center.

Top 10 Foods to Fight Inflammation

A fire roars inside you and you may not even know it. What’s worse: This out-of-control inflammation may lead to heart disease, cancer, diabetes and more. But dietary changes can help tame the flame. Read on for the 10 foods to start eating today... Low-level, chronic inflammation lies so far below the skin’s surface that you can’t see it or feel it. It’s the result of an immune system in overdrive, damaging healthy tissue and leading to chronic illnesses. Ongoing inflammation can trigger heart disease, cancer and diabetes, but it also can exacerbate asthma, acne and obesity — even ruin your mood, says California-based registered dietitian Evelyn Tribole, author of The Ultimate Omega-3 Diet (McGraw-Hill). Within two decades, more than one-third of Americans will have an inflammatory disorder, Tribole says. And most of it stems from an unhealthy diet. Fight Fire with Food The typical Western diet – high in processed foods, refined starches, added sugars and animal fats and low in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and omega-3 fatty acids – fuels inflammation, according to a 2006 paper in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. But people in Greece, Italy and France have better eating habits and less chronic disease. In those Mediterranean countries, sweets, eggs and beef don’t star on the plate as often as in the U.S. Their diet is naturally anti-inflammatory and includes low-fat and nonfat dairy foods, olive oil, potatoes, nuts, poultry, legumes, olives and wine, says Demosthenes Panagiotakos, a leading researcher on the Mediterranean diet and associate professor of Biostatistics & Epidemiology of Nutrition at Harokopio University of Athens, Greece. So what does this mean for us in the West? Eat like a French, Italian or Greek woman — lots of fruits, veggies, green salads and fish — and drink red wine in moderation (up to 4 ounces daily for women and 8 ounces for men). But lettuce and green beans alone won’t do it. To get a wide variety of nutrients, including fiber, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, chow down on fruits and vegetables of all kinds and colors. And start at breakfast. If you wait until dinner to eat the 5-9 servings (a half cup each) recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, you’ll be at the table a long time. To get started on an anti-inflammatory path, consume more foods straight from the farm, fewer processed and fried foods or those loaded with butter, and use the 10 foods below in your meals: 1. Canola oil We eat too little omega-3 and too much omega-6 fatty acids because of corn and soybean oils in margarine, candy, crackers and processed foods. That tips the balance of compounds involved in inflammation for the worse, Tribole says. The fatty acids compete in the body for enzymes: Omega-3 fats yield anti-inflammatory compounds; omega-6 fats give us inflammation. “It’s like a biological game of musical chairs, where there’s always a shortage,” Tribole explains. “In the case of fatty acids, the dominant fats win the enzyme.” Diet fix: Limit highly processed foods (always a good idea). Dress your salad and sauté your meats and veggies in omega-3 rich canola oil. Eat other plant sources of omega-3 fats including walnuts and ground flaxseed. 2. Grass-fed beef Humans are at the top of the food chain and the diet your food eats affects your inflammation levels. Today, most cows are fed high-calorie corn and grain – high in inflammatory omega-6 – to fatten them quickly. But the meat from leaner cattle grazing on grass have higher levels of vital nutrients — vitamin E and omega-3s. A 2004 study from California State University, Chico examined lipid composition of 36 cattle fed on grain, grass and a combination of both. The beef from grass-fed bovines was lower in saturated fatty acids and omega 6 and 40% higher in omega-3 fatty acids. Diet fix: It may be more expensive, but worth it for your health to dine on grass-fed beef. The American Institute for Cancer Research recommends no more that 18 ounces of lean beef weekly. More than that raises your colon cancer risk. Less is probably better – maybe two portions per week – because it frees your plate for even more disease-fighting foods. 3. Oily fish The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends eating omega-3 rich oily fish at least twice weekly because they decrease the risk of sudden cardiac death and slow growth of arterial plaque. Diet fix: Choose salmon, tuna, trout, herring, sardines and mackerel for the most potent, anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. But pregnant women should avoid King mackerel because of its high mercury content. 