Diet & Weight Loss Pills - Are they Effective?
If 10 dieters take the same diet or weight loss pills and 8 of them lose weight, the diet drugs work, right? Not necessarily!
Suppose weight loss is followed by weight regain?
Suppose the diet drugs cause heart problems as well as weight loss?
Suppose the diet or weight loss medications become addictive?
Weight Loss is Not the Only Test for Diet Pills
Weight loss is not the only criteria by which to assess the effectiveness of diet pills. Weight loss is only one element.
Diet & Weight Loss Pills vs. Diet & Exercise Program
Suppose 100 dieters are divided into two diet groups. Group A is put on a weight loss diet and exercise program. Group B is given weight loss pills.
Suppose Group B dieters lose the same amount of weight as Group A? Does this mean the diet or weight loss pills are effective? Is this weight loss (achievable by normal dietary and exercise methods) worth the huge cost of diet pills and weight loss supplements? Is it worth risking your long term health?
Diet & Weight Loss Pills Work Best When....
You are seriously overweight (obese), or your weight poses health problems; and
You have tried a conventional weight loss diet & exercise plan, without success; and
Your doctor prescribes weight loss medication for you; and
The diet or weight loss drug is part of a proper diet and exercise program; and
Whatever weight loss pill you take, you follow manufacturer's instructions; and
You revisit your doctor regularly to check whether the weight loss pills are working and be examined for side-effects; and
You use diet & weight loss drugs as a short-term aid to weight control.
Studies on Weight Loss Pills Success
The idea that a diet pill or supplement can make losing weight easy is seductive - that's why dieters spend billions of dollars buying diet drugs and drug companies spend billions of dollars developing new weight loss pills. But while drug therapy offers hope of lower weight to many, studies show that weight loss medications work only when used in combination with a low calorie diet and exercise plan.
Diet & Weight Loss Pills
Diet and weight loss drugs or pills, whether prescription or over-the-counter weight loss supplements, are only effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan. So in order to lose weight and improve your body shape, check out our diet information and advice at Best Weight Loss Diet.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Introduction to Diet & Weight Loss Pills
Each year, about 17.2 million Americans buy diet and weight loss pills hoping to lose weight. Using drugs to speed up weight loss, burn extra fat or control obesity has always been irresistible. Many dieters prefer to use weight loss pills or diet drugs to control their weight and shape rather than follow a healthy diet and exercise plan.
Diet & Weight Loss Drugs and Pills
In the 50s and 60s diet pills were mainly amphetamine derivatives (speed). But due to addiction, doctors stopped prescribing drugs for weight loss. Diet and exercise then replaced drug therapy, temporarily. But in 1973 the FDA (the food and drug administration) approved a new drug for weight loss, called fenfluramine (trade name Pondimin). Then came dexfenfluramine (trade name Redux) in 1996. Some doctors prescribed phentermine (another type of weight loss medication) in combination with fenfluramine and the combined weight-loss drug was called fen-phen. Phentermine was also used in combination with dexfenfluramine (known as dex-fen-phen).
The drugs worked by increasing Serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical (neurotransmitter) associated with improved mood, appetite and satiety. Fen-phen had a double action. It tricked the brain into believing the stomach was full, and increased a person's metabolic rate.
People did lose weight on these diet and weight-loss medications, but in 1997 after reports of heart valve disease, the makers of fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine withdrew these diet pills from the market. Prescriptions were no longer written for Redux, Pondimin or fen-phen.
During the 18 months that fenfluramine (Pondimin) and dexfenfluramine (Redux) were being used as weight loss drugs, 14m prescriptions were written for people who wanted to lose weight.
The medication drug called Sibutramine (trade name Meridia) is the newest weight-loss drug currently being prescribed and many others are in development or waiting for FDA approval.
Off-label Use for Diet & Weight Loss Pills
The FDA regulates how a manufacturer can advertise and promote a diet medication. These regulations restrict a doctors ability to prescribe diet and weight loss pills for different conditions in larger doses or for different lengths of time. The practice of prescribing weight loss medication for periods of time or for unapproved conditions is know as off-label use. Using more than one appetite suppressant medication at a time (combined drug treatment) or using a currently approved appetite suppressant medication for more than a few weeks is also considered off-label use.
