How to Choose the Right Gym!

Choosing the perfect gym that is most conducive to you is no easy task. There are many factors that should be weighed when deciding. Besides being comfortable, you want a gym that is also functional and where you won't lose motivation.

from Health-and-Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1Hrb4bR

Researchers identify new spectrum disorder called ALPIM syndrome

A high rate of association between panic disorder and four domains of physical illness has been documented by researchers. Their new study could alter how physicians and psychiatrists view the boundaries within and between psychiatric and medical disorders.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1RoV4Sl

Aggressive cancer treatment near end of life persists despite rise in advance planning efforts

In a review of nearly 2,000 surveys with people whose loved ones died of cancer, researchers say they found a 40 percent increase over a 12-year period in the number of patients with cancer who participated in one form of advance care planning -- designating durable power of attorney privileges to a loved one -- but no corresponding impact on their rates of aggressive medical care received in the last weeks of life.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1RoV5Wq

Two-thirds of teen, young adult cancer patients facing end of life use aggressive measures

More than two-thirds of adolescents and young adults dying of cancer utilized one or more aggressive interventions in the last month of life, according to a retrospective study. The findings suggest the need for more research into whether patients have been adequately supported to contemplate their end-of-life options or whether the pattern reflects their well-considered wishes.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Cu3vp3

Opioids may not spell relief for chronic back pain sufferers with depression, anxiety

Patients who were prescribed opioids to treat chronic lower back pain experienced significantly less pain relief and were more likely to abuse their medication when they had psychiatric disorders, a new study has found.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Cu3t0r

Cause of heart damage in sepsis patients identified

Sepsis is the most common cause of death in hospitalized critically ill people and affects up to 18 million people world-wide annually. A common cause of heart damage in patients with sepsis has now been identified by researchers.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Cu3voU

Two Undisputable Tips To Boost Your Metabolism

You probably have heard that increasing the metabolic activities of the body is a sure way to lose weight. However, how this is achieved is a mystery to many.

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1Cvb12D

New guideline puts emphasis on patient care in treating hypoparathyroidism

Patients with low levels of calcium and parathyroid hormone in their blood should be investigated for chronic hypoparathyroidism to optimize their treatment, according to a new guideline.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1dQB1tz

Factors affecting prescription pain reliever misuse identified

People who misuse prescription pain relievers all have one thing in common, researchers have discovered: a history of recent illicit drug use. Researchers also determined that adults aged 50 and above were more likely to acquire pain relievers through more than one doctor, whereas younger individuals were more likely to acquire them from friends, relatives or drug dealers.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1HiF8al

Study finds variation in rates of secondary cleft lip, palate surgery

For children with cleft lip and palate, the chances of undergoing secondary surgery vary depending on the center where they're treated, reports a new study.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1gszM5G

Regular exposure to death, trauma causes death anxiety in emergency nurses

Emergency nurses are highly susceptible to death anxiety and employers must recognize this and put support in place to improve the health of their staff and patient care, states a new article.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1gszLPn

Bone-tendon-bone grafts not necessarily a better choice for ACL reconstruction

Surgeons making reconstruction choices for an injured ACL can consider both bone-tendon-bone grafts and hamstring autografts as equally viable options in regards to healing, researchers report.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1HiF4Yf

The arts improve medical care through learned observation

The visual and narrative arts can help physicians hone their observational skills -- a critical expertise increasingly needed in today's medicine, contends a family medicine professor.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1HiF4Yb

Is AGM Report Significant in African Hospital Institutions?

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) report of any institution/organization is an opportunity to share the progress and set backs with its stakeholders. This is also a chance for the stakeholders to have an insight into the progress and performance milestones of the institution.

from Health-and-Fitness:Healthcare-Systems Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1J8ZEL1

6 Unexpected Reasons You Find It Hard Sticking To Your Weight Loss Plan

You're fed up with how you look and feel being a weight you are unhappy with and keep trying different ways to do something about it, each time determined to stick with it. So why does it end up falling apart within a few weeks? This article looks at 6 reasons why this could be happening to you and what to do if it is.

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1JU2fOk

How To Achieve Quick, Sustained Weight Loss

Many people want to learn the fastest ways to lose weight. But unless it is possible to sustain weight loss for many months or years, all the effort would be wasteful. This report looks at ways to achieve sustained weight loss in a safe and effective manner.

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1IOXaWk

Diet and exercise does not prevent gestational diabetes in obese women

A diet and exercise regime for high-risk obese pregnant women, whilst effective in promoting a healthy lifestyle, does not prevent gestational diabetes, finds a new study. The research suggests that programs promoting healthy behaviors are unlikely to be effective in preventing diabetes in obese women; instead, resources should be directed towards better screening and treatment, including the use of a more stringent threshold for diagnosis.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1LW9CEy

No need to treat stable meniscus tears during ACL surgery, new research shows

While athletes undergoing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery often have an additional meniscus injury, treating these tears at the same time may not be necessary. Research shows positive results for meniscal tears that were deemed stable and left alone at the time of ACL reconstruction.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1IOGzlt

Surgery may be best treatment option for multidirectional shoulder dislocations

While multidirectional instability of the shoulder has been traditionally treated without surgery, research shows that surgery is also effective for this type of dislocation.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1J8sxqv

Lose Weight With These 5 Daily Eating Habits

Learn how to lose weight quickly and permanently by developing these 5 simple daily eating habits. It's easy once you get the hang of it.

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1TpXrSv

Get Luxuriant Locks With Emu Oil Hair Care

Glossy tresses and luxuriant locks is the dream of every man and woman. However, getting these end results is not always an easy task.

from Health-and-Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1HRIcQo

The Quick Bodyweight Home Workout That’ll Leave You Breathless

We get it: Even the idea of waking up, packing a bag, then going to the gym can be exhausting. Plus, this summer we have trips to take, parties to attend, and well, better things to do than spend an hour exercising.