4. Nuts Nuts have long been linked with less coronary heart disease than other high-calorie foods. A 2005 study in the American Journal of Epidemiology of more than 6,000 people found those who ate the most nuts and seeds had the lowest levels of inflammatory markers in their blood. The high content of the amino acid arginine may be responsible for the inflammation-soothing effect of nuts. Diet fix: Snack on some walnuts, pistachios or almonds. But measure a one-ounce serving (about one-fourth cup) to keep calories in check. 5. Cocoa A number of studies have shown that cocoa can reduce the risk of heart disease. When researchers in Spain gave 42 men and women skim milk mixed with cocoa powder twice daily for four weeks, participants had lower levels of inflammatory markers in their blood compared to the four-week period in which they drank plain skim milk. Another 2006 study from the University of California, Davis showed that drinking cocoa improved blood flow and decreased lipid levels in 32 post-menopausal women. The beneficial ingredient is flavanols, which reduce inflammation and blood clotting. Cocoa has a rich concentration of them. Diet fix: Enjoy a cup or two of steamy hot cocoa made with real cocoa and skim or low-fat milk to hold down the calories and saturated fats. And don’t think a chocolate bar carries the same health boost; the candy is high in saturated fat. 6. Cranberries Laboratory studies suggest that cranberries may inhibit growth and proliferation of breast, colon, lung and prostate tumors. Researchers suspect that one protective mechanism is the anti-inflammatory action of this antioxidant-packed red berry. It’s also been shown to reduce the oxidation of low-density lipo-proteins (LDL or "bad" cholesterol) levels. Diet fix: Toss dried cranberries into a green salad or your morning bowl of oatmeal. 7. Cherries When healthy men and women supplemented their diets with sweet Bing cherries for 28 days, several blood markers of inflammation decreased, according to a 2006 study in the Journal of Nutrition. An earlier study also suggests that cherry consumption relieves arthritis symptoms. Laboratory studies show the anti-inflammatory properties of anthocyanins – compounds responsible for the cherry’s rich red color – but researchers suspect there are many more anti-inflammatory chemicals in this juicy red fruit. Diet fix: Enjoy a dessert or snack of fresh cherries in season and dried all year long. 8. Grapes The antioxidant resveratrol found in the skin of grapes (and red wine and peanuts) also fights inflammation and cancer. Drinking Concord grape juice may lower inflammatory markers in the blood of people with stable coronary artery disease, according to a double-bind study published in 2004 in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology. Diet fix: Keep red grapes washed and at eye level in the refrigerator. (Fruit is healthier than juice because it has more fiber and less sugar.) Put them on the homework table when your kids come home from school. 9. Apples If an apple a day really does keep the doctor away, it might be because of its high concentration of quercetin, a flavanoid also present in onions and tea. In a 2008 University of Michigan study of more than 8,000 American adults, researchers found a link between apples, flavanoids and quercetin and decreased inflammation. Diet fix: Toss diced apples into chicken salad or warm your family with a baked apple and a pinch of cinnamon. 10. Broccoli This nutritional powerhouse contains many disease fighters, including beta-carotene, vitamin C and the B vitamin folate. It also has kaempferol, another flavanoid linked to decreased inflammation. Diet fix: Toss steamed broccoli with whole-wheat pasta and pine nuts. For even more kaempferol, pick up some kale, green beans, leeks and tea. A Daily Anti-Inflammation Eating Plan Can’t figure out to get all these anti-inflammatory foods into your meals? Try the menu below: Breakfast: Oatmeal sprinkled with dried cranberries and cinnamon Snack: Grapes Lunch: Green salad loaded with fresh veggies, including broccoli, onions, a sprinkling of walnuts or almonds and fresh-cracked pepper and an olive or canola oil dressing Top your salad with grilled chicken Whole-grain bread or crackers Unsweetened tea Snack: Cherries, walnuts Dinner: Sliced fresh tomato drizzled with olive oil Grilled salmon with rosemary Sauteed spinach with leeks and ginger Brown rice Unsweetened tea Dessert: Apple, sliced and sprinkled with cinnamon, cooked in the microwave or baked in the oven.

