Besides the Indulgences attached to the
Rosary , Our Lady revealed to St. Dominic and
Monday, 25 April 2016
Wednesday, 20 April 2016
FECAMDS RURAL OUTREACH
The Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students rural outreach comes up on the 6th to 8th of May, 2016
You wouldn't want to miss this!!!
NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF PONMO...cow hide/skin
WHAT EXACTLY IS PONMO(canda) ?
Cow hide/skin, popularly known as
ponmo, is basically cow skin that has
been processed to look similar to beef.
There are two (known) varieties of
ponmo. This classification is based on
their mode of preparation and colour.
One is usually white/cream/off-white
in colour, while the other is brown.
In the white/cream variety, the hide is
removed from the skin by soaking in
boiling water, and then using blade to
shave off the hair; while in the brown
variety, the hide and skin are subjected
to a high level of heat, so as to burn out
the hide (fur). After this process, the
skin is then washed several times and
then boiled for hours so as to ensure
that it is softened.
The skin is then sold in our markets as
ponmo – a great delicacy and an
important ingredient in the preparation
of several stews in various cultures in
Nigeria.
Most Nigerians love ponmo so much that
some believe a good day meal is
incomplete without it. Ponmo is a regular
sight at parties and several public
outings, served in different formats.
NUTRITIONAL BENEFIT OF PONMO
Despite the taste appeal ponmo delivers
to your taste buds, it would be quite
shocking for some of you to know that
ponmo contains little next to nothing in
terms of nutritional value.
The nutritional analysis of a 40 gram
piece of ponmo is:
Calories (150g); Total fat (4g);
Saturated fat (1g); Poly saturated fat
(0g); Mono saturated fat (0g); Trans
fat (0g); Cholesterol (0g); Sodium
(0mg); Potassium (0mg); Total
carbohydrate (0g);
Dietary fibre (0g); Sugars (0 per cent);
Proteins (0 per cent); Vitamin A (0 per
cent); Vitamin C (0 per cent); Calcium
(0 per cent); Iron (0 per cent).
From the above, you need no telling that
the consumption of ponmo gives nothing
to your body. So, why are we so
addicted to this piece of leather.
POSSIBLE DANGER TO HEALTH
According to a post on Punch, the
Director-General of the Nigerian
Institute of Leather Science and
Technology, Zaria, Kaduna State, Dr.
Isuwa Adamu, on Tuesday warned
against the consumption of animal hides
and skin, known locally as ponmo. He
said: "it is not advisable for you to
consume ponmo in the sense that some
of the animals killed and used for
ponmo actually have skin diseases. Some
of these skin diseases are such that
boiling them ordinarily may not kill the
bacteria,’’.
He added that some of the animals
killed had been ill and undergoing
injections but the rearers went ahead to
kill them, leaving the buyers vulnerable
to chemicals in the animal skin.
The DG also added, “Some of the
animals because of the ailments that
they have gone through are sometimes
treated by way of injection with
chemicals. People don’t allow these
chemicals to complete its cycle and be
removed from the body; they sometimes
go ahead to kill these animals.
“So, if you consume the ponmo, the
tendency is that you are consuming the
chemicals directly because the skin part
of the animal retains most of the
harmful substances.
In addition to this, during the
production process of ponmo, the hides
and skin are usually subjected to naked
flames so as to enable the hides to burn
off the skin. During the burning process,
a lot of different unhygienic substances
such as trash, wood, charcoal, rubber
tires and so on, are thrown into the
furnace to sustain the blazing heat.
As the furnace burns, the combusting
wood, gas, or charcoal emits chemicals
known as polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAHs), which finds its
way into the smoked food and
contaminates it.
Exposure to PAHs is known to cause skin,
liver, stomach and several other types of
cancers in laboratory animals. In
addition to this, epidemiological studies
have found a positive statistical
correlation between intestinal tract
cancer and frequent intake of smoked
food. These studies have also linked
occupational exposure to PAHs to cancer
in humans.
Sad right?, but who cares. No one has
ever died from ponmo consumption, no
be so. But take a look at the ponmo
below, tasty right? Do you know it is
same as just a cooked italian leather
bag/shoe? Your favorite brands Lois
Vutton et al all use ponmo in
manufacturing their products. You want
your own locally made standard leather
accessories? STOP YOUR PONMO
CONSUMPTION TODAY.
Tuesday, 19 April 2016
SOLUTIONS TO MOUTH ODOUR...bad breath
What could be more humiliating and
embarrassing than mouth odour? No one
likes to hear it, but it’s worse not to know
you have mouth odour.
Is anything worse than seeing people turn
their faces away from you when you are
talking to them?
Bad breath or mouth odour (also known as
halitosis or malodor) can be very
embarrassing and tough on those around
you.
Millions of people suffer from mouth
odour without even realizing it because
people are afraid to tell them. It is not
very often that you have a friend who will
be bold enough to tell you that your
breathe is exuding an offensive odour.
A lot of times they do not want you to
feel embarrassed and they will rather
endure the odour than tell you or even in
a subtle way try to offer you solutions.
Bad breath is often caused by a buildup
of bacteria in your mouth that causes
inflammation and gives off noxious odours.
When you don’t brush or floss regularly,
bacteria accumulate on the bits of food
left in your mouth and between your
teeth. The compounds released by these
bacteria make your breath smell and sometimes
leads to tooth discolouration.
For some people, mouth odour is a problem
that only rears its ugly head in limited
situations, such as when you get out of
bed in the morning or after eating
pungent food. For some others, it is a
problem that is ever-present, no matter
whether they brush and floss their teeth,
rinse with mouthwash or suck on mints
that only rears its ugly head in limited
situations, such as when you get out of
bed in the morning or after eating
pungent food. For some others, it is a
problem that is ever-present, no matter
whether they brush and floss their teeth,
rinse with mouthwash or suck on mints
Chronic bad breath can profoundly affect
a person’s self-esteem and daily life,
even to the extent that that person may
isolate himself for fear of
embarrassment.
A number of things can cause mouth odour
and they include: dental cavities, gum
disease, poor oral hygiene, coated tongue
(a white or yellow coating on the tongue,
usually due to inflammation). These are
among the most common.
Other causes may include dry mouth,
infections such as sore throat or sinusitis,
or intestinal disorders, such as heartburn,
ulcers, and lactose intolerance.
Food and drink, such as garlic, onions,
coffee, and alcohol, can temporarily cause
bad breath. Smokers also suffer from it.
a person’s self-esteem and daily life,
even to the extent that that person may
isolate himself for fear of
embarrassment.
A number of things can cause mouth odour
and they include: dental cavities, gum
disease, poor oral hygiene, coated tongue
(a white or yellow coating on the tongue,
usually due to inflammation). These are
among the most common.
Other causes may include dry mouth,
infections such as sore throat or sinusitis,
or intestinal disorders, such as heartburn,
ulcers, and lactose intolerance.
Food and drink, such as garlic, onions,
coffee, and alcohol, can temporarily cause
bad breath. Smokers also suffer from it.
Whatever the cause, all hope is not lost as
there are ways to solve mouth odour
problem. It involves correcting the
underlying disorder. Below are solutions to
mouth odour.
1. Drink plenty of water: Bacteria’s sworn
enemy is oxygen, which is found in your
own saliva. Drinking water makes you
produce more saliva, which in turn
neutralizes bad breath.
2. Scrape your tongue: Each morning,
scrape your tongue with a tongue scrapper
or spoon to decrease the bacteria, fungi
and dead cells that can cause odour. Hold
the tip of the tongue with gauze to pull it
forward in order to clean the back of the
tongue.
