Medifast Shake Nutrition Information - Calories, Carbohydrates, Protein, and Vitamins Minerals

I get a lot of questions about the Medifast shakes. I believe that this is because, without a doubt, these are the most popular and well known component of (and food on) the diet. They are tasty, easy to prepare, actually good for you, and pretty filling. But, people often want to know exactly what are the ingredients in (and nutritional value of) them. I'll go over many of these issues in the following article.

Information About The Most Popular Medifast Shake First: The 55: I would venture to say that the 55 shake is the most widely used in the Medifast diet. These shakes come with the women's basic plan / package and they are in my opinion the most tasty and versatile on the plan. They come in a variety of flavors, but the nutrition is for the most part the same no matter whether you chose one of the chocolate and vanilla varieties or the fruit flavors. Generally, these contain around 90 - 100 calories, have around 11 - 13 grams of carbs, about 11- 15 grams of protein, less than 10 grams of sugars, and at least five grams of fiber. This combination helps all of the foods put your body in fat burning mode because the carb to protein ratio is quite friendly.

In general, all of the Medifast shakes are low in lactose, are relatively gluten free, are kosher, and are vegetarian. These options are generally very nutritionally sound. For example, the 55 shakes contain anywhere from 15 - 60% of the daily requirements for vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, B, C, and D, iron, magnesium, folate, zinc, copper, selenium, and biotin, to name only a few.

The 75 shakes are very similar to the 55, but they contain more protein and are generally recommended for men or for very active folks or women who are athletes or are serious about building muscle.

Other than the 55, the momentum line is probably the next popular. These items are meant to boost your metabolism and to that end they contain additional caffeine and the active ingredient in green tea. Other than that, the rest of the nutritional information is mostly the same. There are three different shake options on the momentum line.

Nutritional Information About The Medifast Ready To Drink Shakes: All of the options that I have previously discussed have required that you mix them. You can either use the little shaker cup that comes with them or a blender. (I have better results with a blender.) So, some people really like having the option of using a shake that doesn't require any preparation and that's why many really like the ready to drink. This option comes in a box with a straw. All you have to worry about doing is opening and then drinking it.

In general, the caloric and nutritional content is very similar on these. They run around 90 calories and have 12 grams of carbs and protein. They are a little light on the fiber at only 3 grams, but they are full of all the vitamins and minerals, providing 40 percent of your daily calcium needs as one example.

Specialty Shakes: In addition to the items I mentioned above, this plan does offer some specialty shakes. Examples are diabetic, heart health, joint health, antioxidant fortified, and hormonal health options. In general, these are basically the 55 with some supplementation added in. For example, omega 3s are added to the heart health meals and herbs meant to deal with menopause are added into the hormonal health.

Autor: Lindsey Price

Want more information on all of the diet's shakes or other foods? Lindsey's Medifast Review Website features recipes, a list of all of the foods (including all of the shake varieties and choices), videos, tips, coupons ($50 off or two weeks free),information and products related to success on this diet. She also offers a free ebook ("Getting The Most Out Of Medifast") to help you get started. You can visit her at http://easiest-diet.com/medifast

Added: June 29, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Natural Cure For Yeast Infection With Diets That Help to Get Rid of Vaginal Thrush

Did you know the best natural cure for yeast infection is the diet you have? Many women do not realize that it is the intake to the body that can help in controlling most ailments. Actually the etching and the burning sensation can drive you crazy and you may rush for drugs and medicines. But most of these medicines give you temporary relief. The problem reoccurs in most of the cases.

The best way to handle this problem is to go for a natural cure for yeast infection. These natural solutions are mild and suit the human body very well. They do not cost you a lot of money and you can easily implement them in the comfort of your home.

However before you start a nature cure it is important to visit a doctor and get a confirmation about yeast infection. There are many other problems that can cause itching and pain in the vagina. It is always better to get the correct medical opinion.

Here are some simple remedies to get rid of vaginal thrush at home:

1) One of the reasons for yeast infection is the imbalance in the pH level in the vagina. Acidic foods allow the candida organism to multiply faster. Foods that are alkaline in nature are good. Foods that have magnesium, sodium, potassium, calcium are alkaline in nature. Green vegetables, almonds and green juices are good for controlling candida organism.

2) Yogurt is one of the best natural cures for yeast infection. However avoid having processed yogurt. Go for organic homemade yogurt made from goat milk. Processed yogurt has preservatives and other chemicals that may not be effective.

3) Foods that contain beta-carotene have been found to be good to get rid of vaginal thrush. Carrots, broccoli, apricots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and mangoes are considered to have high amount of beta-carotene.

4) Avoid foods that have refined sugar and carbohydrates. This includes processed honey, white rice, white flour etc.

5) Also avoid foods that have yeast in any form. This includes vinegar, canned vegetables, pickles having vinegar and any other food that uses vinegar as a preservative.

Natural cure for yeast infection is the best way to handle this problem effectively. Trying some of the above recommendations is surely going to help you.

Autor: Pamela Arthur

Here are some secrets that you don't know yet - If you are suffering from yeast infection, there is an excellent natural remedy for vaginal infection available, which can be implemented easily without any side effects. This natural remedy will free you from this problem permanently. Discover the excellent insider secrets by clicking - Get Rid of yeast infection.

Added: June 28, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

So What's Really in a Men's Multi-Vitamin? Do You Need to Take Them? Well Yes!

Getting healthy can often seem like hard work, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle even harder. Unfortunately, even with the healthiest lifestyle it can still be a struggle to obtain optimal levels of nutrients for health. So what can we do to help ourselves and give our bodies a boost? Take a multi-vitamin of course!

So you head to your local health food store or pharmacy, stand there confused by all the different brands, wondering what the exotic sounding ingredients do and which multi-vitamin is best for you? Well let me try and help you out by explaining what's inside a men's multi-vitamin.

Good quality men's multi-vitamins have been scientifically formulated to provide key nutrients important for maintaining men's health and overall well-being. The multi-vitamin is specifically formulated to support energy production, maintain healthy cognitive function and optimal protein metabolism. The standard multi-vitamin will contain B-vitamins, anti-oxidants, and increasingly medicinal herbs such as St.Mary's Thistle, Globe Artichoke, Damiana, Ginseng and Tribulus. They should also contain minerals such as zinc, magnesium, calcium and boron. Male multi-vitamins are usually free of iron as men generally don't need extra iron.

So what does this all 'Men's multi' stuff mean?

