Foods Your Doctor Never Eats

Questioning the quality of the food you consume is something worth doing. But what exactly defines "good" food? We aren't just asking what tastes good or looks good, but rather what food is good down to its core, and what separates it from all the other junk? The answer seems pretty clear: fruits and vegetables are good, sweets and candies are not so good. But sometimes to know why something is truly "good," you have to be able to identify and understand what makes something "bad."

"It isn't just how you cook it, it is what you cook," says Dr. Michael Hirt, internist and board certified nutritionist at the Center for Integrative Medicine.

Processed meats

These meats contain nitrates and a lot of preservatives. A new study from the Harvard School of Public Health has revealed that eating processed meats leads to an increased risk of heart disease and type-2 diabetes. When it comes to protein, try get from sources such as vegetables, seeds and nut butters.

If you’re going to get protein from animal sources, Experts recommend yogurt, eggs (up to four eggs per week), tuna and other fish, and chicken. For non-animal sources, add more quinoa, edamame, legumes and almond milk to your diet. 

HOT DOGS 

“When you’re grilling outside, hot dogs may be the first thing that comes to mind, but they should not be the first thing to hit your plate. Not only are they high in fat, one dog also has more than a quarter of the day’s sodium. Throw this salty dog in a bun and drown it in condiments, and you’ve got yourself a diet disaster. Not to mention, research has shown a correlation between processed meats and colorectal cancer.” - Jim White, R.D., personal trainer and registered dietitian 

Margarine

According to experts at the Mayo Clinic, some margarine may actually be worse for you than butter, due to the process of hydrogenation, which creates trans fats. Experts suggest olive oil, canola oil and grape seed oil as healthier replacements for margarine when cooking.

Packaged snack cakes and cookies

Home-baked or bakery-made pastries and desserts are better choices than those from a box, which often contain a lot of added sugar. It also has about 40 different chemicals or preservatives to prevent them from turning bad.

Anything fat-free. 

No-fat items are on list of products to be wary of, because they often compensate for fat with large amounts of sugar, and are highly processed. These non-fat yogurts can contain artificial sweeteners. Eating healthy doesn't mean cutting fat out of your diet entirely, but rather focusing on “good fats,” such as olive oil, avocado and nuts.

Artificial sweeteners

Think that just because you’re not using refined sugar, you’re being healthy? Think again, says Amani Golshani. “Artificial sweeteners have actually been linked to people not losing weight,” she says, noting that drinks containing artificial sweeteners and colours are extremely unhealthy.

The same goes for foods with dyes and artificial flavours. “A lot of people are sensitive to this in a way they can’t even pinpoint,” she says, and strongly recommends cutting these artificial ingredients out of your diet.

Ketchup

“Sure it tastes good on just about everything, but what you might not realize is how quickly the sugar and calories in ketchup can accumulate. Just one measly tablespoon has up to four grams of sugar and 20 calories—which might not seem like a lot—but the average consumer will douse their food with at least four or five. Plus, it’s loaded with high fructose corn syrup, which has been shown to increase appetite and, over time, lead to health problems such as obesity and diabetes. If you really can't live without the stuff, use an all-natural version with no added sugar, chemicals or HFCS.” - Lisa Moskovitz, R.D., founder of The NY Nutrition Group.

Juice

“Juice is just a sugary beverage masked to be a healthy. Although there are some vitamins in it because of its fruit content, some varieties have just as much sugar as a soda. Plus, when you transform produce into juice, you take away its fiber—one of the major benefits of consuming whole fruits and vegetables.” - Leah Kaufman, MS, RD, CDN a New York City-based Registered Dietitian

Cheese and Fries

“When I see cheese fries on the menu, I wonder why the dish even exists. They take a perfectly nutritious potato, deep fry it and then to top it all off, they load it up with salty, greasy, processed cheese. No, thank you.” - Christine M. Palumbo, MBA, RDN, FAND, a Chicago area registered dietitian and nutrition communications consultant

For more health info and promotions, please follow us on Facebook- Wellness Lab

Download Wellness Lab Mobile App now for more promotions 

If you like this article, you can share this to your friends and families , together we share the health information and the taste of a healthy life!

