5 Reasons To Make Classical Chinese Medicine Your Medicine Of Choice

1. Clinical effectiveness: Chinese medicine, particularly when it is practiced in a Classically-based manner, works. In my scant year of clinical observation, I have seen miracles transpire. I have seen people shackled by various conditions, sometimes all their lives, be simply TRANSFORMED after only a few treatments. Many of you have probably seen this as well. It works for patients - and that's what medicine is supposed to do.

Yes, I've read THAT study, too. Studies have flaws - THAT study has been roundly denounced by a number of people in a number of different ways. I'd be glad to discuss it in another post. Think also about this - Chinese medicine works in a manner entirely different from Western medicine. It's so different, in fact, that placebo controlled double blind studies may simply be ineffective for displaying what it is that Chinese medicine can do. Clinical studies are another matter, and many show the great effectiveness of Chinese medicine. Where those studies have been negative or inconclusive, I feel that it probably has something to do with the level of Chinese medicine being practiced in the study. That's why I'm hoping to do (and encourage others to do) clinical studies through Helfgott Research Institute. I'll certainly post about any future results.

2. Doctors who take their time: When you see a Chinese physician for the first time, you will probably be amazed by the intake process. The process is extremely detailed, and Chinese physicians take all of your concerns under advisement - not just those that fit neatly into a simple diagnostic category. Chinese medicine physicians will not dismiss your concerns as "irrelevant" or "psychosomatic," they will integrate each manifestation of disease into a full diagnosis that will guide a treatment to rectify the balance of your ENTIRE system.

3. Fewer environmental impacts than Western medicine: Chinese medicine doesn't employ pharmaceuticals or other chemicals in carrying out treatment or diagnostics. The pollutants dumped into our waterways by the pharmaceutical industry are a significant problem. That being said, there are real environmental issues that the CM profession must grapple with, including the problems inherent in importing herbal products from China. Although that is most certainly a post in itself - I want to point out that many American companies are working to find pesticide-free and sustainably produced herbal products. More of this is surely to come.

4. Good cost-benefit ratio: As we all know, the escalating costs of healthcare are leaving many Americans uninsured, causing nearly unbearable pressure on the hospital system and social services. That the wealthiest nation in the world leaves so many people without access to basic care is reprehensible. Natural medicine in general represents an answer to this problem. Many treatments by Chinese medicine physicians use food therapy and economically priced herbal supplements. Further, you will find that the average office visit for a Chinese medicine doctor is very reasonable considering the great depth of care you receive. Insurance companies are beginning to pick up the cost of these office visits, which is an encouraging sign.

5. Total integration: This medicine doesn't "rob Peter to pay Paul," as the saying goes. When your chief complaint is treated, it is treated in order to integrate your entire self - mind, body and spirit. So, for instance, your ongoing treatment for seasonal allergies isn't going to create dryness in your mucus membranes, difficulty sleeping and pervasive feeling of anxiety. This will reduce your overall discomfort, as well as keeping costs down - you won't need to buy medicine to treat the problems that your medicines produced!

There are certainly many more reasons you should make Classical Chinese Medicine your medicine of choice - but I hope this list will provide you with some food for thought as you contemplate your health care options. Remember - YOU DO HAVE OPTIONS!

Eric Grey is a third year student of Classical Chinese Medicine at National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, OR. He is also a member of NCNM's Presidential Ambassadors Leadership society, the President of his class two years in a row, and a repeat scholarship winner from every institution he has been in. He has recently started blogging on the topic of Classical Chinese medicine as a subject of study, as a group of practices for self-transformation and as a revolution. His blogging covers diverse topics such as personal development, herbal medicine, medical ethics, politics and health, social problems and solutions and spirituality.

http://www.deepesthealth.com

Which Is The Healthier Choice For Texans? Margarine Or Butter?

Both are yellowish and taste great on fresh baked bread. But for individuals who live in Dallas, Houston and elsewhere in Texas, both butter and margarine have their health pluses and minuses.

Margarine

Actually, the term margarine covers a wide range of butter substitutes. In certain parts of the world, margarine has become a best-selling table spread. In some regions, individuals informally refer to margarine as butter, but laws forbid food packaging companies to do that.

