Anti-Aging, Health & Nutrition Facts

Good article here on improving your concentration. Check it out.

http://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/how-to-improve-your-concentration.html

Brad

Popularity: 6%

Human memory is a truly amazing phenomenon. It is always a source of wonder that seemingly insignificant occurrences may create lasting memories for one person while other people cannot even recall details of major events in their life. There are many factors that influence this apparent disparity.

It is sometimes said that a healthy brain never forgets anything. Unless affected by injury or disease the brain never loses anything. Forgetting something is actually a result of:

1. Not storing the facts properly in the first place.

2. Failure to store the facts in a manner in which they can be recalled.

3. Inability to recall facts at the time although they are still safely recorded in the brain. Who among us has not had the experience of “forgetting” something only to have it pop into consciousness at the most unlikely time?

Problem 1 can be overcome by concentration. If one is distracted and does not store facts to start with then there is very little chance of recalling them later. Memory has two phases - Short Term and Long Term Memory. It is believed that up to 50 percent of information we receive is lost almost immediately and a further 20 percent vanishes within 24 hours. An example would be a telephone number or other ten digit number. Unless a special effort is made its gone almost instantly. Some of these short term memories go on to become long term memories. For instance your best friend’s phone number would have started out as a short term memory but has now become part of long term memory and can be readily recalled several years later. Scientists are still uncertain as to the exact reasons why some facts are lost while others go on to create lasting memories. However, it is safe to assume that some special importance is attached to that information for one reason or another. In the world of information overload we live in there are constant distractions and information competing for attention. Chances of recalling facts are significantly improved by paying attention to those that we need to remember later.

There are several techniques that can be used to ensure sufficient attention to important facts. The most common among them would be repetition. Most of us would probably recall having learnt our multiplication tables in this way. Writing notes and personalizing the facts ie. writing ideas in one’s own words also helps. However, it is important not to fall into the trap of relying on notes as a substitute for remembering. Notes should be used to reinforce a memory not as an alternative to it. Writing down facts surrounding and supporting an idea as well as the theory and methodology leading up to certain facts also help in recall. Complex mathematical formulae would be an example. Formulae comprised of abstract symbols and numbers can usually be quite hard to recall on their own. However, if one commits to memory the principles from which the formula is derived the symbols often become a lot easier to recall. Understanding the concepts behind the final outcome makes things less fuzzy. The fuzzier things are the harder they are to remember. Breaking down facts into manageable chunks to concentrate on helps immensely as well as there is a limit on how much information can be assimilated at a given time. Avoiding distractions is another important consideration in ensuring that the facts are stored right - it is a lot harder replace incorrect information than it is to store it right in the first place.

Problems 2 and 3 are closely connected to how we recall information. Memories are made by creating connections - connections with experiences through all our senses. Perhaps you have had the experience of a smell or sound triggering a memory of long ago. The more connections we create the better the chances of recall. This is why mnemonics are commonly used as an aid to memory. The more ridiculous or unusual the association the more likely it is to be recalled rather than fade into insignificance among the millions of other connections. Using mental pegs is another technique that works very well. Associate facts with unusual images or rhymes. For instance to remember names and faces one may look at a prominent facial feature, create an exaggerated version of it and connect it with the name. Say Leon with rather long hair may become a mental image of a Lion with a mane. Lion then quickly converts to Leon making it a lot easier than simply trying to recall the name of the guy with long hair!

Unfortunately as we age our brains begin to degenerate and memory deteriorates along with it. There are 4 main reasons for this degeneration.

1. Reduction in Neurotransmitters, especially acetylcholine causes decline in brain function.

2. Reduced blood circulation. The brain uses a significant proportion of all blood. Any impediment to blood flow therefore has a huge impact on brain function.

3. Effects of Cortisol. As a response to stresses cortisol is produced in the brain which damages the cells in the Hippocampus. The Hippocampus is instrumental in converting short term memories to long term ones. The damage in the hippocampus also triggers further production of cortisol setting off a ever increasing cycle of cell damage.

4. Free radical damage. Free radicals are atoms that have an electron imbalance and are constantly seeking to steal an electron to make itself whole. This process of stealing electrons from cells causes cell damage. Brain cells are no exception and brain cell damage also occurs due to free radical activity.

There are many common sense approaches to limiting and preventing brain degeneration:

* Proper diet - limit intake of salt cholesterol and fat while eating plenty of fresh fruits and foods high in antioxidants.
* Regular Exercise - avoid becoming overweight.