Let me break it down for you:

• B-vitamins support energy production, healthy cognitive function, and assist the liver in detoxification, protein and fat metabolism. They also aid in the normal functioning of the nervous system, muscle tone in the stomach and intestinal tract, and healthy skin, hair and eyes. Folate and B12 help normal blood and cardiovascular functioning. They're pretty impressive those B-vitamins!
• Minerals such as magnesium, calcium, (along with vitamin D) help to form and maintain strong bones. Zinc is beneficial for keeping a healthy immune system, assists in wound healing, and is needed for DNA synthesis, which is beneficial for increasing a low sperm count, fertility, low sex drive and testosterone - pretty essential if you're planning on conceiving. Chromium is an excellent mineral used for controlling your blood sugar levels to help maximise energy production.
• Antioxidants are substances such as vitamin E, C, CoQ10, as well as certain herbs such as Tumeric and Vitis Vinifera (Grape Seed extract). Antioxidants help to prevent cellular oxidation, which leads to a breaking down of cells, premature cellular death and may result in diseases such as cancer!
• Medicinal herbs such as St.Mary's Thistle, Globe Artichoke and Dandelion Root are liver protecting, regenerative and restorative. These are very important in supporting your liver detoxifying toxins such as the ones contained in alcohol, pollution, pesticides, herbicides in food, and cigarettes. Yes, red wine has anti-oxidant effects but your liver still takes a beating from it! Did you know the liver plays an important role in energy production by releasing glycogen when it's needed for energy production, as well as regulating the amount of glucose present in the blood, critical to health (known as blood sugar level)?
• Damiana, Tribulus, Panax, Siberian Ginseng and Saw Palmetto are fantastic herbs specifically for men's health. Damiana, Tribulus, Panax and Siberian Ginseng are fantastic for increasing stamina and energy, helping the body deal with stress hormones. Saw Palmetto has shown to have positive results with men who have benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate), reduces unwanted frequent urination, improves urinary outflow, and reduces volume of residual urine.

So do you really need to take one?

Sadly yes! The 21st Century is a tough place to be healthy in many ways. Food we eat today contains fewer nutrients than the food available 20 years ago because:

• Our soils are becoming depleted and lower in nutrient levels
• Foods are often picked before they are ripe and then cold stored
• Many food processing techniques destroy or remove nutrients and cooking methods further destroy nutrients.

This is compounded by the fact that we have an increased need for nutrients due to:

• Pollution levels being higher and wider spread
• Our busy and stressful lifestyles.

When we don't absorb enough vitamins and minerals we're more likely to feel tired. We may struggle to cope with stress and become more susceptible to infection and disease. For these reasons it is worth taking a bit of extra 'health insurance' by taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement everyday. In fact renowned clinicians Robert H. Fletcher and Kathleen M. Fairfield from the Harvard School of Medicine wrote in their comprehensive study 'Vitamins for Chronic Disease Prevention in Adults', that "we recommend the daily use of multivitamin and mineral supplement for all adults."

As with everything however, you tend to get what you pay for. Cheap vitamin formulas tend to contain cheaper ingredients in an imbalanced ratio. While on the surface they may appear easier on the hip pocket, in the long run, they prove quite uneconomical. You may need to take up to four tablets of a cheaper multi to get the same benefits as one of superior quality, and taking a higher number increases your risk of unwelcome side-effects such as niacin (B6) flushing. This happens when niacin causes your capillaries to increase in size. It is this increase in size, partly, which causes your skin to get red. When this happens your body will sometimes release histamine into the blood, which can also cause a slight itching of the skin. This is not harmful to the body but can be annoying. It is always advised to take your multi with food as they can sometimes cause nausea. Luckily most of the vitamins in your multi are water soluble, so if your body can't absorb it, it will be excreted.

Finally, multi-vitamins are very good for every day general support. If a multi-vitamin is not giving you as much of a boost as you need, you may be suffering from a health issue a bit more involved, and it would be a good idea to speak to a health care professional.

Autor: Winona Stephens

Winona Stephens is resident naturopath at http://www.fitforlifeonline.com.au

Added: June 26, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

How to Get Rid of Love Handles - The Easy Way

Nobody can deny how uncomfortable love handles can be. The truth is you can't really choose clothes that you really like you, have to compromise and buy your clothes to fit over your love handles.

We end up missing some pleasurable moments because we are too worried about those layers of fat deposited around our midsection that insist on hanging out and making themselves visible to everyone.

I have some great tips on how to get rid of love handles that are very simple and you don't need to sweat your head off doing strenuous exercises or starving yourself to death. The key point here is to learn how you can optimize your body functions to burn fat in an efficient way.

White tea was appointed as one of the most powerful weapons against fat retention. Studies showed that drinking white tea will prevent development of fat cells. As we know the production of fat cells is how our body stores fat so if it can't produce fat cells then they can't stay around our waist. Furthermore white tea burns calories as it speed up our metabolism. Green tea is also great for speeding up the metabolism around about 4% increase if you have three cups a day.

Ice cold water! Simple but true. It is another easy way how to get rid of your love handles. When we drink very cold water our metabolism increases immediately. This is because our body is trying to balance the internal temperature therefore your metabolism will speed up to keep your internal temperature stable. Studies showed that 225ml of ice cold water will make your body burn 7.70 calories. Isn't it perfect? Doing nothing but just drinking water.

Low fat dairy products - make them your best friends. Recent studies showed that the calcium in the dairy products serves as a messenger telling your body to burn fat faster.

Get rid of your love handles by relaxing and having good sleep. Stress and lack of sleep are your worst enemies. It is a fact now that stress and poor sleep can cause your metabolism to slow down and cause fat retention on your waistline.

Move your body! Try to be in constant motion. If you are on the phone try to walk while you are talking, choose the stairs rather than the elevator and simple moves like crossing and uncrossing your legs while you are sitting can make a huge difference in your fat burning rates. Try it out; you've got nothing to lose.

Iron supplements can be of great help in speeding up your metabolism. Most of us, due to our poor health habits, lack iron and deficiency of this mineral causes our cells to lack oxygen and as a consequence slow down our metabolism.

If you are asking yourself how to get rid of love handles it is wise to go for a program specialised on the subject that will take you step-by-step through the process. There is lots of information on how to get rid of love handles on the internet but nothing that can really guide you throughout the whole process.

The best program I have ever come across on the subject of how to get rid of love handles is a brilliant program 2-step tone and burn guide designed to melt your love handles in no time and the best part of all, it is with minimal effort. See below for link details.

I can assure you that without a precise guide it is impossible to get rid of love handles. Will power is not enough because you need to know what you are doing and why you are doing it. If you just cut down on food that you like and punish yourself in strenuous workout you will give up before the results appear and worst of all is you can store more fat around your waistline than before you started.

How to get rid of love handles is not that difficult but you need to know exactly what to do and how to do it.