HAPPY 4tH OF JULY TO YOU ALL!!

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY...

Gratitude is an attitude that hooks us up to our source of supply. And the more grateful you are, the closer you become to your maker, to the architect of the universe, to the spiritual core of your being.

Is Your Home Making You Sick?

You've done your best to conserve energy in your home — you've sealed off leaks from roof to basement and added insulation, and your efforts have been rewarded by a drop in your heating and cooling costs. But the very upgrades that have made your home more energy efficient and "green" may be putting your health at serious risk, says a report from the Institute of Medicine. "America is in the midst of a large experiment," says committee chair John D. Spengler of Harvard School of Public Health. He says that weatherization and other cost-saving measures, along with new building materials and products, have been introduced into American homes with little consideration for their effects on human health. The result, the report warns, is increased levels of indoor contaminants and humidity. That's the bad news. The good news is you can take control of your home's indoor environment and make it safe for you and your family — all with some simple, inexpensive changes. Dr. Bill Wolverton, a retired NASA senior research scientist who helped develop NASA's BioHome, makes the danger clear in frightening detail, then tells Newsmax Health readers what to do about it. "The building industry and EPA have been telling us for more than 30 years to weatherize our homes to save energy," Wolverton told Newsmax Health. "But practically everything in homes today is made of synthetic materials that out-gas hundreds of dangerous chemicals. "When you seal your home to make it energy-efficient, you trap all of the chemicals that cause health problems inside your home," says Wolverton, who has received numerous patents for his pioneering research in environmental pollution and is co-author of "Plants: Why You Can't Live Without Them." "Some of these chemicals are known carcinogens." In addition, tightly sealed homes are also perfect environments for moisture — perhaps from the cooling system — to form mold and mildew that cause problems for those with asthma or allergies. High humidity also encourages dust mites. According to Wolverton, three of the most common chemicals, the health problems they cause, and some of the places they're found in today's homes are: • Formaldehyde: A known carcinogen, formaldehyde causes headaches, coughing, nausea, dizziness, and irritates the eyes, nose, and throat. It's found in carpeting, particleboard, caulking compounds, ceiling tiles, paints, draperies, floor coverings, gas stoves, paper towels, stains, varnishes, upholstery, adhesives, and tobacco smoke. • Benzene: Long-term exposure can cause cancer. Benzene harms the immune system and can cause headaches, confusion, drowsiness, tremors, and rapid heart beat. It's found in paints, particleboard, ceiling tiles, adhesives, caulking compounds, chlorinated tap water, floor coverings, electrophotographic printers, tobacco smoke, and stains and varnishes. • Xylene: Inhaling xylene vapor depresses the central nervous system and causes headaches, nausea, impaired short-term memory, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Severe exposure has caused kidney and liver damage. It's found in wall coverings, caulking compounds, solvents, ceiling tiles, floor coverings, and adhesives. In these days of rising energy costs, the solution isn't more ventilation, says Wolverton: "When you purge the air inside the building and bring in air from the outside, you aren't solving the problem. You're simply trading inside pollutants for outdoor pollutants and you lose energy efficiency." The solution is to purify your indoor environment by taking five simple steps: 1. Add houseplants. Indoor plants — common houseplants — can help purify air by using their natural ability to absorb toxins through their leaves and roots and turn them into nutrients. In addition to cleaning the air, plants also reduce high humidity to healthy levels. The capacity of plants to purify air was proved by NASA's BioHome, which was an experiment to discover how to make air safe in closed environments, such as space ships, that were filled with dangerous chemicals. The BioHome, according to Wolverton, was made entirely of synthetic materials and was tightly sealed, giving everyone who entered burning eyes and breathing difficulties — two common symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome. Once plants were added, air quality improved and symptoms disappeared. An analysis of the air indicated that the dangerous compounds were gone. 2. Use eco-friendly cleaning products. Don't buy products that carry warnings — just consider them unsafe to use. You can actually make your own safe cleaning products, says Wolverton, such as by substituting vinegar for bleach in cleaning around the house. 