What is the Truth About Alkaline Water?
One of the great health fads out there today, trailed by a frenzy of manufacturers happily capitalizing on the thrill of potential benefits is alkaline water. Americans have always been keen on the newest diet sensations and health breakthroughs, never missing the most recent revelation. Often times, the excitement of the newest potentialities revealing health optimization or weight loss fads fade just as quickly as their initial rise to begin with. So it is fair to question whether the benefits of alkaline water are substantial or not.
There are some amazing claims being projected to promote the health benefits of alkaline water. The body’s pH level, which ranges between 7.35-7.45 is vital to maintain a healthy body, actually directly sustaining life of the human body as a whole. Alkaline water, also referred to as ionized water, is said to effectively balance the body’s pH level, helping to counter the acidity of many other foods. Extreme claims propose that alkaline water acts as an antioxidant to help fight free radicals; it can help assist weight loss; reduce the aging process; helps in cases of Diabetes and other health conditions; helps skins conditions; and also helps to prevent cancers. On a more moderate level; alkaline water is promoted to increase energy, detoxify the body, and naturally balance the body’s pH level which will ultimately enhance overall optimum health. In a sense, acidity can be related to rust or corrosion that in time deteriorates the body’s tissues, veins and arteries, which can negatively affect our cellular activity from the way our hearts beat to all the way to how we think. The acidic body becomes a breeding ground for germs, fungus, and viruses. It reduces the oxygen levels in the body, may coagulate the blood or clog capillaries, and it may interfere with mineral absorption. These effects directly cause a down spiral within the body, which will in turn cause it to work in overdrive to try to correct the imbalance. Alkaline water is said to proactively counteract the negative effects caused by acidity, promoting the health it would otherwise be in.
On the other hand, there are definitely critics out there that iterate the body’s natural functionality. The body is equipped to strictly monitor and marginalize the level of pH in order to ensure a consistent balance. Some professionals profess that the body does not allow room for error when it comes to acidity/alkalinity. Immediately upon becoming out of balance, the liver and kidneys work to balance the pH levels and then eliminate, through urine for example. With this argument, there is no need for exterior influences, and nothing else will cause operative results.
When considering that stress, most of the foods we eat, and certain diseases or common imbalances ultimately do produce a bit more acid, it only seems appropriate that an over acidic level in the body is unhealthy. Even if the body is capable of, and will ultimately, regain the balance of its critical pH level; ingesting something that may automatically counter the acidity only seems wise. Considering the pH scale is balanced by acidity and alkalinity to begin with, and considering the body is naturally completely reactive to what it intakes; it is safe to say that there are scientific rules that inherently suggest that alkaline water can in fact promote optimum health. Even if it doesn’t impact the weight loss or the disease fighting on its own; it may at least allow the body’s natural defense system to focus on other areas in need, while directly removing the duty to naturalize the pH balance innately. Alkaline water makes sense. Water is such a purifying, intrinsic element utterly vital to our optimum health. Why not optimize the quality of such a vitality? Ultimately, though, you are sure to find your answers by trying it. Give it a month, stick to it; see if you reap the benefits that are raved about.
How Such a Tiny Device Can Help
We all need a push every once in a while to increase activity, stay weight conscious, and exert the extra effort to maintain optimum health. Often times, help from a friend is a really beneficial way to stay motivated when endeavoring to stay active. He/she reminds you that the effort is necessary, sometimes offers that extra push by extending an invite for a nice brisk walk, and helps pass the time during exercise with some friendly conversation or encouragement. There is no question that a motivational counterpart can definitely upkeep the spirit of health and inspiration to stay active. However, a luxury like this can’t last forever, at least not on an everyday basis. This is where it is important to find something consistent, reliable, and easy to depend on as that extra motivational push to continue increased activity, day in and day out. For many, this motive is as small as a rather inexpensive tool that has been around for a long time; the pedometer.
