Lemon Water: Importance/Benefits

Lemons are packed  with nutrients, including vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and fiber.

Because of how hard lemon juice can be on the enamel of your teeth, it’s important to dilute it with water of any temperature (though lukewarm is recommended). Drink it first thing in the morning, and wait 15 to 30 minutes to have breakfast. This will help you fully receive the benefits of lemon water.

The acid in lemon juice “works with the body to nourish and to enhance proper function.  By drinking lemon water, you’re giving your body more time to take in and process the nutrients in the foods you eat afterward.  This slow absorption is good for two reasons: It conserves the stores of insulin in your body (insulin is important in regulating the amount of glucose in the blood), and also helps your body get more out of the food you eat. Plus, quick absorption of certain “stripped” carbs — such as white flour, corn starch, and corn syrup — can be a digestive nightmare.

Aside from aiding digestion, there are other benefits to lemon juice itself. “It’s a good way to consume vitamin C without the higher levels of sugar that may be found in other citrus fruits, like oranges. And if you’re used to swigging a glass of OJ with your first meal of the day, try swapping in lemon water instead. It provides that same tangy jolt, without the crash that comes from downing a fiber-less juice.

Also, While lemon water may be good for digestion, it can do a little damage en route to your belly. “By adding [acidic] lemon to water, you are increasing your risk of eroding the enamel away, which can cause issues over time, “Once enamel is eroded away, it can’t be replaced.” (Dentist Matthew Messina, DDS)

Some of the Benefits of Lemon Water are as follows below:

• Gives your immune system a boost.
• Excellent source of potassium, which is good for heart health, as well as brain and nerve function.
• Cleanses your system by flushing out the toxins in your body by enhancing enzyme function, stimulating your liver.
• Freshens your breath,Because the citric acid can erode tooth enamel, either hold off on brushing your teeth after drinking lemon water or brush your teeth before drinking it.
• Keeps your skin blemish-free because the antioxidants in lemon juice help to not only decrease blemishes, but wrinkles too! It can also be applied to scars and age spots to reduce their appearance, and because it’s detoxifying your blood, it will maintain your skin’s radiance.
• Helps you lose weight,by using the pectin fiber present in it in fighting hunger cravings.
• Reduces inflammation, by decreasing the acidity in your body, which is where disease states occur. It removes uric acid in your joints, which is one of the main causes of inflammation
• Gives you an energy boost when it enters your digestive tract, and it also helps reduce anxiety and depression.
• Helps to cut out caffeine on daily basis.
• Helps fight viral infections, Warm lemon water is the most effective way to diminish viral infections and their subsequent sore throats. Plus, with the lemon juice also boosting your immune system, you’ll simultaneously fight off the infection completely.

There are sound health reasons to imbibe lemon water, especially if you typically have a finicky digestive system. But it’s wise to take a few extra steps to save your smile:

• “Drink it as part of a meal, not by itself, to help stimulate saliva production,” Messina advises. Saliva “washes harmful acids and food particles away from teeth and helps neutralize acid, protecting teeth from decay.”
• If you want to drink warm lemon water first thing in the morning, try waiting until it cools a bit, and then use a straw. This “may help to push the liquid past teeth,” Messina says.
• Drink lemon water before brushing your teeth, so the acid isn’t hitting enamel directly (morning tooth scuzz has purpose!). Then, “it’s best to wait a little while to brush your teeth, approximately 30 to 60 minutes.

Read more

Warning Signs of Cancer

"One in two people will develop cancer over the course of their lives, according to a new report from Cancer Research UK."

This number is creeping higher than past estimates, which have often cited a one-in-three figure. According to the new study published in the British Journal of Cancer, the odds of getting cancer over the course of one’s life jumped from 38.5 percent for men born in 1930 to 53.5 percent for men born in 1960. The hike was from 36.7 percent

to 47.5 percent in women.

According to the American Cancer Society, the United States has very similar figures. Although health care is actually improving — in the UK, for instance, researchers note the cancer survival rate has doubled over the past 40 years — there’s an uptick in disease incidence because of the aging population. 

“Cancer is primarily a disease of old age, with more than 60 percent of all cases diagnosed in people aged over 65,” says study author Peter Sesieni, a professor of Biostatistics & Cancer Epidemiology and Deputy Director of the Centre for Cancer Prevention at Queen Mary University of London, in a statement. “If people live long enough then most will get cancer at some point.” 

This, the researchers say, is why education on cancer prevention is so necessary. “There’s a lot we can do to make it less likely — like giving up smoking, being more active, drinking less alcohol and maintaining a healthy weight,” Sesieni says. “If we want to reduce the risk of developing the disease we must redouble our efforts and take action now to better prevent the disease for future generations.”

Most experts also agree that spotting the disease early gives a person the best chance of beating it. However, many blow off symptoms as bodily quirks — and some may well be, but it’s best to talk to a doctor if there’s an unexplained issue. 

According to Cancer Research UK, which conducted the latest study, these are the most common signs of cancer:

Signs of cancer for men and women:

1. An unusual lump or swelling anywhere on your body
2. A change in the size, shape or colour of a mole
3. A sore that won’t heal after several weeks
4. A mouth or tongue ulcer that lasts longer than three weeks
5. A cough or croaky voice that lasts longer than three weeks
6. Persistent difficulty swallowing or indigestion
7. Problems passing urine
8. Blood in your urine
9. Blood in your bowel motions
10. A change to more frequent bowel motions that lasts longer than four to six weeks
11. Unexplained weight loss or heavy night sweats
12. An unexplained pain or ache that lasts longer than four weeks
13. Breathlessness
14. Coughing up blood

Signs of cancer for women:

1. An unusual breast change
2. Bleeding from the vagina after the menopause or between periods
3. Persistent bloating

Now, remember: This news should not cause mass panic, according to the UK’s Chief Medical Officer Dame Sally Davies. People are living longer, which is why we’re seeing more cancer. “Cancer survival rates have improved to record levels in this country and we are working to raise awareness of cancer symptoms so it can be diagnosed earlier, improving cancer outcomes,” she says in the press release. “Leading a healthy lifestyle is easily the most effective thing you can do to reduce your risk, this means being active, quitting smoking, drinking less alcohol, and having a balanced diet.”

