Tips from gaining health

Written by the fabulous Leigh, Veggie Might is a weekly Thursday column about all things Vegetarian.

Last week, I came across an article in Slate, Ignore Expiration Dates, which claims that product dating is arbitrary and can largely be ignored. Since there are no food industry standards for “sell by,” “best by,” and “use by” dates, and because storage conditions will vary wildly, consumers are wise to use their judgment when deciding what to eat and what to toss.

Ignoring the “best by” date is something I do regularly. I tend to trust my nose and taste buds when deciding when food is past its prime, particularly with leftovers. It may seem reckless, but I seldom buy perishable food with such labels: never meat, occasionally dairy, and rarely eggs. Vegetables are pretty clear about letting you know when they’re done with you.

But what about the pantry? I have a bag of jasmine rice that’s been in my cupboard for at least a year. Is it time for us to part ways? How about that ancient package of texturized vegetable protein (TVP) nuggets? I can’t remember when I bought it or the last time I used it.

I mean, after a taste test of 28-year-old rolled oats, Brigham Young researchers determined that, if stored properly (sealed container, cool, dry place), dry goods and canned goods can last for years and years, taste be damned. Good news for emergency stockpilers and promising for my rice situation.

So what’s the skinny on pantry shelf life and storage? I jumped into my InterWebShip to see what I could find.

I was initially shocked at what I didn’t find: the FDA website has no recommendations for dry goods—at least not that I could find. Meat, eggs and dairy, and fruit and vegetables are covered, but grains, nuts, legumes, and spices are sadly neglected.

Fortunately, the usual culinary suspects (and one newbie) are chock full of great information:

• Shelf Life of Pantry Items from Slashfood provides a handy chart of basic dry goods and their life spans.
• The Kitchn deftly handles Condiments and Expiration Dates and Vinegar: Does It Have a Shelf Life?
• The grand dame herself, Martha Stewart, gives up a Kitchen Chart of baking staples.
• StillTasty kicks it with a comprehensive shelf life database. Just enter the food item that concerns you and get the life span and storage suggestions.

In a nutshell (4 months; longer if rigerated), dry good shelf life is less about spoilage that will make you ill and more about maintaining nutritional density and flavor. Following these storage basics will extend the life of your pantry goods and save you money:

• Cool, dry location: vital. Pantry items should be kept between 60° and 70° F
• Air-tight containers: important. Storing food in jars and canisters with tight-fitting lids increase the mileage of your goods.
• Refrigeration/freezing: helpful. The oils in nuts and flours can turn rancid over time. Refrigeration stabilizes the oils and slows the aging process.

So what about my rice and TVP? Well, according to StillTasty, because I’ve kept my rice sealed and away from heat, it will last indefinitely. TVP lasts about a year in a sealed container, but I’m pretty sure it would sustain the roaches through the nuclear winter. If I don’t use it in a month, it’s getting the heave-ho. There is no room in my pantry for emergency insect food.

(Photo courtesy of Flickr member Maksis.)

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Mediterranean meals do not have the same effect

A single junk food meal – composed mainly of saturated fat – is detrimental to the health of the arteries, while no damage occurs after consuming a Mediterranean meal rich in good fats such as mono-and polyunsaturated fatty acids, according to researchers at the University of Montreal-affiliated ÉPIC Center of the Montreal Heart Institute. The Mediterranean meal may even have a positive effect on the arteries. The findings are being presented at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress, which runs in Toronto until Wednesday, by the head of the study, Dr. Anil Nigam, Director of Research at the Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation Centre (ÉPIC) and associate professor at the universitys Faculty of Medicine.

Bad fat vs. good fat

Dr. Nigam undertook the study to compare the effects of junk food and typical Mediterranean meal on the vascular endothelium: the inner lining of the blood vessels. By measuring endothelial function, it is possible to determine how easily the arteries will dilate after a temporary, five-minute occlusion, following the consumption of the two types of meals. This is a very interesting analysis for researchers to perform as endothelial function is closely linked to the long-term risk of developing coronary artery disease.