The pedometer is a small tool used to count steps, typically placed around the waste in between the hip and belly button. Many people wear it throughout their entire day in order to gauge how far they are actually walking on a daily basis, while others simply like to wear it during specific exercise. Converting the number of steps into miles allows one to see the level of activity he is getting each day, however; it can offer something much more than just a telltale monitoring. The pedometer offers the ability to set a goal. Not only does it clearly depict the average steps a person takes throughout his day, it is an easy way to determine a greater amount to reach for, beyond the daily average. Some suggestions advise to increase walking activity by 10% each week. The universal agreed upon number of steps that should at least be reached per day is ultimately 10,000. This is a level set to ensure health and natural balance. Increasing this distance to 15,000 steps is the typical level of reaching assured weight loss. For some people, especially those who have been sedentary for quite some time, this may take a gradual approach in working up to this goal. Small increases of steps over time will inevitably work towards becoming comfortable with this type of distance. On average, studies show that a half an hour walk will accumulate 3,100-4,100 steps. By taking a walk (the brisker the better) that measures 6,000-7,000 you are increasing your chances of weight loss. Studies also show that the average daily routine already includes approximately 3,000-4,000 steps. In this sense, it is a great idea to get creative and begin finding new ways to incorporate more. Perhaps walk to the grocery store to pick up a few items, rather than driving; stepping outside to simply walk around the block while enjoying your morning coffee, instead of sitting at the table doing nothing; walk into the other room to talk to your loved one instead of shouting out what you wanted to communicate across the house; park as far away from every building as you can (someone will appreciate finding a close space and you will have also made her day); choose stairs instead of elevators; do your grocery shopping in the order you have the items listed, rather than going aisle to aisle; incorporate walks with friends or coworkers to spend quality time; walk your dog-more often, a little further (or why not walk your cat?); play with your children, or your pets, or your significant other-chase them; if you think about it, there are ways to increase your steps nearly everywhere you go.
Being conscious of how many steps, in turn how much distance, you are covering each day is a great reminder to continue this type of activity. Upon setting a goal, one is much more likely to increase his steps than if there is no goal in place at all. Study upon study has supported this. Gradually increasing that goal will ultimately gradually increase weight loss, lower blood pressure, decrease the risk of heart disease, and level out blood sugars.
There are many versions of pedometers out there today. A simple step counter is really all you need. The fancier ones will cost a bit more and begin offering other functions such as calorie counting (which may be a plus), speed of gait, conversion of steps to distance etc. Some have radios and other amenities. Bear in mind when purchasing your pedometer what you want to get from it. One of the best options is the Yamax, manufactured in Japan, as this is the one most often used in scientific studies. Japanese models, in general, are high quality products with very little error rate, followed by Taiwanese models.
The quality/brand may or may not be significant when deciding to incorporate a pedometer into your life. What is important is the decision to get motivated, the choice to utilize a tool that can help keep track of how well you are doing, and setting a personal goal for yourself. Keeping a journal of your steps often helps continue the psychological pact with yourself to stick to reaching and eventually exceeding such a goal. Having a sense of measurement can ultimately encourage, inspire, motivate, and even push someone into finally following through with their determination to increase activity. Without the live help of an exercise companion, the pedometer may very well be the next best thing for many people.
Candida Overgrowth
Candida overgrowth has nearly become an epidemic, affecting an estimated 40 million people. Unfortunately, this is a condition which can cause debilitating symptoms, yet it is often overlooked by many healthcare professionals. The array of symptoms, whether constant, fleeting, or intermittently changing; is all too vast. They are all encompassing and often so incapacitating they may ultimately become quality-of-life rendering. Some people who suffer from severe symptoms caused by Candida are not even able to hold down a job. It is a sad scenario that seems invisible to others not suffering from similar symptoms, and it can be equally frustrating to seek answers and be dismissed. Here is a closer look at Candida.
Candida is a genus of yeast, which is present in every human body. The most significant species of Candida is called Candida Albicans, and it has the potential to cause many diseases and trigger a plethora of unwanted symptoms, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Many people live an entire life, uncomfortably dealing with one negative symptom after the next, without ever being diagnosed with Candida overgrowth. Although it is difficult to cure, it is absolutely doable; which makes a proper detection of this problem all the more essential. Blood tests, live blood cell tests, and stool sample tests are amongst the most common ways a traditional physician may determine whether Candida overgrowth is an underlying culprit; however, these are not as evident as the severity of accumulated symptoms that are associated with this problem. For starters, many people suffering from Candida overgrowth experience chronic fatigue, headaches, inability to concentrate or cognitive fogginess, vaginal yeast infections, thrush, depression, sinusitis plus possible ear and mouth infections, and toe or fingernail fungus. There are endless other symptoms that are directly associated to Candida overgrowth. Often the body aches with a flu-like pain. Joint pain, muscle pain, extreme tightness in the shoulders and neck, and sometimes even numbness/tingling in the limbs are all caused by Candida. Dark circles under the eyes can occur, jumping when being touched, and sometimes even a tingling or “crawling” sensation of the skin. Brown colored mucous in the back of the throat is a common symptom; along with low grade fever or a low body temperature, plus a sensitivity to heat and/or cold. Other symptoms include: shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, chills and night sweats, alcohol intolerance, dizziness and/or balance problems, and even projectile vomiting, hyper-acidity/acid reflux, blisters in the mouth/tongue/throat, sore throat, white coated tongue, chronic headaches or migraines, and, notably, chronic dental problems. Candida overgrowth can also cause serious psychological symptoms. Aside from depression, irritability and anxiety; it may also be the root problem of obsessive recurring thoughts, paranoia, panic attacks, and overall personality changes. Crying for no reason, sudden rage, fear of talking to people, fear of confrontation, and isolation are all amongst such symptomatic personality changes that are often linked to Candida overgrowth.
