Bacterial Vaginosis

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common cause of vaginitis symptoms among women of childbearing age. It previously was called nonspecific vaginitis, or Gardnerella-associated vaginitis. Health experts are not sure what role sexual activity plays in developing BV. 

Understanding Bacterial Vaginosis

Cause

BV is a sign of a change in the growth of vaginal bacteria. The resulting chemical imbalance occurs when different types of bacteria outnumber the normal “good,” or beneficial, ones. Instead of Lactobacillus (a type bacteria that normally lives in the vagina) being most common, increased numbers of bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Bacteroides, Mobiluncus, and Mycoplasma hominis inhabit the vaginas of women with BV. 

Transmission

Although health experts are not sure what role sexual activity plays in developing bacterial vaginosis (BV), a change in sexual partners or having multiple sexual partners may increase a woman’s chances of getting the infection. Using an IUD (intrauterine device) and douching also may increase her risk of getting BV.

Symptoms

The main symptom of bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an abnormal, foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Some women describe it as a fish-like odor that is most noticeable after having sex.
Other symptoms may include:

• Thin vaginal discharge, usually white or gray in color 
• Pain during urination 
• Itching around the vagina

Some women who have signs of BV, such as increased levels of certain harmful bacteria, have no symptoms. A healthcare provider who sees these signs during a physical examination can confirm the diagnosis by doing lab tests of vaginal fluid.

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider can examine a sample of vaginal fluid under a microscope, either stained or in special lighting, to look for bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV). Then, they can diagnose BV based on

• Absence of lactobacilli bacteria
• Presence of numerous “clue cells” (cells from the vaginal lining that are coated with BV germs) 
• Fishy odor 
• Change from normal vaginal fluid  

• Treatment

  Healthcare providers use antibiotics such as metronidazole or clindamycin to treat women with bacterial vaginosis (BV). Generally, male sex partners will not be treated.
  
  

  

The Benefits of Protein Powders

What is protein powder? Benefits of protein powders…

I know protein is good for me, but do I need a supplement? Whey, egg, casein and soy which one protein is right for me and what does each one do?

Let’s get the facts straight. Protein exists in virtually everything that moves and makes sounds, or in almost any animal. Primary dietary protein sources include fish, eggs, chicken, pork, beef, venison, buffalo and many other wild animals.

But which is the best source of protein? Ah, the million dollar question. As with any supplement, no protein powder will match what Mother Nature provides on earth. Natural proteins deliver more quality nutrients to your body than any protein powder ever could. Still, protein powders do have their place.

Scientist have come a long way in their development of protein supplements, including how they taste. Even recently, the best you could hope for with a protein shake was that you could choke it down in spite of its chalky taste and consistency. Now they actually taste good. Today there are plenty of protein powders and meal replacement shakes on the market. The key is finding the best quality products with the highest level of bioavailability.

Your primary source of protein should be meat, fish, poultry, eggs and other seafood. The protein source should be organic and grass-fed, free-range or wild. These furnish the body with the highest quality protein, provided that they are not cooked, or cooked very lightly, because heat denatures protein (kills proteins).

Other sources include commercial meats, farm-raised fish, and other genetically modified organisms like soy. Protein also can be found in other foods like nuts, legumes, some veggies and certain grains. However, your best sources of protein for packing on the muscle are organic meat and fish.

Protein shakes or meal replacements should be the last place you should look to fulfill your body’s protein requirements. Although they can be beneficial, remember, nothing beats Mother Nature’s proteins not even a scientist-developed protein for making you healthy and strong. Protein supplements are particularly useful for vegans, vegetarians and non-meat eaters, as well as for people with problems digesting heavy proteins or whose lifestyle prevents them from consuming proteins during the day.

A protein drink or meal-replacement shake is a great morning meal for those get-up-and-go types who only are short on time but understand how important breakfast is to losing fat and gaining muscle. Breakfast is the most important meal of any healthy diet, so a quick protein shake is a must for people who just don’t have time to prepare a good breakfast.

The best protein powders or shakes are made from egg or whey. Use casein, protein from dairy products, sparingly. Avoid soy proteins, as these are the cheapest products you can buy and typically are genetically modified. Genetic modification means scientists have altered the organism from its natural state, a practice discouraged by most non-soy-paid scientists. Do your own independent research if you like, but always consider the source. Take with a grain of salt the comments of "specialists" who are paid by companies to say theirs is the best stuff for your body.