That's why we're die-hard fans of home workouts with bodyweight exercises—moves you can do with no extra equipment or machines needed. They're simple, efficient, get the job done, and can actually be pretty fun. In this Grokker video, Jon Stratford, a personal trainer (and former marine!) shows you 10 simple moves to boost your metabolism and develop strength in every major muscle group, from your chest to your core to your legs.

His twists on standard moves, like dive bomber press-ups, gecko planks, and split squats, will challenge your body like never before—all in the comfort of your own living room. And the best part? One round of the entire workout only takes about five minutes (if you're speedy). Add on one, two, three, or more rounds for an added challenge.

To recap, peform 10 reps of each of the following exercises.

Squats
Gecko Planks
Dive Bomber Press-Ups
Split Squats (per leg)
Side Planks with Reach (per side)
T-Press-Ups (per side)
Mountain Climbers
Half-Sits
Dips
Ski Jumps (per leg)

Rest as needed. Repeat for a second, third, or fourth set.

Interested in more short and effective at-home workouts? There are thousands waiting for you on Grokker, the one stop shop online resource for wellness. Get 30 percent off a Grokker.com membership by entering promo code GREATIST at checkout.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1NTECn9

Why You Shouldn't Eat in Your Car

Americans eat everywhere today besides sitting at the kitchen table - at their desk, at sporting events, at social gatherings, standing at the kitchen counter, in front of the TV and even in their cars. With the busy life that you may lead, sitting down for a meal may seem next to impossible. But there are many reasons why you should do just that and many reasons you should skip the car eating.

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1GbDp50

Greatist Workout of the Day: Friday, July 10th

This series of GWODs was designed exclusively for Greatist by Bodeefit. For more information about the exercises in this workout, or to see video demos of each movement, follow the links below the graphic. Be sure to note the results of your workout so you can track your progress as you go.

Before you tackle this workout, try this quick and effective full-body warm-up. It's just five simple moves but hits every major muscle group and gets your heart pumping.

Head & Heart

Complete as many rounds of the following as safely possible in 10 minutes.

5 Handstand Push-Ups
10 Sit-Ups
10 Box Jumps

Want to kick up the intensity? Use a tall box on the box jumps. And don't forget to check back tomorrow for a totally new (but equally awesome) GWOD!

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1JYlmnK

28 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Energy Instantly

Put down that energy shot! There's no need to chug crazy canned concoctions or buckets of coffee to get through the day without a 3 p.m. slump. We found 28 quick and easy tips to up energy levels—no unpronounceable chemicals required.

1. Work out midday.

When that mid-afternoon urge to doze rolls around, hit the gym instead of the sack. Studies suggest working out can actually increase productivity enough to counteract that time away from the office.¹

2. Power nap.

Avoid the temptation to pull a Rip Van Winkle, and take a quick midday power nap instead. Studies show the optimal amount of sleep is 10 to 20 minutes to get through the day without throwing off the night's sleep.²

3. Hit the candy bowl.

Sure chocolate's got caffeine, but that's not the only reason it offers a quick pick-me-up. Flavonoids found in cocoa have been shown to boost cognitive skills and improve mood.³

4. Drink some joe.

We can say from experience six back-to-back cups of coffee is a recipe for instant crash-mode. But one cup is usually just right. One study found that a single cup of coffee was enough to keep sleepy drivers on a long haul more alert at the wheel.⁴

5. Go outside.

Head into the great outdoors—even if some woods aren't nearby, a green park will do. Just 20 minutes outdoors is enough to feel more alive. How's that for an energy boost?

6. Eat regularly.

The body needs fuel (a.k.a. food) to function, and without it our energy and mood can spiral downward. However regular, healthy meals and snacks can improve cognitive function.⁵ But keep in mind not getting enough sleep can also cause us to eat when we're not actually hungry, so check in with that stomach before munching down.⁶

7. Reach for complex carbs.

Wondering what to eat to fuel up? Complex carbs (like whole grains) are a good bet. The dose of glucose they provide serves as food for the brain, and one study found a meal of complex carbs made subjects feel more energized.⁷ Studies have also found low-carb dieters to be moodier than those who do eat carbs.⁸

8. Sip sugar-free drinks.

Studies suggest sugary energy drinks can leave us crashing as soon as one hour later.⁹ The shocker: The effects are the same even without the caffeine! That's right, caffeine-free sugary beverages can cause a crash, too.

9. Stretch it out.

Just a few desk stretches may be enough, but studies have suggested a little yoga could fight depression and anxiety or other stress-related disorders.¹⁰

10. Add some greens.

In a stuffy office, a houseplant can help filter out pollutants like volatile organic compounds (or VOCs for short) and ozone. And those chemicals can have both long and short-term effects, including energy-draining allergies and headaches. ¹¹Add a plant, though, and those threats could diminish.

11. Laugh.

Laughter's a proven stress-buster, but studies suggest laughing can boost energy levels, too.¹² (Feel free to use this as permission to go on YouTube for the next 30 minutes.)

12. Open the curtains.

Environmental cues play a huge role in thebody's energy grooves (a.k.a. circadian rhythms), and sunlight can also help alleviate seasonal affective disorder. But there's no need to invest in a light therapy box if there's a sunny window available.

13. Chew-se wisely.

Instead of nodding off during an endless meeting, eat a small piece of candy or pop a piece of gum. One study found chewing gum can increase alertness and improve mood.¹³

14. Think fast.

It may not sound so easy when those eyelids are drooping, but making the brain work a little quicker may help the body follow suit! Thinking faster (i.e. reading at a quicker pace, brainstorming in a group, or learning a new concept) made one group of study subjects feel more energized.¹⁴

15. Take a cold shower.

It's all about the polar bear swim. Researchers have even suggested a three-minute long cold shower could be enough to counteract some of the effects of chronic fatigue.