Aside from all of the horrible symptoms associated with Candida that silently nudge the body into recognizing it has a problem, there is a standardized spit test that will easily indicate if Candida overgrowth is present. It should be done first thing in the morning before you have put anything into your mouth. (This can be done later in the day, but the test will provide the most accurate results in the morning because Candida accumulates in the mouth overnight.) Fill a clear glass (so you can see through it) with filtered or purified water, not tap water. Gather all the spit you can in your mouth, using your tongue to muster all available saliva. Spit into the glass of water. There are three tell tale results that will indicate the heavy presence of yeast colonies. The first is if your saliva starts to “grow legs”, sinking in strands, resembling jellyfish legs or spider legs. The second possible result is if your spit sinks to the bottom and appears cloudy. The third is the presence of suspended cloudy little specs. If your saliva separates into small specs and sinks just halfway in the water, this is also a clear indicator. Any of the above, or a combination of these results, indicates an overgrowth of Candida, and should require attention. The faster these changes occur, the more yeast you have in your body. It can take up to a half an hour, but if these changes occur within the first three minutes or so, there is a definite overgrowth in your body that is most likely causing some very undesirable symptoms.
There are many products on the market touting the alleviation or even cure of Candida. Many of these have not been proven. Where they may work for some, chances are they will not work for everyone. Consulting a physician about Candida is a good idea, but many times traditional practitioners are not open to the idea that Candida is as large a problem as it is. Most often, you will find more awareness, knowledge, and even simple validation by seeking the assistance of a naturopathic, homeopathic, or alternative medicine doctor. Many cleanses are geared toward regulating many organs in the stomach, such as the colon, liver, kidney, and intestines. A well balanced digestive tract will aid in keeping Candida at bay. Essentially a Candida diet is the most common answer to rid the body of unwanted Candida. Candida feeds on sugar and empty carbohydrates, and it will actually cause severe cravings for such foods in order for the yeast colonies to thrive off the “food” they need to survive. Eliminating (completely, for a while) sugar and carbs from your diet will eventually starve out the Candida. It is difficult, but it will make an immensely important difference. Incorporating coconut oil will also aid in combating the unwanted yeast. After the initial “die off” symptoms of severe headaches, nausea, fatigue, lack of concentration, and irritability; your body will begin to naturally balance itself, and you may very well begin to, finally, feel amazing!
Running Indoors or Out
There is no question in regards to the intense workout running provides, nor the amazing health benefits that come as a result to this type of exercise. There is, however, a question pertaining to whether one should choose running on a treadmill or running outdoors. The truth is; there are advantages and disadvantages to both types of running. Whereas many would respond that it is solely up to the individual’s preference of treadmill versus the free range running outside, that answer is simply the blanket to cover the many comparable aspects between the two.
To start with, there are a few factors that actually affect one’s workout. Running outside is a bit tougher on the body because one must exert extra energy to actually propel himself forward. This is contrary to the functionality of a treadmill where the belt actually aids in moving one’s legs backwards in order to allow the body to execute the motion of pulling them forward again. Running in place in this sense may be a slight bit easier to perform. In addition, there is no wind resistance when running on a treadmill. Running outdoors includes wind resistance, along with uneven terrain. This naturally demands that the body slightly alter its momentum and stride in order to respond to such variables. Contrary to the uneven terrain one encounters when running outdoors; the treadmill provides an absolutely smooth surface, unchanging in texture, and therefore easier to tread on. The smooth surface of a treadmill, which also happens to provide a bit of shock absorption, is less detrimental on joints, allowing the body to endure the workout easier. This is an important aspect to consider; especially for those who are at a higher risk of injury, with medical conditions, or are nursing previous injuries. The shock absorption and lessened impact is particularly easier on knees, hips, and ankles.
Another factor to consider when determining whether treadmills or outdoors is right for your running needs is the fact that treadmills have been known to be improperly calibrated. Many indoor runners acknowledge that they seem to take twice as long to run 2/3 the distance when they take their trek outside. Often times, this is because the treadmills miscalculate the distance, speed, and time one runs. Unfortunately, this can really mislead someone who believes they are running at a certain caliber, in particularly one who is training for a marathon or other event.