Original Post Found Here:
https://www.yahoo.com/health/17-red-flag-signs-of-cancer-110161560812.html

Read more

The Health Benefits of Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain the antioxidant lycopene.

Whether you love sliced beef tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil, or tomato sauce on your linguine pasta – eating tomatoes regularly is good for your heath, as well as your palate.

Here we look at the different health benefits of tomatoes.

 

Wonder fruit?

Tomatoes are native to South America, but they have been grown and enjoyed in Europe for hundreds of years. 

Recently, they have been linked to all kinds of health benefits. One US study found that eating tomatoes regularly could reduce the risk of men getting prostate cancer. The glossy red fruits (which actually come in all kinds of colours, including yellow and deep purple) are packed full of vitamins – including vitamins A, C and E. 

They also contain flavonoids (natural anti-inflammatories), potassium and other mineral salts.

Tomatoes contain a high volume of water, and they're refreshing in salads on hot days. They're low in calories too, with around 14 kilocalories per 100g – approximately one and a half classic tomatoes, or five to six cherry tomatoes.

Lycopene

Lycopene may help to ward against prostate cancer.

Much of the interest in tomatoes has been due to the antioxidant lycopene – which helps to mop up damaging free radicals in the body that can harm our cells. 

In fact, people living in the West get 85 per cent of this nutrient from tomatoes.  Lycopene may help to ward against:

• prostate cancer
• breast cancer
• stomach cancer
• age-related macular degeneration.

And it could boost the skins ability to protect itself against UV rays.  Some studies have suggested lycopene may play a role in reducing bad cholesterol. 

Lycopene is even one of the main ingredients in new 'beauty pills'. A study carried out by the dermatology department at Charite University, in Berlin, discovered a link between lycopene based supplements and smoother, less-wrinkled skin.

Tomatoes should be eaten whole to get the full healthy effect.

'The important thing to remember is that you need the whole of the tomato to get its goodness,' says Dr Thomas Stuttaford, an expert in prostate cancer and vice-president of Prostate UK. 'Lycopene is best when combined with other bioflavonoids in tomatoes, which make the lycopene much more effective,' he says.

Sian Porter, a dietician at the British Dietetic Association, adds, 'It's important to remember that lycopene has to be taken as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle. 

'It's not a magic bullet, so you can't drink, smoke and eat saturated fats and say it's OK because I'm eating tomatoes.  'It's best to eat tomatoes as part of a Mediterranean diet, with plenty of fruits and vegetables,' she says. 

Which tomatoes?

Ripe, red tomatoes are likely to contain more lycopene than paler, watery ones.  This is because it's the lycopene that gives them their colour. 

Gerry Hayman, spokesperson for the British Tomato Growers' Association, has investigated the lycopene content in different varieties. 

'Slow-ripening, imported types of tomatoes tend to have lower levels of lycopene,' says Gerry Hayman.

'They have been bred for long-life, and this interferes with the ripening process,' he says. 'The important thing is to enjoy tomatoes – especially when you're trying to encourage children to eat them. 

'Small tomatoes – such as baby plum tomatoes, cherry tomatoes and the piccolo type – tend to be sweeter. Ferrari, cocktail tomatoes and Jack Hawkins tomatoes are also good for lycopene,' he says. 

Cook your tomatoes to boost the healthy effect

Lycopene is found in the cell walls of the tomato. 

By cooking it, more lycopene is fully released.

Lycopene is fat soluble, so it helps to cook it in oil, such as olive oil.

'Eating tomato ketchup and pizza topping counts towards lycopene intake,' says Sian Porter. 

'Of course that has to be weighed against additives, such as sugar and salt – and it might be better to consume tomato purée,' she says.

Since cooking reduces vitamin C, however, the British Tomato Growers’ Association suggest eating a range of fresh and cooked tomatoes. 

Tomato based sauces can be eaten as a soup, added to pasta, stews, bolognese, tomato-based curries, used as a pizza topping or made into a spicy sauce to top falafels or meatballs.    Fresh tomatoes can be added to salads, sandwiches or as garnishes to a main meal

'Taste-tastic' recipes

Basic tomato sauce

1. Start by lightly frying onion and garlic.
2. Add tomatoes (fresh or tinned), tomato purée, oregano and basil and season.
3. Cook on a gentle heat until the sauce is deep red and sticks to the back of a spoon.

This can be stored, and often tastes better the next day.
Use as a base for other dishes, such as bolognese, or add chilli for a spicy arrabiata sauce.

For a delicious bruschetta

1. Chop up ripe, flavoursome fresh tomatoes with garlic, fresh herbs and season.
2. Brush sliced ciabatta or French bread with olive oil, and toast in the oven.
3. Top with the tomatoes when done. 
4.  

Written by 

Natasha Mann, 

Health Journalist

Original Post Found Here:

 http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diet-and-nutrition/health-benefits-of-tomatoes.htm#ixzz3P95xyCZR

Read more

Is My Penis Too Small?