16. Take a few deep breaths.

Nope, it's not just the key to resisting the urge to scream at that stupid driver. Deep yoga breathing from the diaphragm gets blood pumping, which also may boost energy all day long.¹⁵

17. Drink.

Whether at the gym or just dealing with the daily grind, it can be hard to remember to drink enough water. But even mild dehydration can cause sleepiness, so try chugging a glass or two when fatigue strikes.¹⁶ Or, better yet, stay hydrated all day long!

18. Flick a switch.

Circadian rhythms can have a big impact on how alert we feel, but one study found feeling more awake (at any time of day) can be as easy is flipping on some lights.¹⁷

19. Turn up the volume.

Don't just turn on to tunes to chill out. Listening to music and tapping those toes significantly increased college kids' alertness in one study.¹⁸

20. And sing along.

Even Dummies know singing requires breath control. Belt it for a full song, and there's plenty of extra oxygen pumping to feel energized as well as the adrenaline of taking it to the (karaoke) stage. Plus, one study showed singing significantly increased energy levels among college students (more than just listening quietly to tunes).¹⁸

21. Do something interesting.

Plan to do the most engaging or interesting task of the day during the sleepiest time of day (typically around 3 p.m.). One study found that being interested in a task makes it significantly easier to stay awake (despite an energy lull).¹⁹

22. Adjust the temperature.

Being too cold may cause the body's temperature to drop, which tells it "time to sleep!"²⁰ Throw on a sweater or turn up the heat to fight off that drowsy feeling.

23. Choose the window seat.

Consistently dozing off in class or meetings? Move closer to a window. The daylight, fresh air, or even simply a natural view can all help boost alertness. On the flipside, a frantic street view may make it harder to focus.

24. Be social.

Studies have found people who are less social are generally less happy and don't sleep as well. And compared to sedentary or quiet office work, chatting it up made study subjects feel more awake.²¹

25. Seek some lemon-aid.

Sniffing certain scents (a.k.a. aromatherapy) is rumored to have all kinds of mood benefits, but lemon oil is one of the only essential oils with proven support. Lemon is considered a stimulating scent, and one study showed it improved subjects' moods.²²

26. See red.

Studies have shown the color red is associated with winning and self-confidence.²³ Try looking at some red or violet hues (or wearing them) to feel more awake.

27. Straighten up.

Slouching over the computer could cause fatigue earlier in the day. Sit up straight, though—that's shoulders back, eyes dead ahead, and lower back slightly arched—to feel more energized and possibly even get a boost of self-confidence.²⁴

28. Leave the desk.

Chowing down in front of the computer makes overeating even more likely.²⁵ But getting away from the desk at lunchtime could help reenergize and refocus, too. Whether it's a quick walk or a long lunch, take some time to wake up away from the glowing screen. Those emails can wait a few minutes. Really.

Originally published April 2012, updated July 2015.

Works Cited

1. Employee self-rated productivity and objective organizational production levels: effects of worksite health interventions involving reduced work hours and physical exercise. von Thiele Schwarz U, Hasson H. Journal of occupational and environmental medicine / American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2011, Dec.;53(8):1536-5948.
2. Benefits of napping in healthy adults: impact of nap length, time of day, age, and experience with napping. Milner CE, Cote KA. Journal of sleep research, 2009, Oct.;18(2):1365-2869.
3. Consumption of cocoa flavanols results in acute improvements in mood and cognitive performance during sustained mental effort. Scholey AB, French SJ, Morris PJ. Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England), 2009, Nov.;24(10):1461-7285. Consumption of cocoa flavanols results in an acute improvement in visual and cognitive functions. Field DT, Williams CM, Butler LT. Physiology & behavior, 2011, Feb.;103(3-4):1873-507X.
4. Effects of coffee on driving performance during prolonged simulated highway driving. Mets M, Baas D, van Boven I. Psychopharmacology, 2012, Nov.;222(2):1432-2072.
5. What is the role of food in preventing depression and improving mood, performance and cognitive function? Lombard CB. The Medical journal of Australia, 2001, Feb.;173 Suppl():0025-729X.
6. Sleep curtailment is accompanied by increased intake of calories from snacks. Nedeltcheva AV, Kilkus JM, Imperial J. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 2008, Dec.;89(1):1938-3207.
7. The effects of high-carbohydrate vs high-fat breakfasts on feelings of fullness and alertness, and subsequent food intake. Holt SH, Delargy HJ, Lawton CL. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 1999, Aug.;50(1):0963-7486.
8. Long-term effects of a very low-carbohydrate diet and a low-fat diet on mood and cognitive function. Brinkworth GD, Buckley JD, Noakes M. Archives of internal medicine, 2009, Dec.;169(20):1538-3679.
9. A high sugar content, low caffeine drink does not alleviate sleepiness but may worsen it. Anderson C, Horne JA. Human psychopharmacology, 2006, Sep.;21(5):0885-6222.
10. Effects of yoga on the autonomic nervous system, gamma-aminobutyric-acid, and allostasis in epilepsy, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Streeter CC, Gerbarg PL, Saper RB. Medical hypotheses, 2012, Feb.;78(5):1532-2777. Effects of yoga versus walking on mood, anxiety, and brain GABA levels: a randomized controlled MRS study. Streeter CC, Whitfield TH, Owen L. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 2010, Aug.;16(11):1557-7708.
11. Volatile organic compounds: do they present a risk to our health? Rumchev K, Brown H, Spickett J. Reviews on environmental health, 2007, Jun.;22(1):0048-7554. The health effects of non-industrial indoor air pollution. Bernstein JA, Alexis N, Bacchus H. The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology, 2007, Dec.;121(3):1097-6825.
12. The effect of mirthful laughter on stress and natural killer cell activity. Bennett MP, Zeller JM, Rosenberg L. Alternative therapies in health and medicine, 2003, Apr.;9(2):1078-6791. Humor: an antidote for stress. Wooten P. Holistic nursing practice, 1996, Feb.;10(2):0887-9311.
13. Effects of chewing gum on mood, learning, memory and performance of an intelligence test. Smith A. Nutritional neuroscience, 2009, Jul.;12(2):1476-8305.
14. Manic thinking: independent effects of thought speed and thought content on mood. Pronin E, Wegner DM. Psychological science, 2006, Nov.;17(9):0956-7976.
15. Physiology of long pranayamic breathing: neural respiratory elements may provide a mechanism that explains how slow deep breathing shifts the autonomic nervous system. Jerath R, Edry JW, Barnes VA. Medical hypotheses, 2006, Apr.;67(3):0306-9877.
16. Impact of mild dehydration on wellness and on exercise performance. Maughan RJ. European journal of clinical nutrition, 2005, Mar.;57 Suppl 2():0954-3007.
17. Preliminary evidence that both blue and red light can induce alertness at night. Figueiro MG, Bierman A, Plitnick B. BMC neuroscience, 2009, Aug.;10():1471-2202.
18. The effect of personality type and musical task on self-perceived arousal. Lim HA. Journal of music therapy, 2008, Sep.;45(2):0022-2917.
19. Boredom effects on sleepiness/alertness in the early afternoon vs. early evening and interactions with warm ambient temperature. Mavjee V, Horne JA. British journal of psychology (London, England : 1953), 1994, Nov.;85 ( Pt 3)():0007-1269.
20. The human sleep-wake cycle reconsidered from a thermoregulatory point of view. Kräuchi K. Physiology & behavior, 2006, Oct.;90(2-3):0031-9384.
21. Comment on short-term variation in subjective sleepiness. Eriksen CA, Akerstedt T, Kecklund G. Perceptual and motor skills, 2006, May.;101(3):0031-5125.
22. Olfactory influences on mood and autonomic, endocrine, and immune function. Kiecolt-Glaser JK, Graham JE, Malarkey WB. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 2008, May.;33(3):0306-4530.
23. Perception of the color red enhances the force and velocity of motor output. Elliot AJ, Aarts H. Emotion (Washington, D.C.), 2011, Aug.;11(2):1931-1516.
24. The effects of upright and slumped postures on the recall of positive and negative thoughts. Wilson VE, Peper E. Applied psychophysiology and biofeedback, 2004, Dec.;29(3):1090-0586.
25. Playing a computer game during lunch affects fullness, memory for lunch, and later snack intake. Oldham-Cooper RE, Hardman CA, Nicoll CE. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 2010, Dec.;93(2):1938-3207.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1UHnIxp