Then there is the whole boredom issue. Outdoor running provides an open space with fresh air, and plenty of scenery and other things to enjoy watching. This typically makes time fly, and the run ultimately easier. Outdoor running is also not limited to stationary exercise, allowing one to choose whatever route he may wish, deviating from said path at any given time should he so choose. Running on a treadmill confines the runner to a nearly immobile state, other than the actual activity of moving his legs back and forth. This often makes running feel much more tedious, plus it allows an anxious running to stare at an often seemingly slow-going process. On the other hand, the treadmill allows for much more control of one’s pace, distance, and time spent. It also provides a stationary place to workout in the safety of a gym or home. This aspect comes as a relief for many runners who prefer to exercise at night, or away from inclement weather.
When weighing the pros and cons of running either indoors on a treadmill or outdoors, one must consider his own body, his own needs, and ultimately what he wants to achieve out of running. One of the first considerations should be whether higher impact is ideal, or if it is a healthier, physically beneficial choice to stick with the lower impact of a treadmill. Another aspect to consider is whether one is capable of pushing himself through monotony, or if the outside surroundings are necessary to keep the runner occupied during exercise. Also, if a runner’s intent is to train for an outside event or to simply achieve a certain long distance, this may change his running preference. He must consider whether he will benefit more from a possibly inaccurately calibrated, yet more controlled setting, which may ultimately aid in achieving that desired number; or if running outside is more ideal, especially when training for an outside event, in order to achieve the most realistic likeness. Either way, though it is up to every individual, each advantage is paired with a disadvantage somewhere in the mix. Truth be told, running is running, and a phenomenal exercise that should always be available. On nice days, it is great to go for a run while enjoying the fresh air. It is equally as great to find the convenience of a treadmill in order to continue that workout regimen. All in all, running, no matter where you do it, is great for you!
Gluten
One of the newer crazes in dietary curbs as of late is the establishment of a totally gluten-free lifestyle. There are even people who are not gluten intolerant that have started adjusting their eating habits toward eliminating this wheat based protein. Some people are altering their diets after self diagnosing an array of unwanted symptoms, while others have been medically advised to cease all gluten consumption due to a serious autoimmune illness called celiac disease. Though celiac disease only affects approximately 1% of the human population, it is estimated that approximately 3 million people are afflicted by adverse symptoms of general gluten intolerance.
Gluten is a protein predominantly found in wheat, rye, and barley. Most cereals, pastas, and breads are made from ingredients that contain gluten. Though gluten can be removed from wheat flour, which produces a wheat starch, not all traces can be completely withdrawn. Still, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed the allowance of “Gluten-Free” labels to be placed on products that have had most of its gluten removed. Gluten does many things including adding elasticity, making food items such as pizza and bagels chewy. It also helps to hold in gases from fermentation which enables the dough to rise before it is baked. Gluten also ensures the maintenance of proper shape with the help of starch, as one of its properties is to firm when cooked. Gluten also has the ability to absorb liquid, which is why bread is able to soak up broth. This quality is one reason many vegetarians use gluten to make imitation meats. Gluten is a common ingredient found in a plethora of foods, some of which may be unexpected. Some of these include the most common known gluten containing grains: wheat and all of its forms-semolina, spelt, kamut, einkorn, and faro; barley, rye, oat bran, wheat germ, bran, triticale, graham, durum flour, and farina. Other foods may be less apparent: many ice creams, ketchup, flavored potato chips, instant flavored rice mixes, salad dressings, cold cuts, beer, egg substitutes, imitation crab, some herbal teas, licorice and some chocolates, to name a few.
As gluten is in many foods, it also has many different affects on people. Signs of intolerance and celiac disease may be any of the common gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, pain, gas, constipation, and diarrhea. It may also cause weight loss or weight gain, exhaustion, fat in the stool (due to poor digestion), irritability and behavioral changes, aching joints, depression, eczema, headaches, cramps, tingling, numbness, slow infant and child growth, nutritional deficiencies due to malabsorption, and even decline in dental health. Since these symptoms can be very severe, and actually cause long-term health issues (especially when malnutrition is involved) if left untreated, it is important to seek the assistance of a physician. To determine whether such reactions are simply gluten intolerance or the more serious celiac disease, blood tests are required, and ultimately a small intestine biopsy will be the final determining factor.
Because of the large number of people switching to gluten free diets, there are numerous companies out there producing many delicious foods for substitute. It is important to be aware that it isn’t mandatory to list gluten as an ingredient if most of it has been removed. Also, though oats are safe naturally, they are often processed in facilities that manufacture other products using wheat and other foods that end up cross contaminating the oats with gluten.
Now that the awareness of gluten has become pretty prominent, there is plenty of opportunity to first determine whether you are one of the potential 3 million Americans who suffer from intolerance; and then create a diet free of the possible trigger. If it turns out that you may be experiencing some of the uncomfortable, often very unpleasant symptoms of gluten intolerance, the dietary change will rid you of them fairly quickly. You will be completely relieved that you took the time to get checked out.