Margarine is produced from vegetable oils, so it has no dietary cholesterol. Another benefit -- it has more monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats than butter, which are helpful in lowering bad cholesterol. But not all margarines are created equal. They come in all sizes, colors and textures.

Many margarines are made through hydrogenation. During this process, nickel and cadmium are added to harden the liquid vegetable oil. The problem this process creates is a byproduct known as trans fats. These oh-so-bad-for-you trans fats damage arteries just like saturated fats do. Not all margarines have trans fats though, so you need to pay attention to labels when you’re grocery shopping.

The general rule of thumb -- the softer the margarine, the fewer the trans fats. Some margarine manufacturers even offer their product with 0 grams of trans fats. Their objective is to take hydrogenation out of margarine manufacturing and avoid trans fats all together.

Eleven recent studies that directly evaluated the health effects of margarine versus butter have all confirmed that soft margarine is healthier. These studies, involving more than 70,000 individuals, clearly show the cholesterol-lowering benefits of margarine products when compared to butter. A number of population studies, which also looked at the diets of thousands of individuals, demonstrated that margarine consumption resulted in healthier outcomes than butter consumption.

Current margarine products contain 40 percent less total fat, 37 percent less saturated fat and 59 percent less trans fat than ten years ago. These changes have happened in response to consumer and health professional demand that products be reduced in total fat, saturated fat, trans fat and calories. The softer, reduced-fat or liquid margarines contain lower amounts of saturated, while the spray and liquid margarines are trans fat-free, as are a few soft margarines on the market today. And the current predominant ingredient in margarine is natural vegetable oil from soybeans.

Margarine is one of the heart-healthy choices recommended by health professionals and leading health organizations, such as the American Heart Association (AHA), the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and NHLBI’s National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP).

Butter

Because butter is made from animal products, there’s the issue of saturated fats and cholesterol. But, it is a good source of the fat-soluble vitamins that include A, D, E, and K. Butter is also rich in trace minerals and antioxidants, which help to rid the body of free radicals that weaken the arteries.

Actually, butter also contains many nutrients that protect us from heart disease, such as Vitamin A, which is needed for the health of the thyroid and adrenal glands and plays a role in maintaining the proper functioning of the heart and cardiovascular system. Butter is the best and most easily absorbed source of vitamin A.

Butter has lecithin, a substance that assists in the proper assimilation and metabolism of cholesterol and other fat constituents. The vitamin E found in butter also plays a strong anti-oxidant role. Butter is a very rich source of selenium, a vital anti-oxidant -- containing more per gram than herring or wheat germ.

Actually many of the saturated fats in butter have strong anti-cancer properties. Butter is rich in short and medium fatty acid chains that have strong anti-tumor effects. Butter also contains conjugated linoleic acid that gives excellent protection against cancer. It's a good source of iodine and its consumption prevents goiter in mountainous areas where seafood is not available.

Butter/Margarine Options

You should use some of these basic facts to select a healthy spread for your morning toast or English muffin. If you're looking for a cooking substitute for butter or margarine, try using olive oil or canola oil.

As you’ll discover, what you put into your body will affect your health. And your health, good or bad, will eventually affect your bank account as well. So, if you’re young adult who watches what you consume and tries to maintain a healthy condition, you should take a look at the revolutionary, comprehensive and highly-affordable individual health insurance solutions created by Precedent specifically for you. For more information, visit us at our website, [http://www.precedent.com]. We offer a unique and innovative suite of individual health insurance solutions, including highly-competitive HSA-qualified plans and an unparalleled “real time” application and acceptance experience.

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Pain, Pain Go Away - Texas Seeks A Choice Of Treatments For Chronic Pain Sufferers Part 3

Chronic pain will disable more people in the U.S. than cancer and heart disease combined this year. Between 75 and 90 million Americans deal with chronic pain, and approximately 25 million from acute pain that requires treatment. What is worse, perhaps, is that many pain sufferers never receive adequate relief: 40% of cancer patients don't, and neither do 50% of post-surgery patients. Texas is no exception. Prospering pain management clinics in every major city in the state, from Houston, to Austin, to Dallas reflect this reality.