Dangers of Diet & Weight Loss Drugs
Diet and weight loss pills can have a significant impact on our blood pressure, metabolism and general health. Pills are not an easy option for easy or fast weight loss. Whether they assist weight loss or not, most diet and weight loss pills have unpleasant side effects, create drug-dependency and interfere with other medications. Weight loss medications are really designed for obesity control where the advantage of losing weight outweighs the disadvantage of side-effects. They are a short-term diet aid for severely overweight dieters. Finally, nearly all clinical trials of diet and weight loss pills show that weight loss drug therapy is only effective when part of a comprehensive weight management program of diet, exercise and weight loss support.
Diet & Weight Loss Pills
Diet and weight loss drugs or pills, whether prescription or over-the-counter weight loss supplements, are only effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan. So in order to lose weight and improve your body shape, check out our diet information and advice at Diet Information.
Top Weight Loss Diet Pills:
Phentermine
Ionamin
Meridia
Adipex
Xenical
Bontril
Didrex
Tenuate
NOTE: Before using any form of diet pills or weight loss supplements, please consult your doctor.
Diet & Weight Loss Drugs and Pills
In the 50s and 60s diet pills were mainly amphetamine derivatives (speed). But due to addiction, doctors stopped prescribing drugs for weight loss. Diet and exercise then replaced drug therapy, temporarily. But in 1973 the FDA (the food and drug administration) approved a new drug for weight loss, called fenfluramine (trade name Pondimin). Then came dexfenfluramine (trade name Redux) in 1996. Some doctors prescribed phentermine (another type of weight loss medication) in combination with fenfluramine and the combined weight-loss drug was called fen-phen. Phentermine was also used in combination with dexfenfluramine (known as dex-fen-phen).
The drugs worked by increasing Serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical (neurotransmitter) associated with improved mood, appetite and satiety. Fen-phen had a double action. It tricked the brain into believing the stomach was full, and increased a person's metabolic rate.
People did lose weight on these diet and weight-loss medications, but in 1997 after reports of heart valve disease, the makers of fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine withdrew these diet pills from the market. Prescriptions were no longer written for Redux, Pondimin or fen-phen.
During the 18 months that fenfluramine (Pondimin) and dexfenfluramine (Redux) were being used as weight loss drugs, 14m prescriptions were written for people who wanted to lose weight.
The medication drug called Sibutramine (trade name Meridia) is the newest weight-loss drug currently being prescribed and many others are in development or waiting for FDA approval.
Off-label Use for Diet & Weight Loss Pills
The FDA regulates how a manufacturer can advertise and promote a diet medication. These regulations restrict a doctors ability to prescribe diet and weight loss pills for different conditions in larger doses or for different lengths of time. The practice of prescribing weight loss medication for periods of time or for unapproved conditions is know as off-label use. Using more than one appetite suppressant medication at a time (combined drug treatment) or using a currently approved appetite suppressant medication for more than a few weeks is also considered off-label use.
Dangers of Diet & Weight Loss Drugs
Diet and weight loss pills can have a significant impact on our blood pressure, metabolism and general health. Pills are not an easy option for easy or fast weight loss. Whether they assist weight loss or not, most diet and weight loss pills have unpleasant side effects, create drug-dependency and interfere with other medications. Weight loss medications are really designed for obesity control where the advantage of losing weight outweighs the disadvantage of side-effects. They are a short-term diet aid for severely overweight dieters. Finally, nearly all clinical trials of diet and weight loss pills show that weight loss drug therapy is only effective when part of a comprehensive weight management program of diet, exercise and weight loss support.
Diet & Weight Loss Pills
Diet and weight loss drugs or pills, whether prescription or over-the-counter weight loss supplements, are only effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan. So in order to lose weight and improve your body shape, check out our diet information and advice at Diet Information.
Top Weight Loss Diet Pills:
Phentermine
Ionamin
Meridia
Adipex
Xenical
Bontril
Didrex
Tenuate
NOTE: Before using any form of diet pills or weight loss supplements, please consult your doctor.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Top 10 Questions and Answers on Atkins Diet
1. What is Atkins Diet?
Dr. Atkins diet, first introduced in 1972, is strictly focused on limiting carbohydrate consumption.
That is why it is called a low-carb, high-protein diet or sometimes simply a low-carb diet, together with other diets such as South Beach Diet, Power Protein Diet etc...
2. What are carbohydrates, and where can they be found?
Carbohydrates provide your body with its basic fuel, very much like a car engine and gasoline. Glucose goes directly into the cells, which convert it into the energy they need.