Autor: Carmen Beese

For lots more information on weight loss and how to get rid of love handles go to http://www.howtogetridoflovehandlesquick.com

Added: June 25, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

The End of an Era - Rethinking Menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy

In light of the recent findings on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) many women find themselves with a big question about taking a little pill.

A large, federally funded clinical trial, part of a group of studies called the Women's Health Initiative (WHI), has definitively shown for the first time that the hormones in question - estrogen and progestin - are not the age-defying wonder drugs everyone thought they were. As if that weren't bad enough, the results proved that taking these hormones together for more than a few years actually increases a woman's risk of developing potentially deadly cardiovascular problems and invasive breast cancer, among other things. The principal message was taking estrogen and progestin for years in the hope of preventing a heart attack or stroke can no longer be considered a valid medical strategy.

Here at last was a rare moment of clarity. The debate over the long-term benefits and risks of HRT has lasted for decades. Now we have at least a few concrete answers. This wasn't just another isolated study contradicting the last one to make headlines. Federal health officials announced that the jury was finally in-and that the drug Prempro (a combination of estrogen and progestin) does significantly more harm than good when taken for long periods of time. Women have been told for decades that estrogen taken with progestin would not only ease hot flashes and insomnia but help preserve bone strength, mental acuity and, most important, heart health. There's no question that HRT can ease the acute symptoms of menopause, and the claim about bone strength has held up to scrutiny. But after observing more than 16,000 women for roughly five years, researchers found conclusively that the hormones in Prempro raise the risk of heart attack, stroke, blood clots and breast cancer. The federally sponsored study was supposed to run for eight years, but the five-year results were so decisive that researchers cut it short and urged the participants to stop taking their pills.

The findings are so striking that the study was stopped three years short of its scheduled completion. With more than an estimated 13.5 million U.S. Women using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to treat symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, and to protect against bone-thinning osteoporosis, it's no wonder the news caused such gasps and the talk hasn't stopped since. Women across the U.S. immediately called their doctors, mothers, daughters, and friends, questioning whether they should still be taking their pills and what, if any, are their alternatives?

Why HRT in the first place?

For decades, millions of women have been told that HRT is a veritable fountain of youth. More than 40% of all women in the U.S. start some form of HRT in their menopause years. Although it is estimated 50% of the women on HRT discontinue it within the first year, many continue it well into their 70s and 80s, convinced that the little pills will stave off aging and a host of other health concerns.

Once upon a time the concept of menopause and its symptoms were almost unheard of because the vast majority of women rarely lived long enough to experience them. And, for the women who did survive, menopause was seen as a marker for imminent and inevitable physical decline. Until the early 1900's that is, when it was first discovered that extracts from pigs' ovaries could "put off old age for a score of years," or at least "mitigate its effects when it has asserted itself with all its terrors." By the early 1940s, drug makers were mass-producing estrogen from pregnant mares' urine (hence the brand name Premarin). And by 1960 the New England Journal of Medicine was commending the drug for "everyone with evidence of an estrogen lack"- which is to say virtually every woman over 50.

Over the years the medical arguments for prescribing estrogen may have changed, but the idea that a single pill might turn back the clock still holds promise to many. Last year U.S. pharmacists filled some 45 million prescriptions for Premarin and an additional 22 million for Prempro, which consists of the same drug with added progestin.

Menopause is not a disease - why do we treat it as one?

Perhaps the real question we need to answer is - is it time to stop treating menopause as a disease, and to look at it as a natural, normal, physiological process. The idea that our bodies fail us at menopause is ludicrous, sexist and just plain wrong. And yes, for many there are undeniable unpleasant symptoms that go along with it. But wouldn't it be more appropriate to treat those symptoms, perhaps even naturally, rather than treat menopause as a medical condition requiring pharmaceuticals?

What are the alternatives?

For millions of women, the question of whether to take hormone replacement therapy after menopause just got more confusing. And the thought of quitting HRT if it has successfully mitigated symptoms can be a scary thought. If you're using HRT in hopes it will protect your heart, prevent osteoporosis or relieve symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, memory loss, vaginal dryness and declining libido, you will be happy to know that many women have found tremendous success in a more holistic approach of herbs and nutritional supplements, whole foods - particularly soy, and exercise.

Herbs -Vitamins

Long before Premarin, women sought relief through herbal remedies. A basic regimen of vitamins, minerals and a few herbs work very well to relieve the symptoms of menopause. Every woman has different needs, but basically a program that includes calcium, magnesium, black cohosh, vitex (chaste berry) dong qui and sometimes low-dose DHEA and perhaps St. John's wort work very well in controlling the symptoms of menopause.

Dong quai, an adoptogenic, balances hormones. Vitex or Chaste Berry has been used for decades to regulate estrogen and progesterone production by working through the pituitary gland. Black cohosh has been the menopausal "tonic" of Native Americans throughout history. Studies have shown, black cohosh extract, to provide as much symptomatic relief as Premarin. DHEA can help with decreased libido and overall declining energy levels and St. John's wort can help combat depression and mood swings.

Building Bone/Preventing Osteoporosis

In dealing with supplementation for women at any age, preserving and building bone density should always be considered. Unfortunately, only about 11% of women get adequate calcium everyday. Studies have clearly shown the importance of Calcium in building and preserving bone. Magnesium deficiency is as much a problem in bone health as inadequate calcium. Again, more than 80% of American women are magnesium deficient, and because calcium and magnesium work in balance with each other, it is important to supplement these together. Supplemental Vitamin D is necessary for the proper absorption of calcium, and Boron has also been shown to have bone-building properties.

Numerous studies have also shown ipriflavone to be particularly useful in the treatment of low bone density and osteoperosis. Ipriflavone, a derivative of the soy isoflavone diadzein not only prevents a type of bone cell called osteoclasts from breaking down bone, but also stimulates other bone cells, osteoblasts, to build new bone. Ostevone, the branded Ipriflavone I recommend, has been chemically shown to rival their not so healthful pharmaceutical counterparts, and without the devastating side effects.

Foods and Phytonutrients

Perhaps not as easy as swallowing a pill, eating a healthier diet can significantly ease the transition through menopause, as well as provide additional benefits in treating or preventing other illnesses.

Current research points to the role of phytoestrogens (phyto means plant), natural plant hormones that provide a mild estrogenic activity in the body. By incorporating foods high in these into your diet, not only do you ease symptoms of menopause, they also provide the added benefits of reducing your risk of heart disease - still the leading cause of death for older women.