3. Rinse with mouthwash: Some
mouthwashes do more than leave breath
smelling minty; they contain antiseptic
agents, such as cetylpyridinium chloride,
to reduce plaque and prevent gingivitis,
which can also cause bad breath. Studies
show that chlorine dioxide is very
effective at neutralizing the stinky
volatile sulfur compounds created by oral
bacteria.
4. Eat vegetables: Fibrous vegetables, such
as celery and cucumbers, boost your
mouth’s saliva production, which washes
away odor-causing bacteria. In fact,
holding a slice of cucumber between your
tongue and the roof of your mouth for
about 90 seconds helps limit odor. Crunchy
vegetables help remove plaque on teeth
and gums, which bacteria can feed on.
5. Sugar-free gum: Again, it’s all about
saliva. Chewing gum increases the
production of saliva and chewing just one
piece makes your mouth create up to 10
times more saliva than usual. But not just
any pack will do. Sugar-free mints also
stimulate saliva production and
temporarily mask odor.
6. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush twice
a day to remove food debris and plaque
and don’t forget to brush your tongue.
Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3
months or after an illness. Use floss to
remove food particles and plaque between
teeth once a day.
7. Arrange regular dental checkups and
cleanings: You should see a dentist
regularly, at least twice a year. He or she
will conduct an oral exam and professional
teeth cleaning and will be able to detect
and treat periodontal disease, dry mouth,
or other problems that may be the cause
of bad mouth odour.
there are ways to solve mouth odour
problem. It involves correcting the
underlying disorder. Below are solutions to
mouth odour.
1. Drink plenty of water: Bacteria’s sworn
enemy is oxygen, which is found in your
own saliva. Drinking water makes you
produce more saliva, which in turn
neutralizes bad breath.
2. Scrape your tongue: Each morning,
scrape your tongue with a tongue scrapper
or spoon to decrease the bacteria, fungi
and dead cells that can cause odour. Hold
the tip of the tongue with gauze to pull it
forward in order to clean the back of the
tongue.
3. Rinse with mouthwash: Some
mouthwashes do more than leave breath
smelling minty; they contain antiseptic
agents, such as cetylpyridinium chloride,
to reduce plaque and prevent gingivitis,
which can also cause bad breath. Studies
show that chlorine dioxide is very
effective at neutralizing the stinky
volatile sulfur compounds created by oral
bacteria.
4. Eat vegetables: Fibrous vegetables, such
as celery and cucumbers, boost your
mouth’s saliva production, which washes
away odor-causing bacteria. In fact,
holding a slice of cucumber between your
tongue and the roof of your mouth for
about 90 seconds helps limit odor. Crunchy
vegetables help remove plaque on teeth
and gums, which bacteria can feed on.
5. Sugar-free gum: Again, it’s all about
saliva. Chewing gum increases the
production of saliva and chewing just one
piece makes your mouth create up to 10
times more saliva than usual. But not just
any pack will do. Sugar-free mints also
stimulate saliva production and
temporarily mask odor.
6. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush twice
a day to remove food debris and plaque
and don’t forget to brush your tongue.
Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3
months or after an illness. Use floss to
remove food particles and plaque between
teeth once a day.
7. Arrange regular dental checkups and
cleanings: You should see a dentist
regularly, at least twice a year. He or she
will conduct an oral exam and professional
teeth cleaning and will be able to detect
and treat periodontal disease, dry mouth,
or other problems that may be the cause
of bad mouth odour.
HOW SUN-LIGHT DAMAGES THE EYES
Although the eyelid is designed to protect the
eye, its skin is exceedingly thin and contains
many fragile tissues that may be injured by
UV light. Inside the eye, the lens and the
cornea, both transparent, filter UV rays, but
by doing so for many years, they may become
damaged. This is especially true for the lens,
which through years of UV absorption, turns
yellowish and cataractous. The lens is the eye's
transparent focusing mechanism, located
between the iris and the vitreous humor (the
clear, thick gel in the posterior compartment
of the eye that fills the space between the
lens and retina, giving the eye its form and
shape). The cornea, the transparent area in
front at the outer layer of the eye, admits
light and images to the retina. UV damage is
instrumental in causing:
eye, its skin is exceedingly thin and contains
many fragile tissues that may be injured by
UV light. Inside the eye, the lens and the
cornea, both transparent, filter UV rays, but
by doing so for many years, they may become
damaged. This is especially true for the lens,
which through years of UV absorption, turns
yellowish and cataractous. The lens is the eye's
transparent focusing mechanism, located
between the iris and the vitreous humor (the
clear, thick gel in the posterior compartment
of the eye that fills the space between the
lens and retina, giving the eye its form and
shape). The cornea, the transparent area in
front at the outer layer of the eye, admits
light and images to the retina. UV damage is
instrumental in causing:
Eyelid cancers: Skin cancers of
the eyelid, including basal cell
carcinoma (BCC) and squamous
cell carcinoma (SCC) as well as
melanoma , account for 5 to 10
percent of all skin cancers.
Most occur on the lower lid,
which receives the most sun
exposure. Basal cell carcinomas
make up about 90 percent and
squamous cell carcinomas 5
percent or more of all eyelid
cancers, while melanomas
account for about 1-2 percent. basal cell
carcinomas of the eyelid affect an estimated
16.9 men and 12.4 women per 100,000 people in
the U.S. each year, and while basal cell
carcinomas elsewhere on the body rarely
spread, eyelid basal cell carcinomas have a
significant risk of spreading to the eye itself
and surrounding areas, causing major damage
to the eye and disfigurement to the face.
the eyelid, including basal cell
carcinoma (BCC) and squamous
cell carcinoma (SCC) as well as
melanoma , account for 5 to 10
percent of all skin cancers.
Most occur on the lower lid,
which receives the most sun
exposure. Basal cell carcinomas
make up about 90 percent and
squamous cell carcinomas 5
percent or more of all eyelid
cancers, while melanomas
account for about 1-2 percent. basal cell
carcinomas of the eyelid affect an estimated
16.9 men and 12.4 women per 100,000 people in
the U.S. each year, and while basal cell
carcinomas elsewhere on the body rarely
spread, eyelid basal cell carcinomas have a
significant risk of spreading to the eye itself
and surrounding areas, causing major damage
to the eye and disfigurement to the face.
Squamous cell carcinomas have a faster growth
rate and a greater potential to spread. Both of
these types of cancer are found mainly in
patients with a history of sun exposure.
Melanoma can spread rapidly in the eye area
and can prove lethal if not treated promptly.
Melanomas have been linked to a history of
intense, intermittent sun exposure and
sunburns.
When diagnosed and treated early, eyelid
cancers usually respond well to surgery and
follow-up care, with the eye and eyelid largely
retaining normal function. With reconstruction,
they generally remain cosmetically attractive.
But left untreated, they are extremely
dangerous and may even ultimately penetrate
the brain. Watch for these early warning signs:
rate and a greater potential to spread. Both of
these types of cancer are found mainly in
patients with a history of sun exposure.
Melanoma can spread rapidly in the eye area
and can prove lethal if not treated promptly.
Melanomas have been linked to a history of
intense, intermittent sun exposure and
sunburns.
When diagnosed and treated early, eyelid
cancers usually respond well to surgery and
follow-up care, with the eye and eyelid largely
retaining normal function. With reconstruction,
they generally remain cosmetically attractive.
But left untreated, they are extremely
dangerous and may even ultimately penetrate
the brain. Watch for these early warning signs:
》a lump or bump that frequently bleeds or does
not disappear
》persistent red eye or inflammation of the
eyelids that does not respond to medication
》newly acquired flat or elevated pigmented
lesions that have irregular borders and growth
》unexplained loss of eyelashes
not disappear
》persistent red eye or inflammation of the
eyelids that does not respond to medication
》newly acquired flat or elevated pigmented
lesions that have irregular borders and growth
》unexplained loss of eyelashes
If you have any of these warning signals,
consult a skin cancer specialist or
ophthalmologist, even if you feel no
discomfort.
consult a skin cancer specialist or
ophthalmologist, even if you feel no
discomfort.