There are two types of carbohydrates:
Simple carbohydrates (also called "sugars" on food package labels): glucose, fructose and galactose are referred to as monosaccharides. Lactose, sucrose and maltose are called disaccharides (they contain two monosaccharides).
Complex carbohydrates ("starches"), made up of chains of glucose molecules, which is simply a way plants store glucose.
Starches can be found in great quantities in most grains (wheat, corn, oats, rice) and things like potatoes and plantains.
Your digestive system breaks a starch back down into its component glucose molecules so that the glucose can enter your bloodstream.
A complex carbohydrate is digested more slowly than simple carbohydrates because it takes longer to break down a starch.
Complex carbs can be either high in fiber such as broccoli or low in fiber such as bananas or potatoes.
But carbohydrates are not the only substances the body uses: it also needs proteins and fats.
3. What are proteins and where can they be found?
A protein is any chain of amino acids. Carbohydrates provide cells with energy, proteins provide cells with the building material they need to grow and maintain their structure.
Protein can be found in both animal and vegetable foods. Most animal sources (meat, milk, eggs) provide "complete protein": they contain all of the essential amino acids.
Vegetable foods usually have few or none of the essential amino acids. Example: rice is low in isoleucine and lysine.
Some vegetable sources contain quite a bit of protein -- things like nuts, beans, soybeans, etc. are all high in protein.
4. What are fats and where can they be found?
Fats are also an important part of our diet. Many foods contain fat in different amounts. High-fat foods include dairy products like butter and cream as well as mayonnaise and oils.
There are two kinds of fats: saturated and unsaturated.
Saturated fats are normally solid at room temperature, while unsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature.
Vegetable oils are the best examples of unsaturated fats, while lard and shortening (along with the animal fat you see in raw meat) are saturated fats.
We can further distinguish the unsaturated fats between polyunsaturated and monounsaturated. Unsaturated fats are currently thought to be more healthy than saturated fats, and monounsaturated fats (as found in olive oil and peanut oil) are thought to be healthier than polyunsaturated fats.
Fat is necessary because: the only way to get certain fat-soluble vitamins is to eat fat, your body has no way to make certain essential fats, so you must get them in your food.
Another reason is that fat is a good source of energy, in fact it contains twice as many calories per gram as do carbohydrates or proteins. Your body can burn fat as fuel when necessary
5. and how can I loose weight by reducing carbohydrate consumption?
Atkins diet and other low-carb diets are based on the theory that certain carbohydrates have a greater impact on blood sugar levels than others.
So you count these carbs. They are the ones that matter. To figure out the net carb count of a food item, you need to identify the carbs that don't have a high impact -- those from fiber and sugar alcohol, and subtract that total from the overall carb count
Just regulate your blood sugar levels (from carbohydrates) and you'll be able to better regulate your appetite... and your weight.
Therefore, say Atkins diet proponents, the culprits are carbohydrates and there is nothing wrong with eating as much meat as you want!
What you should do is restrict carbohydrate consumption, specially starchy foods such as bread, rice, corn etc..., except for what they consider as "good carbohydrates" such as high fiber vegetables (broccoli etc...)
According to them, the energy we need should be taken from proteins, and sometimes fat, but as few carbohydrates as possible, hence the name: low carbohydrate diet..
6 . What else does the human body need?
Mainly vitamins and minerals. These can be found in various foods, fruits, etc..It seems the "Standard Western Diet" is deficient in vitamins and minerals. This has led to the creation of vitamin and mineral supplements.
7. Is Atkins diet efficient?
Anybody can note the simple fact that cutting back on carbohydrates works, at least for a quick drop in body fat and body water.
However, for most dieters the problem is the long-term effects on the body due to such a drastic reduction in carbohydrates.
Whatever Atkins diet proponents have said, this remains a real problem and people like those at South Beach Diet have tried to solve it by introducing carbohyfrates after the 14 days initial phase.
8. What about the "fat makes you fat" theory?
According to Anthony Colpo, one of the most articulate of the Atkins diet defenders:
"Some folks have been so inculcated with the simplistic "fat makes you fat" theory that they just cannot believe a diet high in fat can lead to a loss of bodyfat.