Soy

When it comes to easing menopause symptoms, soy seems nothing less than a wonder food. A number of recent studies have found soy foods to reduce these symptoms due to the powerful phytoestrogens called isoflavones that they contain. Soy is what is known as an "adaptogenic" - the phytoestrogens genistein and diadzein in soy can have an estrogen like effect if your estrogen levels are low, and will actually bind to estrogen receptor sites and block estrogen if levels are too high. For this reason, soy is a great natural way to balance hormone levels and can be used as a safe alternative to hormone replacement therapy, offering most of the benefits, without the risks or side effects. Other studies have also suggested that these same isoflavones can increase bone mass and reduce cholesterol levels - two other main concerns for menopausal women. Functional soy beverages like OptiPRO S have been specifically formulated with high standardized levels of isoflavones, calcium, magnesium, boron, selenium and specialized enzymes to provide one of the simplest, easiest ways to mitigate symptoms, while protecting cardiovascular health, bone density, lower cancer risk, and manage weight.

Fruits, Vegetables and Whole Grains - It's important to make sure your diet includes plenty of phytonutrient rich foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Phytoestrogens can be found in apples, carrots, plums, peas, green beans, barley, oats and rye.

Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli contain the powerful phyochemical indole-3-carbinol, shown to convert powerful estrogens in the body to weaker, less carcinogenic ones. Citrus fruits and other foods high in biflavonoids, such as blueberries, cherries and grapes are also particularly beneficial.

Biflavonoids not only strengthen the circulatory system, which is helpful in treating hot flashes, menstrual flow and varicose veins, but they are also powerful anti-oxidants useful in the prevention of cancer.

Flax seed is one of the richest sources of Omega-3 essential fatty acids as well as one of the best sources of a form of phytoestrogen called lignans.

Lignans have been shown to reduce hot flashes and are beneficial in the prevention and treatment of breast and colon cancer, lowering cholesterol levels and promoting breast and vaginal health.

Exercise

There's no better natural way to treat both the physical, as well as the emotional, symptoms of menopause than with exercise. Exercise relieves stress, which is known to exacerbate symptoms, not to mention improves mood, builds strength, helps control weight, and increases bone density.

In light of the recent findings, some physicians will change their thinking dramatically; others will not change at all and will be as proactive for HRT as they've ever been. One thing is for sure, however, it's time for women to take responsibility for their own bodies and how to best protect themselves from osteoporosis and other ravages of age without resorting to old-fashioned hormones. The world of menopause management is in for some big changes, and the age of estrogen, without question, is over.

Autor: Catherine Wilbert

Catherine Wilbert, ND is a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, nutrition consultant & nationally recognized wellness expert. Catherine is the founder and owner of Wellness Innovations (http://www.wellnessinnovations.com), a natural health supplement company in Mandeville, LA. As owner, president and product developer for PhytoCeutical Formulations, Dr. Wilbert has made great strides in the development of the all natural sugar alternative, Swerve Sweetener (http://www.swervesweetener.com).

Added: June 23, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Servicing Your Yacht's Cooling System

Most used boats with inboard engines are provided with fresh water cooling systems. These fresh water systems in conjunction with the raw water system cool the engine during operation. The fresh water circulates within the engine and transfers the engine heat to the raw water system as it passes through heat exchangers. This article will explain the step by step approach to servicing your yacht's raw water cooling system

But raw water cooling systems often become plugged with scale, calcium carbonate deposits, creating an unhealthy condition for the engine. Heat exchanger cooling tubes and piping will become totally blocked if left unchecked.

How does calcium carbonate form in the engine you ask? When hard water comes in contact with heated surfaces, the minerals in the water fall from suspension, Minerals, primarily calcium will then cling to any surfaces that might be there. The same occurs inside hot water heaters and in industrial power plants that use untreated water.

Become familiar with your engines

Prior to servicing the engines on your used trawler, motor yacht, sailboat or cruiser, it is important that you take some time to familiarize yourself with the raw water cooling system of the engines. Get drawings and parts diagrams if at all possible. Examine your engines and trace the raw water flow from the intakes to the exhaust. Make a mental note of each component.

There are two methods to service your used boats engine.

Method 1 - Disassemble the Engine Cooling System

Using your parts manual as a guide, disassemble each component of the cooling system. You will need new seals and gaskets when you put it back together so keep a running inventory as you remove components. The principle sections of the raw water system are the raw water pump and impeller, the oil cooler, perhaps an aftercooler, a heat exchanger and transmission oil cooler.

Clean the cooling system

After the sections have been removed, each section must be examined. Oil coolers and heat exchangers will possibly have a calcium deposit inside them. A professional radiator shop can clean these for you but a cheaper way is to mix a 4-1 solution of Muriatic Acid and water. Immerse the components into the solution and allow it to "boil" until all activity is complete; your components will be clean. Use care to protect your eyes and skin as the acid is very hazardous.

Re-assemble the cooling system.

Once your system is clean replace all the sections back on the engine using new seals and gaskets where needed. Replace older rusted bolts too. Now is a good time to replace the impeller too
Test for leaks and proper operation

When you are refilling your engine with anti-freeze, be sure to bleed the system of trapped air. You should find that information in your operator's manual. Following the re-assembly, the only remaining task is to start up the engine and check for water flow and stop any small leaks by tightening bolts

Method 2 - Clean in Place

Inspect your cooling system and locate your raw water pump on your used boat. Next, locate an "intake" in the raw water system downstream from the pump where you can connect a hose. On my Volvos, I have a hose that runs from the water pump to the oil cooler that I can temporarily remove. Then locate an outflow from the raw water cooling system where the water leaves the engine.

Assemble the following:

1. 50 gph bilge pump
2. About 20 feet of wire to connect the pump to your batteries
3. A 5-gallon bucket
4. About 10-15 feet of hose sized to fit connections
5. 1 gallon of Ph-Ospho-Ric (Home Depot paint department) phosphoric acid

Connect a portion of the hose to the bilge pump and the other end to the "intake" you have located. Place the bilge pump into the bucket and fill full with water and of the Ph-Ospho-Ric. Connect another portion of hose to the outflow of the engine and route back to the bucket. At this point remove the engine zincs and replace the holes with plugs.

What you now have created is a "closed loop" where the acid can be circulated through the engine. Start the bilge pump and begin circulating the water and acid. The water will turn a dark gray and bubble as it neutralizes the calcium deposits. You may have to add more Ph-Ospho-Ric as you continue the process. Finally, after you are confidant the deposits are cleaned out, reassemble the engine, install new engine zincs and start the engine to flush the remaining acid.

Mike Dickens is a live aboard trawler owner. He also operates as Paradise Yachts Broker in Florida USA.