The sun does have some health
benefits, here's some more reasons to get some more sunlight
Intraocular melanoma: Although rare, it is the
most common eye cancer in adults. It starts in
the uveal tract, the middle layer of the eye
containing the iris (the part of the eye
responsible for eye color) and the pupil, which
lies in the center of the iris. Symptoms may
include a dark spot on the iris, blurred vision,
or a change in the pupil's shape. Sometimes,
however, there are no symptoms.
Conjunctival cancers: Once rare, these cancers
have been rising rapidly in incidence in recent
years, based on NCI data. Research covering 10
percent of the U.S. population showed that
incidence among white men especially
increased - 295 percent over a 27-year period.
Conjunctival melanomas may be more common
in patients with atypical mole syndrome; these
patients have 100 or more moles, one or more
moles 8 mm (1/3 inch) or larger in diameter,
and one or more moles that are atypical. All
patients with cutaneous melanomas and/or
atypical moles should have yearly
ophthalmologic evaluations.
Cataracts: A progressive clouding and
yellowing of the crystalline lens, the eye's
focusing mechanism. At least 10 percent of
cataract cases are directly attributable to UV
exposure. In the U.S. alone, more than one
million operations to remove cataracts are
performed every year. Cataracts are the most
common cause of treatable blindness worldwide,
and UVB has been directly linked to cataracts.
Macular degeneration: Often referred to as
age-related, or senile, macular degeneration, it
is caused by damage to the retina over time.
The retina is the ocular membrane where
images are formed and transmitted to the
brain; the macula, the region of sharpest
vision near the center of the retina, is the
most likely area to be damaged. Macular
degeneration is one of the major causes of
vision loss in the U.S. for people over age 60.
While further research is required, some
studies point to UVA and HEV light as
potential causes of macular degeneration.
Benign growths of the conjunctiva: Problems
with the conjunctiva, the protective membrane
covering the outside of the eye and the inside
of the eyelids, usually develop later in life.
Pterygia, fleshy benign growths on the
conjunctiva that may ultimately interfere with
vision, may require surgical removal. These
unsightly growths most frequently occur in
areas where UV is intense year-round.
Keratitis, or corneal sunburn: Excessive
exposure to UV from the sun or tanning
machines can literally burn the cornea, the
eye's clear refracting surface that admits
light and images to the retina. UV-protective
lenses are therefore especially a must for
anyone who uses a tanning machine, as well as
for skiers or snowboarders , since UV is more
intense at high altitudes, and since snow
reflects back the sun's rays, so that they hit
your eyes a second time.
Virtually all of these UV-related eye
conditions can be found by an ophthalmologist
during a routine eye exam. Thus, it is important
to have a complete ophthalmologic exam,
including dilated funduscopy, on a yearly
basis.
most common eye cancer in adults. It starts in
the uveal tract, the middle layer of the eye
containing the iris (the part of the eye
responsible for eye color) and the pupil, which
lies in the center of the iris. Symptoms may
include a dark spot on the iris, blurred vision,
or a change in the pupil's shape. Sometimes,
however, there are no symptoms.
Conjunctival cancers: Once rare, these cancers
have been rising rapidly in incidence in recent
years, based on NCI data. Research covering 10
percent of the U.S. population showed that
incidence among white men especially
increased - 295 percent over a 27-year period.
Conjunctival melanomas may be more common
in patients with atypical mole syndrome; these
patients have 100 or more moles, one or more
moles 8 mm (1/3 inch) or larger in diameter,
and one or more moles that are atypical. All
patients with cutaneous melanomas and/or
atypical moles should have yearly
ophthalmologic evaluations.
Cataracts: A progressive clouding and
yellowing of the crystalline lens, the eye's
focusing mechanism. At least 10 percent of
cataract cases are directly attributable to UV
exposure. In the U.S. alone, more than one
million operations to remove cataracts are
performed every year. Cataracts are the most
common cause of treatable blindness worldwide,
and UVB has been directly linked to cataracts.
Macular degeneration: Often referred to as
age-related, or senile, macular degeneration, it
is caused by damage to the retina over time.
The retina is the ocular membrane where
images are formed and transmitted to the
brain; the macula, the region of sharpest
vision near the center of the retina, is the
most likely area to be damaged. Macular
degeneration is one of the major causes of
vision loss in the U.S. for people over age 60.
While further research is required, some
studies point to UVA and HEV light as
potential causes of macular degeneration.
Benign growths of the conjunctiva: Problems
with the conjunctiva, the protective membrane
covering the outside of the eye and the inside
of the eyelids, usually develop later in life.
Pterygia, fleshy benign growths on the
conjunctiva that may ultimately interfere with
vision, may require surgical removal. These
unsightly growths most frequently occur in
areas where UV is intense year-round.
Keratitis, or corneal sunburn: Excessive
exposure to UV from the sun or tanning
machines can literally burn the cornea, the
eye's clear refracting surface that admits
light and images to the retina. UV-protective
lenses are therefore especially a must for
anyone who uses a tanning machine, as well as
for skiers or snowboarders , since UV is more
intense at high altitudes, and since snow
reflects back the sun's rays, so that they hit
your eyes a second time.
Virtually all of these UV-related eye
conditions can be found by an ophthalmologist
during a routine eye exam. Thus, it is important
to have a complete ophthalmologic exam,
including dilated funduscopy, on a yearly
basis.
Monday, 18 April 2016
SINGING IMPROVES PARKINSON'S SYMPTOMS AND QUALITY OF LIFE
.Parkinson' s disease is a degenerative
disorder of the central nervous system.
A study suggests group singing appears to
relieve some of the symptoms not currently
targeted by existing treatments.
The symptoms of Parkinson's include tremor,
particularly in the hands, arms, legs, face and
jaw. It causes a slowness in movement, problems
with balance and emotional changes.
These symptoms are often the prime focus of
research, but they are not the only life-
changing difficulties that Parkinson's disease
presents.
Impairments in breathing and voice are also
substantial hurdles that cause a significant
drop in quality of life.
Voice impairments impact 60-80% of
Parkinson's patients. Their voice can become
monotone and display less variety in volume;
there may also be a reduced vocal intensity
and pitch, and a harsh, breathy voice.
Standard Parkinson's treatments do not target
these aspects with the same level of success as
the motor symptoms. Deep brain stimulation of
the subthalamic nucleus, which relieves many
of Parkinson's classic symptoms, can, in fact,
make voice alterations worse.
Parkinson' s voice therapies
Although there are various interventions
designed to improve voice and breathing
deficits, they do not tend to address overall
quality of life, and, as symptoms progress,
drop out rates of these therapies are often
high. This means that even the most beneficial
therapies do not always have the opportunity
to take full effect.
Researchers at Iowa State University, led by
Elizabeth Stegemöller, set out to investigate
whether group singing could help relieve some
of the voice symptoms of Parkinson's disease
and, at the same time, increase quality of life
and whole health measures.
Singing is a culturally universal pastime that
improves bonding and produces a sense of
belonging that traditional therapies often
cannot match. Additionally, singing can be
considered an elongated type of speech with
particular emphasis on rhythm, tempo, tonal
changes and respiratory control.
Parkinson's therapy involving singing has been
trialed in previous studies, but findings have
been mixed. This study is the first to test
whether improvements in symptoms can be
affected by "dosage," in other words, can two
singing sessions a week be more effective than
one?
Can singing relieve the symptoms?
The trial consisted of 27 Parkinson's patients
who attended group singing sessions either
once or twice a week. Before and after the 8-
week trial, swallowing measures and voice
measures, such as the patient's vocal range
and how long they could hold a note, were
recorded.