The fact is, high fat diets can result in spectacular fat loss - as long as carbohydrate intake is kept low. Eat a diet that is high in both fat and carbohydrate and your bodyfat percentages will head north real quick! "
9. Does Atkins diet cause coronary heart disease (CHD)?
On May 26, 2004 A Florida businessman filed suit against the makers of Atkins diet.
The man claimed as a consequence of following the low-carb diet, he suffers from severe heart disease, necessitating angioplasty and a stent
One of the fiercest opponents of Atkins diet, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) President Neal Barnard, M.D, said that the diet proponents "push dieters to avoid healthy foods, like rice, beans, and pasta, while ignoring the risks of high-cholesterol, high-fat meat and cheese. The idea that cholesterol and saturated fat don't matter is a dangerous myth."
But what does the other side say? As expected, we hear a totally different story.
Here is Anthony Colpo's take on the CHD issue:
"A low carb diet based on paleolithic food choices, that is, a diet based on free-range animal products and low carbohydrate, low-glycemic plant foods, fits the bill quite nicely. So go ahead, eat your steak and salad!"
10. Are there any other health risks?
In additon to CHD - coronary heart disease - Atkins diet has also been blamed for a number of other "atrocities", such as: colon cancer, impaired kidney function, osteoporosis, complications of diabetes, and to cap it all: constipation, headache, bad breath, muscle cramps, diarrhea, general weakness.
A few quick answers to some of these accusations from Anthony Colpo:
Kidney disease: "Bodybuilders and strength athletes have been consuming high-protein diets for decades. Given the widespread global participation in these activities, if the claims of kidney damage were true, by now there would be an enormous number of case studies of ex-bodybuilders and strength athletes afflicted with kidney disease," which is obviously not the case.
Osteoporosis: "a low-carbohydrate, high fat, high protein diet is a far better choice for building strong bones than a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet."
Dr. Atkins diet, first introduced in 1972, is strictly focused on limiting carbohydrate consumption.
That is why it is called a low-carb, high-protein diet or sometimes simply a low-carb diet, together with other diets such as South Beach Diet, Power Protein Diet etc...
2. What are carbohydrates, and where can they be found?
Carbohydrates provide your body with its basic fuel, very much like a car engine and gasoline. Glucose goes directly into the cells, which convert it into the energy they need.
There are two types of carbohydrates:
Simple carbohydrates (also called "sugars" on food package labels): glucose, fructose and galactose are referred to as monosaccharides. Lactose, sucrose and maltose are called disaccharides (they contain two monosaccharides).
Complex carbohydrates ("starches"), made up of chains of glucose molecules, which is simply a way plants store glucose.
Starches can be found in great quantities in most grains (wheat, corn, oats, rice) and things like potatoes and plantains.
Your digestive system breaks a starch back down into its component glucose molecules so that the glucose can enter your bloodstream.
A complex carbohydrate is digested more slowly than simple carbohydrates because it takes longer to break down a starch.
Complex carbs can be either high in fiber such as broccoli or low in fiber such as bananas or potatoes.
But carbohydrates are not the only substances the body uses: it also needs proteins and fats.
3. What are proteins and where can they be found?
A protein is any chain of amino acids. Carbohydrates provide cells with energy, proteins provide cells with the building material they need to grow and maintain their structure.
Protein can be found in both animal and vegetable foods. Most animal sources (meat, milk, eggs) provide "complete protein": they contain all of the essential amino acids.
Vegetable foods usually have few or none of the essential amino acids. Example: rice is low in isoleucine and lysine.
Some vegetable sources contain quite a bit of protein -- things like nuts, beans, soybeans, etc. are all high in protein.
4. What are fats and where can they be found?
Fats are also an important part of our diet. Many foods contain fat in different amounts. High-fat foods include dairy products like butter and cream as well as mayonnaise and oils.
There are two kinds of fats: saturated and unsaturated.
Saturated fats are normally solid at room temperature, while unsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature.
Vegetable oils are the best examples of unsaturated fats, while lard and shortening (along with the animal fat you see in raw meat) are saturated fats.
We can further distinguish the unsaturated fats between polyunsaturated and monounsaturated. Unsaturated fats are currently thought to be more healthy than saturated fats, and monounsaturated fats (as found in olive oil and peanut oil) are thought to be healthier than polyunsaturated fats.
Fat is necessary because: the only way to get certain fat-soluble vitamins is to eat fat, your body has no way to make certain essential fats, so you must get them in your food.