Autor: Mike Dickens Mike Dickens
Level: Basic PLUS
Mike Dickens is the owner and yacht broker in Florida USA of Paradise Yachts. Paradise Yachts assists customers with both buying and selling of yachts ... ...

http://www.paradiseyachtsales.net
http://www.paradiseyachtsales.net/CruisingCenter.html

Added: June 22, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Why Are Vitamins and Minerals So Important?

The human body needs at least 90 nutrients to maintain optimum health, including a minimum of 59 minerals and 16 vitamins. Vitamins are nutrients that are required for the body to perform essential processes. In effect, they act as the trigger for enzymes to make all your bodies processes happen.

Vitamins are instrumental in protecting arteries, making healthy skin, boosting your immune system, balancing hormones and energy production. They are also vital for the functioning of your brain and nervous system. Antioxidant vitamins (vitamins A, C and E) help protect your body from free radicals caused by pollution, slow down the ageing process and help protect you from cancer and heart disease.

When your body need to convert food into energy, it is vital that there is a sufficient supply of vitamin C and B vitamins for this to be accomplished. Vitamin D helps your body to absorb calcium and promotes healthy bones and strong teeth. It also has a role to play in protecting against some cancers.

Minerals are also essential for practically every process in your body. As your body doesn't produce any minerals, they must be obtained either through diet or nutritional supplements.

The most important minerals are known as "macrominerals" as, on a daily basis, these are required in large amounts by your body.

Calcium, phosphorous and magnesium play a major role in the growth and maintenance of bones and teeth. Magnesium also relaxes muscles and keeps blood vessel walls flexible, helping to prevent heart disease. It also acts in boosting around 300 enzyme functions in your body.

Potassium is used by your body to conduct nerve impulses, initiate muscle contractions (especially the heart) and helps to lower blood pressure. It also enables your body to convert blood sugar into stored energy. Most of the other minerals are known as "microminerals" or "trace minerals" as your body requires them in relatively small amounts. These include iron, cobalt, chromium, copper, iodine, manganese, selenium, zinc and molybdenum.

Whilst these are only required in small amounts - less than 100mg per day - they have thousands of key roles to play in your health. Vitamins and minerals are essential for the proper growth, development and protection of your body.

Autor: Steve Stapleton Steve Stapleton
Level: Platinum
Steve has been advising customers on vitamins, minerals and other supplements for 7 years. His plain, uncomplicated and impartial advice has now been carried through ... ...

To subscribe to your free 12 part e-course on how to choose the right supplement for you from the hundreds that are available, go to http://www.supplementadvice.co.uk

Added: June 20, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Calcium Protects Against Cancer

Every woman with a head on her shoulders knows about the importance of calcium for strong bones to prevent osteoporosis, a serious disease affecting older women. I myself have been a long time consumer of low-fat dairy products for this very reason (plus I love cottage cheese with almost anything). But now we have an added reason to wolf down the calcium.

New research has shown that women with higher intakes of calcium appear to have a lower risk of cancer overall, and both men and women with high calcium intakes have lower risks of colorectal cancer and other cancers of the GI system (this is from the February 23 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine).

The Institute of Medicine currently recommends 1,200 milligrams of calcium for adults age 50 and older, and the 2005 dietary guidelines for Americans recommend 3 cups per day of low-fat or fat-free dairy products. In the study, the decrease in risk for women was with intake of up to 1,300 mgs per day, after which no further risk reduction was observed. In both men and women, dairy food and calcium intakes were inversely associated with cancers of the GI and one-fifth of men who consumed the most calcium through food and supplements (about 1,530 mg per day) had a 16 percent lower risk of these types of cancer than the one-fifth who consumed the least (526 mg per day). For women, those in the top one-fifth of calcium consumption (1,881 mg per day) had a 23 percent lower risk than those in the bottom one-fifth (494 mg per day) with a most pronounced decrease for colorectal cancer. So what is it about dairy that is so protective against cancer?

Dairy is relatively high in anti-carcinogenic nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D and conjugated linoleic acid. Calcium has been shown to reduce abnormal growth and induce normal turnover among cells in the GI tract and breast and it binds to bile and fatty acids, which may reduce damage to the mucous membrane in the large intestine. So the bottom line is: even if you're dieting, be sure to include that lowfat dairy to protect yourself against disease!

Autor: Veronika Verman

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Added: June 18, 2009
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Exercise and Vitamin Intake

When one engages in regular exercise, he or she may suddenly find themselves dealing with muscular cramping, discomfort, soreness, and pain. Sometimes an individual will suffer from unwanted spasms which are brought on by extensive exercise; this pain typically occurs in the individual's upper and lower extremities. Spasms can prove quite bothersome and can last in duration from a couple of seconds to a few minutes or more. These cramps and spasms can be indicative of excessive strain, but they can also be an indication that the individual needs more vitamins and minerals, too.

Every individual needs to consume adequate nutrients and to get the recommended daily allowance of minerals and vitamins that he or she needs. The latter fact is true particularly in the case of individuals that engage in frequent exercise. Vitamins and minerals can be gained by a quality diet. Individuals should eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, nuts, cereals, and they should also consume meats and other products high in protein.

Sometimes a good diet just isn't enough though, and it will be necessary to take a vitamin supplement which gives the individual the vitamins he or she needs to maintain health and to keep muscular cramping at bay. Everyone needs Vitamin A, B, C, D, and K in their diets, and a good source of potassium, iron, magnesium, and calcium for bone health are also recommended. An important vitamin that also helps in fending off muscular cramping during and after exercise is Vitamin E, as well.

If muscular spasms and cramping continue to be a problem or prove to be ongoing, the individual may want to ease up on the amount of exercise he or she is engaging in. Overly strenuous exercises or too much exercise can lead to bodily strain, pain, and discomfort. Injuries can result and long term problems with chronic pain can also occur from exercises that are being performed incorrectly or too extensively.

Individuals that are particularly athletic may require more vitamins than those who are not as competitive or that do not exercise as often or as much. The body requires more nutrients, vitamins, and minerals when more demands are placed upon it. When one's metabolism is forced to perform at higher rates, the body requires more to keep it in a healthy state. Extensive exercise and training can drain the body rapidly of vital nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fluids. The athletic individual will therefore have to work harder in order to replace what the body is using due to strenuous exercise.

Speaking with a physician about one's lifestyle and exercise choices is a good place to start; a doctor can advise an individual how much of particular vitamins and minerals one's body requires. One's diet can then be evaluated to see if the diet is adequate enough to supply the necessary vitamins and nutrients. If one's diet is found to be lacking, then the doctor can advise the individual about the appropriate vitamin supplements to take as well as the appropriate quantities.

Autor: Robin Reichert Robin Reichert
Level: Platinum
Robin Reichert is an AFPA Certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant. She has been studying natural health, wellness, nutrition, and physical fitness for over 10 years ... ...