Micropenis, Inconspicuous Penis Less Common Than Small Penis Syndrome

Penis Size: What's Normal, What's Not

You might think that as long a man's penis works, he would have no problem with it. You would be wrong.

Penis size is a key element of a man's self-image. Yet when he's not boasting to other men, the average man significantly underestimates the relative size of his penis.

Here's an example: Over a two-year period, 67 men asked an Italian hospital for surgical correction of a small penis. All turned out to have normal-size penises.  "A few days ago, I had a patient who spent an hour taking measurements of his penis and thinking it is too small," Gilbert says. "Yet it was normal."  That man isn't alone. About 45% of his brethren want a bigger penis. Never mind that 85% of heterosexual women say they are satisfied with their partners' penis parameters.

Many men worry about the size of their erections. Many more worry about how their penis looks when it's limp, studies find.  So how can a man know if he's normal, super-sized, or small? Not by his shoe size, a common and disproved myth about estimating penis length. Like so much else in life, direct measurement is the key.

How to Measure a Penis

Men may be surprised to learn that penis length isn't measured on the erect penis. Too many variables are involved.

Instead, the most reliable penis measurement is called SPL -- stretched penis length. The longer a man's SPL, the longer his erect penis length, according to studies done on brave young men who volunteered to have erection-stimulating penis injections.

To learn your SPL, measure the penis while it's flaccid. Press the ruler tight against the pubic bone at the base of the penis. Don't just measure from where the penis separates from the scrotum, or you'll lose precious centimeters. Now gently, but very firmly, stretch the penis as far as it will go. Measure from the pubic bone to the tip of the stretched penis.

Did you get five and a quarter inches? If so, you are exactly normal. Most adult men are within about a half inch of 5.24 inches, according to statistics Palmer has compiled. Nearly all studies of penis length come up with a similar measure.

If you're a little smaller than that, you've got lots of company. Just as many men are below average penis size as above it.

How big is big? According to Palmer's statistics, only 0.6% of men have an SPL of 6.8 inches or more. But too big isn't what men tend to worry about.

Micropenis: When a Penis Really Is Too Small

There is, of course, such a thing as a very small penis. The medical term "micropenis" applies to the 0.6% of men with the smallest penises. According to Palmer's statistics, an SPL of three and two-thirds inches or less indicates a micropenis.   Even then, U.S. doctors hesitate to recommend surgery for a man whose SPL is longer than three inches. That's because surgery is controversial and risky.

Micropenis isn't usually something a man discovers when he's an adult. It's usually caused by genetic or hormonal abnormalities that cause other, more serious health problems early in life.  That's because the penis starts to develop when a fetus is just 8 weeks old. By week 12, the penis has developed and begins to grow. During the second and third trimesters, male sex hormones cause the penis to grow to normal length. Factors that interfere with hormone production and hormone action stunt penis growth.

When discovered in infancy, micropenis can be treated with testosterone, which can stimulate penis growth in childhood, even after puberty. While the safety and long-term efficacy of this treatment remains to be proved, available data suggest the treatment does not affect normal development during puberty.

For adults with micropenis, the options are few.

"For true micropenis, there is not much you can do that is adequate for the adult patient, except for putting in a penile prosthesis," Gilbert says.

Fortunately, micropenis is a rare condition. Far more common is what Palmer and colleagues call "the constellation of conditions that make the penis look diminutive and small" -- inconspicuous penis.

Inconspicuous Penis: When Size Isn't the Only Issue

"Inconspicuous penis means a penis that is hard to see," Palmer says.

Micropenis -- a truly tiny penile shaft -- is the rarest of the conditions under the umbrella term "inconspicuous penis."  Other forms of inconspicuous penis that may have remained untreated until adulthood are webbed penis and buried penis.

"The webbed penis indicates the scrotum has connected to the underside of the penis so it pulls the penis inward," Palmer says. "Usually the penis is at right angles to the scrotum. But in webbed penis, the scrotum is high riding and the separation from the penis is not clear."

Buried penis occurs when the penis is hidden below the skin. This can happen because of excessive belly fat in the front of the abdominal wall droops down to conceal the penis. It can also happen when the connection to the scrotum is absent and the penis withdraws inward toward the pelvis. Another form of buried penis occurs when a too-large foreskin makes the penis look buried.

Webbed penis can be addressed via surgery. Buried penis may require only weight loss, and perhaps liposuction. There are also surgical procedures that can correct the problem.

Small Penis Syndrome

It's been dubbed small penis syndrome: the belief that you aren't a real man because you don't have a big penis.  Perhaps one reason men often believe this is that most men have no idea what a normal-size penis looks like. When asked to guess, most guess wrong. About 15% of men just throw up their hands and admit they don't know, one study found.

Another reason is pornography. Palmer tells the story of a teen patient who was in agony over his small penis size. But examination showed he was perfectly normal. It turned out that the boy had been viewing Internet pornography, from which he got a distorted picture of normal male anatomy.  And because penis size is such a major part of a man's body image, men suffering from body dysmorphic disorder often focus on the size of their penises.

Body dysmorphic disorder and other psychiatric issues that may underlie small penis syndrome may require professional psychological help. But Palmer and Gilbert say that most men need only reassurance that they really are normal.

"I give the patient a physical and get his personal history and social history," Gilbert says. "If he has no medical problem, I speak positively. I tell him that he has a normal phallus that is no different in function from any other healthy man. I give him confidence."

Palmer notes that the law of averages dictates that some men will have smaller penises than others. This does not make them abnormal.  "If a man has perfectly normal penis function, he must reconcile with the fact that his penis is what it is," he says. "You cannot make a short person tall. People have to accommodate to their own anatomy."