* Control Blood pressure

* Control and limit stress

* Limiting alcohol intake and not smoking helps reduce free radical damage.

* Increase intake of Omega 3 fatty acids - found in large quantities in fish -helps combat free radical damage.

* Avoid even minor head trauma - When engaging in activities which could result in jarring of the brain use adequate protection. Regular jarring, even minor levels has been connected with higher incidence of dementia.

There are also several not so obvious strategies that have emerged from recent studies into the brain.

Depression can affect the way the brain processes information and retrieves it. Therefore avoiding or minimizing depression can positively impact on brain function in later years. Socializing and involvement with family and community activities is recommended.

Mental exercise. “Use it or lose it”. Stimulating your brain with mental exercises such as crossword puzzles, board games or even taking up a new hobby or learning a musical instrument has been shown to increase the number of brain cells and connections between brain cells. These activities improve what is known as “Brain Plasticity”.

Certain drugs such as aspirin and anti-inflammatories as well as cholesterol reducing drugs in the “Statin” group are also believed to deter the onset of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Herbal supplements such as Gingko Biloba which is credited with improving blood circulation may also help.

While aging and its consequences cannot be halted it is clear that there is much that can be done to improve brain health and memory.

Brad Bahr is the editor of many health related websites and publications. He has been testing and reviewing nutritional supplements for over 20 years. After trying hundreds of products, he recommends one supplement above all others for renewing health and energy: http://www.hgh-facts.com

Popularity: 4%

Is modern-day society leading to the extinction of free time? It seems that the days of having plenty of time to accomplish all of the normal day-to-day responsibilities and having a bit of free time are virtually gone.

How did this happen? All of the new technological advances should be providing an abundance of free time. Nearly everything has been automated in some way. There are fast cars to transport us quickly to our destination, dishwashers and robotic vacuum cleaners to take care of household tasks, cell phones for immediate communication and problem resolution, and computers to speed up previously tedious tasks.

The problem seems to be that because we are capable of doing so much, the expectations are higher. The bar has risen. Our employers, our families and even we have ever-increasing demands on our time. What can be done to draw the line and hold on to a bit of sanity in our lives?

One technique is to take a “vacation” every day. That is not to say go away on a literal trip every day, but rather take a break and do something enjoyable each day. Allot some time each day whether it be thirty minutes or even ten to do something truly enjoyable and satisfying. For some this may mean doing nothing at all. For others, it may mean doing something meaningful that normally is not given full priority over other obligations.

A sense of well-being can be accomplished with thirty minutes of reading a good book, playing with the dog, or simply relaxing under a big shade tree. Even ten minutes of a relaxing activity can be extremely beneficial in this day of non-stop constant on-the-go activity. A ten minute rest for the eyes can really add a spark to a dragging energy level. A quick walk around the grounds can also offer a much needed break and a chance to clear the mind.

Occasionally, when a greater amount of time can be set aside, mini-vacations or outings should be planned. It is important to include some fun in everyday life. Extreme work schedules can ultimately lead to burnout and other serious problems. Amazingly, time off spent doing enjoyable activities can actually lead to more productivity in work and family responsibilities.

It is reported that many in Corporate America are not taking their earned vacation time in full. And, if they do manage to take a vacation, they are taking their cell phones and personal digital assistants with them. It is important to find a way to take advantage of this valuable time off. In terms of value, it is a matter of health rather than dollars and cents. The health of the country depends on utilizing time off for personal relaxation and pursuits.

With a little planning and discipline, a balance between work and life can be realized.

Brad Bahr is the editor of many health related websites and publications. He has been testing and reviewing nutritional supplements for over 20 years. After trying hundreds of products, he recommends one supplement above all others for renewing health and energy: http://www.hgh-facts.com

Popularity: 3%

In North America, it is estimated that 50 to 60 percent of the population is affected by winter depression. There is a broad spectrum of symptoms that arise, from a change in sleep patterns and weight gain, to overwhelming suicidal thoughts and the unfortunate results. Think of it this way - fully half of the people you know are somewhat depressed in the wintertime!

Wintertime depression is very common in those parts somewhat north (or south) of the equator. People who live near the equator have a very low incidence of winter depression. Why? Simple. They live where there are enough daylight hours to avoid triggering the hormone imbalance that causes depression. Now, please note that I did not say that people near the equator spend more time sunbathing than northerners. It doesn’t matter that they have a better tan. Rather, it is the length of the day that matters.