See How One Blogger Turned Nasty Internet Comments Into a Beautiful Statement

It’s one thing to know about the double standards women regularly face and another to see them in action. British beauty blogger Em Ford set out to illustrate the latter when she started posting photos of herself without makeup on social media three months ago. Now she’s created a video that plasters the Internet comments people left on those photos across the screen. As Ford transforms from totally barefaced to completely made-up, the vicious remarks continue to pile up. Makeup or no makeup, a woman can’t win—the only solution, the video concludes, is to find confidence from within. It’s a valuable message, and we're in awe of Ford’s vulnerability.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1HiNz7I

MRI, near infrared spectral tomography increases specificity in breast cancer imaging

Breast MRI is the most sensitive imaging technique for cancer surveillance and is recommended for screening in women with elevated risk of breast cancer. Unfortunately, breast MRI generates many "false positives," which are regions of the breast that "enhance" under imaging technology, but are not malignant. A dual breast exam using MRI and Near Infrared Spectral Tomography (NIRST) is feasible and more accurate than MRI alone, researchers report.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1HQDWAA

An Honest Look At Classic Shaving

What is Shaving, really? Simply put, it is the process of removal of facial hair with the help of any bladed instrument sharp enough, so as to avoid injury and cuts to the face or the surrounding areas. This is a necessary measure vital in a way, for the purpose of maintaining a state of perceptive dignity, accepted and encouraged within a civilized and progressive society.

from Health-and-Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1LUA3KO

Fresh Meal Diet Delivery Vs Meal Replacement Diets - Which Is Best For You?

Trying to decide between a fresh meal diet delivery service and a meal replacement diet delivery plan? Here are some of the pros and cons you should know before you buy!

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1frFZyL

Is Exercise Necessary to Lose Weight?

In today's society where we are dictated by how we look and how much we weigh, weight loss has always been a goal that we all strive for whether we admit it or not. We all have that ideal weight that we want to achieve. But how do we successfully reach this "ideal" weight?

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1KS0IJ4

This Is All You Really Need to Know About Staying Hydrated

Not drinking enough water before a morning run, sweating a ton at the gym, forgetting a water bottle to sip during spin class, and steamy temps are surefire ways to put us on a path to dehydration doom. Staying hydrated while exercising is important because of the added sweat loss (compared to day-to-day activities like working at a desk or watching TV). Tossing back some H2O while working out can also help us fight fatigue and prolong endurance. ¹ Before you turn into a raisin inside and out, check out these 10 ways to prevent mid-workout dehydration.

1. Drink!

Good old H2O is critical for rehydrating when the body experiences fluid loss, such as when we sweat. ² Even though many gyms like to keep pricey sports drinks and protein shakes stocked on their shelves, most of the time, water will do the trick just fine. Shoot to sip seven to 10 ounces of fluid every 10 to 20 minutes during exercise to stay properly hydrated. ³ If you’re working out for longer than an hour or doing a particularly intense exercise (like running a marathon or participating in a tough training session), you will probably need to replace electrolytes too—this is where a sports drink or electrolyte-enhanced water comes in handy. ⁴ However it’s also important to be wary of overhydration: Too much water can lead to hyponatremia, which is when excess water in our bodies dilutes the sodium content of our blood. ⁵⁶ "It is most often caused by long duration exercise and either drinking fluid at a rate that is more than fluid losses or only replacing fluid losses with hypotonic fluids like water," CamelBak hydration advisor, Doug Casa, says.