Robin Reichert is an AFPA Certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant. She has been studying natural health, wellness, nutrition, and physical fitness for over 10 years and holds an MS in Natural Health from Clayton College. She is also an AFPA Certified Personal Trainer. Her passion is to educate and empower people to take charge of their health and fitness. To learn more, please visit Robin's Wellness Resource Center at http://www.wellness-bee.com

Added: June 16, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Type 2 Diabetes - Would the Atkins' Diet Affect Your Blood Sugar Levels?

Almost everyone is looking to lose weight, people with and without type 2 diabetes. Millions are spent each year on programs and products to help with weight loss. What is everyone looking for? Foods that taste good, an easy to follow program that gives quick results without feeling deprived or hungry?

Dr Atkins' Weight Loss Program offers an answer to losing weight forever. Is this possible? I'm sure this program works for some people but is not right for everyone. Especially if you are one of the people who needs to watch your blood sugar levels.

The Atkins' Diet:

• is classed as a very low-carbohydrate high protein diet
• is worked in four phases
• in the initial phase the diet is very low in carbohydrates and very high in protein and fat of which there is no limitation
• all fruits are excluded in the first phase which lasts for 14 days
• carbohydrates are restricted to 20 grams/day and eventually builds up to 60 grams/day

Effects of very low-carbohydrate high protein diets:

• high protein diets cause excessive water loss
• people with diabetes already have a higher risk of kidney disease. Kidneys can be strained
• ketones are created which is thought to contribute to gout, heart and kidney disease
• the recommended dietary protein per day for adults is exceeded approximately five times. We only require 4 to 7 ounces/ 120 to 200 grams of lean animal protein food each day
• low-carbohydrate diets encourage the kidneys to flush out potassium, sodium, calcium and other minerals which leads to dehydration, constipation, and leg cramps
• all vegetable carbohydrates appear to be labeled bad even though they promote health
• scientific evidence show high saturated fats (in meat and dairy), increase the risk of heart disease and stroke
• encourages you to buy many supplements to replace the nutritional deficits the diet creates
• if you are taking insulin or insulin-stimulating medication you would need to carefully watch you blood sugar levels and adjust the medication doses
• if you cheat one day and not the next, your blood sugars would be all over the place
• your glycogen stores would be depleted making it difficult to exercise

Before commencing a low-carbohydrate high protein diet, check with your health care provider.

The ideal eating plan for the person with type 2 diabetes is one that helps you to lose weight slowly and steadily, at the same time maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

Autor: Beverleigh H Piepers Beverleigh H Piepers
Level: Platinum
Beverleigh H Piepers is a Registered Nurse, registered in Australia and the United States. In 2008 Beverleigh was diagnosed as being pre-diabetic. She then commenced ... ...

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Added: June 14, 2009
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Calcium In Your Dog's Diet - What's Its Function?

It is every pet owners dream to have a healthy pet. For that to be realized, you should ensure that your pet's diet is fully loaded with all vital nutrients to guarantee a good health. Calcium is one example of these essential nutrients that must be present in a good and well balanced dog diet. Most of us think of calcium in terms of strong bones and teeth, which is very true because calcium has to be present in your dog's diet for it to develop strong and healthy bones and teeth.

So what difference does too little or too much calcium levels make in your dog's diet make? Remember that too little level of calcium in your dog's diet is the major cause of a condition called rickets in pets. Rickets is any pet owner's nightmare, because it causes your pets bones to be soft and easily bendable under your dog's weight. Who likes to see that happen to their dear furred friends? Put you hands up.

Contrary to the above condition, excessive levels of calcium in your pets diet could easily result to abnormalities of the bone. This has been witnessed in large dog breeds. Puppies of such breeds tend to develop low density large bones which lack strength due to the high presence of calcium.

Proper levels of calcium in a dog's diet prevent such abnormalities from occurring. This is one of the many important reasons for selecting proper well balanced diets for your dog. Consult with a dog's nutritional specialist
In order to properly establish the correct amount of calcium to be included in your pets diet.

Calcium is a very important mineral in your dog's diet. Calcium belongs to the interdependent class of mineral nutrients that work together with other nutrients and vitamins.

Calcium works well with phosphorus. A proper balance of the two mineral nutrients, calcium together with phosphorus should be present in a proper ratio to guarantee a dog diet that will boost the potential merits for your pet friend. Animal nutrition studies have revealed that calcium mineral ratio parts of 2.0 and 1.0 coupled with 1.0 part phosphorus. When there is a wide variation in phosphorus and calcium ratios from this listed range, bone result will likely occur.

A dog diet composed of meats only will not yield the required amount of phosphorus and calcium necessary for proper formation of healthy and strong bones. That kind of diet could result to a ratio of about 18 parts phosphorus to 1.0 parts calcium. The main problem here occurs in absorption of these minerals into the pet's body.

The absorption of calcium and phosphorus is influenced by the presence of Vitamin D. if a pet's diet lacks the appropriate quantity of vitamin D, other mineral nutrients will not be of maximum benefit to the pet. Remember that too much of anything is poisonous and the same applies to vitamin D. try to maintain correct amounts of vitamin D in your dog's diet. Purchasing your dog's food supplies from a respectable dog food manufacturer is a good way to ensure that your pets diet is healthy.

When a dog is nursing or during pregnancy, high calcium levels in the dog's diet is much recommended. Such periods require you to feed your dog on additional amounts of well balanced dog food. Supplements are not mandatory under such circumstances.

Eclampsia or milk fever in layman's term cannot be prevented with calcium supplements. Milk fever is a metabolism condition that affects the mummy dog after her puppies' birth and nursing has began. It does not result from nutrients deficiency.

Do not supplement your pets diet with calcium or any other nutrient without expert advice from your vet or animal nutrition specialist. A pet's health can be severely affected when calcium is out of balance. Giving your dog a well balanced diet is important. Well respected dog food manufacturers always devote time and resources towards research on animal nutrition to make sure that they offer your dog good quality products. They do this by formulating dog food preparations that are well balanced and healthy.

Autor: Abhishek Agarwal Abhishek Agarwal
Level: Platinum
Abhishek is a full time Internet Marketer. But more than that, he is passionate about setting goals and achieving them. He is action-oriented and has ... ...

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Added: June 12, 2009
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Calcium and Why We Need It

Doctors and advertising campaigns are constantly drumming the message home that calcium is needed for women's health. There are two things wrong with this statement. For one thing, children may also be spoken of at the same time, but men are rarely mentioned. Another problem is that there is rarely any explanation about all the functions calcium serves.