Another reason is that fat is a good source of energy, in fact it contains twice as many calories per gram as do carbohydrates or proteins. Your body can burn fat as fuel when necessary
5. and how can I loose weight by reducing carbohydrate consumption?
Atkins diet and other low-carb diets are based on the theory that certain carbohydrates have a greater impact on blood sugar levels than others.
So you count these carbs. They are the ones that matter. To figure out the net carb count of a food item, you need to identify the carbs that don't have a high impact -- those from fiber and sugar alcohol, and subtract that total from the overall carb count
Just regulate your blood sugar levels (from carbohydrates) and you'll be able to better regulate your appetite... and your weight.
Therefore, say Atkins diet proponents, the culprits are carbohydrates and there is nothing wrong with eating as much meat as you want!
What you should do is restrict carbohydrate consumption, specially starchy foods such as bread, rice, corn etc..., except for what they consider as "good carbohydrates" such as high fiber vegetables (broccoli etc...)
According to them, the energy we need should be taken from proteins, and sometimes fat, but as few carbohydrates as possible, hence the name: low carbohydrate diet..
6 . What else does the human body need?
Mainly vitamins and minerals. These can be found in various foods, fruits, etc..It seems the "Standard Western Diet" is deficient in vitamins and minerals. This has led to the creation of vitamin and mineral supplements.
7. Is Atkins diet efficient?
Anybody can note the simple fact that cutting back on carbohydrates works, at least for a quick drop in body fat and body water.
However, for most dieters the problem is the long-term effects on the body due to such a drastic reduction in carbohydrates.
Whatever Atkins diet proponents have said, this remains a real problem and people like those at South Beach Diet have tried to solve it by introducing carbohyfrates after the 14 days initial phase.
8. What about the "fat makes you fat" theory?
According to Anthony Colpo, one of the most articulate of the Atkins diet defenders:
"Some folks have been so inculcated with the simplistic "fat makes you fat" theory that they just cannot believe a diet high in fat can lead to a loss of bodyfat.
The fact is, high fat diets can result in spectacular fat loss - as long as carbohydrate intake is kept low. Eat a diet that is high in both fat and carbohydrate and your bodyfat percentages will head north real quick! "
9. Does Atkins diet cause coronary heart disease (CHD)?
On May 26, 2004 A Florida businessman filed suit against the makers of Atkins diet.
The man claimed as a consequence of following the low-carb diet, he suffers from severe heart disease, necessitating angioplasty and a stent
One of the fiercest opponents of Atkins diet, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) President Neal Barnard, M.D, said that the diet proponents "push dieters to avoid healthy foods, like rice, beans, and pasta, while ignoring the risks of high-cholesterol, high-fat meat and cheese. The idea that cholesterol and saturated fat don't matter is a dangerous myth."
But what does the other side say? As expected, we hear a totally different story.
Here is Anthony Colpo's take on the CHD issue:
"A low carb diet based on paleolithic food choices, that is, a diet based on free-range animal products and low carbohydrate, low-glycemic plant foods, fits the bill quite nicely. So go ahead, eat your steak and salad!"
10. Are there any other health risks?
In additon to CHD - coronary heart disease - Atkins diet has also been blamed for a number of other "atrocities", such as: colon cancer, impaired kidney function, osteoporosis, complications of diabetes, and to cap it all: constipation, headache, bad breath, muscle cramps, diarrhea, general weakness.
A few quick answers to some of these accusations from Anthony Colpo:
Kidney disease: "Bodybuilders and strength athletes have been consuming high-protein diets for decades. Given the widespread global participation in these activities, if the claims of kidney damage were true, by now there would be an enormous number of case studies of ex-bodybuilders and strength athletes afflicted with kidney disease," which is obviously not the case.
Osteoporosis: "a low-carbohydrate, high fat, high protein diet is a far better choice for building strong bones than a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet."
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs
Do you suffer from high cholesterol? Regardless of whether or not you get regular physical exercise, are undergoing diet therapy, or losing weight, you should look into cholesterol lowering medications. These drugs are sometimes the only strategy you can use if all the other ones fail. First of all, you should understand the role cholesterol plays in the body. It is present in all of the body’s cells. The problem is, when you have too much, your risk of heart disease is increased. For that reason, you need to eat a healthy diet and have an active lifestyle.