Leech Therapy in Modern Treatment

Picture this: You're chopping a steak with a big meat cleaver and—wham!—off comes your right index finger. Picture putting the finger in a jar and taking it with you to the hospital. Now picture a doctor carefully sewing the finger back on, and within hours the finger is blue and swollen with blood. 

Grossed out yet? Good! Because now you can picture sticking a hungry leech on the end of that finger and—presto!—the finger returns to a nice healthy pink. This is one of the leech's greatest talents. When a finger or thumb is reattached, it's relatively easy to hook up the arteries, because they're thicker and tougher. Veins, on the other hand, are fragile and crumple up easily. So, until new capillaries can to re-connect these damaged veins, what you end up with is blood with a one-way ticket into a reattached finger. With no veins to carry it back out, the finger swells up and chokes itself off with blood clots. 

Leeches are ideal in this situation because they suck the blood slowly and steadily. (If you drain the blood too fast, you may as well not have bothered to reattach the finger.) To drain blood at just the right rate without using leeches, surgeons sometimes turn to an even more disgusting (and less effective) procedure that involves ripping off a fingernail and scraping the nail bed raw so it bleeds at a slow and steady rate. Given the choice, most doctors—and patients—opt for the leeches. 

Plus, leeches secrete natural anticoagulants that prevent the blood from clotting. One of these chemicals, hirudin, is so powerful that it's being studied as a possible therapeutic drug for people who have had heart attacks and strokes. These chemicals allow the wound to bleed slowly even after the leech has been removed, while the patient's new veins are still forming. 

Leeches have been used in medicine for over 2,500 years. They were more popular in earlier times because it was widely thought that most diseases were caused by an excess of blood. As recently as the 19th century, leeches were used to treat everything from tonsillitis to hemorrhoids. You can imagine what both of those treatments involved. 

Today, their use is more limited, but in some circumstances, they're still the best option.

For more health info and promotions, please follow us on Facebook- Wellness Lab

Download Wellness Lab Mobile App now for more promotions 

If you like this article, you can share this to your friends and families , together we share the health information and the taste of a healthy life!

What Are Hemorrhoids?

About 75 percent of people will experience hemorrhoids at some point. Hemorrhoids are varicose (enlarged and swollen) veins around the outside of the anus or in the lower rectum.

The rectum is the last part of the bowel that leads to the anus. The anus is the opening at the end of the bowel where fecal matter leaves the body. Sometimes called piles, hemorrhoids are often the result of straining to make a bowel movement.

Lifting heavy objects, along with other activities that may cause straining, can also lead to hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids may be painful, but they are not dangerous or life-threatening. They will usually go away on their own

Hemorrhoid Causes and Risk Factors

There are several known direct causes of hemorrhoids, including:

• Chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Straining too hard during bowel movements
• Sitting on the toilet for a long time

Factors that raise your risk of developing hemorrhoids include:

• Lack of fiber in the diet
• Obesity
• Aging: as we get older, the connective tissue in the rectum and anus becomes weaker
• Pregnancy: as the fetus grows and puts pressure on the abdomen, the veins in the rectum and anus may become enlarged

Prevention

Preventing constipation by keeping your stool soft and regular is one of the best ways to help prevent hemorrhoids.

The following tips may help you prevent constipation:

• Eat a lot of fiber. Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other high-fiber foods such as beans.
• A high-fiber diet can make stools softer and bulkier so that they pass easily. Aim for 25 to 38 grams of fiber each day.
• Consider fiber supplements. If you're having trouble getting enough fiber in your regular diet, consider a fiber supplement such as Metamucil or Citrucel.
• Drink plenty of water and other fluids. Aim for eight glasses of water each day.
• Exercise regularly. Exercise can help keep bowel movements regular.

Other tips for preventing hemorrhoids include:

• Don't strain or hold your breath during bowel movements. Straining can put excess pressure on veins and lead directly to hemorrhoid development.
• Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge.Letting the urge go away can make your stool harder to pass.
• Avoid long periods of sitting. Sitting for too long, especially on the toilet, can stress veins in the anus.

For more health info and promotions, please follow us on Facebook- Wellness Lab

Download Wellness Lab Mobile App now for more promotions 

If you like this article, you can share this to your friends and families , together we share the health information and the taste of a healthy life!