3. Buy products that emit low amounts of chemicals. Some products, such as low-emission carpets, paint, and building materials, have special labels that identify them as among those that give off the least chemicals. Low-emission carpets, for example, are labeled Green Label and Green Label Plus. 4. Try salt lamps. Salt lamps are made from a chunk of salt that has been hollowed out to make room for a small light bulb or candle. Heating the salt produces negative ions which help purify the air of dust, smoke, bacteria, and other pollutants. 5. Use indoor filters. Activated carbon and high-energy particle arrester (HEPA) filters trap dust and other particles, but they must be replaced regularly or the filter becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Wolverton is working on a filter made of inert pebbles and activated carbon that will never need replacing. "We take a houseplant and grow it in a mixture of inert pebbles — we call it expanded clay or expanded gel pebbles — and activated carbon. We're designing a way to pull air through to purify it," Wolverton says. "You'll be able to make these yourself, and they never need replacing. If you can't find the materials in your area, you'll be able to order them over the Internet." "The best way to have a tightly sealed energy-saving building that is healthy is through a combination of indoor plants and filters," says Wolverton. "You can make simple changes that will control the environment in your home and keep it healthy." NASA recommends 15 to 18 houseplants in a 1,800-square-foot house. According to research done by NASA and Wolverton, the following houseplants (with their scientific names) are tops for purifying the air: • Bamboo palm (chamaedorea seifritzii) • Chinese evergreen (aglaonema modestum) • English ivy (hedera helix) • Gerbera daisy (gerbera jamesonii) • Janet Craig (dracaena "Janet Craig") • Corn plant/mass cane (dracaena massangeana) • Mother-in-law's tongue/snake plant (sansevieria laurentii) • Pot mum (chrysanthemum morifolium) • Peace lily (spathiphyllum) • Warneckii (dracaena "warneckii") • Boston fern (nephrolepis exaltata "Bostoniensis") • Philodendron (philodendron sp.) • Rubber plant (ficus robusta) • Spider plant (chlorophytum comosum) • Golden pothos/Devil's ivy (epipremnum aureum) • Weeping fig (ficus benjamina)

Get the ADHD Facts You Need to Help Your Child Top 11 ADHD Myths and Facts

Sometimes you envy your child’s energy. Other times you wonder if your Energizer Bunny will ever wind down. If that’s often the case, it’s possible your kid has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Before you worry, get the truth behind 11 common ADHD myths... If you've spent any time around schools, parks or other places children play, you've probably heard about ADHD – attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. “That boy is so hyper; he must have ADHD,” parents and teachers say, flinging around the label as casually as kids do with a ball. But what is ADHD really? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), five million children age 3-17 have this chronic brain disorder, which shows up as inattention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior, worse than the norm for kids. Undiagnosed and untreated, the condition can affect your child’s self-esteem, schoolwork and friendships. But every wiggle worm doesn’t have ADHD. Before you start wondering whether your child has ADHD, read on for the truth behind common myths. 1. Myth or Fact? ADHD is just a problem with organization. Myth. While children with ADHD have difficulties organizing their time and activities, it's not the cause of the disorder, says Ben Vitiello, M.D., a psychiatrist and chief of Child and Adolescent Treatment and Preventive Intervention Research at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). A 2010 Michigan State University study found that a neurological problem contributes to ADHD symptoms by causing an imbalance in brain chemistry. ADHD is due in part to a deficiency of the neurotransmitter serotonin (which helps with relaxation) and a child's tendency to get distressed over social situations, the research showed. But that's