Therapy sessions involved vocal exercises,
followed by renditions of popular songs,
including "You Are My Sunshine" and "Show Me
The Way To Go Home."
The researchers found that, after 2 months of
singing, there were significant improvements in
pitch duration, vocal loudness and swallow
control.
Both groups (one session per week and twice
per week) demonstrated a significant
improvement in maximum inspiratory and
expiratory pressure, as well as phonation time.
Other voice measures improved, but not to a
statistically significant degree.
Importantly, questionnaires that assessed the
impact of voice changes on their quality of
life (and their overall quality of life) showed
significant improvements.
'Singing addresses social and emotional
aspects '
WHY MEDICAL STUDENTS MUST AVOID JUNK FOODS
There’s no doubt that fast foods and processed foods have increased the burden childhood obesity, heart disease and diabetes and have made these chronic diseases a common lifestyle concern. Recently, the Delhi Government demanded a crackdown on junk food that is sold in schools and within 50 meters of them.
( Chips, Burgers and Cold Drinks to be Banned in Delhi Schools )
"those commercial products, including candy, bakery goods, ice cream, salty snacks, and soft drinks, which have little or no nutritional value but do have plenty of calories, salt, and fats. While not all fast foods are junk foods, most are. Fast foods are ready-to-eat foods served promptly after ordering."
Not only do they add inches to your waistline, but scientists and researchers have also indicated through various studies that junk food can actually cause serious damage to your brain. The worrying bit is that it’s not just years of poor eating, but regular consumption of junk food even for few days can lead to a mental meltdown.
The more junk food you consume, the less likely you are to consume the essential nutrients that your body relies on. You know that junk food can hurt your health, but you may have not known about the effects of junk food on how your brain functions.
1. It can cause memory and learning problems
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2011 showed that healthy people who ate junk food for only 5 days performed poorly on cognitive tests that measured attention, speed, and mood. It concluded that eating junk food for just five days regularly can deteriorate your memory. This probably stems from the fact that a poor or toxic diet can cause certain chemical reactions that lead to inflammation in the hippocampus area of the brain which is associated with memory and special recognition.
( There are 19 Ingredients in Your McDonald's French Fries! )
Diets that are high in sugar and fat can suppress the activity of a brain peptide called BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) that helps with learning and memory formation. Moreover, the brain contains synapses which are responsible for learning and memory. Eating too many calories can interfere with the healthy production and functioning of these synapses.
2. Increases the risk of dementia
This has been one of the scariest discoveries associated with the consumption of junk food. You may know that insulin is produced in the pancreas and helps in the transportation of glucose to fuel the body. Insulin is also produced in the brain where it helps in carrying signals between nerve cells and forming memories. A study conducted at the Brown University shows that too much fatty food and sweets can substantially increase the insulin levels in our body.
Just like in the case of Type 2 Diabetes, with higher levels of insulin, the brain stops responding to this hormone and become resistant to it. This can restrict our ability to think, recall or create memories, thus increasing the risk of dementia. Researcher Suzanne de la Monte, M.D., a professor of pathology, neurology, and neurosurgery at Rhode Island Hospital and the Alpert Medical School of Brown University was the first to uncover this association. Following this discovery, most scientists refer to Alzheimer’s as a form of diabetes of the brain.
( Shocking Secrets About the Junk Food Industry)
3. Lessens its ability to control appetite
Excess consumption of trans fats found in fried and processed foods can send mixed signals to the brain which makes it difficult to process what you have eaten and how hungry are. This is probably why you end up overeating. Healthy brain functions require a daily dose of essential fatty acids like omega-6 and omega-3. Deficiency of these two elements increases the risk of attention deficit disorder, dementia and bipolar disorder and other brain-related problems.
( The Dark Side of Instant Noodles: What Makes Them Harmful? )
Over consumption of junk food may displace these with trans fats which are harder to digest. A 2011 study shows that trans fats may cause inflammation in hypothalamus, the part of brain that containing neurons to control body weight.
In worst scenarios, the habit of overeating can be similar to drug addiction to an extent that relying on junk foods may activate the pleasure centres of the brain greater than receiving drugs.
( Junk Food May Kill Your Appetite for Healthy Food)
4. It can cause chemical changes that can lead to depression
A lot of studies have shown that eating foods high in sugar and fat actually changes the chemical activity of the brain making it more dependent on such foods. A study conducted at the University of Montreal on mice showed that they suffered with withdrawal symptoms after their regular junk food diet was discontinued. In humans, these withdrawal symptoms can lead to the inability to deal with stress, make you feel depressed and eventually you would turn back to those foods to comfort yourself and handle these feelings. Soon, you may be caught in a vicious cycle even before you know it. Also, by consuming too much fast food you may lose out on essential nutrients like amino acid tryptophan, the lack of which can increase feelings of depression. An imbalance of fatty acids is another reason why people who consume more junk food are at a higher risk of depression.
( 7 Most Addictive Foods That Are Unhealthy )
5. It makes you impatient and can cause uncontrollable cravings
Eating a sugary cupcake or doughnut may temporarily spike your blood sugar levels making you feel happy and satisfied but as soon as they return to normal you are left feeling all the more irritable.
Fast food is packed with refined carbohydrates which cause your blood sugar levels to fluctuate rapidly. If your sugar levels dip to a very low level, it can cause anxiety, confusion and fatigue. With high content of sugar and fats, you tend to eat too fast and too much to satisfy your cravings. This can inculcate an impatient behaviour while dealing with other things. Fast foods and processed foods may be laden with artificial flavourings and preservatives like sodium benzoate that tends to increase hyperactivity.
Fast foods are specially designed to be addictive in nature with high levels of salts, sugars and fats that make you crave them. The addictive nature of fast food can make your brain crave them even when you are not hungry.
Saturday, 16 April 2016
THE HOLY SPIRIT
THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.
The holy spirit is the third person of the blessed trinity. He is truly God and has been present with God the father from the very beginning (Gen.1:2). He is the true author of the bible (2 Pet.1:20-21). The holy spirit is a person (he) and not a thing (it) as evidenced by the sacred scriptures where the holy spirit is addressed with the masculine pronouns "he, him" etc and not with neuter pronoun "it". So instead of saying "have you received IT" it should be "have you received HIM" and so on. Although the holy spirit can manifest in the form of a dove (Mat. 3:16) or wind or tongues of fire (Acts. 2:2-3) etc, he is not any of these.
As Christians, the laying of hands by the Bishop does not signify the reception of the holy spirit, it is only a CONFIRMATION of that spirit of God we received at our baptism (Mat. 3:16-17) and a sign of manifestation of this spirit.
The holy spirit that is alive and active in us is not a new holy spirit; he is the same one that gave life to Adam (Gen. 2:7), he is the same holy spirit that descended on Jesus in the appearance of a dove at his baptism and the same one that descended on the apostles in the form of tongues of fire on pentecost day. He has no hands, no legs and no mouth and does not work in a vacuum. He continues his mighty works through us as often we empty ourselves and make ourselves fit for his use.
The holy spirit gives us the Power to succeed (Zech. 4:6), he is the spirit of truth who reveals the will of the father (Jn. 16:13), he makes us God's children (Rom. 8:14) and teaches us (Jn. 14:26), he helps us to pray (Rom. 8:26) and reveals to us the truth about sin, righteousness and judgement (Jn. 16:8), he even possesses the ability to give life to our mortal bodies (Rom. 8:9-11).
How can we know if we still have this holy spirit? By their fruits you shall know them (Mat. 7:16). The fruits of the holy spirit are; love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, humility and self control (Gal. 5:22-23).
How can we lose this holy spirit? If we obey the desires of the flesh which are in conflict with those of the spirit. These include: immorality, filthy/indecent actions, idolatry, witchcraft, hate, envy, malice, jealousy, drunkenness, anger etc. (Gal. 5:16-21).