The study also revealed that participants with higher blood triglyceride levels seemed to benefit more from the healthy meals. Their arteries responded better to the Mediterranean meal compared to people with low triglyceride levels. "We believe that a Mediterranean-type diet may be particularly beneficial for individuals with high triglyceride levels, such as patients with metabolic syndrome, precisely because it could help keep arteries healthy," Dr. Nigam said.

Mediterranean meal vs. junk food meal

The results were established in 28 non-smoking men, who ate the Mediterranean-type meal first and then the junk food-type meal one week later. Before beginning, the men underwent an ultrasound of the antecubital artery at the elbow crease after fasting for 12-hours to assess their baseline endothelial function. The researchers then tested the effects of each meal. The first was composed of salmon, almonds, and vegetables cooked in olive oil, of which 51% of total calories came from fat (mostly monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fats.) The second meal consisted of a sandwich made of a sausage, an egg, and a slice of cheese, and three hash browns, for a total of 58% of total calories from fat: extremely rich in saturated fatty acids and containing no omega-3s. At two hours and four hours after each meal, participants underwent further ultrasounds to assess how the food had impacted their endothelial function.

Dr. Nigam and his team found that after eating the junk food meal, the arteries of the study participants dilated 24% less than they did when in the fasting state. In contrast, the arteries were found to dilate normally and maintain good blood flow after the Mediterranean-type meal.

"These results will positively alter how we eat on a daily basis. Poor endothelial function is one of the most significant precursors of atherosclerosis. It is now something to think about at every meal," Dr. Nigam said.

Health for human | Attractive appearance does not have to do with beauty perwatan inject botox or expensive as going to the beauty salon. Beauty can be obtained from within. The trick is simple, just add the following foods which can beautify themselves in the daily menu. very easy to do

A. Hemp seeds, fish and coffee for Beautiful Skin

Macrene Dr. Alexiades-Armenakas, a dermatologist practicing in New York City, said that eating flaxseed is one of the main menu for beauty. Flaxseed is high in omega-6 and omega-3.

"Omega acids are absorbed for the formation of the skin. I watched the repair of skin, hair and nails in patients who consume foods rich in flaxseed," said Dr. Alexiades-Armenakas as reported by FoxNews on Sunday (2/26/2012).

In addition, he also recommended to consume a lot of fish are also high in omega-3 content of it. Dr. Alexiades-Armenakas said that drinking coffee can help reduce the risk of skin cancer and improve the quality of the skin due to high levels of polythenals.

2. Vitamin C for White Teeth

"If you want a smile that lit up the white, can be started by taking vitamin C. Vitamin C can be obtained from healthy foods such as leafy green vegetables, blueberries and red fruits are very high in vitamin C," said Dr. Gerald Curatola dentist in New York City.

Dr. Curatola added that fiber-rich foods are also important for the body. Apples, almonds, celery and carrots to act like a little toothbrush to keep teeth stay clean because the content of the acid neutralizing agent also serves as the teeth.

In addition, shitake mushrooms also contain sugar that helps stop the formation of dental plaque.

3. Avocado and Olive Oil for Hair Thick and Shine

For shiny hair, add the oil in the diet. According to celebrity hairdresser, Paul LaBrecque, avocado, olive oil and omega-3 oils can make the hair look more beautiful.

"These materials will ensure the hair grow thicker and tidy. Means sevum exact amount will be generated from the scalp. Sevum is the oil produced by the body to keep hair looking healthier and thicker for long periods of time, "LeBrecque said,

LeBrecque also suggested that eating sunflower seeds to keep your hair color. Maintain the appearance of beauty does not have to spend a lot. We just need to stop by your local grocery store and find the right food.

My friend, so many people find it difficult to concentrate on the important moments, such as meetings or study. 

When you include people who have trouble concentrating, try eating foods that are high in protein and contain specific nutrients can help you concentrate for longer periods of time. What are these foods? EHow and Divavillage, launch nutrients that can improve concentration and increase productivity.