Can Surgery Make a Small Penis Larger?

It's hard for a man to open his email without encountering an offer of a drug, device, or surgical procedure that will give him a bigger penis.

Sure, that stuff is just spam. But are there legitimate ways to lengthen a penis? "There isn't much to make the penis larger," Palmer says. "Surgically, there is not much to significantly increase penis size or girth that is not fraught with significant complications."

Procedures known as "augmentative phalloplasty" promise to make a penis wider in girth. And because these procedures add weight to the penis -- by grafting fat from another part of the body -- they make the penis a half-inch or so longer when flaccid.

"Getting a uniformly even expansion of girth is unpredictable and often does not lead to a good outcome," Palmer says. "You have to hope you do not get a lumpy penis. This is not an easy thing to do."

Most men do not know that only about two-thirds of their penis protrudes from their bodies. The other third, held in place with ligaments, provides the leverage for sexual function.

One surgical technique cuts these tendons and allows the penis to protrude another inch or two. Gilbert takes a dim view of the technique, because the penis loses its leverage.

"When surgeons take the inside part of the penis and move it out, the most common outcome is their erection no longer goes up but down," he says. "If a man is unhappy with his penis length, he is going to be unhappy with a penis he has to pick up and insert. I've had men ask me, 'Can you put it back the way it was?'"  Gilbert says that because of the high complication rate, malpractice insurance rarely covers penis-lengthening procedures.

All of these procedures are considered "experimental surgery." Severe complications include -- but are not limited to -- penis shortening, a lumpy or uneven appearance, scarring, sexual dysfunction, and curvature of the penis. These complications often cannot be corrected.

Can Devices Make a Small Penis Larger?

Traction devices that stretch the penis may actually add an inch or so to penis length, based on small studies and anecdotal reports. Gilbert says he is following two patients who are using these devices in an effort to make their penises longer.

"These devices have to be worn for several hours a day, for many months," he says. "Most people, even if they are highly motivated, don't have that kind of time. So I'm not sure a lot of patients have the time or energy or perseverance to do that."

Vacuum devices may help men with erectile dysfunction achieve an erection -- but they do not make the penis larger.

Can Regenerative Medicine Make a Small Penis Larger?

However, there is one area of research with intriguing possibilities: regenerative medicine. Scientists have been able to grow animal penises in the laboratory by seeding scaffolds with the animals' own cells. These penises then were successfully transplanted.

Already a group of researchers in Beijing, China, have reported using a similar technique to treat 69 patients with what they called small penis syndrome. In this case, the tissues were grown from the patients' own scrotal skin and grafted to their penises to increase their girth.

"With regenerative medicine, the sky is the limit," Palmer says. "We might have this as an option down the line." 

"Regenerative medicine is still not ready for prime time," Gilbert says. "These things have a lot of potential, but nothing we can offer to patients in the near future."

By Daniel J. DeNoon
WebMD Feature

Reviewed by Laura J. Martin, MD

Original Post Found Here:

www.webmd.com/men/guide/is-my-penis-too-small?

Read more

Insomnia - The Symptoms, Affects, and Treatments

Insomnia - The Symptoms, Affects, and Treatments

Do you lie awake at night spending more time staring at the ceiling than sleeping? You are not alone! Millions of other people are experiencing the same thing all across the world. They wake up in the middle of the night, can't fall back to sleep and rise before dawn.

Forms Of Insomnia

Insomnia comes in many forms, not just in the form of sleeplessness:

Difficulty falling asleep

Having problems staying asleep after falling asleep. Waking up many times

during the night.

Waking up too early.

Not feeling refreshed after waking up.

The Symptoms Of Insomnia

Insomnia can have a serious affect on a person’s daily life style. Symptoms of insomnia can include all of the following:

Feeling sleepy during the day

Having poor or slow judgment

Inability to pay attention to detail

Inability to remember things - even things that happened only minutes before.

Easily irritated by minor things

Types Of Insomnia

Transient Insomnia - a temporary effect that lasts just a few days.

Short-Term Insomnia - lasts for between two to four weeks.

Chronic Insomnia - lasts for a month or longer.

Causes Of Insomnia

There are many causes for insomnia. Below are some of the most common reasons people suffer from insomnia.

Stress - There are many stress management aides available to assist you in reducing your stress.

Noise in the sleeping environment

Extreme temperatures - too hot or too cold

Changes in your surrounding environment

Worrying about not being able to sleep

Excessive napping during the day time

Too much caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol before bedtime. Smoking contributes to many health related problems and you should try to quit smoking..

Tips For Getting A Good Night’s Sleep

Following some of the helpful guidelines below can help you get a better night’s sleep:

Set A Schedule

Go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning. This will help your body get used to a sleeping pattern. "Sleeping in" on the weekends can cause insomnia because it is interrupting the sleep cycle that your body is used to.

Get Some Exercise

Try to get 20 to 30 minutes of exercise no sooner than 6 hours before bedtime- any exercise just before bed may cause you not to sleep that well.

Avoid Caffeine, Nicotine, and Alcohol

Avoid things that contain any caffeine such as coffee, soda pop, teas, and candy. Smokers usually sleep very lightly at night and will wake up at the slightest noise, sometimes not being able to fall back asleep. The same goes for people that drink alcohol just before going to bed.

Do Something Relaxing Before Going To Bed

Doing something that relaxes you before bed is good such as a warm bath, reading a book, or watching your favorite TV show.