Pain is classified as chronic when it has occurred either continually, or intermittently, over a period longer than six months. Conditions of chronic pain can lead to anxiety, fear, depression, lack of activity, and unemployment, not only causing suffering, but also costing the nation billions in lost working hours, medical charges, and workers' compensation. The management of this condition, then, is arguably one of the more pressing health issues today throughout Texas and the rest of the United States. Particularly with the proper health insurance coverage, these conditions can be effectively treated, however, and, if not cured, at least managed.

While health institutions do their best to estimate statistics on pain, it's been difficult to gather accurate data, partially due to hospital policies related to its management. Until this year, when the Joint Commission began enforcing new regulations, hospitals in Texas and the rest of the country were not required to monitor a patient's pain levels in the same manner as every other vital sign, which also made it difficult for health insurance policies to cover treatment. As a result, consistent pain data on any one condition, or after any particular procedure, was difficult to attain. Now, hospitals are required to do so, monitoring a patient's pain levels frequently from check-in to check-out. This change in policy will supply new, enlightening information on the experience and management of painful conditions.

According to Zena Quezado, chief of the Department of Anesthesia and Surgical Services at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, pain levels are associated with several variables, including patient experience, perception of pain, age, gender, and type of pain. The reasons behind inadequate pain relief, she says, are still unknown, but may be partially attributed to "mind responses." Indeed, many health professionals agree that the psychological process is an important aspect of perceiving and managing pain. For some, it is a negative cycle of anxiety; worrying about the pain produces tension, which, in turn, tightens muscles and releases stress hormones, thereby increasing pain. For others, it is the perception of the pain that makes it unbearable.

This article will therefore explore some of the psychological aspects of, and treatments for, managing pain. In many instances, health insurance policies will cover treatments, particularly if referred by a qualified physician. Much of the information has been adapted from Prescriptions for Natural Healing by James F. Balch, M.D., and Phyllis A Balch, C.N.C. As always, consult a qualified health practitioner before undergoing any treatment.

(1) Biofeedback

Biofeedback operates on the principle that one can learn to control functions previously thought only involuntary, through the application of relaxation techniques and instant feedback regarding their efficacy. By monitoring responses such as heart rate and blood pressure, the idea is that the patient can modify his or her techniques in order to make them more effective. Biofeedback has proven effective in managing chronic pain situations in numerous experiments.

The method is relatively simple: Electrodes are (painlessly) attached to the skin, and the patient is instructed to practice a relaxation technique he or she is familiar with, such as meditation. The monitors then let the patient know if heart rate, blood pressure, skin temperature, pulse, muscle tension, and/or brain activity has decreased (or increased). Those biological responses can then be associated with pain level. It is believed that, over time, one can train himself/herself to make relaxation techniques more effective, use relaxation methods that best suit his or her needs, and train the body to be in that effective state more often on cue.

(2) Counseling

Counseling is an absolutely invaluable resource. Different pain levels experienced by members of different cultures during the same event provide interesting data on the effects of psychology. For instance, women in the United States are usually taught to fear childbirth for its levels of pain, while women in most European cultures are not. Not surprisingly, American women report higher levels of pain during childbirth and receive more anesthetic medications. The lesson: what we tell ourselves over time makes a big difference.

The right therapist will teach skills designed to help a chronic pain patient cope, hopefully assisting the sufferer in physically feeling less pain. Various methods have been employed with success, including cognitive behavioral therapy, stress management skills, deep breathing techniques, and other psychological exercises that, when practiced regularly, can change one's thought patterns -- which, consequently, can change the perception and experience of pain. It is essential for each individual to find the right counselor, and the right method.

(3) Relaxation Techniques

This is a broad term, utilized in Western culture to describe everything from yoga, to deep breathing exercises, to meditation, to guided imagery, though any single one could justify a category in itself. Briefly described below are three proven techniques.