not all: The brains of children with ADHD have thinner tissue and are less developed than those of children without the disorder, according to NIMH research. Also, there’s often a 3-year delay in the development of an ADHD brain. This delay affects the front of the brain's outer mantle, or cortex, which controls thoughts, attention and planning. In addition, a 2010 study by Harvard University researchers showed that kids exposed to certain pesticides, called organophosphates, seem to be at increased risk of ADHD. 2. Myth or Fact? ADHD is a result of poor parenting. Myth. Stow your suitcase – you're not going on a guilt trip. ADHD is a neurological problem that has nothing to do with discipline, says Vitiello. When a child with ADHD shouts in the library, it's not because his parents didn't teach him better – it's because he can't control his impulses. In fact, strict parenting can make ADHD symptoms worse. The best approach for children with ADHD is to seek professional guidance, which can include drug therapy, psychotherapy and behavioral treatment, Vitiello says. 3. Myth or Fact? ADHD doesn't affect girls. Myth. In fact, this harmful myth may explain why NIMH statistics show that boys are diagnosed four times more often than girls. Adults may ignore ADHD symptoms in girls because hyperactivity shows up “more often as hyper-talkativeness and hyper-reactivity" rather than rowdy behavior, says Kathleen Nadeau, a psychologist and director of Maryland's Chesapeake ADHD Center. Hyper-reactivity is characterized by the tendency to be highly emotional and oversensitive, Nadeau says. As a result, girls with ADHD often have difficulty controlling their emotions in relationships, taking offense easily and escalating confrontations by making impulsive remarks. Like their male counterparts, however, girls with ADHD are often inattentive, meaning they’re unable to stay focused and tend to lose important items, says Nadeau, who is also co-founder of the nonprofit National Center for Gender Issues in ADHD, a group that educates the public on the prevalence of ADHD in girls. In girls, inattentiveness causes their self-esteem to suffer, putting them at risk for teen pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, anxiety and depression, Nadeau says. 4. Myth or Fact? ADHD is not the same thing as a learning problem. Fact. Kids with ADHD have attention problems, which may lead to troubles with schoolwork, but a learning disability is a different diagnosis, says Alice Medalia, Ph.D., psychologist and professor at Columbia University Medical Center's Department of Psychiatry. According to the CDC, 5% of children in this country have ADHD without a learning disability, 5% have a learning disability without ADHD, and 4% have both. However, even children with ADHD who don’t have a learning disability can have learning problems, usually related to listening and oral expression. In fact, half of children with ADHD have trouble with listening comprehension (understanding what people tell them), according to ADHD: Handbook for Diagnosis and Treatment by Russell A. Barkley, a research professor in the Department of Psychiatry at SUNY Upstate Medical University. Barkley also directed a 2002 study showing that ADHD kids have speech problems as well as difficulty processing what they hear in class and in social situations. 5. Myth or Fact? There are more symptoms than hyperactivity. Fact. It's the most in-your-face symptom, but there are actually three ADHD subtypes, with varying degrees of hyperactivity, according to NIMH researchers: Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive: Children are mostly overactive and have trouble controlling their behavior. Predominantly inattentive: Children aren't overactive but have trouble paying attention and remaining focused. Combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive: A combination of the two. So why do many people associate ADHD just with extreme restlessness? Because "hyperactivity is so easily observed and so potentially disruptive, while inattention requires more thought and observation [to detect]," Nadeau says. 6. Myth or Fact? ADHD can be cured. Myth. If it seems that ADHD symptoms have vanished, you're doing something right. Some medications and behavioral treatments can quiet ADHD symptoms or sharpen children's focus and memory, helping students complete schoolwork and get along with kids who don't have the disorder, according to Medalia. But miracle cures for ADHD? "If you mean completely taking it away, [they don't exist]," Medalia says. 7. Myth or Fact? Eating too much sugar