Do Not Over Sleep

Be sure to wake up and get out of bed at your normal time frame. Sleeping more hours than you are used to will throw off your sleep cycle and cause sleeping problems. It may cause you to not be tired at night and then go to bed later, thus resulting in sleeping in even later the next morning.

Control Your Room Temperature

Extreme cold or warmth can cause you to sleep poorly. Be sure to maintain a comfortable room temperature that won't aggravate you during the night. If you have a waterbed be sure to set the water temperature at a comfortable temperature as well.

When It Is Time To See A Doctor

If your sleeping problem persists for more than one month then it may be time to visit your family doctor. Your doctor will be able to give you advice for your particular needs and can prescribe stronger sleeping aides that are not available over the counter.

For more information about insomnia treatments please visit eVitamins.

Read more

How to Recognize the Warning Signs of Prostate Trouble

Prostate cancer is the most prevalent male cancer aside from skin cancer.  After age 40, an annual prostate exam is highly recommended. A commonplace process of benign enlargement (benign prostate hyperplasia, or BPH) often causes urinary troubles; inflammation or infection of the prostate (prostatitis) is a not infrequent male affliction.

Prostate Cancer Statistics
1. One man in seven will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime, but only 3 percent of men will die of the disease. There are 2.5 million American men diagnosed with prostate cancer who are alive today.
2. In 2014, an estimated 233,000 American men will be diagnosed, and about 30,000 men will die of the disease.
3. The average age at diagnosis is the mid-60s.
4. Although many with low-risk prostate cancer can be managed with observation, those with high-risk disease need more aggressive treatment.
5. The number one cause of death in men with prostate cancer is heart disease, just as it is in the rest of the population.

Lower Urinary-Tract Symptoms (LUTS) That May Indicate Trouble
It is vital to understand that the absence of symptoms is not the absence of disease. In fact, prostate cancer often causes no symptoms in its earliest stages, and clues to its presence are often revealed by a simple prostate exam and PSA blood test.
LUTS are symptoms that can appear because of BPH or adaptive changes in the bladder muscle as a result of the resistance from the BPH. LUTS can run the gamut from urinary incontinence to urinary retention. Between these extremes there are many possibilities, broadly classified into "irritative" and "obstructive" symptoms:

Irritative Symptoms
* frequency -- urinating much more often than normal
* nocturia -- waking to urinate
* urgency -- sudden and strong desire to urinate
* urgency incontinence -- sudden desire to urinate with the inability to get to the bathroom in time

Obstructive Symptoms
* hesitancy -- stream that is slow to start
* weak stream -- stream that lacks force
* narrow caliber stream -- thin stream
* spraying stream  --  imprecise, multidirectional, splattering stream
* intermittency -- stream that starts and stops
* straining -- need to use abdominal muscles to urinate
* prolonged emptying time -- excessive voiding time
* incomplete emptying -- sensation of urgency after completing urination
* double voiding -- need to urinate a second time to empty completely

Other Symptoms
* inability to urinate
* blood in the urine or semen
* pain with urination, often indicative of a urinary infection
* bedwetting
* post-void dribbling

Not all men with BPH need to be treated; in fact, many can be observed if the symptoms are tolerable. There are several classes of effective medications for BPH and numerous surgical means of treating BPH.

The Secrets to Prostate Health
Exercise has been shown to lessen one's risk of developing BPH and prostate cancer[2] and in decreasing the death rate of those who do develop prostate cancer.
Exercise in general and pelvic-floor muscle exercises in particular benefit prostate health by increasing pelvic blood flow and minimizing inflammatory chemicals and the tone of the sympathetic nervous system (the part of the nervous system that is stimulated by stress), which can aggravate BPH.
In terms of diet, vegetables are exceptionally anti-inflammatory and consumption of those that are rich in lutein (including kale, spinach, broccoli and peas), those that are rich in beta-carotene (including carrots, sweet potatoes and spinach) and those rich in lycopene (including tomatoes) can lower the risk of BPH. 
The bottom line is that a healthy lifestyle, including a heart-healthy diet and exercise program, can lessen one's risk of chronic diseases, including prostate cancer[4]. 
--Dr. Siegel
Readers -- Do you or anyone you know suffer from prostate issues? Have you experienced any of the symptoms above? Have you gotten your prostate checked? Have you talked to your doctor about how to maintain a healthy prostate? Leave a comment below and let us know. Want more content like this? Sign up for the LIVESTRONG.COM newsletter.

Dr. Andrew Siegel is board-certified in urology and female pelvic medicine/reconstructive surgery and is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Surgery at the Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School. He lives in the New York metropolitan area with his wife, children and English Springer Spaniel. He is an avid reader and writer and enjoys tennis, cycling, golf, Pilates and fitness training. He is the author of several books, including Male Pelvic Fitness: Optimizing Sexual and Urinary Health (MalePelvicFitness.com) and the co-creator of the Private Gym pelvic-floor exercise program for men. One of his favorite quotes is: "Genes load the gun, but lifestyle pulls the trigger."
For more information, visit his website and blog. 

References
1. JA Antonelli et al. Exercise and Prostate Cancer Risk in a Cohort of Veterans Undergoing Prostate Needle Biopsy. J. Urology Vol. 182, 2226-2231, November 2009
2. J Colli. Can Men Reduce the Risk of Prostate Cancer Through Lifestyle Changes? J. Urology Vol. 182, 2101-2102, November 2009

By DR. ANDREW SIEGEL

Original Post Found Here:
http://www.livestrong.com/blog/recognize-warning-signs-prostate-trouble/ 

Read more

How to Remove Dark Spots From the Face Naturally

How to Remove Dark Spots From the Face Naturally Photo Credit Diane Shear/Demand Media

You do not have to hide dark spots on your face with heavy makeup or subject your delicate skin to harsh chemical peels or laser treatments to remove annoying marks. Whether they are age-related "liver spots" or stubborn acne and insect bite scars, nature's warehouse holds effective options for removing most dark spots from your face. For starters, you only need to look in your kitchen or the grocery. Always check with a health professional about face spots that do not respond to simple home remedies.