Guided Imagery:

Guided imagery is a technique employing mental pictures to replace negative thoughts and emotions with positive ones. Indeed, negative emotions have been linked with decreased immune response, and positive emotions with increased immune response. This technique has been used effectively, in conjunction with other treatments, for rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and other painful illnesses. It has also been shown to slow heart rate, reduce stress, and stimulate the immune system -- any one of which can reduce pain.

Hypnotherapy:

Professional hypnotherapy is designed to "generate a state of deep relaxation in which there is a heightened receptivity to suggestion through the calm repetition of words and statements." Simple verbal suggestions applied during this time can help the patient block the sensation of pain, anxiety, fear, or other psychological issues that may be increasing, or causing, pain.

During a state of hypnosis, the patient's mind is fully aware, but the body is curiously relaxed. A deep state of relaxation is induced, pulse rate and breathing slows, and blood pressure drops. Self-hypnosis is also possible with the right training, enabling a chronic pain sufferer to induce the state whenever necessary.

Meditation:

Familiar to most of us, at least in name, meditation is a technique thousands of years old, with innumerable subtypes. The main forms of meditation are grouped under either "mindfulness" or "concentrative" meditation.

Mindfulness meditation makes one aware of various outside stimuli, but trains the mind not to react. In concentrative meditation, the practitioner focuses on a single sound, object, or activity, such as one's breath. Both bring about a calm, tranquil state when practiced over time, and focus awareness in the present moment -- not anxieties or pain associated with the future or past.

When applied with proper technique, meditation has been shown to be an effective management strategy for reducing pain, decreasing anxiety and stress, and controlling conditions such as blood pressure. Classes are recommended to gain the full benefit.

Causes of chronic pain are challenging to diagnose, and the management of it even more difficult. But studies have proven that much power over this condition is in the patients' hands -- and that the mind has the final say in the level of pain experienced. After all, pain is not actually registered at the site of the injury, but in the brain itself. Through the disciplined application of techniques, and the diligence to find the ones that work best, chronic pain can be managed, and a higher level of functioning attained.

How you take care of your body, and what conditions you effectively treat, will certainly affect your health as you age, and eventually your wallet as well. If you’re a young individual who tries to keep informed and maintain a healthy condition and lifestyle, you should take a look at the revolutionary, comprehensive and highly-affordable individual health insurance solutions created by Precedent specifically for you. Visit our website, [http://www.precedent.com], for more information. We offer a unique and innovative suite of individual health insurance solutions, including highly-competitive HSA-qualified plans, and an unparalleled "real time" application and acceptance process.

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Pain, Pain Go Away - Texas Seeks A Choice Of Treatments For Chronic Pain Sufferers Part 2

Texas is one of many states with thousands, possibly millions, of its residents suffering from chronic pain. Overall, chronic pain will affect between 15% and 33% of the U.S. population every year, and cost the nation $70 billion in medical charges, lost working days, and workers' compensation -- more than cancer and heart disease combined.

Chronic pain can be induced by a variety of situations, including work-related injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, neurological disorders, joint disease, migraines, and autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Most chronic pain is located in the back, hip, and/or shoulders. Particularly with the proper health insurance coverage, however, these conditions can be effectively treated and, if not cured, at least managed. Texas is filled with clinics and doctors specializing in pain management -- from Austin, to Dallas, to Houston.

While acute pain can be beneficial -- warning, or forcing, us to stop an activity before we injurey ourselves further -- it is quite different from chronic pain. Acute pain occurs on a temporary basis, such as when spraining an ankle, or even when breaking a bone. Pain is considered chronic when it has occurred either continually, or intermittently, over a period longer than six months.

One of the major frustrations with chronic pain is that so many in Texas, and across the United States, do not respond to treatment. Because many of the cases are work-related injuries, valuable workers in cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin are being lost. Even the strongest medications don't always work, and physicians are still not sure why. According to Dr. Zena Quezado, chief of the Department of Anesthesia and Surgical Services at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, it could be due to genetic makeup. Different enzymes metabolize these medications, and not everyone has the same enzymes, nor do they work in the same way. Varying levels of pain are also reported after the exact same procedure or injury.