The Effects of Testosterone on the Body

Testosterone is a vital male hormone that is responsible for the development and maintenance of male attributes. Women also have testosterone, but in much smaller amounts. 

The Effects of Testosterone on the Body

Testosterone is an important male hormone. A male begins to produce testosterone as early as seven weeks after conception. Testosterone levels rise during puberty, peak during the late teen years, and then level off. After age 30 or so, it’s normal for a man’s testosterone levels to decrease slightly every year.

Most men have more than enough testosterone. But, it’s possible for the body to produce too little testosterone. This leads to a condition called hypogonadism. This can be treated with hormonal therapy, which requires a doctor’s prescription and careful monitoring. Men with normal testosterone levels should not consider testosterone therapy.

Testosterone levels affect everything in men from the reproductive system and sexuality to muscle mass and bone density. It also plays a role in certain behaviors.

Endocrine System

The body’s endocrine system consists of glands that manufacture hormones. The hypothalamus, located in the brain, tells the pituitary gland how much testosterone the body needs. The pituitary gland then sends the message to the testicles. Most testosterone is produced in the testicles, but small amounts come from the adrenal glands, which are located just above the kidneys. In women, the adrenal glands and ovaries produce small amounts of testosterone.

Before a boy is even born, testosterone is working to form male genitals. During puberty, testosterone is responsible for the development of male attributes like a deeper voice, beard, and body hair. It also promotes muscle mass and sex drive. Testosterone production surges during adolescence and peaks in the late teens or early 20s. After age 30, it’s natural for testosterone levels to drop by about one percent each year.

Reproductive System

About seven weeks after conception, testosterone begins helping form male genitals. At puberty, as testosterone production surges, the testicles and penis grow. The testicles produce a steady stream of testosterone and make a fresh supply of sperm every day.

Men who have low levels of testosterone may experience erectile dysfunction (ED). Long-term testosterone therapy can cause a decrease in sperm production. Testosterone therapy also may cause enlarged prostate, and smaller, softer testicles. Men who have prostate or breast cancer should not consider testosterone replacement therapy.

Sexuality

During puberty, rising levels of testosterone encourage the growth of the testicles, penis, and pubic hair. The voice begins to deepen, and muscles and body hair grow. Along with these changes comes growing sexual desire.

There’s a bit of truth to the “use it or lose it” theory. A man with low levels of testosterone may lose his desire for sex. Sexual stimulation and sexual activity cause testosterone levels to rise. Testosterone levels can drop during a long period of sexual inactivity. Low testosterone can also result in erectile dysfunction (ED).

Central Nervous System

The body has a system for controlling testosterone, sending messages through hormones and chemicals that are released into the bloodstream. In the brain, the hypothalamus tells the pituitary gland how much testosterone is needed, and the pituitary relays that information to the testicles.

Testosterone plays a role in certain behaviors, including aggression and dominance. It also helps to spark competitiveness and boost self-esteem. Just as sexual activity can affect testosterone levels, taking part in competitive activities can cause a man’s testosterone levels to rise or fall. Low testosterone may result in a loss of confidence and lack of motivation. It can also lower a man’s ability to concentrate or cause feelings of sadness. Low testosterone can cause sleep disturbances and lack of energy.

It’s important to note, however, that testosterone is only one factor that influences personality traits. Other biological and environmental factors are also involved.

Skin and Hair

As a man transitions from childhood to adulthood, testosterone spurs the growth of hair on the face, in the armpits, and around the genitals. Hair also may grow on the arms, legs, and chest.

A man with shrinking levels of testosterone actually may lose some body hair. Testosterone replacement therapy comes with a few potential side effects, including acne and breast enlargement. Testosterone patches may cause minor skin irritation. Topical gels may be easier to use, but great care must be taken to avoid transferring testosterone to someone else though skin-to-skin contact.

Muscle, Fat, and Bone

Testosterone is one of many factors involved in the development of muscle bulk and strength. Testosterone increases neurotransmitters, which encourage tissue growth. It also interacts with nuclear receptors in DNA, which causes protein synthesis. Testosterone increases levels of growth hormone. That makes exercise more likely to build muscle.