Remember, these are general protein recommendations. If there’s something on this list that you are allergic to, that obviously would not be a good product for you. A food allergy test is recommended before you begin any supplementation program to determine if you have specific allergies and if there are particular substances your body has problems processing.

One last note: All the protein in the world won’t help you if your body is deprived of other nutrients, such as essential vitamins and minerals. For optimal health, make sure you consume enough protein, eat organic and supplement with a great multivitamin.

The Number One Recommended Protein Products that will deliver your body the highest amounts of quality protein. These Supplements will give you the most gains and help you lose the most fat.                                        

Healthy Foods – Grains

The nutritional value of grain has become the latest craze of many dieters and weight-loss enthusiasts worldwide. Whole grains, like brown rice, contain large amounts of fiber and since it is in unprocessed form, the main components such as bran, endosperm, and germ are all present in each grain.

High-fiber Bran

Bran is practically one of the richest sources of fiber in the entire component of whole grain. Found on the hard-to-digest outer husk of rice, wheat, oats, cereal grains, and so on. Studies show that bran has the capability to prevent major health problems like cancer of the breast, uterus, prostate, and colon; intestinal problems like constipation, and prevent heart attacks.

Aside from wheat, oat bran is full of soluble fiber which turns to gel when combined with water. Experts believe that it helps reduce blood cholesterol levels, and improves glucose metabolism for diabetic patients – reducing the need of insulin, as well as any other medications for it.

Endosperm

Endosperm is the albumin tissue found in seeds. It surrounds the embryo and provides nutrition in the form of starch, proteins, and other nutritious oils to keep it healthy. Compared to bran and germ, endosperm provides the much needed protein for the human body.

Germ

Practically the most nutritious component of whole grains, the germ is the part of the grain wherein the embryo of the plant is found – or simply termed as the heart of the kernel. It contains some proteins, lots of fiber, poly-unsaturated fat, lignans, phyto-estrogens, phenolic compounds, phytic acid, vitamins and minerals needed by the human body.

Refined Grain and Whole Grain

There has been much debate regarding the nutritional value of refined and whole grains. In truth, refined grains lack the original nutrients found in the whole, wherein only the endosperm is left to provide nutrition (as in most cases with flour). Government mandate states that when a grain is refined, all the necessary vitamins and minerals like folic acid should be added to the mix to make it healthier – but synthetic nutrients aren’t really as effective to the body unlike its natural counterpart.

Also, refined grains are easily absorbed into the blood stream which causes an imbalance to sugar and fat levels. Since bran and germ were removed during the milling process, much of the essential fibers are no longer present to provide maximum health benefits.

Whole grains contain the original nutritional value in its structure. High in plant proteins, vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, phyto-nutrients, relatively low in fat, and no cholesterol. All of these nutrients work together to reduce the health risks associated with obesity, heart problems attributed to high cholesterol and high blood pressure, bowel disorders, diabetes, and certain types of intestinal and lower body cancers.

Whole Wheat and Weight Loss

Weight-loss experts believed that whole grains are more beneficial to dieters than its refined counterpart. Since refined grains are absorbed faster, the sugar and fat content are easily absorbed and broken down by the body and results in insulin production. This triggers the body to convert carbohydrates into fats and stores it.

Whole grain, on the other hand, regulates the insulin level simply by the fact that it stays in your body longer before it is absorbed and broken down. Also, whole grain eliminates hunger pangs quite common with eating refined grains, and provides the feeling of fullness that reduces food intake – thus aiding to weight loss.

If you are planning to add whole grain to your diet, then you better consider other varieties aside from wheat, these are: oats, brown rice, quinoa, millet, flaxseeds, and pearl barley.These grains are a good source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, high in fiber content and plant-based protein. Also, these grains are filled with iron and other minerals, perfect for dieting and weight loss. Here is a simple recipe using whole wheat that your family will surely enjoy:

Quinoa Crusted Chicken Fingers 2 lbs skinless and boneless chicken sliced in into strips (around .5 to 1 inch thick.
1/2 tsp. of salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika
2 egg whites
1-1/2 cups red or white quinoa (cooked)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat)
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Preparation:
1. Using a wax paper or an aluminum foil set the quinoa and sprinkles some breadcrumbs on it.
2. Place egg in a shallow bowl
3. sprinkle chicken with salt, pepper and paprika
4. Dip chicken into the egg, and press onto the quinoa mixture. Make sure that it is entirely covered.
5. Add oil to a pan and warm over high heat. Cook add chicken and cook over medium heat around 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown.