What happens if we grieve or rebel against this holy spirit? If we grieve this spirit of God, we become enemies of God (Isa. 63:10), we would not obtain God's forgiveness in this life or in the life to come (Mk. 3:28-29) and we lose our ticket to freedom (Eph. 4:30).
Even as we empty ourselves to God's grace, let us beg God for the gift of his holy spirit made manifest in different ways in each of us for the salvation of our souls and the souls of others (1 Cor. 12:7) and make conscious efforts to fan into flames these gifts we received at confirmation (2 Tim. 1:6).
TAKE NOT YOUR HOLY SPIRIT FROM ME.
THE HOLY SPIRIT
THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.
The holy spirit is the third person of the blessed trinity. He is truly God and has been present with God the father from the very beginning (Gen.1:2). He is the true author of the bible (2 Pet.1:20-21). The holy spirit is a person (he) and not a thing (it) as evidenced by the sacred scriptures where the holy spirit is addressed with the masculine pronouns "he, him" etc and not with neuter pronoun "it". So instead of saying "have you received IT" it should be "have you received HIM" and so on. Although the holy spirit can manifest in the form of a dove (Mat. 3:16) or wind or tongues of fire (Acts. 2:2-3) etc, he is not any of these.
As Christians, the laying of hands by the Bishop does not signify the reception of the holy spirit, it is only a CONFIRMATION of that spirit of God we received at our baptism (Mat. 3:16-17) and a sign of manifestation of this spirit.
The holy spirit that is alive and active in us is not a new holy spirit; he is the same one that gave life to Adam (Gen. 2:7), he is the same holy spirit that descended on Jesus in the appearance of a dove at his baptism and the same one that descended on the apostles in the form of tongues of fire on pentecost day. He has no hands, no legs and no mouth and does not work in a vacuum. He continues his mighty works through us as often we empty ourselves and make ourselves fit for his use.
The holy spirit gives us the Power to succeed (Zech. 4:6), he is the spirit of truth who reveals the will of the father (Jn. 16:13), he makes us God's children (Rom. 8:14) and teaches us (Jn. 14:26), he helps us to pray (Rom. 8:26) and reveals to us the truth about sin, righteousness and judgement (Jn. 16:8), he even possesses the ability to give life to our mortal bodies (Rom. 8:9-11).
How can we know if we still have this holy spirit? By their fruits you shall know them (Mat. 7:16). The fruits of the holy spirit are; love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, humility and self control (Gal. 5:22-23).
How can we lose this holy spirit? If we obey the desires of the flesh which are in conflict with those of the spirit. These include: immorality, filthy/indecent actions, idolatry, witchcraft, hate, envy, malice, jealousy, drunkenness, anger etc. (Gal. 5:16-21).
What happens if we grieve or rebel against this holy spirit? If we grieve this spirit of God, we become enemies of God (Isa. 63:10), we would not obtain God's forgiveness in this life or in the life to come (Mk. 3:28-29) and we lose our ticket to freedom (Eph. 4:30).
Even as we empty ourselves to God's grace, let us beg God for the gift of his holy spirit made manifest in different ways in each of us for the salvation of our souls and the souls of others (1 Cor. 12:7) and make conscious efforts to fan into flames these gifts we received at confirmation (2 Tim. 1:6).
TAKE NOT YOUR HOLY SPIRIT FROM ME.
Friday, 15 April 2016
THE ONE TRUE CHURCH
THE ONE TRUE CHURCH
By Fr. Arnold Damen S.J.
I.
"He who believes and is baptized shall be saved,
but he who does not believe shall be condemned."
-Mark 16:16
MY DEARLY BELOVED CHRISTIANS:
-- From these words of our Divine Savior, it has already been proved to you, that Faith is necessary for Salvation, and without Faith there is no salvation; without Faith there is eternal damnation. Read your own Protestant Bible, 16th verse of St. Mark, and you will find it stronger there than in the Catholic Bible.
Now, then, what kind of Faith must a man have to be saved? Will any Faith do? Why, if any Faith will do, the devil himself will be saved, for the Bible says the devils believe and tremble.
It is, therefore, not a matter of indifference what religion a man professes; he must profess the right and true religion, and without that there is no hope of salvation, for it stands to reason, my dear people, that if God reveals a thing or teaches a thing, He wants to be believed. Not to believe is to insult God. Doubting His word, or believing even with doubt and hesitating, is an insult to God, because it is doubting His Sacred Word. We must, therefore, believe without doubting, without hesitating.
I have said, out of the Catholic Church there is not Divine Faith; there can be no Divine Faith out of that Church. Some of my Protestant friends will be shocked at this, to hear me say that out of the Catholic Church there is no Divine Faith, and that without Faith there is no salvation, but damnation. I will prove all I have said.
I have said that out of the Church there can be no Divine Faith. What is Divine Faith? When we believe a thing upon the authority of God, and believe it without doubt, without hesitating. Now, all our separated brethren outside of the Catholic Church take the private interpretation of the Bible for their guide; but the private interpretation of the Bible can never give them Divine Faith.
Let me, for instance, suppose for a moment, here is a Presbyterian; he reads his Bible; from the reading of his Bible he comes to the conclusion that Jesus Christ is God. Now, you know this is the most essential of all Christian doctrines, the foundation of all Christianity. From the reading of his Bible he comes to the conclusion that Jesus Christ is God; and he is a sensible man, an intelligent man, and not a presumptuous man. And he says: here is my Unitarian neighbor, who is just as reasonable and intelligent as I am, as honest, as learned, and as prayerful as I am, and, from the reading of the Bible, he comes to the conclusion that Christ is not God at all. "Now," says he, "to the best of my opinion and judgment, I am right, and my Unitarian neighbor is wrong; but, after all," says he, "I may be mistaken! Perhaps I have not the right meaning of the text, and if I am wrong, perhaps he is right, after all; but, to the best of my opinion and judgment, I am right and he is wrong."
On what does he believe? On what authority? On his own opinion and judgment. And what is that? A human opinion, human testimony, and, therefore, a human faith. He cannot say positively, "I am sure, positively sure, as sure as there is a God in heaven, that this is the meaning of the text." Therefore, he has no other authority but his own opinion and judgment, and what his preacher tells him. But the preacher is a smart man. There are many smart Unitarian preachers, also, but that proves nothing; it is only human authority, and nothing else, and, therefore, only human faith. What is human faith? Believing a thing on the testimony of man. Divine Faith is believing on the testimony of God.
II.
The Catholic has Divine Faith, and why? Because the Catholic says: "I believe in such and such a thing." Why? "Because the Church teaches me so."
Click the link to read more
http://www.olrl.org/apologetics/one_church.shtml
NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS OF BITTER LEAF
Bitter leaf
Bitter leaf as the name implies is a bitter leafy green or sometimes gray vegetable known in Nigeria as onugbu by the Igbos, ewuro by the Yorubas and chusa-doki shawaka by the Hausas. Scientifically, it is called
vernonia amygdalina and sometimes referred to as ironweed.
READ ALSO: 9 Nigerian Snacks That Are Great For Your Health
Bitter leaf offers many health benefits including but not limited to blood sugar regulation, helping with repair of the pancreas and may also help reduce the risk of breast cancer amongst other things. Nigeria is blessed to have bitter leaf growing any and everywhere. It is among the cheapest vegetables or herbs you can buy. As such, there is absolutely no reason not to incorporate it into your diet. Here is a quick run-down of thirteen major health benefits of adding bitter leaf to your diet.
‘Washing’ bitter leaf
1. May reduce the risk of breast cancer
2. Can reduce cholesterol which in turn helps reduce the risk factors associated with Stroke, Heart Attack and Alzheimer’s
3. Contains Antioxidants in abundance which helps to check oxidation thereby increasing the body’s disease fighting properties.