2. Sip on sports drinks and coconut water.

When we sweat, we lose electrolytes, which are minerals found in the blood that help to regulate (among other things) the amount of water in the body. Research suggests and sports drinks, such as Powerade and Gatorade, can help prolong exercise and rehydrate our bodies because they contain electrolytes, which plain old water does not. ⁷ While an ordinary workout may not require electrolyte-replenishing, those participating in longer and more intense periods of exertion, such as running a marathon or going through a particularly intense workout, will benefit from a good dose of electrolytes mid-workout. ⁸ Not in to sports drinks, or want a more natural alternative? Water-enhancing electrolyte tablets, coconut water, or a homemade sports drink could be potentially effective substitutes. ⁹

3. Turn to fruit.

Many fruits are a great source of both electrolytes and fluids, though the dose of electrolytes can differ from fruit to fruit. ¹⁰ Bananas and dates are known for having high levels of the electrolyte potassium, making them a great option for refueling during an intense workout (for example, a long run). ¹¹ To stay hydrated while keeping up electrolytes, it’s important to drink water while munching on fruit (fruit contains some water, but not as much as your water bottle).

4. Weigh yourself.

Hop on the scale before and after exercise. For each pound lost during activity, drink an additional 16 ounces of fluid. If your body weight change is three percent or more, you may be experiencing significant to serious dehydration. ¹² Losing a few pounds of body weight after exercise can put strain on the body and result in uncomfortable side effects like muscle cramps, dizziness, and fatigue. ¹³ To prevent sweating away the water that keeps us hydrated, have a water bottle at the ready.

5. Check the toilet.

If you’re taking a mid-set break to hit the loo, check on the color of your urine to make sure you’re staying hydrated. When properly hydrated, urine should be pale yellow in color. Though it may be tricky to keep an eye on it, try to watch the urine stream, since the color of urine will dilute when it hits the toilet water. Store this handy, dandy urine color test in your phone or wallet to make sure your piddle is up to snuff—dark yellow urine may indicate dehydration. ¹³

6. Tame thirst.

Whatever you’re drinking, be it water, juice, or sports drinks, make sure to take a sip or two whenever you feel thirsty. Even if you’re not feeling totally parched, mild thirst is still a sign of impending dehydration.

7. Pay attention to your muscles.

Lean muscle tissue contains more than 75 percent water, so when the body is short on H2O, muscles are more easily fatigued. ¹⁴ "Staying hydrated helps prevent the decline in performance (strength, power, aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity) during exercise,"Casa says. When your muscles feel too tired to finish a workout, try drinking some water and resting for a bit before getting back at it.

8. Pinch yourself. (No, really.)

Go ahead, pinch yourself! Skin turgor, which is the skin’s ability to change shape and return to normal (or more simply put, it’s elasticity), is an easy way to check your hydration (though not 100 percent reliable for everyone). ¹⁵¹⁶¹⁷ Using your pointer finger and thumb, simply pinch the skin on the back of your hand (not too hard!) and hold for a few seconds. When you let go, if the skin takes a while to return to its normal position, you may be dehydrated.

9. Keep dry mouth at bay.

One of the first signs of dehydration is dry mouth. If your mouth starts feeling like the Sahara, head to the water fountain (or take a sip from your reusable water bottle!). A short water break between sets or during quick breaks from cardio can help stave off exercise-induced dehydration. ¹⁸¹⁹

10. Stop if you get the dizzies.

Feeling lightheaded during a workout is a sign of dehydration and a signal to tone it down a notch. ²⁰ Though willpower sometimes makes us want to push ourselves through a few more reps or another mile, feeling dizzy is an indicator that it’s time to hydrate." Due to the decreased plasma volume with dehydration during exercise," Casa says, "the heart must work harder to get blood to the working muscles." When there’s not enough water in blood, both blood volume and blood pressure drop, resulting in dizziness. ²¹

Next time you plan for a sweat sesh, keep these tips in mind for a safe, hydrated workout.

Originally published January 2014. Updated July 2015.