Testosterone increases bone density and tells the bone marrow to manufacture red blood cells. Men with very low levels of testosterone are more likely to suffer from bone fractures and breaks.

Testosterone also plays a role in fat metabolism, helping men to burn fat more efficiently. Dropping levels of testosterone can cause an increase in body fat. Testosterone therapy can be administered by a doctor via intramuscular injections.

Circulatory System

Testosterone travels around the body in the bloodstream. The only way to know your testosterone level for sure is to have it measured. This usually requires a blood test.

Testosterone spurs the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. And, studies suggest that testosterone may have a positive effect on the heart. But some studies investigating testosterone’s effect on cholesterol, blood pressure, and clot-busting ability have had mixed results.

When it comes to testosterone therapy and the heart, recent studies have conflicting results and are ongoing. Testosterone therapy delivered by intramuscular injection may cause blood cell counts to rise. Other side effects of testosterone replacement therapy include fluid retention, increased red cell count, and cholesterol changes.

For more health info and promotions, please follow us on Facebook- Wellness Lab

Download Wellness Lab Mobile App now for more promotions 

If you like this article, you can share this to your friends and families , together we share the health information and the taste of a healthy life!

Six Super Foods That Help Relief Inflammation

Inflammation is a normal part of the body’s immune response, but too much of it, and for too long, can lead to pain and disease. The good news is that there are certain foods that may help fight this immune response when it spins out of control. Here are six that you can easily add to your diet:

Sweet Cherries: 

Beginning in early June and stretching into the early days of August you’ll find one of nature’s best seasonal fruits — fresh sweet cherries — which also happen to be a powerful inflammation fighter. In fact, a recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that eating sweet Bing cherries can significantly decrease markers of inflammation in the body (like C-reactive protein) and help to prevent chronic inflammatory diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, and certain cancers. And once summer’s over, you can still enjoy the taste and health benefits of this super fruit. Fresh cherries are easy to freeze (simply rinse, pack and freeze) so you can savor them all winter long.

Legumes: 

Lentils, chickpeas, peas and beans are protein- and fiber-rich and research conducted at Penn State University reported that adding 1 ½ cups of legumes per day (to a calorie-controlled, low Glycemic Index diet) helped reduce markers of inflammation and improved insulin resistance. Another bonus? They’re inexpensive. Use versatile legumes in dips, salads, main dishes or soups.

Mango:

Mango are not just nutrient-packed and bursting with color and flavor, research indicates that this tropical fruit may also be a powerful inflammation fighter. One study conducted in 2013 found that compounds in mango called polyphenols might inhibit the inflammatory response in both cancerous and non-cancerous breast cells. In addition to their potential anti-inflammatory benefits, mango are a source of over 20 vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, and potassium.

Turmeric: 

This golden-hued spice has long been a staple of Indian cuisine and also has been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. Modern-day science is revealing that a compound found in turmeric called curcumin may be the source of its medicinal effects as well as a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Due to its potential inflammation-fighting benefits, scientists are now exploring its use in diseases ranging from rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Add tumeric to your next curry or use on chicken or fish before grilling.

Ginger: 

Ginger has been used to help nausea and pain for centuries. Now modern research is uncovering its potential to temper inflammation. One study compared the effects of ginger extract to placebo in patients with osteoarthritis. The ginger helped reduce pain and stiffness in joints by 40 percent over the placebo. Ongoing research is also investigating the role of ginger to help reduce neuronal inflammation and related declines in memory and cognition.

Leafy Greens: 

Diets rich in leafy greens are associated with lower rates of certain cancers, heart disease, and other inflammation-related diseases because leafy greens provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Kale, spinach, watercress, collard greens and broccoli are also some of the most nutrient-rich foods you can eat. Aim for at least 2-3 cups of greens each day and add them to omelets, smoothies, stir fry, and salads.

Small changes can lead to big results. What healthy step can you take today?

For more health info and promotions, please follow us on Facebook- Wellness Lab

Download Wellness Lab Mobile App now for more promotions 

If you like this article, you can share this to your friends and families , together we share the health information and the taste of a healthy life!

Heart Disease in Men: 6 Lifestyle Changes to Lower Your Risk

Heart disease is the world biggest killer, but you have the power to significantly reduce your chances of developing it.