1. Bread Wheat

People who eat breakfast can concentrate wheat bread, alert, and also has the ability to solve problems with more baik.Produk such as whole wheat cereals, wheat crackers or bread wheat is the main source of healthy carbohydrates and increase the concentration in the morning and afternoon.

2. Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes contain healthy carbohydrates without causing a sugar spike. This energy flow can help you concentrate or focus and maintain energy levels.

3. Spinach

Green vegetables are rich in antioxidants, minerals and iron. You can eat spinach by mixing it into an omelet or a sandwich in the morning and make it clear vegetable at lunch time or evening.

4. Eggs

The content of choline and other nutrients contained in the egg can improve brain function. Eating eggs regularly could also protect the brain from degenerative diseases.

5. Tuna and Salmon

Fatty fish is a source of omega-3 fatty acids and plays an important role in cognitive function. Eating foods high in omega-3 will keep you focused and protect the brain against degenerative diseases like Alzheimers.

6. Red Beans

B vitamins thiamin on red beans can reduce the symptoms of depression, mood disorders and also maintain excellent cognitive function. Add the kidney beans as a salad in the afternoon to load nutrients and fiber in a productive afternoon. You can also enjoy red beans for dinner to enhance brain work tomorrow.

Article Source : 6 Foods That Can Improve Concentration

Snack should not only to satisfy the desire to eat, but also to give a sense of satiety until late hours of the next main meal. Ideally, healthy snacks should contain no more than 200 calories a day and has essential nutrients like carbohydrates, protein and fiber. There were seven healthy snacks to maintain ideal body weight.

1. Yoghurt & Strawberries
Yogurt is a good source of protein and helps maintain your ideal body weight. The most rapid body uses carbohydrates, and protein helps the body to digest it slowly so that the stomach feels full longer. Add fruit such as strawberries and blueberries into plain yogurt, can also keep you fuller for longer.

2. Bananas & Apples
Bananas and apples are a good source of fiber and filling effect. Studies from State University of Rio de Janeiro showed that women who ate three apples / banana a day will lose weight more than those without.

3. Canned Tuna
Can of tuna that are rich in protein contains only 90 calories. Tuna can be eaten as a snack with whole wheat bread topped with mustard. But keep in mind, buying canned tuna that does not contain additional ingredients such as salt or seasonings. Notice is always a list of ingredients and nutritional values ​​information on the packaging.

4. Low-Fat Milk
Milk is not appropriate if categorized as a snack. But these drinks can be a substitute for a snack when your stomach feels hungry. Low-fat milk is rich in calcium and a number of studies have shown that calcium can speed up your metabolism. Want to taste better? Blend milk with your favorite fruits such as bananas or strawberries.

5. Cottage Cheese
Soft cheese with a sour taste made from buffalo milk is good as well as low-fat snack. You can eat 1/2 cup cottage cheese with a sprinkling of almonds. The combination of these two foods provide plenty of fiber, protein and carbohydrates to the body.

6. Grain Soup
Soup beans, peas or beans is a healthy alternative snack. These foods are rich in protein and fiber diet is good for.

7. Edamame
Edamame is a type of Japanese soy bean seed in a large and green. Soy beans contain a variety of healthy nutrition for the body. Half a cup of edamame has been able to meet the needs of fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals in a day. You can eat it with roasted or boiled.

This the fastest way to get a six pack set of abs.

1: To build really great abs its important to first understand what abs do.
Their full name is rectus abdominis. The rectus bit, is Latin for straight, proper, upright. Contrary to popular opinion, the abs primary job is not to curl you up into a ball, but they work together with the back muscles to maintain correct posture and stabilize the spine. Therefore training your abs without training your back will create an imbalance in the musculature that supports your spine.

These muscles are not just for show! So the best exercises for abs are ones that force your entire core to go into overdrive to support your spine. Some exercises that do this are squats and deadlifts. These exercises will train your entire core to work together to do what it is designed to do. At the same time they will also train a lot of other muscles (eg glutes and quads), and this promotes even more rapid fat loss as the body recovers.