4. It aids digestion
5. Helps in maintaining the liver and kidney
Bitter leaf soup with eba
6. It helps to cleanse the body.
7. It increases metabolism which, along with other factors, helps in maintaining a healthy weight
8. Bitter leaf is a great source of essential fatty acids such as poly unsaturated fatty acids, linolenic and linoleic acid which helps protect against cardiovascular diseases.
9. It may help to eradicate pain.
READ ALSO: Naij.com Recipe Of The Month: Easy Steamed Okro
10. It helps regulate the blood sugar thereby helping to reduce the risk of Type II diabetes.
11. It is a great source of Vitamin A, Vitamin B1 and B2, Vitamin C and Vitamin E.
12. May help relieve fevers.
13. Contains antibiotic and antifungal properties which helps cure skin ailments and diseases.
That should be enough reason to have you sprinting to the market for some bitter leaf right?
Bitter leaf juice
So whether you decide to chow it down fresh or in the form of bitter leaf juice and drinking up, or as a tonic which you store in your fridge and take tablespoons daily or the more popular way of cooking it and incorporating it into various recipes (which is more pleasing to the palate, we might add), you definitely can’t go wrong with bitter leaf in your diet. And while we are on the matter, here are interesting and delicious recipes containing bitter leaf that we think will make you mouth water!
Thursday, 14 April 2016
AMAZING BENEFITS OF ALOE-VERA FOR HAIR, SKIN & WEIGHT-LOSS
The green-cactus looking plant that sits out in your garden isn't just a plant with its roots in folklore, it's the crux of a million dollar industry that extends from beauty creams to healthy juices and diet supplements. Over time, aloe vera has seamlessly integrated itself into everything we use. But what makes this miracle plant so distinguishable?
The aloe vera plant is about one or two feet tall with prickly and bitter leaves, which act as a defence to keep animals and insects from feeding on the plant. The leaves hold a gooey translucent gel, also extremely bitter, and known all over the world for it's unbelievable healing properties. This translucent gel is made up of around 96% water, some organic and inorganic compounds, a type of protein which contains 18 of the 20 amino acids found in the body and lastly, Vitamin A, B, C and E. Another part of the aloe vera plant which is used is the 'sap', a yellow-coloured liquid stuck to the skin of the plant from the inside. When dried and purified, the powdered aloe is often used as a laxative, though it's effectiveness is questionable. One of the most crucial elements found in aloe vera gel is a complex carbohydrate known as acemannan. It allows nutrients to reach the cells, nourish them and at the same time relieve them of toxins. Ayurveda , Chinese herbal medicine and British herbal medicine have all advocated aloe vera as a healer, when applied or consumed orally. Let's go over some of its most prominent benefits.
Aloe Vera for Beauty
Bill C. Coats writes, "Since the skin needs nutrition of its own, Aloe Vera, when formulated into a properly designed personal care regimen, can treat, exfoliate, restore, reveal and provide constant, impressive nutrition to the human skin." And we're about to show just how you can do that. Once you move past the slimey texture of natural aloe vera gel and apply it to your skin, you'll notice how soothing and cooling it is. And it's for these exact reasons that Ayurveda refers to aloe vera as the miracle herb that can be used to treat wounds, minor cuts, dry skin and severe burns.
Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj , Delhi-based dermatologist says, "Aloe Vera is rich in Vitamin C , E and beta carotene which gives it its nourishing and anti-ageing qualities. It can moisturise the skin without making it greasy, which makes it a great buy for those with oily skin." She also suggests drinking aloe vera juice early in the morning on an empty stomach because it improves digestion and cures any kind of stomach trouble. And you know that if you've got a healthy inside, it'll give you a glowing outside which in this case is radiant skin.
Aloe vera or aloe vera-based products can be used in the winter as well as in the summer and by people of all skin types. Aloe vera treats the cells on the epithelial level of the skin which is why it's recommended by dermatologists to remove tan, treat sunburn and stretch marks. One way to use aloe vera is to apply the gel directly, another would be to make a pack using aloe vera along with some other special ingredients from your kitchen.
1. Aloe Vera for Dry Skin - Take some aloe vera, a pinch of turmeric, a teaspoon of honey , a teaspoon of milk and a few drops of rose water . Blend this mix till you get a paste. Apply it and leave in for about 20 minutes or so.
2. Aloe Vera Scrub - Grab half a cup of fresh aloe vera gel, a cup of sugar and two tablespoons of lemon juice. The sugar will help exfoliate and scrub off dead skin, the aloe vera will deep clean the skin and the lemon will help fade out scars and tan. Stir the three ingredients together and use it to scrub both face and body.
3. Aloe Vera for Acne - Take some aloe vera gel, blended walnuts with a flour like consistency and honey. Aloe vera's healing properties coupled with the anti-oxidants from honey will leave you with smooth and clear skin.
4. Aloe vera for Sensitive Skin - Grab some aloe vera gel, cucumber juice, yoghurt and rose oil and blend them to a paste. Apply and leave for around 20 minutes, then rinse it off.
Aloe Vera for Weight-Loss
It's not just the beauty industry that's obsessing over the benefits of aloe vera, the health industry can't stop raving about it either. According to Britt Brandon, the author of The Everything Guide to Aloe Vera for Health, "Aloe vera can improve the effectiveness of your diet and maximise your
weight-loss potential. With ample amounts of vitamins and minerals that contribute to weight-loss, as well as amino acids, enzymes and sterols, aloe vera ensures your diet is not only supportive of weight-loss, but also improves the body's absorption and utilisation, improving overall health as well as weight-loss success."
Aloe vera is used in a wide range of health products, like diet supplements, juices etc. It's rich in anti-oxidants which means it helps cut out free radicals in the body and boost your immunity. It's also a good source of protein so it helps muscle development and gives you copious amounts of energy. There are countless studies that prove how effective aloe vera is for weight-loss, but it should be consumed regularly and over a long period of time for it to really work. How to drink aloe vera juice: The natural taste of aloe vera is so bitter that you wouldn't think of consuming it as is. Take the gel, dice it into small pieces and blend. Now mix a bit of this with some other fruit or vegetable juice that's preferably sweet. You can also use the leaves of aloe vera, blend them, strain and drink. If you find it too bitter then mix it up with honey and drink. You can also add some lemon to this mix.
Aloe Vera for Hairfall
Aloe vera contains something called proteolytic enzymes which repairs dead skin cells on the scalp. It also acts as a great conditioner and leaves your hair all smooth and shiny. It promotes hair growth, prevents itching on the scalp, reduces dandruff and conditions your
hair . Diane Gage, author of Aloe Vera: Nature's Soothing Healer says, "Keratin, the primary protein of hair, consists of amino acids, oxygen, carbon, and small amounts of hydrogen, nitrogen, and sulphur. Aloe vera has a chemical make up similar to that of keratin and it rejuvenates the hair with its own nutrients, giving it more elasticity and preventing breakage."
The perfect pack : Here's a delicious hair mask that you should apply once a week or every fortnight. Apply and leave it in for as long as possible for strong, smooth and bouncy hair.
STEPS ON HOW TO PRAY THE CATHOLIC ROSARY
How To Pray The Rosary - The purpose of the Rosary is to help keep in memory certain principal events or mysteries in the history of our salvation, and to thank and praise God for them. There are twenty mysteries reflected upon in the Rosary, and these are divided into the five JOYFUL MYSTERIES , the five LUMINOUS MYSTERIES , the five SORROWFUL MYSTERIES , and the five
GLORIOUS MYSTERIES . You may also wish to pray the rosary online , with others or by yourself. As suggested by the Pope St. John Paul the Great, the Joyful mysteries are said on Monday and Saturday, the Luminous on Thursday, the Sorrowful on Tuesday and Friday, and the Glorious on Wednesday and Sunday (with this exception: Sundays of Christmas season - The Joyful; Sundays of Lent - Sorrowful).