Every human being who has bones and teeth needs calcium to maintain them. In fact, the greatest percentage of calcium in the body goes to these two parts of the body. Yet, even though the percentage of calcium in these areas is the greatest, it does not mean that other uses of calcium in the body are any less important.

In fact, if those other uses are not taken care of, the body will mine for calcium where it can find it and soon the bones and teeth will be weakened by the loss. That is why, when a woman bears too many children too quickly, she often begins to have dental problems. If she does not have enough calcium to meet those other needs of herself and the calcium needs of her baby, the calcium in her teeth will begin to be used up.

All of the other functions of calcium in the body are very important. Calcium is needed to help the blood with normal clotting. Without enough calcium, it would be too easy to bleed too much and too often.

The heart is also protected by the mineral calcium. The flow of blood is partially regulated in and around the heart by calcium. If you have ever known anyone who has taken calcium channel blockers for angina or other heart problems, you know that the correct rate of calcium movement in these areas is essential.

Calcium helps with glucose metabolism in the body's cells as well. It affects diverse systems in the body. It aids in the nervous system where it regulates nerve impulses. It is necessary in the musculo-skeletal system where it not only helps the bones but also aids in muscle contractions. It is even active in the endocrine system where it helps with hormones and enzymes.

Women do have two special needs for calcium in their lives, other than the exceptional needs of pregnancy. Women are far more prone to osteoporosis. Calcium can help them to prevent this disease if they can get the mineral in an absorbable form. Women and girls can also benefit from calcium because it helps to relieve PMS.

Men and women, boys and girls, all need calcium. They need it for their bones and teeth, but they also need it in their cells. They need it in the basic systems of their bodies. It is always important to get enough calcium.

Autor: Roger Glass

The author manages a business offering Goji Berries, Goji Berry Juice and Liquid Nutrition for sale at http://www.experiencewellness.org

Added: June 10, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Getting the Most Out of Your Calcium

Most of us know calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong bones. But it is also key in supporting healthy blood pressure, easing the discomfort of PMS by 50%, reducing the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles, helps prevent osteoporosis (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition), helps reduce weight in middle aged women (American Dietetic Association), supports healthy pregnancy and lactation, promotes healthy growth in adolescents, plays a critical role in the contraction of skeletal and heart muscles, enhances the effectiveness of electrical impulses passing through neurons , helps maintain proper blood vessel tone, promotes normal blood clotting, contributes to normal osmotic balance in our bodies, promotes colon health, promotes normal regulation of hormones & enzyme production and plays a role in hormone secretion.

Many calcium supplements exist in the marketplace, but only isotonic capable calcium translates into more of the active ingredients available to the body and lower cost when compared to calcium supplements in pill form. Don't be misled by ingredient amounts. What really counts is the amount of active ingredients that your body can ultimately use.

Calcium in tablet form is difficult for your body to absorb. This may be because the tablet is not blended with Vitamin D and magnesium which are necessary to aid in the absorption and use of calcium. In addition these tablets may use DCP, which is a binding agent used to hold the tablet together. DCP does not break down in the body. Even if they have no binders, the body must still break down a hard-pressed tablet into a usable form. If the tablet cannot be broken down sufficiently in the stomach, then the calcium will not be absorbed.

Absorption is also affected by the digestive system. All substances, except isotonic solutions, that are introduced to the stomach go through a degradation process before they can be passed to the small intestine to allow absorption. During this process substances lose some nutritional value.

All fluids in the human body have a certain concentration, which is called the osmotic pressure. An isotonic solution is a solution that is the same pressure as your body fluids. When taken on an empty stomach, an isotonic substance will be absorbed into the bloodstream rapidly because your stomach will allow it to pass to the small intestine without going through the digestive process. With isotonic fluids, very little nutritional value is lost making the absorption of nutrients highly efficient.

Ordinary calcium tablets require stomach acid to dissolve its compounds, but isotonic calcium has no need of stomach acid to be utilized. It delivers an efficient calcium solution that is more readily absorbed by the intestine. Do not confuse all liquid supplements as isotonic capable. They are not. While liquids may have a better rate of absorption when compared to pills, they are not necessarily in an isotonic state.

It is important to get the most out of calcium that an optimal blend of calcium, vitamin D3, magnesium, vitamin C and boron are provided in an efficient isotonic solution. The best form of calcium is calcium carbonate which is utilized by the body more efficiently, due to the fact that it increases the absorbability. Additionally, calcium is more readily absorbed by the body when combined with magnesium, manganese, vitamin D3, vitamin C, vitamin B2, boron and potassium.

We can only absorb 300 to 400 mg of calcium at a time, so it important to take multiple doses per day to reach the recommended amounts. According to the National Academy of Sciences, most adults require 1000 to 1200 mg per day. While we get some from the food we eat, most likely we are not consuming enough calcium in our foods.

Autor: Fred W Lacey Fred W Lacey
Level: Basic
Fred is an entrepreneur, marketer and nutraceutical consultant. As a nutraceutical consultant, helps licensed health professionals with patient based practices establish a wellness based system ... ...

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Added: June 9, 2009
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When Should I Consider Calcium Carbonate Supplements?

Calcium carbonate is one of the best-selling health supplements in the United States. It's well documented that calcium plays a key role in heart health, bone health, muscle function and a whole host of regulatory functions, from controlling blood pressure and balancing stomach acids to triggering enzyme activity and preventing Osteoporosis. Recent research has focused on calcium's role in balancing high levels of magnesium, phosphorus and potassium in the blood, as well as its link to Cancer prevention and weight loss facilitation.

To get your daily recommended value of calcium, you may want to just take a supplement like TUMS, Rolaids, Calcitrate or Chooz. Food is another excellent source. You'll get 300 out of your daily 1,000 mg from one cup of milk, a carton of yogurt or 200 ml of Calcium fortified soymilk or orange juice. Fortified milk can provide as much as 400 mg in one cup. For another 100 mg, you can eat leafy greens like broccoli, collard, bok choy, Chinese cabbage and spinach.

Note that the calcium absorption works best with dairy products or vitamin D containing substances and you may only be able to absorb 5% from something like spinach, which also contains a high level of oxalate. Other sources include soy, sardines, salmon, fortified breakfast cereals, fortified fruit juices and fortified breads.

If you're concerned about osteoporosis as you age, then be aware that your lifestyle may also dictate how strong or weak your bones are. For instance, a high sodium diet can affect how much nutrients you absorb. Drinking more than six caffeine-containing drinks each day, excessive drinking of alcohol, having a low body weight, taking in high levels of fiber, not exercising enough, staying out of the sunlight and having low vitamin D levels can all affect bone strength.