Again, it is the length of the day, not the weather! This fact about winter depression is what gave rise to the name Seasonal Affective Disorder. People who live in northern climes suffer because of the seasonally shortened days. Just as trees lose their leaves when the days shorten, people lose their happiness. People who live where the days shorten seasonally are victims of the brain’s chemical reaction to lesser hours of daylight.

So, understanding that it is not your fault, what can you do?

First, start right now on a plan to extend the hours of daylight in your day by using light therapy. Light therapy is the most effective depression treatment known. All you need is a small bank of lights and the time to sit near them for a couple of hours each day.

The lights are the easy part. Get the cheapest fixture you can find that will hold four foot long fluorescent bulbs. Mine has four bulbs. Buy the best ‘grow’ lights. The kind that is best for plants. They are the closest match to the spectrum of sunlight. Do not use standard fluorescent bulbs. They are too green and will actually drain the energy out of you.

Research has shown that the best time to treat your winter depression with light therapy is early in the morning. It is best to make it your first task of the day. As well, this will give you some quiet time alone to read some uplifting material. It never hurts to get some positive input!

Reduce your stress by sticking to a daily routine. Get to bed on time so you can do your light therapy in the morning. Try to avoid annoying people. Get to work early and plan your day. Make a list of things to do and check them off as you accomplish them. Save the challenging projects for when you are not fighting your winter depression.

Next, decide that the weather will not affect your mood. You can’t change the weather, so why be upset by it? If the weather is bad, allow a little extra time to get to work. It’s simple, isn’t it? Accept it and move on.

Then, improve your health. Eat a little less. Eat healthier foods. Exercise a little. Go for a walk. Did you know that it is nearly impossible to think bad thoughts while walking briskly? Drink water! The vitamin that people lack the most is plain old water.

Last, don’t give up on yourself. If you feel bad, yell for help! Talk to someone. Those closest to you need to know how you are feeling. Tell them. If you can’t talk to your family or a friend, go see your doctor. Go to a walk in clinic and see a nurse, a psychologist - somebody! And please, except if you are completely overwhelmed, do not take antidepressant medication. Yes, they will help if you are suicidal, but the long term side affects of these mind altering substances are extreme and not good for your overall health.

In summary, here are the seven things you can do now to overcome your winter depression:

1) Make or buy a light box. Use it in the morning. One to two hours every day.

2) Reduce your stress by having a daily routine.

3) Get enough sleep. Go to bed early so you can get up early and sunbathe in front of your lights.

4) Decide that the weather will not affect your mood.

5) Eat healthy. Get some exercise. Drink lots of water.

6) Talk about how you feel. Remember, 50% of people feel like you do, to one extent or another.

7) No matter how bad it gets, hang on! It will get better.

Brad Bahr is the editor of many health related websites and publications. He has been testing and reviewing nutritional supplements for over 20 years. After trying hundreds of products, he recommends one supplement above all others for renewing health and energy: http://www.hgh-facts.com

Depression

Popularity: 3%

by Anna Barlow

I’ve managed to stop a panic attack by sheer willpower.

Having a panic attack is a scary experience. Before I suffered my first panic attack, I didn’t think I was the type of person who would ever have a panic attack. Now I realise they can happen to anyone, anywhere.

When I suffered my first panic attack I was at work. Luckily, no one saw me. I couldn’t believe I was actually having one. I started to hyperventilate and cry at the same time while a feeling of dread overcame me. It only lasted for a few minutes but it felt like a few hours.

This is how I stopped my panic attack:

1. I forced myself to cut through that feeling of dread I was experiencing and managed to tell myself that I had to calm down.

2. I told myself to slow down my breathing.

3. Once my breathing had started to slow down, I told myself to try and stop crying.

4. Then I told myself I didn’t want anyone to come in and see me like this so I had better stop all this. By this stage my breathing was almost normal and I wasn’t crying so much.

A few minutes later I had stopped crying and my breathing was back to normal. Of course, my face was red and blotchy from crying (I’m not a pretty cryer) but I was glad I had managed to stop my panic attack.

Thinking about my panic attack later, I realised that I must have subconsciously been worried about a task that I had to perform at work that I hadn’t done for a while. I just hoped that I wouldn’t be so worried about something that it brought on a panic attack ever again. But if it did, I knew I could stop it.

About the Author
Want To Stop Panic Attacks In Their Tracks? Get a free mini course, “How To Snap Out Of Fearful Thinking Effortlessly” at http://www.coolwebstuffonline.com/getridofpanicattacks and discover how Anna Barlow finally got rid of her anxiety that led to panic attacks with an amazing new technique that gets results fast!