2: Do crunches-Lie on the floor (with or without a mat) your arms in front of your chest.
Bend your knees up as far as they go. Do not place both hands behind your head. Placing both hands behind your head can cause lower back problems in the long run as it places unnecessary stress on that part of your body from pulling on your head and neck. Another alternative is to cross your arms in front of your chest and lightly place your finger tips behind your ears, without pulling on your neck.

Now raise your shoulders (upper torso) towards your knees, using strictly your abdominal muscles. It is very important not to lift your entire back off the floor, as this can cause back strain, and the extended movement does not help you develop six pack abs any faster. The most important part of the crunch is the initial flexing of your abs as you lift your shoulders off the floor. As soon as you begin lifting off the floor exhale through your mouth, ending with a gasp once your shoulders are off the floor. Then pause for a second once you are at the top of the crunch and exhale the last bit of air from your diaphragm while flexing your abs. The proper breathing and flexing make all the difference. Now lower back down slowly and controlled while inhaling through your nose, just until your shoulder blades touch the ground. Do not let your head touch the ground and repeat.

3: Situps Lie on the floor, feet on the floor, knees up and fingers placed behind your ears or hands crossed on your chest.
Sit all the way up, lifting your lower back off the floor along with your shoulder blades. Lower yourself down. Repeat. Once this becomes relatively easy for you (i.e. you can do a quite a bit with ease) start adding more challenges. Find an incline bench or do these with an exercise ball. Once you "graduate" from that, do weighted sit ups. Hold a weight on your chest while you do these. As these become easier, hold heavier and heavier weights.

4: Do Bicycle Crunches. Lift your feet off the ground while doing the sit ups by alternating each leg in the air.
Bicycling, pretending to pedal while sitting up. Alternating knee touches. If your hands are behind your head, bring your left knee up to touch your right elbow and then your right knee to the left elbow.

5: Do Leg Lifts.
Lie on the floor, legs straight out, hands at your sides. Lift your legs straight up (not bending your knees at all) until theyre at a 90 degree angle (or close). Lower your legs and repeat without letting your legs touch the floor. For more challenge there is equipment at most gyms that will allow you to raise yourself up using your arms as support and dangle your legs. You can perform leg lifts there too. If youre using this piece of equipment, you can make it easier by just raising your knees to your chest. Its more difficult to raise your legs to a horizontal position with your legs straight. This helps firm up the lower abdomen. If youre truly a monster, try doing leg lifts with a medicine ball hanging from your feet. Or hang from a pull up bar and raise your legs in front of you all the way up to the bar.

6: Do Jackknife Sit Ups.
Lie down flat on the floor. Place your hands on the ground to your sides for balance; you can pick them up as you get used to the movement. Simultaneously raise your knees and torso so that your knees and face meet on an imaginary line extending from your pelvis to the ceiling. You should be able to kiss your knees at the top of the motion. Your legs will naturally fold bringing your feet towards your hips, much like a jackknife. Lie back down (i.e. "spread out") and repeat. Place a weight between your feet when you think you can handle it.

7: Static Hold and Side Statics.
Put your body into the push-up position but with your elbows on the floor, and your whole body flat. This position is known as the static hold position and it trains your core (including your abs) to hold the body in place which is the real purpose of your abs. Hold this position for as long as possible. Beginners should be aiming to start off with at least 45 seconds, while seasoned ab workers are known to achieve over 5 minute static holds. To perform the side static hold, roll onto one side of your body and lift into the same position as before, but this time only one arm will be on the ground with the other arm pointed straight up the air and your non weight bearing leg resting on your bottom leg. Once again, hold this for as long as possible.