Such conditions of chronic, seemingly untreatable pain can lead to anxiety, fear, depression, lack of activity, and unemployment. Its management, then, is arguably one of the most pressing health issues today throughout Texas and the rest of the United States.

While treating the various aspects of pain, including the psychological aspects, are critical, the following will focus on the major holistic forms of physical (versus psychological) treatment for chronic pain. Many health insurance policies will even cover certain treatments with the right referrals. Much of the information has been adapted from Prescriptions for Natural Healing by James F. Balch, M.D., and Phyllis A Balch, C.N.C. As always, consult a qualified health practitioner before undergoing any treatment.

(1) Acupuncture

Most acupuncture treatments performed in the United States are on victims of chronic pain, many of them back pain sufferers. An ancient Chinese practice, acupuncture is based on the belief that energy (or chi) flows through the body along certain pathways called meridians. When the flow of that energy is disturbed, unbalanced, or otherwise obstructed, pain can result. The focus of acupuncture treatments for pain, then, is to return the normal flow of energy, thereby reducing, or eliminating pain. This treatment has no known side effects, is found to be quite relaxing for most patients, and is often accompanied by herbs based on formulas thousands of years old.

Most Westerners are not accustomed to believing in a medicine that bases its principles on the flow of unseen energy, but, whatever one's personal beliefs, acupuncture seems to work. Even the National Institutes of Health reported acupuncture as "beneficial" for chronic and acute pain. Further studies have indicated its effectiveness for carpal tunnel syndrome, and that it may increase immune response, as well as stimulate the production of endorphins, a natural pain killer produced by the body. In China, certain surgeries are performed with acupuncture as their primary form of anesthesia.

(2) Chiropractic Care

Spinal manipulation is considered a "proven treatment" for lower back pain by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Though chiropractic care is effective for many conditions, treating disorders of the back and spine are, by far, the most common reason for seeking out such a practitioner.

Chiropractors focus on the spinal cord itself, believing that, if the spinal cord is able to relay unadulterated signals to the brain and other organs, then healthy function can be maintained throughout the body. Through careful adjustment of misplaced vertebrae, the spinal cord can regain its usual impulse signaling. This enables the body to restore normal nerve function -- thereby reducing or eliminating pain, and heal itself of other ailments.

(3) Massage therapy

Massage is a specific type of body work, and focuses on the manipulation of muscles and soft body tissues. It works through the promotion of muscle relaxation, by increasing circulation in the lymphatic system (thus reducing inflammation), breaking up scar tissue and adhesions, promoting blood flow and, in the case of sinus problems or certain migraines, by promoting drainage of the sinuses. For back pain sufferers, massage therapy may be instrumental in managing pain without, or with fewer, medications. Strong anecdotal evidence, obtained from thousands of practitioners' experiences, suggests that massage therapy may also help to realign tissues, tendons, and vertebrae.

Deep tissue massage is designed to release chronic muscular tension, and is generally applied with a fair amount of pressure on the affected area. There are numerous forms of massage, however, and, with so many choices, it may be best to do some research first. Look up a reputable natural health site online, or visit your local library.

(4) Herbs

Herbs are often classified in a separate category from Western medicines, and for good reason. Herbs are plant-based remedies, with no artificial or laboratory ingredients. But herbs and Western medications operate on the same principle: that, through the ingestion or application of certain substances, a desired effect may be achieved. Some herbs are very strong, or should not be taken with certain conditions, such as high blood pressure or allergies. Certain herbs, though with promising research results, are also controversial, such as marijuana. Though believed by many in the medical community to be highly effective in managing pain, it is still illegal in most states. Therefore, treat herbs as medications and never use them without consulting a knowledgeable health practitioner first.

For muscle spasms and cramps, angelica, black haw, cramp bark, kava kava, rosemary and valerian root are excellent choices. Hops, kava kava, passion flower, valerian root, wild lettuce, and wood betony also have muscle relaxing properties.

Relieve tension and nerve pain with blue violet, catnip, chamomile, gotu kola, licorice, rosemary, white willow, or wood betony teas. Use chamomile and licorice on a short-term basis only.