If you're in the risk group for Osteoporosis, then you may want to try a calcium carbonate supplement like Alka-Mints, Calel-D, Caltrate, Chooz, Rolaids, Titralac or Tums. Generally, calcium and vitamin D go hand-in-hand and promote the absorption of both minerals, so if you can find something that contains both, then you'll be on the right track.

There are certain side effects to calcium carbonate supplements. You may experience an upset stomach, belching, constipation, a dry mouth, frequent urination, a loss of appetite, a metallic taste in your mouth or you may even vomit, although any side effects are generally rare. An excessive intake of calcium products can cause confusion, delirium, stupor and even coma in a rare condition called Hypercalcemia. If you experience any severe symptoms that do not go away, then contact your doctor.

Autor: Mike Selvon

Mike Selvon has some great informative articles. If you enjoyed this article, please visit his website for more on calcium carbonate, and learn more insider tips on the best calcium supplement.

Added: June 7, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Tips When Considering Calcium Channel Blockers

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are used most commonly to treat high blood pressure, angina, hypertension, narrowed arteries, Raynaud's syndrome, cardiomyopathy and arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat). However, they are also prescribed for subarachnoid hemorrhages, migraines and complications arising from brain aneurysms. These blockers work by reducing blood vessel constriction and calcium levels in the heart, allowing blood to flow freely through the vessels, thereby reducing blood pressure.

Several medications such as Diltiazem and Verapamil will also slow down the heart rate and improve heart pumping. Often doctors prescribe diuretics, beta-blockers or angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors along with this medication to treat high blood pressure.

There are two different types of CCBs: Dihydropyridine and Non-Dihydropyridine. The first type (Amlodipine/Norvasc) does not slow down the heart rate, which makes it safer for people who have already suffered heart failure or slowed heart rates; while the latter (Verpamil/Calan/Isotoptin and Diltiazem/Cardizem) will actually slow the heart, making it a suitable treatment for heart arrhythmias (abnormal heart activity.) Both types of medication are intended to reduce blood pressure and reduce the calcium levels in the heart walls and blood vessels.

The efficacy of these medications has periodically been disputed, but they remain the top considerations for people who have experienced heart failure and artery failure. Sometimes the medicines, like Nicardipine, Diltiazem, Nifedipine, Amlodipine and Verapamil, are prescribed to lower blood pressure, relax the arteries and supply the calcium rich heart muscles with blood.

Other times, combination prescriptions, like Amlodipine with Atorvastatin, are used to lower cholesterol, as well as provide the other heart health benefits. Additionally, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association, the generic forms of calcium channel blockers are just as effective as name-brand versions.

One precaution to take while on calcium channel blockers is to avoid smoking. Cigarettes increase one's heart rate, which can interact with the CCBs to cause a rapid heartbeat or heart attack. Also, patients should not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice less than four hours after taking their medication because it may interfere with the body's calcium absorption and excretion levels. Lastly, those on blood thinners like Plavix may not see results, as CCBs affect their efficacy. All things considered, CCBs are some of the most widely prescribed medications for heart patients.

Autor: Mike Selvon

Mike Selvon has some great informative articles. If you enjoyed this article, please visit his website for more on calcium channel blockers, and learn more insider tips on the best calcium supplement.

Added: June 5, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

What is Calcium Chloride Used For?

You may not know it by name, but calcium chloride can be found in refrigeration plants, on roads and in concrete. This exceedingly useful chemical is even used in the medical field for everything from promoting bone health to preventing a magnesium overdose. It is often an additive in calcium supplements, though the most popular supplement is calcium carbonate.

Medically, calcium chloride can be injected intravenously to treat low calcium (Hypocalcemia), Black Widow Spider bites, hives, magnesium intoxication, acute lead colic or cardiac arrest. When patients pass out during open heart surgery, a dose of this can wake them up. In some patients who are experiencing weak myocardial contractions, boosting calcium levels can succeed where epinephrine failed.

Naturally, the presence of it balances the presence of everything from potassium and magnesium to stomach acids. If a patient is experiencing an adverse reaction to Cardizem, a Channel Blocker drug like calcium chloride can intervene and prevent a heart attack. Biologists sometimes use this compound in genetics to increase cell membrane permeability to ensure DNA uptake.

Surprisingly, this medical compound and industrial product can also been found in food. Calcium chloride is sometimes used as a firming agent or drying agent and has been approved by both the European Union and the US FDA. It is estimated that people ingest roughly 160-345 mg/day, although direct consumption would result in stomach irritation and ulceration. You may notice this compound on packages of sports drinks, pickles, chocolate bars, vegetables, milk and beer.

Sometimes liquid calcium chloride is also used in fertilizers. Ward Chemical is the top manufacturer of organic fertilizers containing this compound. They say that this biodegradable additive neutralizes the pH balance of the soil, reduces crusting, assists plant growth, ensures water retention, reduces high alkaline/sodium/magnesium/saline content, and protects plants from disease. Working quickly and efficiently, agriculture is one of many uses for this great mineral compound.

Autor: Mike Selvon

Mike Selvon has some great informative articles. If you enjoyed this article, please visit his website for more on calcium chloride, and learn more insider tips on the best calcium supplement.

Added: June 3, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Best Way to Lose Weight Fast - Is Calcium the Key to Fast Weight Loss?

What exactly is the best way to lose weight fast? This is a question that is asked over and over again. Almost everyone who wants to lose weight also wants to lose weight fast. This usually involves going on some type of crash diet and trying to shed pounds in a matter of weeks.

You may not be aware that these diets could be depleting vital nutrients from your bones and this includes calcium. These fad diets often promise fast weight loss, but forget to inform you that calcium and other essential nutrients are not really included in the menu, and this can cause loss of bone, or osteoporosis later in life.

There have been many studies which have researched the eating habits of women and found that the ones who drastically limit their calories will have decreased bone mineral density along with decreased bone mineral content as opposed to those women who eat a normal diet and do not limit their calories.

Your bones of course need adequate calcium in order to stay strong and healthy. This is something that almost everyone knows. Unfortunately, many of the diets which promise that they are the best way to lose weight fast do not address this issue.

A little known fact is that calcium is not only essential for your bones but it can also assist in maintaining a healthy low-fat diet as well. Studies have shown that eating a diet high in calcium can help decrease body fat.

The reason for this is that calcium itself is actually a fat burner. Diets which are high in calcium tends to cause your body to burn fat rather than store fat. Other studies have shown those who have a high intake of calcium have the lowest percentage of body fat.

So for healthy and safe loss of weight, include in your diet some of the foods that are good sources of calcium including dairy products, beans and other lagoons, and leafy dark green vegetables. This will ensure that you reduce your weight quickly as well as stay healthy while doing so.

Autor: Regina Reeves

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Added: June 1, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/