Popularity: 3%

by Jim Johnson

Anxiety disorder treatments offer the ability to stop worrying. Those that suffer from this condition often face day in and day out of worrying. They fight to find a way to do the simple things that many people take for granted. Yet, if you are facing anxiety disorder symptoms, you can and you should seek out the help that you need for them. Anxiety disorder treatments vary from person to person, but the fact is that people can find the help that they need so badly.

The first thing to do is to be diagnosed with anxiety disorder. You likely know what your anxiety disorder symptoms are. They may be things like excessive worry, unfounded tension, fears of embarrassment and frustration and many others. If you find yourself in this situation, you should seek out a trusted doctor. While this is often a big step for someone that is facing anxiety panic disorder or any form of anxiety disorder, it is the hardest part yet it is the beginning of the end of worry.

Your doctor will provide you with a bit of testing. You will likely be tested to determine if you have a specific type of anxiety disorder such as obsessive compulsive disorder, separation anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder or several other conditions. Once this ruling is done, the right form of anxiety disorder treatment will be pursued.

Treatments are likely to be in several forms:

· Psychotherapy: You will work with a doctor to learn how to control your anxiety disorder symptoms. This will include learning how to relax when it seems nearly impossible to do. Additionally, you will learn how to reduce stresses in your life, recognize panic attacks, and how to realize that life does not have to be a constant state of worry. · Medications: Anti anxiety medications are available to help as an anxiety disorder treatment. These medications include Diazepam and Lorazepam as well as many others. Your doctor can work with you to select the medication that is right for your condition. Often anti depression medications can be helpful as well. · Self Help: In self help for anxiety panic disorder or other forms of anxiety disorders is also another treatment option available. You can find several herbal remedies that have shown to improve your overall state of well being and to relieve anxiety disorder symptoms. These supplements can naturally and effectively help to relieve your condition.

Anxiety disorder symptoms are often life altering. What you may not realize is that you can have a life without worry, tension and stress. The fact is that once you are in this state of being for so long, you may not realize that there is help out there for you. Yet, anxiety disorder treatments are available and can benefit you significantly. Seeking out diagnosis and then treatment options is the path to less worry overall.

About the Author
You can find info on anxiety disorder symptoms and anxiety disorder treatments and more by visiting our mental health website.

Popularity: 3%

by: Michael Rad

More than 17 million American people are affected by anxiety depression symptoms, so that the specialists have been calling this illness as psychiatric flu.

When the young people are concerned, the psychiatric factors are the ones that influence the anxiety depression symptoms. People have to be thought by the specialist how to deal with the stress factors and also they need to know how to improve their own capacity of handling these stressing factors. Almost the majority of the anxiety depression symptoms are very respondent to different treatments, especially to medication. As a modality of reducing stress, anyone can cut some hours from the work schedule program and a refusal of some social obligations. As for the more improved stress confrontation capacity, the patient is supposed to do a lot of relaxing exercises, more adequate sleeping hours and a healthy diet.

Finding an effective antidepressant drug is not an easy task, as every individual has one particular set of characteristics and therefore it is not possible a priori to establish which antidepressant will be that effective one. Beyond to depression medication, other treatments like psychotherapy, integrated therapy and depression medication, electro convulsion therapy and the therapy with light are today available. Each one of these approaches has detailed prescription lists. As an example, the depression medication treatment and that psychotherapy one have a rate success from 60 to 80%. This integrated modality has one of its particular indications in the advanced shapes of depression. Some patients show the persistence of residual symptoms between an episode and the other and in the shapes in which depression medication or psychotherapy alone is not effective.

There is a large number of anti depression drugs that can help remedy the harmful effects of the depressive symptoms but some of them have more side effects than others and this is the reason why they get dangerous. Considering from the price point of view, there are cheaper and more expensive anti depression drugs that can be used for treating this disease, but they may have severe side effects, such as: wither mouth, urine abstain, sedation and a lot of sexual problems. Talking about sexual mal functions, some drugs, which were recently discovered, characterize an important development regarding the sexual abnormality. Each medication used for treating the disease in question has a skimpy different profile of side effects, so it may be possible for one to try several solution treatments in order for the doctor to discover the most appropriate one.

About The Author

Michael Rad is the webmaster of http://www.depression-treatment-expert.com, a free informational resource hub dedicated to explaining depression and related treatments. Other health-related websites that you might be interested in include www.arthritis-hub.com and www.breast-enlargement-expert.com

Popularity: 3%