Taking drugs to lower your cholesterol is dependent on a few different factors. One of these is the amount of it in your blood, as well as the amount of other fats. You can lower your cholesterol level significantly with cholesterol lowering medications. However, these drugs can be expensive in some cases and might have side effects. You should be vigilant about maintaining a healthy diet that’s low in fat, exercise regularly, stay at a healthy weight, and refrain from smoking. Try to do a bit of research on the potential side effects also. If you do experience any, talk to your physician about it.
Statin
All sorts of cholesterol lowering drugs exist. One is known as statin. These drugs can be quite effective at lowering your cholesterol levels. At the same time, however, they are known to produce side effects. Studies that have been conducted on the subject indicate that you should use “Co-Enzyme Q-10” along with the statin drugs. This is because these cholesterol reducing drugs can deplete some essential enzymes. By using the “Co-Q” supplement, your heart will be protected.
Bile Acid Sequestrates
These drugs are another option to consider. Bile acids in the body are secreted from both the gall bladder and liver in bile. They pass through the intestine to decrease the level of fatty content in food as a way to improve absorption. Following this, they are re-absorbed into the intestine, and then go to the liver once more. One disadvantage in using this type of medication is malabsorption.
Fibric Acids
Also known as “fibrates,” fibric acids are effective because they reduce the production of triglyceride and take it out of circulation. These medications also up the amount of HDL, referred to frequently as “good cholesterol. Fibric acids contain lopid, gemfibrozil, or fenofibrate (tricor). .
Nicotinic Acid
These acids, also commonly called “niacins,” work by reducing levels of the “bad cholesterol,” that is, LDL. They also help to increase HDL. In large enough doses, niacins vitamins can reduce triglycerides.
It’s not very difficult to take these drugs, for the most part, but be aware that there are a certain number of drug-interactions associated with their use. Stomach problems are the most common complaint of people who take them (usually cramps, pains, or constipation). The symptoms, however, while they vary in severity, usually go away as the therapy goes on. Making the right choice of cholesterol lowering medication for you is a very important decision.
Taking drugs to lower your cholesterol is dependent on a few different factors. One of these is the amount of it in your blood, as well as the amount of other fats. You can lower your cholesterol level significantly with cholesterol lowering medications. However, these drugs can be expensive in some cases and might have side effects. You should be vigilant about maintaining a healthy diet that’s low in fat, exercise regularly, stay at a healthy weight, and refrain from smoking. Try to do a bit of research on the potential side effects also. If you do experience any, talk to your physician about it.
Statin
All sorts of cholesterol lowering drugs exist. One is known as statin. These drugs can be quite effective at lowering your cholesterol levels. At the same time, however, they are known to produce side effects. Studies that have been conducted on the subject indicate that you should use “Co-Enzyme Q-10” along with the statin drugs. This is because these cholesterol reducing drugs can deplete some essential enzymes. By using the “Co-Q” supplement, your heart will be protected.
Bile Acid Sequestrates
These drugs are another option to consider. Bile acids in the body are secreted from both the gall bladder and liver in bile. They pass through the intestine to decrease the level of fatty content in food as a way to improve absorption. Following this, they are re-absorbed into the intestine, and then go to the liver once more. One disadvantage in using this type of medication is malabsorption.
Fibric Acids
Also known as “fibrates,” fibric acids are effective because they reduce the production of triglyceride and take it out of circulation. These medications also up the amount of HDL, referred to frequently as “good cholesterol. Fibric acids contain lopid, gemfibrozil, or fenofibrate (tricor). .
Nicotinic Acid
These acids, also commonly called “niacins,” work by reducing levels of the “bad cholesterol,” that is, LDL. They also help to increase HDL. In large enough doses, niacins vitamins can reduce triglycerides.
It’s not very difficult to take these drugs, for the most part, but be aware that there are a certain number of drug-interactions associated with their use. Stomach problems are the most common complaint of people who take them (usually cramps, pains, or constipation). The symptoms, however, while they vary in severity, usually go away as the therapy goes on. Making the right choice of cholesterol lowering medication for you is a very important decision.
Acne Facials
Almost everybody cares about their skin. We usually want to keep it looking as fresh and healthy as we can, by protecting it from all sorts of environmental harms. In a sense, our skin is the largest organ in our body. It has a variety of functions. One of the most important among these is the protection it affords against foreign substances. It also serves as a kind of transfer point to get rid of toxins from within our body. For all of these reasons, it is important to take very good care of our skin.