Works Cited

1. Fluids and hydration in prolonged endurance performance. Von Duvillard, S.P., Braun, W.A., Markofski, M. et al. Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Health, Kinesiology and Sports Studies, Texas A and M University—Commerce, Commerce, Texas. Nutrition, 2004 Jul-Aug;20(7-8):651-6.
2. Water, Hydration and Health. Popkin, B.M., D’Anci, K.E., Rosenberg, I.H. et al. Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC. Nutrition Review, 2010 August; 68(8):439-458.
3. Fluids and hydration in prolonged endurance performance. Von Duvillard, S.P., Braun, W.A., Markofski, M., et al. Nutrition, 2004 Jul-Aug;20(7-8):651-6.
4. Cardiac biomarkers, electrolytes, and other analytes in collapsed marathon runners: implications for the evaluation of runners following competition. Siegel, A.J., Januzzi, J., Sluss, P., et al. Department of Medicine, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA. American Journal of Clinical Pathology, 2008 Jun;129(6):948-51.
5. Too much of a good thing? Whitfield, A. British Journal of General Practice, 2006 July 1; 56(528):542-545.
6. Incidence and prevalence of hyponatremia. Upadhyay, A., Jaber, B.L., Madias, N.E. Department of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts. American Journal of Medicine, 2006 Jul;119(7 Suppl 1):S30-5.
7. Anaerobic performance when rehydrating with water or commercially available sports drinks during prolonged exercise in the heat. Coso, J.D., Estevez, E., Baquero, R.A., et al. Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Toledo, Spain. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, 2008 Apr;33(2):290-8.
8. Fluid and electrolyte balance in ultra-endurance sport. Rehrer, N.J. Shool of Physical Education and Department of Human Nutrition, Otago University, Dunedin, New Zealand. Sports Medicine, 2001;31(10):701-15.
9. Comparison of coconut water and a carbohydrate-electrolyte sport drink on measures of hydration and physical performance in exercise-trained men. Kalman, D.S., Feldman, S., Krieger, D.R., et al. The University of Memphis, Cardiorespiratory/Metabolic Laboratory, Department of Health and Sport Sciences, Memphis, TN. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 2012 Jan 18;9(1):1.
10. Carbohydrate and electrolyte contents in commercial fruit juices. Jirapinyo, P., Phosuya, P., Thammonsiri, N., et al. Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand, 2001 Jul;84(7):942-7.
11. Plasma Potassium Concentration and Content Changes After Banana Ingestion in Exercised Men. Miller, K.C. Department of Health, Nutrition, and Exercise Sciences, North Dakota State University. Journal of Athletic Training, 2012 Nov-Dec; 47(6): 648-654.
12. Urinary indices during dehydration, exercise, and rehydration. Armstrong, L.E., Soto, J.A., Hacker, F.T., et al. Human Performance Laboratory and Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT. International Journal of Sports Nutrition, 1998 Dec;8(4):345-55.
13. Dehydration. A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia. Last reviewed: August 15, 2011.
14. Effects of dehydration and rehydration on EMG changes during fatiguing contractions. Bigard, A.X., Sanchez, H., Claveyrolas, G. et al. Unite de Bioenergetique et Environment, Centre de Recherches du Service de Sante des Armees, La Tronche, France. Medicine and Science in Sports Exercise, 2001 Oct;33(10):1694-700.
15. Is skin turgor reliable as a means of assessing hydration status in children? Fayomi, O., Maconochie, I., Body, R. St. Mary’s Hospital, London. Emergency Medicine Journal, 2007 rebruary; 24(2): 124-125.
16. Skin-textile friction and skin elasticity in young and aged persons. Gerhardt, L.C., Lenz, A., Spencer, N.D., et al. Laboratory for Protection and Physiology, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Testing and Research, St. Gallen, Switzerland. Skin Research and Technology, 2009 Aug;15(3):288-98.
17. Chain gangs: new aspects of hyaluronan metabolism. Erickson, M., Stern, R. Department of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York, NY. Biochemistry Research International, 2012;2012:893947.
18. Acute effect of oral water intake during exercise on post-exercise hypotension. Endo, M.Y., Kajimoto, C., Yamada, M., et al. Department of Exercise Science and Physiology, School of Health and Nutritional Sciences, prefectural University of Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan. European Journal of clinical Nutrition, 2012 Nov;66(11):1208-13.
19. Fluid replacement during exercise. Noakes, T.D. Exercise and Sport Science Reviews, 1993;21:297-330.
20. Dizziness. A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia. Last reviewed: May 1, 2011.
21. Neuropsychological Performance, Postural Stability, and Symptoms After Dehydration. Patel, A.V., Mihalik, J.P., Prentice, W.E., et al. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC. Journal of Athletic Training, 2007 Jan-Mar;42(1): 66-75.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1NRQbLs

These On-Demand Cooking Videos Will Help You Whip Up the Perfect Meal

Salted.Tv

We could spend hours watching the Food Network. But if we're being honest, it's more for food porn purposes than immediate cooking instruction (sorry, Giada!). If we really want to learn about the art of pickling or how to roast the perfect chicken, we need someone to spoon-feed us.

And that’s what makes Salted.Tv so great. The site provides an endless stream of easy-to-follow culinary tutorials from top chefs around the country. Search by skill (how to make the perfect pancake), recipe (chicken tikka masala), or course (the ultimate vegetarian starter class). We especially love how you can search for recipes based on the mood you’re going for, from romantic to festive.

The coolest part? Salted.Tv has a virtual chef hotline. Enter your burning culinary questions (Can I substitute applesauce for sugar?) and one of the site’s experts will respond to you by phone or email within 30 minutes.

Still unsure? Our friends at Salted.Tv are offering all Greatist readers a three-month free trial. Simply enter the code GREATIST when signing up.

Try a 3-Month Free Trial!

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1J6CAfD

Diabetes complications linked to rising risk of dementia

People who have diabetes and experience high rates of complications are more likely to develop dementia as they age than people who have fewer diabetic complications, according to a new study.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1D3CS54

Green Coffee Bean Extract:The Virtual Gear in Weight Loss

Green Coffee Bean Extract is a compound extracted from coffee bean; it contains Chlorogenic Acid which is responsible in lowering the body's fat absorption. Green coffee bean extract is known as a potent aid in weight loss since 2012; afterwhich there have been many studies done to find out about the efficacy of Green coffee bean extract. From the different studies, green coffee bean was proven to be effective not only for weight loss but it also for other health benefits.

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1HQLdhW

All About Brazilian Blowout Treatments

If you want more out of your hair, you may want to consider having a special treatment for your hair, which will help to allow it to give much more. The Brazilian Blowout is one such treatment which is becoming more and more popular as the days go by. If you have never heard of a Brazilian Blowout, you may be interested to find out more about this special salon treatment.

from Health-and-Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1IMPfZA

Liver disease linked to drug metabolism, research indcates

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), an increasingly common but often undiagnosed liver disease, could have significant medical implications for people with type 2 diabetes, researchers have discovered.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1dOGBwu

Why not build houses the environmentally friendly way?