1. Make the Sign of the Cross and say the "Apostles' Creed."
2. Say the "Our Father."
3. Say three "Hail Marys."
4. Say the "Glory be to the Father."
5. Announce the First Mystery; then say the "Our Father."
6. Say ten "Hail Marys," while meditating on the Mystery.
7. Say the "Glory be to the Father."
8. Announce the Second Mystery; then say the "Our Father." Repeat 6 and 7 and continue with Third, Fourth and Fifth Mysteries in the same manner.
-
Those who pray the Rosary regularly would do well to be enrolled in the Confraternity to gain extra spiritual benefits for each Rosary they pray.
Enroll in the Confraternity
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Dominican Manner of Praying the Rosary
How To Pray The Rosary - The purpose of the Rosary is to help keep in memory certain principal events or mysteries in the history of our salvation, and to thank and praise God for them. There are twenty mysteries reflected upon in the Rosary, and these are divided into the five JOYFUL MYSTERIES , the five LUMINOUS MYSTERIES , the five SORROWFUL MYSTERIES , and the five
GLORIOUS MYSTERIES . You may also wish to pray the rosary online , with others or by yourself. As suggested by the Pope St. John Paul the Great, the Joyful mysteries are said on Monday and Saturday, the Luminous on Thursday, the Sorrowful on Tuesday and Friday, and the Glorious on Wednesday and Sunday (with this exception: Sundays of Christmas season - The Joyful; Sundays of Lent - Sorrowful).
After the Rosary:
HAIL, HOLY QUEEN, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope! To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve; to thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this vale of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary!
V. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let us pray. O GOD, whose only begotten Son, by His life, death, and resurrection, has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life, grant, we beseech Thee, that meditating upon these mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise, through the same Christ Our Lord. Amen.
After each decade say the following prayer requested by the Blessed Virgin Mary at Fatima: "O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell, lead all souls to Heaven, especially those who have most need of your mercy."
Wednesday, 13 April 2016
CONSTIPATION...causes; symptoms; prevention
What is Constipation?
Being constipated means your bowel movements are difficult or happen less often than normal. Almost everyone has it at some point in life, and it's usually not serious. Still, you'll feel much better when your system is back on track.
The normal length of time between bowel movements varies widely from person to person. Some people have bowel movements three times a day. Others have them only once or twice a week.
Going longer than three or more days without one is usually too long. After three days, the stool or feces become harder and tougher to pass.
What Are the Symptoms?
You may have:
*Few bowel movements
*Trouble having a bowel movement (straining)
*Hard or small stools
*A sense that everything didn’t come out
Swollen abdomen or abdominal pain
Vomiting
Why Does It Happen?
Some causes of constipation include:
*Antacid medicines containing calcium or aluminum
*Changes in your usual diet or activities
*Colon cancer
*Eating a lot of dairy products.
*Eating disorders
*Irritable bowel syndrome
*Neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis
Not being active
*Not enough water or fiber in your diet
Overuse of laxatives (Over time, this weakens the bowel muscles)
*Pregnancy
*Problems with the nerves and muscles in the digestive system
*Resisting the urge to have a bowel movement, which some people do because of hemorrhoids
Some medications (especially strong pain drugs such as narcotics, antidepressants, or iron pills)
Stress
Under active thyroid (hypothyroidism)
How Do Doctors Diagnose It?
If you have trouble with your bowel movements for more than two weeks, you should see your doctor. He or she may ask for these tests to find the cause of your constipation:
Blood tests to check on hormone levels
Barium studies to look for any blockages in your colon. For this test, you'll down a special drink and then get an X-ray.
Colonoscopy or other tests to look for blockages in your colon
What Should I Do If I Am Constipated?
Try these steps:
Drink two to four extra glasses of water a day (unless your doctor told you to limit fluids for another health reason).
Try warm liquids, especially in the morning.
Add fruits and vegetables to your diet.
Eat prunes and bran cereal.
If needed, use a very mild over-the-counter stool softener like docusate (Peri-Colace) or a laxative like magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia). Do not use laxatives for more than two weeks without calling your doctor. Laxative overuse can worsen your symptoms..
Can I Prevent Constipation?
In many cases, you can. These things help:
Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fiber. Good sources of fiber are fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole-grain bread and cereal (especially bran).
Drink 1 1/2 to 2 quarts of water and other fluids a day (unless your doctor has you on a fluid-restricted diet). Fiber and water work together to keep you regular.
Avoid caffeine. It can be dehydrating.
Check on milk. Some people may need to avoid it because dairy products may be constipating for them.
Exercise regularly.
Go to the bathroom when you feel the urge.
REAL FACT ABOUT CRAYFISH
Macronutrients
A 3-ounce serving of cooked crawfish contains 70 calories and 14 grams of protein along with trace amounts of fat and carbohydrates. It also contains 115 milligrams of cholesterol, which is 40 percent of the recommended daily limit of 300 milligrams for cholesterol for healthy people. People with heart disease or high cholesterol need to limit their daily cholesterol intake to less than 200 milligrams.
Vitamins
When you eat a serving of crawfish, you get 30 percent of the daily value for vitamin B-12, 10 percent of the DV for niacin and folate and 4 percent of the DV for riboflavin, thiamine and vitamin B-6. These B vitamins are essential for nervous system function, turning the food you eat into energy and keeping your liver, eyes, skin and hair healthy.
Minerals
Crawfish are a good source of phosphorus, providing 25 percent of the DV per serving. A 3-ounce serving also provides you with 10 percent of the DV for zinc, 8 percent of the DV for magnesium, 6 percent of the DV for calcium and 4 percent of the DV for iron. Phosphorus and magnesium help your body create and store energy, strengthen bones and teeth and assist with muscle and nerve function. Zinc makes it possible for you to smell and taste, assists with wound healing and immune function and the formation of DNA and protein.
Use
Purchase crawfish that are either frozen, cooked or alive. Cooked crawfish should be bright red in color. Cook crawfish the same way you would cook lobster, with boiling being one of the most common methods. Use your hands to pick out the meat from the little shells, especially the tails and larger claws. Some people also suck out the head when eating crawfish.
HARMFUL EFFECT OF MAKE-UP
Cosmetics contain a variety of ingredients, some good, some not so good, and some even potentially dangerous. Because so many people use makeup daily, an alarming amount can actually be absorbed into the skin, or breathed in to the lungs. Certain chemicals have been linked to health problems as severe as cancer, while others may cause a simple allergic reaction. With newer technology and spreading awareness of the dangers certain cosmetics carry, comes the advent of "natural" makeups, which are less likely to use harmful chemicals.
Allergic Reaction
One of the most common problems experienced with makeup is
an allergic reaction. In many cases, a person doesn't know they are allergic to the makeup until after using it with adverse results. The chemicals can cause rashes, acne, itching or dryness, wherever the makeup has been applied. The reaction can be nearly undetectable to quite severe.
Allergies can be determined by visiting a physician and completing a "patch test." During the test, the doctor applies certain chemicals to a small area of the skin, and then waits for a few days to see what reaction, if any, occurs. Once an allergy becomes apparent, consumers can avoid makeups that contain the problem chemical.