Lemon Juice Spot Treatment

Step 1

Photo Credit Diane Shear/Demand Media

Roll one lemon on your kitchen counter for a few seconds, applying slight pressure with your hands to release the juice from the membranes.

 

Step 2

Photo Credit Diane Shear/Demand Media

Slice the lemon in half crosswise, and squeeze the juice through a strainer or cheesecloth into a cup or bowl.

Step 3

Photo Credit Diane Shear/Demand Media

Dip a cotton swab into the bowl, then apply a few drops of lemon juice to the spots you want to remove.

Step 4

Photo Credit Diane Shear/Demand Media

Let the lemon juice dry, then rinse your face with cool water.

Step 5

Photo Credit Diane Shear/Demand Media

Repeat this treatment each morning and evening until the spots fade.

 

Lemon Juice Scrub

Step 1

Photo Credit Diane Shear/Demand Media

Cut a fresh lemon in half. Remove the seeds carefully with your fingers or a fork and discard them.

Step 2

Photo Credit Diane Shear/Demand Media

Put 1/2 tsp. of sugar into a small bowl or cup and dip the cut edge of your lemon into the sugar.

Step 3

Photo Credit Diane Shear/Demand Media

Rub the lemon with sugar on each spot on your face to exfoliate dead skin that surrounds your dark spots.

Step 4

Photo Credit Diane Shear/Demand Media

Clean your face when the sugar lemon mixture dries.

Step 5

Photo Credit Diane Shear/Demand Media

Repeat weekly until your spots are less visible.

Warnings

• The lemon juice makes your skin sensitive to sunlight, so you need to use sunscreen or reduce your exposure to sunlight while using this treatment.

 

Tips

• Home remedies take more time than cosmetic fade creams. Expect slow improvement.

 

Things You'll Need

• Lemons
• Knife
• Strainer
• Small bowl or cup
• Cotton swabs
• 1/2 tsp. sugar

By Carol Luther

Original Post Found Here:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/228766-how-to-remove-dark-spots-from-the-face-naturally/ 

Read more

Diet for Blood Type A Positive

Blood type A thrives on protein in beans and legumes. Photo Credit Polka Dot Images/Polka Dot/Getty Images

Dr. Peter D’Adamo, a naturopathic physician, developed a diet based on blood types, which he describes in his book "Eat Right for Your Type." D’Adamo postulates that each blood type possesses inherent, genetically encoded characteristics that influence the type of diet best suited for the dieter. Based on this theory, each blood type -- A, B, AB or O -- operates best on a different diet. Research to support the blood type theory is lacking, however.

 

 

 

The Blood Type Diet Premise

D’Adamo theorizes that your blood type provides a distinctive marker for which foods are best for you, based on the diet of your ancestors with the same blood type. This means a nutritious diet for one blood type may include different foods than a nutritious diet for another blood type. Based on D’Adamo's theory, by eating the right foods based on your blood type, you can optimize your health and reduce the risk of developing certain diseases. D’Adamo's blood type recommendations are the same regardless of whether your blood type is positive or negative.

Recommended Type A Diet

D'Adamo recommends everyone with blood type A eat a mostly vegetarian diet. The bulk of the diet consists of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans and other legumes. This doesn't mean that meat is completely off limits, just that it should make up a smaller part of your diet. He recommends that if you choose to eat meat or poultry, limit it to three servings or less per week. In addition, D'Adamo recommends limiting dairy and eggs to no more than four servings weekly.

Blood Type A Menu

On the blood type diet, a good breakfast if you're type A is whole-grain cereal, such as steel-cut oatmeal, along with fresh mixed fruit. Typical snacks for type A are foods such as fruit, nuts, seeds, rice cakes and peanut butter. For lunch, it's typical to have a large, hearty salad with lots of fresh vegetables. A typical dinner if your blood type is A is steamed broccoli, with whole-grain pasta and tofu, topped with pesto sauce.

Tips for All Blood Types

Almost all Americans can benefit from improving their eating habits, since the typical American diet is high in sodium, added sugar, saturated fat and processed foods. Regardless of your blood type, D'Adamo offers basic dietary tips for everyone to follow. He recommends choosing fresh, whole, natural foods as much as possible and reducing your intake of processed foods. The doctor also advises that you limit coffee, alcohol, chocolate and other such indulgences.

By Janet Renee

Original Post FOund Here:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/226230-diet-for-blood-type-a-positive/

Read more

How to Make Your Penis Larger Without Taking Pills

How to Make Your Penis Larger Without Taking Pills Photo Credit monkeybusinessimages/iStock/Getty Images

The penis is a male organ that functions as a part of the reproductive and urinary systems. As a young man reaches puberty, the penis and testicles grow larger, and he begins to grow pubic hair. The size and shape of a penis varies between men. The size also varies between its flaccid and erect states. Although many men vary in size while flaccid, the difference in size is less in the erect state, according to the TeensHealth website. The majority of men fall into a normal range for penis size. Some, however, want to enlarge the length or girth.

Step 1

Use a penis pump to maintain a larger-size penis during sexual activity. The penis pump can be helpful for a man who has undergone a prostate procedure, according to the Mayo Clinic. It can also help those who have had radiation therapy for prostate cancer. This treatment option has a low cost and does not require surgery.