causes ADHD. Myth. Many parents have watched their kids gobble down candy and moments later have ADHD-like behavior – bouncing off walls, shouting like maniacs and unable to focus. But sugary foods don’t cause ADHD, according to Medalia. A 1995 report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association concurs: Scientists analyzed 23 separate studies of sugar on the behavior or cognition of children and found that it doesn't significantly affect how they act or think. So what does Medalia tell concerned parents? “People often ask [whether too much sugar can cause ADHD], and the answer is always that healthy habits are the best way to go." 8. Myth or Fact? ADHD can't be treated without drugs. Myth. Some children with ADHD can improve with behavioral treatment alone, Vitiello says. This includes making schedules, lists and charts to help kids stay organized and prioritize tasks like homework and household chores. To lessen the anxiety that often goes along with ADHD, doctors may also teach kids relaxation techniques. But some kids need medication. “You don't use it in every case, of course – you have to evaluate each person individually," he says. One of the most comprehensive studies ever done on the disorder – NIMH's $11 million Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with ADHD (called the MTA study) – reports that overall, children's ADHD symptoms improved more with medication or with a combination of behavioral treatment and medication than with behavioral treatment alone. 9. Myth or Fact? Brain scans can diagnose ADHD. Myth. MRIs alone can't tell whether a child has ADHD, because a diagnosis requires monitoring kids’ behavior, says NIMH's Vitiello. Doctors must detect a list of symptoms identified by the American Psychiatric Association, including restlessness and inability to focus, that are present for more than six months. Brain scans also aren't precise enough to detect ADHD, says David Rabiner, Ph.D., a psychologist and professor at Duke University. The brains of children with ADHD appear too much like the brains of children with other mental disorders, he says. There are technologies, however, that can assist in making an ADHD diagnosis, he says. He’s a proponent of electroencephalographs (EEG), or neurofeedback, a non-invasive tool used to take images of the brain while a child performs various tasks that shows how the brain changes during these tasks. 10. Myth or Fact? Children with ADHD aren’t smart. Myth. Though children with ADHD often do poorly in school, the disorder has nothing to do with IQ, scientists say. And a high IQ alone doesn't prevent a child with ADHD from experiencing the cognitive impairment associated with the disorder. In a 2009 Yale University study, 75% of kids with ADHD and a high IQ (scores of 120 and higher) still suffered from significant impairment in memory and cognitive tests, unlike people with similar IQs who didn’t have the disorder. However, other factors, particularly family relationships, can affect kids’ success over ADHD. "The highly intelligent person with a more severe form of the disorder and a less supportive family may not do as well as one who doesn't have such a high IQ but does have a supportive family,” Vitiello says. 11. Myth or Fact? Kids can't outgrow ADHD. Fact. Symptoms of the disorder may fade, but it never goes away. Research has shown that ADHD often carries over from childhood into adolescence and adulthood, and some symptoms – inability to pay attention or focus, or uncontrolled behavior – can worsen with age. In fact, while NIMH statistics show that the disorder affects 3%-5% of preschool and school-age children, it impacts 4.4% of adults age 18-44. If untreated in adults, ADHD can lead to depression, anxiety and substance abuse, as well as work, legal, financial and personal problems. But the news isn't all doom and gloom; children with ADHD can go on to live happy, successful lives. "The key is to learn how to manage the illness,” Medalia says. "When people get good at managing symptoms of the illness – with medication, behavioral strategies and a good support system – they’re able to work toward and achieve the personal goals that are really meaningful to them," she says. For more information, visit our ADHD Health Center. How Much Do You Know About ADHD? Do you battle inattention and restlessness? You could have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). About 8-9 million adults have ADHD. Many adults are unaware of their disorder, as it was never diagnosed in childhood. Find out how much you know about this common disorder.