Green buildings are indeed healthy buildings, say researchers who conducted the first comprehensive review of studies that focused on green buildings and summarized the health benefits for the people who work and live in them. The green building movement has taken off in the past 10 years. By definition, the design of green buildings minimizes impact on the environment by reducing the use of energy and water. Environmental disturbance is also limited during the building process and by the choice of the building site.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1NWbJr7

New guidelines for treating diabetic retinal degeneration

Diabetes is frequently associated with serious retinal disorders. Along with age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinal degeneration is one of the most common causes of blindness. Now new up-to-date treatment and diagnostic guidelines have been published to help treat the condition.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1NWbKv1

New atlas of the brain opens up alternative means for studying brain disorders

A new study has shed some light on the brain's organization and functions.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1MhTviG

New program using CT technology helping doctors better detect lung cancer

Long-time smokers and past smokers now have a more accurate way of detecting whether or not they have lung cancer thanks to a comprehensive lung cancer screening program that uses CT scan technology.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1dOkVk8

Cultural, economic factors affect European antidepressant use

Public attitudes towards mental illness and levels of healthcare spending may explain the huge variation in antidepressant use across Europe, according to a new study.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1LYtEPR

Money spent on community-based HIV prevention translates into treatment savings

Every $1 spent on community-based HIV prevention programs in Ontario saves $5 in treatment costs, a new study has found. The programs have prevented more than 16,000 people from becoming infected with HIV over 25 years and saved Ontario's health care system about $6.5 billion, said the lead author.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1LYtFDg

Out-of-pocket health costs tied to antimicrobial resistance, study finds

Many government-run public health systems in developing countries have instituted copayments for visits to clinics and prescription drugs. However, the study's authors found evidence to suggest that such policies are associated with increased antimicrobial resistance, likely because high out-of-pocket costs have prompted low-income patients to turn to the black market or informal clinics for antibiotic and antiparasitic drugs.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1LYtEPN

Losing Weight Is Not A Dash For The Finish Line

While everyone looks for the quickest fat loss program, the smart dieters also want to know which weight loss plan offers the longest-lasting benefits. It's useless to shed ten pounds in a month only to put it back on the next month. This report looks at what underlies a reliable fat loss plan which delivers sustainable results.

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1TnUi5M

5 Healing Herbs You Must Know About!

There can be absolutely nothing better than an herb to cure different problems in your body. From minor rashes on the skin to severe stomach ache, there is absolutely nothing that herbs can't treat. All you need is the knowledge of different herbs and the purpose of their existence. After all, Mother Earth won't grow all those beautiful things only for the sake of it; ayurvedic doctors use most of the herbs in the forests to make different natural herbal products.

from Health-and-Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1HeKoMj

How accurate are symptom checkers?

Online symptom checkers can often be wrong in both diagnosis and triage advice, but they still may be useful alternatives to phone triage services and Internet searches.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1NVRlpY

Some SSRI antidepressants may be associated with increased birth defect risk

Some antidepressants known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) taken during early pregnancy may indeed be associated with an increased risk of birth defects, finds a study.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1CrttJL

Tool for diagnosing burnout syndrome

Researchers have validated the usefulness of their tool for diagnosing the burnout syndrome – Spanish Burnout Inventory (SBI) – for the Brazilian cultural, social and work environment.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1NVRhGJ

Steps On How To Professionally Apply Makeup

Do you admire other women and wonder how they achieve a perfect look? Here are tips on how to apply your makeup and look like them: Prepare Your Skin - You should start by preparing your skin for makeup. You should apply a primer or BB cream with a built-in moisturizer and SPF (SPF 15 or higher). These products hydrate your skin and protect it from the harmful rays of the sun.

from Health-and-Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1HhLN71

Tips On How To Apply Makeup To Have Pouty Lips

Although, many women want to have sexy, pouty lips, they don't know how to properly apply makeup in order to have them. To guide you through, here are the steps that you should follow in order to have the lips of your dreams. How To Apply Makeup To Have Pouty Lips - You should start by applying a concealer on the lips. For ideal results, you should use a high quality brush. You should then line your lips using a high quality lip liner. To give an illusion of fuller and plump lips, you should apply the lip liner beyond your actual lips while taking care that you don't overdo it.

from Health-and-Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1Crejnu

How Laser Hair Removal Can Help To Save You Time And Money

Laser hair removal is a simple yet effective procedure which is suitable for the majority of candidates. During the procedure a special type of laser is run over the affected area, in order to prevent or limit future hair growth in the area of treatment. It is a non invasive procedure, and you should not need any sort of anesthetic, because it should be painless. Although you may need to have more than one session for the best results, most sessions take less than an hour and can be completed within a lunch break. In addition to these benefits, it can also be cheaper and less time consuming in the long run.

from Health-and-Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1Crejnr

Is Your Job Making You Fat? 4 Tips To Help You Stay Trim In the Office

As a personal trainer and health coach, I've heard people say so many times that their health kick is going well until they get back into work on Monday mornings. More often than not, staff do not have a choice about what they are provided when it comes to meetings or conferences. The amount of bad, unhealthy foods that are served to them in the workplace is just astonishing. This just doesn't make sense when management want staff to be the most productive, creative and imaginative they can be. There are also a number of other ways the office environment could be making people fat. Read on to find out more. Plus, I share with you 4 tips to help you stay trim in the office.

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1NQIk0T

5 Things To Avoid If You Want To Get A Flat Tummy

By identifying any mistakes you may have been inadvertently making as you work to get a flat tummy you'll find that burning fat and toning your abs becomes so much easier. Here are 5 mistakes to avoid.

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1fqkjmE

Greatist Workout of the Day: Thursday, July 9th

This series of GWODs was designed exclusively for Greatist by Bodeefit. For more information about the exercises in this workout, or to see video demos of each movement, follow the links below the graphic. Be sure to note the results of your workout so you can track your progress as you go.

Before you tackle this workout, try this quick and effective full-body warm-up. It's just five simple moves but hits every major muscle group and gets your heart pumping.

Ouch

Complete as many reps as safely possible.