Does Yoga Help to Increase Height?

Most people desire to grow taller. Being tall has a lot of advantages. But most of the time we want to grow taller because of aesthetic reasons. This pushes us to gain height in almost any way possible. And among the things we try to make us grow taller is yoga. So, does it really work? Does yoga help to increase height?
Yoga
Yoga is not just a form of exercise or stretching. It is a way of life. Yoga is a discipline that started in ancient India and was passed down from one generation to another. This discipline is a practice of righteous living and mind-body exercises that encourage physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of an individual. Yoga is a highly effective form of exercise. If done properly, you can notice the changes in your body. With yoga asanas, you become more aware of your body, mind, and surroundings.
Yoga and height
There are certain yoga asanas, or exercises, that help in increasing one’s height. Other asanas do not directly or actually increase a person’s height but instead, improves the individual’s posture. With better posture, one will now look taller and better. This is what usually happens with most forms of exercises. It improves your posture by correcting and strengthening your spine. But don’t underestimate an improved posture on its ability to make you grow taller. A properly aligned spine has a better chance of growing longer.
However, there are also asanas that do increase a person’s height. They don’t really lengthen the bones because bone lengthening can only be done through surgery. What yoga does to make you grow taller is it improves blood circulation, boosts energy levels, and clears the digestive system. With these three improvements in your body, production and growth of cells are also improved. And increased production of cells is what makes your bones longer, thus making you taller.Yoga also stretches your body. This stretching decompresses your body and once your body is relieved of the pressure applied on your back, the cartilage on your spine can start to thicken and lengthen. And this increased in the volume of your cartilage has an effect on your height. You actually grow taller because of the decrease in pressure.
Yoga asanas to increase height
Sukhasana. Sukhasana is the basic form of yoga. It is the “centered” position where all the other yoga positions and moves originate. Simply sit on the floor in a cross-legged position and rest your hands, palms up, on your knees. Keep your breathing controlled at a deep and even pace. Make sure your spine is perfectly aligned. Press your buttocks down on the floor and gently lower your knees. Take at least 5 deep breaths and inhale while you raise your arms up above your head. Then bring them slowly down as you exhale. Repeat this for 5 to 7 times.
Trikonasana. Trikonasana is also known as the Triangle. This is slightly more complex than the Sukhasana. Trukonasa improves your sense of balance, which helps you have good posture. And like Sukhasana, it is a good form of exercise to relieve tension and to center your body. Just stand with your feet at about 3 to 4 feet apart. Make sure that your feet are parallel to each other, and then rotate your left foot 90 degrees outward and your right foot 45 degrees inward. Inhale and raise your arms to your sides so that they are parallel and level with the floor. Exhale then turn your head to face down your left arm and see that your left leg is properly aligned. Take a deep breath and stretch towards your left ankle while tilting your left hip down. And once you have reached the maximum stretch, rotate your arms and let your left hand rest against the inside of your calf, while your right arm reaches for the ceiling. Turn your head, facing the direction of your right arm, and take several deep breaths. Inhale and straighten your body. Then exhale and lower your arms. Move your feet to face forward again. And repeat the actions on your right side.
There are other yoga positions and movements that can help increase height. Simple breathing exercises can already help make you grow taller by reducing stress, which in turn increases the production of the human growth hormone (HGH). But whatever form you may try to improve on your height, be sure to follow the directions properly to prevent accidents and to get optimum results.

What are the Symptoms of Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that is highly contagious, and is also referred to as the clap. The clap was coined in reference to a treatment used earlier to clear a blockage caused by gonorrhea pus, and is present in the urethra. In this treatment, the penis is “clapped” simultaneously on both sides, thus the nickname the clap. As described in the treatment process, gonorrhea is characteristically marked by a thick discharge from the penis or even from the vagina. But what are the symptoms of gonorrhea.

It is not uncommon for gonorrhea to have no symptoms or signs, especially in women, at a certain period in time. This period, called the incubation period, usually lasts for 2 to 14 days. This is because gonorrhea usually does not develop or cause symptoms until other areas of the body have already been infected.