Capsaicin, a primary ingredient in capsicum (or cayenne pepper) can relieve pain through limiting the production of the vaguely named neural pain transmitter "substance P." Capsaicin can be taken orally, or used topically when mixed with a carrier oil or cream. Studies with capsaicin have been used to treat pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia, diabetic neuropathy, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and cluster headaches.

Essential oils of jasmine, juniper, lavender, peppermint, rose, rosemary, and thyme can be used to relieve pain. Never ingest essential oils, and always apply topically with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or almond.

Chronic pain, though at times beyond frustrating, can be a manageable condition. With proper treatment, sound research, and good decision making, even most of the worst cases can at least be improved. If you suffer from chronic pain, be persistent about pursuing different types of treatment until you find one that helps. After all, you are the one experiencing the pain, and must therefore make the best decision regarding it.

How you take care of your body, and what conditions you effectively treat, will certainly affect your health as you age, and eventually your wallet as well. If you’re a young individual who tries to keep informed and maintain a healthy condition and lifestyle, you should take a look at the revolutionary, comprehensive and highly-affordable individual health insurance solutions created by Precedent specifically for you. Visit our website, [http://www.precedent.com], for more information. We offer a unique and innovative suite of individual health insurance solutions, including highly-competitive HSA-qualified plans, and an unparalleled "real time" application and acceptance process.

Precedent puts a new spin on health insurance. Learn more at http://www.precedent.com. [http://www.precedent.com]

Flat Wedding Shoes Are The Brides Number One Choice

Some women wear stilettos confidently. They wear them to work, to the shopping mall and just about anywhere they go. For these ladies choosing high heels or platform shoes for a wedding would make perfect sense. However there are many other women who aren't comfortable wearing shoes with five inch heels on them. Fortunately for these ladies there is a huge selection of flat wedding shoes on the market today. These shoes are a fabulous alternative to stilettos and platform shoes.

Individuals may choose wedding shoes with high heels because they seem more fitting for the occasion. However, because of the demand for flat shoes, designers have come up with many interesting and formal designs. There are flats on the market which are very decorative with appliqués, ribbons and rhinestones. There are also accessories designed to attach to wedding shoes to make them look formal and appropriate for fancy events such as weddings.

When referring to flat wedding shoes the spectrum goes far beyond a basic closed-toe shoe. This style of wedding shoes could include sandals, pumps, ballet shoes and even flip-flops. Yes shoe manufacturers are now producing wedding flip-flops. Each of these shoe styles can be bought in a variety of designs. When choosing wedding shoes with no heel, the possibilities are endless.

Flat shoes are suitable for any individual attending a wedding. Many brides wear flat shoes because they are comfortable and they simply feel better than heels. Flat shoes are perfect for the young girls in the bridal party like flower girls or junior bridesmaids. There are some very cute flat wedding shoes on the market for young girls today. High heels and platforms are not really suitable for little girls. Not only would they be uncomfortable but they'd be unsafe as well.

When shopping for wedding shoes it's beneficial to realize there are dyeable types on the market as well. To ensure all female members of the bridal party are similarly dressed, their shoes could be dyed the same color. There are also flat wedding shoes on the market made from various materials. It may be possible to find them made from the same material as the bridesmaid's gowns, for example silk or satin.

Shopping for wedding shoes is not at the top of everyone's list when planning to attend a wedding. It does require consideration however at some point. If deciding on flat wedding shoes the hunt shouldn't wait until last minute, especially if hoping to find them in a local shopping mall or shoe store. No doubt they'll carry a selection of wedding shoes but it may be limited. The best shopping center for fabulous wedding shoes at reasonable prices is the Internet. Shopping online not only provides access to shoe stores nationally but internationally. This worldwide access provides a much larger variety of designs and styles. If hoping to find flat shoes similar to those seen in a magazine or on a television fashion show, the Internet is the best possible opportunity.

Ellese Chatel is a bridal professional with a wide variety of knowledge and experience in made to measure garments and all accessories associated with the industry. Get more information regarding flat wedding shoes [http://www.liveentertainmentblog.com/wedding-planning/flat-wedding-shoes-to-match-up-to-the-groom.html]