Acne is a common, and serious, skin problem that is seen in people of all ages and ethnic groups, and can affect both men and women. As cases of people with acne become more numerous, a few companies have began to develop special acne facials for people suffering from its effects. These facials are in fact skin treatments that penetrate deep under its surface to clean, hydrate, and rejuvenate, doing more than just minimizing acne blemishes. They are a comprehensive treatment for your face, and are designed to make it healthier overall.
There are now a few acne facials available at health stores. They are also easily available on the Internet. The Internet has become a very popular place to find these sorts of products, in fact. A word of advice though: before you pick a particular variety of acne facial, remember that their efficacy is highly related to what type of skin you have. There are also other things to consider, such as what kind of treatment you are looking for, as well as your age. And speaking of age, it’s worthwhile to start using this product around your late 20s, as this is the time that acne will have started to develop in most people.
An acne facial usually includes a cleansing process, massage, steam, and involves using a face mask. The facial works by getting rid of the outer layer of dull, dead skin cells that make up the skin’s shell or epidermis. They are also a big help in removing dirt and bacteria that can accumulate in the acne-prone areas and cause new blemishes to appear.
The massage is a very important part of many acne facials, just as it is with other kinds of facials in general. It’s useful because it helps blood circulation, which in turn helps lymphatic drainage—the elimination of waste and toxins from the body. Besides these things, acne facials are great at soothing and relaxing the muscles of the face, which is a pre-requisite for nice, healthy skin.
Finally, steam is used in acne facials to weaken whiteheads and blackhead for easy removal afterwards. The facemask is used because it helps to clarify and tone the skin. It can even help treat dry and acne-covered skin.
Acne is a common, and serious, skin problem that is seen in people of all ages and ethnic groups, and can affect both men and women. As cases of people with acne become more numerous, a few companies have began to develop special acne facials for people suffering from its effects. These facials are in fact skin treatments that penetrate deep under its surface to clean, hydrate, and rejuvenate, doing more than just minimizing acne blemishes. They are a comprehensive treatment for your face, and are designed to make it healthier overall.
There are now a few acne facials available at health stores. They are also easily available on the Internet. The Internet has become a very popular place to find these sorts of products, in fact. A word of advice though: before you pick a particular variety of acne facial, remember that their efficacy is highly related to what type of skin you have. There are also other things to consider, such as what kind of treatment you are looking for, as well as your age. And speaking of age, it’s worthwhile to start using this product around your late 20s, as this is the time that acne will have started to develop in most people.
An acne facial usually includes a cleansing process, massage, steam, and involves using a face mask. The facial works by getting rid of the outer layer of dull, dead skin cells that make up the skin’s shell or epidermis. They are also a big help in removing dirt and bacteria that can accumulate in the acne-prone areas and cause new blemishes to appear.
The massage is a very important part of many acne facials, just as it is with other kinds of facials in general. It’s useful because it helps blood circulation, which in turn helps lymphatic drainage—the elimination of waste and toxins from the body. Besides these things, acne facials are great at soothing and relaxing the muscles of the face, which is a pre-requisite for nice, healthy skin.
Finally, steam is used in acne facials to weaken whiteheads and blackhead for easy removal afterwards. The facemask is used because it helps to clarify and tone the skin. It can even help treat dry and acne-covered skin.
An Asthma Diet – Taking Control Of Your Asthma
Asthma – a respiratory disease that renders its victims breathless during an attack – can be a terrifying affliction. In response to a specific allergen or other trigger, an asthmatic person’s airways will become inflamed and constricted so that normal breathing is significantly hindered.
Consequently, asthmatics are dependent on a number of medications to ease their symptoms and prevent attacks. But nothing does more for preventing asthma related symptoms then significantly limiting exposure to those allergens known to trigger symptoms.
For some these can be environmental triggers, seasonal components, or everyday exposures – such as pet dander or dust – that must be limited as much as possible. But some asthmatics are just as seriously affected by the foods that they eat. So in order to decrease their symptoms and chance of attacks they must adopt a strict asthma diet so that they can increase their chance at health.
An asthma diet is different for every asthma sufferer. While some people are highly aware of the foods to which they are allergic, others must keep careful and specific records of their eating so as to notice which foods seem to correlate to increased symptoms.
Some preservatives in food also trigger asthma. So as part of an asthma diet, ingredients of food products must be scrutinized. Once it is determined what specific foods – or the preservatives included in them – are the culprits then they can be avoided through the use of an asthma diet.