Step 2

Exercise to improve the appearance of the penis. Being in good physical shape improves the appearance of the body overall and increases self-esteem. As a man feels better about himself, he may become more sexually aroused and increase the size of an erect penis.

Step 3

Lose weight to add length to the penis. Increased fat in the abdomen hangs over the pelvic region. The increased fat in the thighs also crowds the genitals. Obese men appear to have smaller penises because of the additional fat. Losing weight helps the penis appear larger, and it may gain length because the fat is not around the base of the penis.

Step 4

Trim extraneous pubic hair, which can make the penis look shorter. The decreased hair may also help increase sensitivity at the base of the penis, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Step 5

Get a reconstructive phalloplasty operation. Several types of surgical procedures can change the length or girth of the penis. To increase girth, a surgeon may place fat from another part of the body into the shaft of the penis. To increase length, the surgeon cuts the suspensory ligament, and this allows the penis to hang longer. Both procedures have risks, including infection and loss of sensation and normal function. Several medical organizations, including the American Urological Association and the Society of Plastic Surgeons do not endorse using penis surgeries for cosmetic reasons, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Surgically inserting a penile implant can help a man suffering from erectile dysfunction increase size and sustain an erection.

Things You'll Need

• Penis pump

By Abigail Adams

Original Post Found Here:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/124226-make-penis-larger-taking-pills/ 

Read more

Symptoms Your Period Is Coming Soon

Many women experience symptoms right before their period starts each month. Photo Credit female image by Lovrencg from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Up to 85 percent of menstruating women experience some premenstrual symptoms in the few days before their period starts, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Women who experience symptoms five days before a period lasting no more than 4 days after the period starts three months in a row have premenstrual syndrome, often called PMS. 

Premenstrual symptoms that indicate a period will start soon occur because of fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone hormone levels, and vary from woman to woman.

 

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Many women experience abdominal pain or cramping, diarrhea or constipation, bloating and even nausea and vomiting in the days right before their period starts, Massachusetts General Hospital reports. Food cravings and increased appetite also plague some women, along with weight gain from fluid retention.

Emotional Symptoms

Many women know their period is about to start by mood changes. Some women become oversensitive, irritable, angry, depressed or tearful. Others are nervous, have difficulty sleeping, or withdraw from social situations. Memory loss, trouble concentrating and even paranoia can occur in the time leading up to a new period starting, Massachusetts General Hospital explains. Antidepressants may help women with severe emotional premenstrual symptoms, the Merck Manual states.

Skin Symptoms

Acne often worsens just before a period starts. Cold sores are also more likely to occur, along with localized skin reactions known as scratch dermatitis, the Merck Manual states. Some women also experience easy bruising and have numbness and tingling in their hands and feet. Swelling in the face, hands and feet may also occur. Breast tenderness and pain from fluid retention also affects many women just before a period.

Fatigue

Many women are more tired than normal just before a period. Some find themselves becoming more clumsy than usual.

Worsening Health Problems

Women with seizure disorders, asthma, allergies and connective tissue disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus may find their symptoms worsening just before a menstrual period, the Merck Manual warns.

Other Symptoms

Headache, dizziness, fainting, a rapid heartbeat, hot flashes, joint pain and muscle spasms can all occur just before a menstrual period. Vision problems and conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the conjunctiva that causes eyes to redden, affect some women. Some women develop a disinterest in sex, while others find their interest increases just before their period starts.

By Suzanne Robin

Original Post Found Here:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/142931-symptoms-your-period-is-coming-soon/

Read more

How to Talk to a Child About Erections

Your son will be better able to handle changes to his body if you discuss them well ahead of time. Photo Credit teen boy laughing image by Galina Barskaya from Fotolia.com

Talking to a child about erections can be an awkward aspect of explaining puberty to a child, and not all parents seek out opportunities to start this conversation. Although Kids Health reports that boys typically begin puberty later than girls, they might begin to have erections or wet dreams before their bodies begin to look different. It will be less confusing for your son if he understands these occurrences before he experiences them.

Step 1

Discuss the basics of puberty. Tell your son that as he grows, his penis and testicles will increase in size, his voice will deepen, his muscles will develop, and he will grow facial and pubic hair. Explain that he will also start to have erections. The Mayo Clinic advises telling your son that while the penis is soft most of the time, it sometimes becomes hard and stands up. Tell him that erections might occur in his sleep, in response to the penis being touched, or at random times during the day.

Step 2

Explain wet dreams. Tell your son that if he gets an erection in his sleep, he might also have a wet dream, which means he will ejaculate in his sleep. Kids Health suggests reminding your son that this is perfectly normal, and that almost all boys experience wet dreams and erections while going through puberty. Depending on your child's age, you might need to tackle an entire sex talk during this conversation.

Step 3

Prepare to answer questions. Kids Health says boys often tend to express concerns about penis size, particularly in terms of whether their size is "normal." Remind your son that he is still growing, and that his penis will likely continue to develop. Assure him that penises range in size and that there's not one "normal" size.

Step 4

Correct any misconceptions. If you haven't talked to your son about puberty and sex before, he might have some erroneous notions about puberty and sex in general, according to the Mayo Clinic. Be open to discussing these issues as needed. Above all, assure him that everything that's happening to him is normal, and that he doesn't need to feel embarrassed.

Tips

• Assure your son that while touching his erect penis is normal, this should be a private activity, the Mayo Clinic advises. This encourages healthy boundaries.