3 minutes of Jumping Lunges
3 minutes of Dips
3 minutes of Tuck Jumps

Want to kick up the intensity? Just move faster. And don't forget to check back tomorrow for a totally new (but equally awesome) GWOD!

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1G8Sc00

New psoriasis drug is more effective than current treatment

A phase II clinical trial shows that a new psoriasis drug called guselkumab has greater efficacy than the current standard of care for the chronic skin condition. Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease that causes itchy, dry and red skin. It also increases a patient's risk for depression, heart disease and diabetes, among other conditions. The disease affects nearly 3 percent of the world's population.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1NPDzVl

'Beyond aid' in health care: Is it time for scrutiny?

The UK government's investments in private hospital chains in developing countries, in the form of 'beyond aid' approaches, could actually be hindering inclusive development and need greater scrutiny, argue experts.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1J5pAH8

Cost of low-risk childbirth varies widely among hospitals

The cost of having a baby can vary by almost $10,000 in the United States, depending on which hospital is chosen, researchers have found. Childbirth is the leading cause of hospital admission in the United States.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1LXkumH

Medicaid: No longer the welfare medicine afterthought

July 30, 2015, marks the 50th anniversary of Medicaid, which transformed the lives of millions of Americans who previously were unable to afford healthcare coverage. To commemorate its 50-year milestone, an expert documents Medicaid's accomplishments and challenges, calling attention to its pivotal role in the transformation underway in the US health-care system.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1LXkumF

Long-term effects of type 2 diabetes on the brain, thinking

In just two years, people with type 2 diabetes experienced negative changes in their ability to regulate blood flow in the brain, which was associated with lower scores on tests of cognition skills and their ability to perform their daily activities, according to a new study.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1foGklS

Reform to resident physicians' work hours does not improve surgical patient safety

Work-hour restrictions for resident physicians, revised nationally four years ago largely to protect patients against physician trainees' fatigue-related errors, have not had the desired effect of lowering postoperative complication rates in several common surgical specialties, according to new study results.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Mftroq

Stress Management and Healthy Weight: Can Chronic Stress Really Cause Weight Gain?

Are you feeling like stress has stolen your sense of wellbeing? Is work, personal relationships, or your finances making you feel like you have too much pressure in your life? If so, you need to know that whether it's a personal or professional reason, chronic stress can wreak havoc with your sense of wellbeing and your health. Chronic stress has many negative health consequences, but one of the most frustrating is weight gain, particularly around the mid-section. And if you do not get the stress under control, it can be very difficult to lose that weight even with dieting. So, what makes it seemingly impossible for stressed out individuals to get rid of those extra stubborn pounds and what are the solutions to this problem?

from Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1foiwOZ

Mammography benefits overestimated, researchers say

An in-depth review of randomized trials on screening for breast, colorectal, cervical, prostate and lung cancers shows that the benefits of mammographic screening are likely to have been overestimated.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Rl3UAN

Panel outlines new diagnostic criteria for central nervous system disorder

New diagnostic criteria have been introduced for neuromyelitis optica, now called neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, which is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that is sometimes mistaken for multiple sclerosis.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1HhnK51

Some Simple Dry and Effective Shaving Tips for Men

Dry shaving or wet shaving: every man's choices in attaining their desire to keep their faces presentable and neat looking all the time. Both of these types are important in order that they maintain that great outer look; both can also be done by utilizing conventional and typical razors. And when we speak about razors, using the electric ones can have some advantages. Let me tell you, through this article, some simple yet useful tips in doing dry shaving.

from Health-and-Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1LWOdvU

Choosing The Right Perfume For You

Choosing a perfume should not be an ordeal or a painful experience. Selecting your "signature scent" is dependent on personal preference. Understanding the composition of a perfume will make your choice easier. In this article I will describe valuable information to make your selection process less painful.

from Health-and-Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1NONJW7

Nursing home care for minorities improves, study suggests

A new study of nursing homes has found that, while disparities continue to exist, the quality of care in homes with higher concentrations of racial and ethnic minority residents has improved and that this progress appears to be linked to increases in Medicaid payments.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1RkNiZP

Recent Trends in Hair Removal

An inconvenient beauty ritual of removing unwanted hair has become easier to endure over the years. Today, men and women have alternatives to the old, painless ways of removing hair.

from Health-and-Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1TlBN1V

Impact of smoking on California's economy in decline at $18.1 billion per year

Results of a study on the cost of smoking in California, one of the first US states to implement a comprehensive tobacco control program, have been released. Researchers estimated expenditures for smoking-attributable costs (healthcare, lost productivity from illness, and lost productivity from premature mortality) for the year 2009. The total cost came to $18.1 billion, amounting to $487 per California resident and $4,603 per smoker.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1LWGMVx

Peppermint oil and cinnamon could help treat and heal chronic wounds

Infectious colonies of bacteria called biofilms that develop on chronic wounds and medical devices can cause serious health problems and are tough to treat. But now scientists have found a way to package antimicrobial compounds from peppermint and cinnamon in tiny capsules that can both kill biofilms and actively promote healing. The researchers say the new material could be used as a topical antibacterial treatment and disinfectant.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1LWGMVt

Hospital readmissions for sepsis are highly common, extremely costly

The Affordable Care Act created several national initiatives aimed at reducing hospital readmission rates for heart attacks, congestive heart failure and other common high-risk conditions. But there is still no national program to address sepsis, a potentially life-threatening illness caused by infection. New research finds that sepsis accounts for roughly the same percentage of hospital readmissions in California as heart attacks and congestive heart failure -- and costs the health-care system more than both combined.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1LWGL41

3-D views reveal intricacies in intestines that could lead to discoveries for IBD

A technology whose roots date to the 1800s has the potential to offer an extraordinary new advantage to modern-day medicine. Scientists detail how stereomicroscopy can provide physicians an invaluable diagnostic tool in assessing issues within the gastrointestinal tract.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1J4pEXG