Symptoms in Women

Women usually have mild symptoms, so mild in fact that they are usually mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection. Other symptoms are painful and/or frequent urination. Women with gonorrhea may also experience anal itching with pain, bleeding, or discharge. Others also have signs of an abnormal vaginal discharge. And sometimes, an abnormal vaginal bleeding may be experienced during or after sex, or even between periods. There is also genital itching present and an irregular menstrual bleeding is also not uncommon in women with gonorrhea.

Other symptoms of gonorrhea in women include a lower abdominal or belly pain. There are also signs of general tiredness and fever for those infected. Bartholin glands, or glands at the opening of the vagina, also become inevitably painful and swollen. This leads to a rather painful sexual intercourse. Rare symptoms of sore throat and pinkeye or conjunctivitis are also observable.

Symptoms in Men

Men with gonorrhea have symptoms usually more obvious than those symptoms found in women. The symptoms become observable enough, allowing men to seek an early medical treatment prior to any complications that may occur. However, there are still men that have mild or even no symptoms at all.

The usual symptoms of gonorrhea in men are an abnormal discharge from the penis, and a painful and/or frequent urination. The discharge in men is characteristically and initially clear or milky. Then the discharge turns to yellow and creamy, and sometimes becoming excessive and blood-tinged. Aside from the discharge and painful or frequent urination, there is also an anal itching that comes with pain, bleeding or any discharge. Men may also experience rare symptoms of sore throat and pinkeye.

Symptoms of Gonorrhea that has Spread

When the infection has spread to other parts of the body, symptoms of gonorrhea will already include rashes, arthritis or joint pains, and inflamed tendons

Home Remedies for Acne Scars

Acne is a big nuance. Nobody wants to have their face dotted with pimples, or even just a single zit. So we end up popping our pimples to get rid of lumps on our face. However, this usually just leads to problems worse than having acne. We end up having acne scars. And just like any other scar, it takes a long time before it fades away, if it will fade away. So, how do you remove these unsightly acne scars from your face? Here are some home remedies for acne scars.

Lemon Juice

Simply squeeze out the juice of fresh lemons. And use a cotton ball to apply the freshly squeezed juice on your acne scars. Let it stand for a few minutes so that the skin truly absorbs the juice before rinsing it off with water. Apply this treatment after washing your face with your chosen facial wash.

Lemon juice is a known lightening agent. The juice lightens the scars and other blemishes making them less visible. Lemon juice is also known as a cure for acne. Less acne mean less appearances of scars. But if you don’t have lemon juice, lime juice would also work since they mainly have the same properties.

Olive Oil

After cleaning your face with water and your chosen facial wash, apply olive oil on the scarred areas of your face. Use olive oil as a facial moisturizer by massaging the oil onto your face.

Ice

A very simple home remedy for acne scars and skin problems is ice. Ice soothes irritated skin, tightens pores, and gives your skin an even texture. It does not directly remove acne scars but it minimizes the appearance of the 

acne and the chances of you having scars.

>Rosewater and Sandalwood Paste

Sandalwood has a soothing and cooling effect on the skin. And this can help remove acne scars. All you have to do is to make a paste out of rosewater and sandalwood. Apply the paste on the affected area as a facial mask. Leave the paste on your face for at least an hour. You can also leave it on overnight if you want. Then rinse off the paste with water.

Tomato

Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin A. And vitamin A controls the production of sebum that causes acne. Vitamin A also has antioxidant qualities that refresh and renew damaged and scarred skin. Due to the vitamin A present, tomatoes prevent the formation of acne and of scars. And all you really need to do is to slice up a tomato and place the slices over your face. Leave them on for several minutes.

Homemade Face Mask

Here is one greatly effective face mask that you can make at home. All you need are 1 tablespoon of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of yogurt, 1 tablespoon of oatmeal, and 2 drops of lemon juice. Mix all of the ingredients and apply the mixture on your face. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes before washing it off.

Egg Whites

This may smell bad but egg whites are an effective way to treat acne scars. Just dab some egg whites on your scars using a cotton ball and leave it on overnight.

Honey

If you would pay close attention on the many commercially available facial products, you would notice that a lot of these products have honey as one of the active ingredients. That is because honey is a natural moisturizer. It also helps treat acne scars. You can simply apply some honey on your face as a mask or you can take a specially formulated honey acne scar treatment orally.