By Jennifer Byrne

Original Post Found Here:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/187109-how-to-talk-to-a-child-about-erections/ 

Read more

How to Lose Body Fat During Pregnancy

Lose body fat during pregnancy by following an exercise and nutrition plan. Photo Credit Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images

Your pregnancy is a time for excitement and anticipation as you await the arrival of your newborn baby. During the course of the pregnancy, you have several options for an exercise program to maintain your fitness level and manage your body fat. Pregnancy isn't a time to follow a weight-loss diet, but there are specific steps you can take to lose body fat during pregnancy. Considering the potential side effects associated with exercise and pregnancy, consult your doctor before starting any workout routine.

Step 1

Plan to work out at least 150 minutes per week. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity for healthy women. This time frame and intensity level promotes fitness while burning excess calories and body fat.

Step 2

Choose low-impact exercises that you enjoy. Sample exercises include jogging, swimming, water aerobics, yoga and cycling. You can combine the cardio exercises with flexibility exercises and strength-training exercises. Using exercises you enjoy helps to keep you motivated for a fun and challenging workout that burns body fat.

Step 3

Increase the intensity of the workouts gradually as your fitness level improves. For example, start with walking at a moderate pace for one mile three days per week, then add hills or more distance as you improve.

Step 4

Listen to your body during every workout. Pregnancy is a time where your body will give you specific warning signs about your health. Watch for dizziness, shortness of breath or unusual discomfort. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any abnormal conditions.

Step 5

Avoid any bouncing, jarring or leaping exercises, which cause sudden changes of direction that risks abdominal injuries. Some doctors also recommend avoiding exercises in which you lie flat on your back after the first trimester.

Step 6

Track your food intake with a food diary. The focus shouldn't be specifically on caloric intake, but on consuming the right amount of nutrients while drinking plenty of water. The diary helps to track and monitor your food intake as your mood and hunger levels change.

Step 7

Monitor your healthy weight gain throughout the pregnancy. Weight gain is natural during pregnancy and adjusts with your fitness level going into the pregnancy. Slow and steady weight gain is the best way to control excess body fat as the pregnancy continues. Healthy weight gain ranges from about 25 to 40 lbs., depending on your body weight before becoming pregnant.

Warnings

• Always consult your doctor before attempting to lose body fat during pregnancy.

Tips

• Consult a registered dietitian for a personalized healthy nutrition plan to promote losing body fat.

Things You'll Need

• Cardio workout equipment
• Lightweight dumbbells
• Resistance bands
• Food diary
• Scale

By Jeremy Hoefs  

Original Post Found Here:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/514602-how-to-lose-body-fat-during-pregnancy/

Read more

What Causes Lower Left Side Abdominal and Back Pain?

Numerous conditions can cause lower left side abdominal pain and back pain. Photo Credit pain ii image by Mykola Velychko from Fotolia.com

Numerous conditions can cause lower left side abdominal pain and back pain. According to the Merck Manuals website, abdominal pain that manifests in your abdomen's left lower quadrant may be caused by abdominal organs or problems in your abdominal wall. In some cases, pain that originates in your abdomen or pelvis can be referred or sent to other parts of your body, including your back. Your lower back is a particularly common location for referred abdominal pain.

Anatomy

Your abdomen is the area on the front side of your body, between your lower rib cage and your hips or pelvis. The left lower abdomen is the area from your belly button to your pelvis. Your left lower abdominal quadrant is composed of various tissues, including muscle, fat and connective tissue. The terminal end of your large intestine, including your sigmoid colon and your rectum, are also located within this quadrant. Certain reproductive organs, including your ovaries, if you are female, are located just below your left lower abdominal quadrant.

Causes

Numerous causes of left lower abdominal pain can send pain to your back, especially your lower back. According to the Wrong Diagnosis website, pelvic inflammatory disease, pelvic abscesses, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, dysmenorrhea or menstrual cramps, kidney stones, shingles and ovarian cancer can all cause simultaneous left lower abdominal pain and lower back pain. Although it's usually located closer to the mid-line of your abdomen, an abdominal aortic aneurysm---a ballooning or dilation of the abdominal aorta, one of the body's largest blood vessels---can also cause simultaneous lower abdominal and lower back pain.

Symptoms

Symptoms associated with left lower abdominal pain and back pain depend on the cause of the pain and the type of tissue affected. However, possible signs and symptoms associated with simultaneous left lower quadrant abdominal pain and lower back pain include sharp, stabbing, aching or burning pain in the abdomen, dull and aching pain in the lower back, abdominal tenderness, nausea, vomiting, pain when urinating, unexplained weight loss, a rash of fluid-filled blisters that wraps around your flank on one side of your body and diarrhea or constipation.

Treatment

Treatment for left lower abdominal pain and back pain depends on the cause of the pain. In some cases, simultaneous pain in these areas self-resolves or goes away on its own after a few hours or a few days. In other cases, however, pain in your abdomen and back may be severe, causing you to seek medical attention and intervention. If the cause of your pain or discomfort originates within your abdomen, a qualified health care professional will run a battery of tests to determine what treatment is appropriate for your condition.

Warning

In some cases, more than one condition may be causing the pain and discomfort you are feeling in your left lower abdomen and back. The Merck Manuals website also states that abdominal pain that is acute---i.e., it comes on suddenly, without warning---and severe usually indicates some sort of intra-abdominal disease that may require immediate medical attention and intervention, such as surgery. A rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which causes lower abdominal and lower back pain, decreased blood pressure, dizziness and shock, is a life-threatening emergency that must be treated immediately.

By Martin Hughes

Original Post Found Here:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/272665-what-causes-lower-left-side-abdominal-and-back-pain/

Read more