1.4 million men are living with it and around 110,000 suffer heart attacks each year. While you can’t control things like family history, sex or age - there are many things you can.

1. Don’t smoke

You’re twice as likely to have a heart attack if you smoke. Despite the well known fact that smoking is terrible for your health, many still keep up the habit. Chemicals in the tobacco and the carbon monoxide produced when smoking narrow the arteries and reduce the amount of oxygen in your blood, which can dramatically increase the risk of blood clots and heart attacks. By quitting smoking, your risk of heart disease drops almost to that of a non-smoker in about five years. 

2. Exercise and be more active

Staying active is great for keeping your heart healthy. Physical activity helps you control your weight and can reduce your chances of developing other conditions that may put a strain on your heart, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Just 30 minutes of exercise a day can drastically improve your health.

3. Eat well

A healthy diet and a sensible approach to alcohol can greatly reduce your risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke. Only a quarter of adults regularly eat the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables a day and over a third of men regularly exceed the recommended limits for alcohol intake. Conditions that lead to heart disease, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity and type 2 diabetes can all be influenced by your diet. Check out our guide to help eat your way to a healthier heart.

4. Stay in shape

Being overweight, especially if you carry excess weight around your middle, increases your risk of heart disease. Excess weight can lead to conditions that increase your chances of heart disease, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.

5. Get yourself checked

Over a quarter of adults have high blood pressure but as many as half of them don't get treatment for the condition. High blood pressure and high cholesterol can damage your heart and blood vessels. Without testing for them, you probably won't know whether you have these conditions. Get a health check or see your GP to run the tests and discover the shape you’re really in.

6. Get a good night's sleep

Sleep deprivation can seriously harm your health. If you don't get enough sleep you will have a higher risk of obesity, high blood pressure, heart attack, diabetes and depression. Most adults need between six and nine hours of sleep each night however some people can feel perfectly rested with less. If you're someone who is constantly reaching for the snooze button and it's a struggle to get out of bed, you need more sleep each night.

For more health info and promotions, please follow us on Facebook- Wellness Lab

Download Wellness Lab Mobile App now for more promotions 

If you like this article, you can share this to your friends and families , together we share the health information and the taste of a healthy life!

Regular Check-Ups are Important

It's time to take charge of your health! Schedule an appointment with your health care provider to discuss what screenings and exams you need and when you need them.

Below are resources to help you and your health care provider determine what health services and screenings are best for you.

Why are Check-Ups Important?

Regular health exams and tests can help find problems before they start. They also can help find problems early, when your chances for treatment and cure are better. By getting the right health services, screenings, and treatments, you are taking steps that help your chances for living a longer, healthier life. Your age, health and family history, lifestyle choices (i.e. what you eat, how active you are, whether you smoke), and other important factors impact what and how often you need healthcare.

Where Can I Go for Health Services?

The best place to go for health services is your regular health care provider. However, if you do not have one, we can offer you a place for you and your families.

What Health Services are Recommended?

The item below show the service and medical test provided.

• Blood and Urine Test
• Complete Blood Count
• Cholesterol
• Kidney Function Test
• Liver Function test
• Diabetes Screening
• Immunology - HIV, VDRL Screening
• High Blood Pressure
• Immunization Schedules
• Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection
• Colorectal Cancer Screening
• Prostate Cancer Screening
• Viral Hepatitis A, B, and C Screening
• Ultrasound Abdomen/ Pelvis
• Allergy Profile - 36 Items
• Resting Electrocardiogram
• Lung Function Test

How Can I Prepare for My Appointment?

You can call up at 1800 88 5001 or 603-6257 5001 for appointment.

Encouraging Others

You may also want to start a campaign in your community (i.e. a faith-based setting, workplace, school, or civic group) to encourage others to make an appointment for a check-up or health screening. We do provide door to door blood sampling service with no extra charges (terms and condition apply). You can also download our mobile apps for more package details.

For more health info and promotions, please follow us on Facebook- Wellness Lab

Download Wellness Lab Mobile App now for more promotions 

If you like this article, you can share this to your friends and families , together we share the health information and the taste of a healthy life!