8: Train Your Oblique Muscles.
Its not as important to work on your oblique muscles at first, but eventually youll want to start working these too. These are the muscles to either side of your stomach. There are multiple ways to do this and anything that includes twisting your torso against a resistance counts. There are twisting machines at gyms, you can twist while you do sit-ups, you can do side bends, you can twist side to side with a medicine ball in hand, etc. Be aware though, that many beginners tend to have weak obliques compared to their abs (it simply isnt used as much in daily life) so go easy on the sides at first.

Do the Scientific Best Abs Exercise. Researchers at the San Diego State University, found that there are certain abs exercises that triggers most muscular activity. The winner was the "bicycle maneuver":

• Lie on the floor; make sure your lower back is pressed on the ground.
• Take your hands behind your ears. Then bring up your knees at a 45 degree angle.
• Start doing a bicycle pedaling motion. Touch your elbow with the opposite knee (right elbow with left knee and so on, alternating)
• Breathe in a relaxed and even manner throughout the exercise.

5 Men Muscle Loved by Woman - Women do like men who muscled in the abdomen. But the belly "Six Pack" is not the only part visible. Each woman may have the muscle to be her favorite, but the fifth part of this muscle is frequently observed from men.
1. Abdominal muscles

Tall and strapping may be the first thing seen from the physical man, but if your stomach like a pile of fat, then its appeal is much reduced. Women will think, still young it was muscular, how for 10 years letter :).

2. Forearm

Muscular forearms that can be perceived as a strong man, and could do anything, including minor repair work at home.

3. Buttocks

Women also saw the buttocks of a man to know the mans physical activity levels. If you are fit and love sports, usually the buttocks will look high and tight. Conversely, if you do more sit and laze around, looked sagging buttocks and down.

4. A sturdy shoulder

Shoulder is where women rely on men. Regular exercise will make it look solid and make the overall physical appearance more masculine.

5. The Biceps

In a survey conducted by "Cosmopolitan U.S. magazine", revealed 1 in 5 women admitted that: he will add to the biceps a plus for men he knew.

There are many different medical procedures that can provide doctors with advanced diagnostic information and surgical capabilities that were not present just a few decades ago. The equipment that is used for some of these techniques can emit radiation or relies on the transmission of radiation in order to view the inside of the body without requiring exploratory surgery. Doctors and patients must sometimes wear radiation protection gear such as leaded glasses and thyroid shields in order to stop harmful levels of energy from accruing in the body while working with patients.

Standard X-Rays

X-Rays are a type of electromagnetic energy that can pass through certain substances but that are partially blocked by denser areas of matter. Patients who receive an x-ray have this type of radiation showered through a particular area. An imaging film is placed under the limb or area that is be being imaged. The result is that dense areas inside of the body such as bone, parts of internal organs or tumors create gaps in the film while less dense areas appear dark because the x-rays change the color of the film. Standard x-rays are used extensively because they are very fast, inexpensive and highly accurate for diagnosing basic problems, such as a broken bone or a fracture.

Fluoroscopy

One of the more advanced diagnostic uses for x-rays is known as fluoroscopy. This is a procedure that can give doctors the ability to actually see the internal functioning of the body in real time. This type of imaging is performed by passing x-rays through the body that are then captured by a digital sensor or a fluorescent screen. The procedure is commonly performed to examine potential problems in the gastrointestinal tract, to assist in certain types of surgeries and to view the functioning of the veins and arteries during an angiogram. Most doctors must wear leaded glasses and x-ray aprons because of the duration of radiation exposure that occurs in order to capture enough data for a diagnosis.

Laser Procedures

Lasers are used extensively in cosmetic procedures and are becoming more common in fields such as dentistry. Lasers give surgeons the ability to accurately remove layers of skin or tissue, to create clean and sanitary incisions and to cauterize tissue as needed. Some types of lasers that are used medically do emit very high amounts of radiation that need to be avoided. Often this is a concern when working with delicate handheld instruments because of the proximity of the device to the body. Leaded glasses are very important for people who are working with lasers because the energy can be particularly devastating to the structures of the eye.

Article Jeremy P Stanfords

Article Source : Common Medical Procedures That Require Radiation Protection