For those who wish to experiment with an asthma diet, a food journal can be quite helpful in determining your specific triggers. Keep it with you at all times so that you can keep careful track of what you are eating and how you are feeling. If a food allergy is your culprit, you should be able to notice a pattern very quickly. Then you can make lifestyle changes accordingly.
If you are unsure if food is the cause of your asthma, then you may want to consult your medical professional. Your doctor will be able to test for specific allergies so that you know for sure what to avoid. This combination of medical care and proactive self-advocacy in the form of an asthma diet can put you back in control of your asthma.
Asthma does not have to rule your life. An asthma diet is just one way in which you can put yourself in control of your day so that you can enjoy a healthy and symptom-free life.
Consequently, asthmatics are dependent on a number of medications to ease their symptoms and prevent attacks. But nothing does more for preventing asthma related symptoms then significantly limiting exposure to those allergens known to trigger symptoms.
For some these can be environmental triggers, seasonal components, or everyday exposures – such as pet dander or dust – that must be limited as much as possible. But some asthmatics are just as seriously affected by the foods that they eat. So in order to decrease their symptoms and chance of attacks they must adopt a strict asthma diet so that they can increase their chance at health.
An asthma diet is different for every asthma sufferer. While some people are highly aware of the foods to which they are allergic, others must keep careful and specific records of their eating so as to notice which foods seem to correlate to increased symptoms.
Some preservatives in food also trigger asthma. So as part of an asthma diet, ingredients of food products must be scrutinized. Once it is determined what specific foods – or the preservatives included in them – are the culprits then they can be avoided through the use of an asthma diet.
For those who wish to experiment with an asthma diet, a food journal can be quite helpful in determining your specific triggers. Keep it with you at all times so that you can keep careful track of what you are eating and how you are feeling. If a food allergy is your culprit, you should be able to notice a pattern very quickly. Then you can make lifestyle changes accordingly.
If you are unsure if food is the cause of your asthma, then you may want to consult your medical professional. Your doctor will be able to test for specific allergies so that you know for sure what to avoid. This combination of medical care and proactive self-advocacy in the form of an asthma diet can put you back in control of your asthma.
Asthma does not have to rule your life. An asthma diet is just one way in which you can put yourself in control of your day so that you can enjoy a healthy and symptom-free life.
Friday, December 01, 2006
How to Treat Mesothelioma from Asbestos Exposure
There are many forms of treatment for Mesothelioma. Their effectiveness is on a cases by case basis. Here are five possible treatments that have been used:
1) Surgery - this is where the cancerous tissue is cut out. In extreme cases where the cancer has spread to the lungs, a lung may be removed.
2) Gene therapy (still in clinical trials) - this is where a "suicide gene" is inserted into the cancer making those cells susceptible to drugs that can be used to kill the malignant cells, leaving the healthy ones behind.
3) Radiation Therapy - high energy x-rays are directed at the cancer cells to kill these cells and/or shrink the tumors.
4) Chemotherapy - drugs are placed directly into the bloodstream through pills or injection. In Mesothelioma cases these drugs can be injected into the chest cavity.
5) Intraoperative Photodynamic therapy - uses drugs and light therapy is used during surgery.The patient is injected with drugs 3 days before surgery. These drugs make them sensetive to light. A special light is shined on the cancer cells during surgery.
Speak to your doctor about the risks involved with each procedure and which would be appropriate for your individual case.
1) Surgery - this is where the cancerous tissue is cut out. In extreme cases where the cancer has spread to the lungs, a lung may be removed.
2) Gene therapy (still in clinical trials) - this is where a "suicide gene" is inserted into the cancer making those cells susceptible to drugs that can be used to kill the malignant cells, leaving the healthy ones behind.
3) Radiation Therapy - high energy x-rays are directed at the cancer cells to kill these cells and/or shrink the tumors.
4) Chemotherapy - drugs are placed directly into the bloodstream through pills or injection. In Mesothelioma cases these drugs can be injected into the chest cavity.
5) Intraoperative Photodynamic therapy - uses drugs and light therapy is used during surgery.The patient is injected with drugs 3 days before surgery. These drugs make them sensetive to light. A special light is shined on the cancer cells during surgery.
Speak to your doctor about the risks involved with each procedure and which would be appropriate for your individual case.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)