Acne
Certain makeups clog pores more than others. Liquid or cream makeups clog pores the most, while powder makeups and especially mineral makeup tend to leave skin a little clearer. When heavier makeup gets into the pores of the skin, it can be difficult to fully wash all the makeup away before going to sleep. When makeup is left in the pores, it attracts dirt and oil, which in turn combine to create blackheads. Blackheads basically consist of dirt that has gotten stuck within the skin, and they are often visible and can be removed. After a while, the blackhead will turn into a full blown blemish, which is an small bacterial infection. These do not last forever and can be "extracted" from the skin, but they can quite painful. Many people try to cover up blemishes with more makeup, which can actually make the problem worse by attracting more oil or dirt to the inflamed skin. To avoid this, it is best to find a makeup with washes off easily and possibly contains some antibacterial ingredients.
Cancer
Even though there has been a dramatic increase in the creation of "natural' or "organic" makeup products, there are still many brands that use potentially dangerous chemicals in the creation of their lines. Not all the ingredients in each product are tested for long-term safety, and although they are tested to make certain that there will be no immediate harmful results, some chemicals have been linked to cancer. It is rare, however, for the millions of people that use makeup daily, the risk increases. Chemicals like amorphous hydrated silica have been shown to contain small amounts of crystalline quartz, which has been linked to the development of cancer. Chemicals like this are absorbed through the skin, and also breathed in, bringing the toxins to the lungs.
Healthier skin
Many newer makeup actually contain ingredients that are good for the skin. Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial products help make makeup safer and more healthy for skin. Antibacterial ingredients ward off acne and help reduce redness, counter-acting some conditions that may be caused by other cosmetics. Many lines also include vitamins and even moisturizers that keep skin looking beautiful even after the makeup is washed off. Some foundations or moisturizers also include SPF, helping to avoid sun damaged skin or possibly even melanoma. At the same time, less sun damage also means that the skin looks younger longer, as sun damage creates premature wrinkles.
MIRACLE OF 'HAIL MARY'
The Hail Mary of a Protestant
(A true story)
A little six-year-old Protestant boy had often heard his Catholic companions reciting the prayer "Hail Mary." He liked it so much that he copied it, memorized it and would recite it every day. "Look, Mommy, what a beautiful prayer," he said to his mother one day.
"Never again say it," answered the mother. "It is a superstitious prayer of Catholics who adore idols and think Mary a goddess. After all, she is a woman like any other. Come on, take this Bible and read it. It contains everything that we are bound to do and have to do." From that day on the little boy discontinued his daily "Hail Mary" and gave himself more time to reading the Bible instead.
One day, while reading the Gospel, he came across the passage about the Annunciation of the Angel to Our Lady. Full of joy, the little boy ran to his mother and said: "Mommy, I have found the 'Hail Mary' in the Bible which says: 'Hail full of grace, the Lord is with thee, blessed art thou amongst women.' Why do you call it a superstitious prayer?"
On another occasion he found that beautiful Salutation of St. Elizabeth to the Virgin Mary and the wonderful canticle MAGNIFICAT in which Mary foretold that "the generations would call her blessed."
He said no more about it to his mother but started to recite the "Hail Mary" every day as before. He felt pleasure in addressing those charming words to the Mother of Jesus, our Savior.
When he was fourteen, he one day heard a discussion on Our Lady among the members of his family. Every one said that Mary was a common woman like any other woman. The boy, after listening to their erroneous reasoning could not bear it any longer, and full of indignation, he interrupted them, saying:
"Mary is not like any other children of Adam, stained with sin. No! The Angel called her FULL OF GRACE AND BLESSED AMONGST WOMEN. Mary is the Mother of Jesus Christ and consequently Mother of God. There is no higher dignity to which a creature can be raised. The Gospel says that the generations will proclaim her blessed and you are trying to despise her and look down on her. Your spirit is not the spirit of the Gospel or of the Bible which you proclaim to be the foundation of the Christian religion."
So deep was the impression which the boy's talk had made that his mother many times cried out sorrowfully: "Oh my God! I fear that this son of mine will one day join the Catholic religion, the religion of Popes!" And indeed, not very long afterwards, having made a serious study of both Protestantism and Catholicism, the boy found the latter to be the only true religion and embraced it and became one of its most ardent apostles.
Some time after his conversion, he met his married sister who rebuked him and said indignantly: "You little know how much I love my children. Should any one of them desire to become a Catholic, I would sooner pierce his heart with a dagger than allow him to embrace the religion of the Popes!"
Her anger and temper were as furious as those of St. Paul before his conversion. However, she would change her ways, just as St. Paul did on his way to Damascus. It so happened that one of her sons fell dangerously ill and the doctors gave up hope of recovery. Her brother then approached her and spoke to her affectionately, saying:
"My dear sister, you naturally wish to have your child cured. Very well, then, do what I ask you to do. Follow me, let us pray one 'Hail Mary' and promise God that, if your son recovers his health, you would seriously study the Catholic doctrine, and should you come to the conclusion that Catholicism is the only true religion, you would embrace it no matter what the sacrifices may be."
His sister was somewhat reluctant at the beginning, but as she wished for her son's recovery, she accepted her brother's proposal and recited the "Hail Mary" together with him. The next day her son was completely cured. The mother fulfilled her promise and she studied the Catholic doctrine. After long preparation she received Baptism together with her whole family, thanking her brother for being an apostle to her.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF RAW EGG
Raw Egg Benefits
Raw eggs supply protein to your diet. One egg contains approximately 6 grams of protein, less than 1 gram of carbohydrate and 186 milligrams of cholesterol per large egg. An egg is a small package full of vitamins, minerals and nutrients, including fat-soluble vitamins A and D and B-complex vitamins B-2, B-12, B-7, niacin and folate. Eggs also help meet your calcium, iron and potassium needs, and they contain the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect against retinal damage and cataracts. Cooking eggs reduces the nutrients that are affected by heat, according to Dr. Ben Kim. Heat-sensitive vitamins include vitamins A and D and B-complex vitamins such as folate.
Drinking Pasteurized Eggs
People who don't eat normally eat raw eggs might be put off not only by their consistency but also by the risk of salmonella poisoning, however small. Choosing pasteurized eggs, sold in supermarkets for a higher cost than regular commercial eggs, reduces the risk. Pasteurized eggs are heated in water of 136 degrees Fahrenheit, until the center reaches 135 F. This reduces the bacterial load of salmonella, decreasing the bacterial count by 100,000-fold, according to The Food Domain. This means that for every 100,000 salmonella bacteria originally present in a food, only one remains. You still need to refrigerate pasteurized eggs after you purchase them.
Avoiding Kitchen Contamination
Even if you buy pasteurized eggs, they can be cross-contaminated in your own kitchen. Pasteurization only kills bacteria on or in the egg before you buy it. Handling the eggs after touching another food carrying salmonella, or stirring the egg with utensils contaminated by salmonella, can contaminate your drink. Use only clean utensils and wash your hands before and after touching any food. Adding alcohol -- as in eggnog, for example -- will not necessarily kill salmonella bacteria. Symptoms of salmonella poisoning, which develop within six to 72 hours after ingestion, include chills, fever, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, headache nausea and vomiting.
Biotin Deficiency
Eating raw eggs over a period of several months can cause biotin deficiency, according to the website Biotin.com. This occurs because a protein in egg white, called avidin, binds with biotin and prevents its absorption. With cooked egg whites, this isn't an issue. Biotin deficiency can cause skin rashes, hair loss and neurological problems.
Tuesday, 12 April 2016
POPE FRANCIS APPOINTS NEW VATICAN AMBASSADOR TO THE U.S
Pope Francis has appointed French-born Archbishop Christophe Pierre as the Vatican ambassador to the U.S., replacing Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, the Holy See press office announced Tuesday.
The appointment of the new Vatican ambassador – known as an apostolic nuncio – comes after Archbishop Viganò reached the retirement age of 75 on Jan. 16 of this year. The Italian prelate had served as apostolic nuncio to the U.S. since 2011.
Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Ky., who heads the U.S. bishops’ conference, welcomed the announcement.
"On behalf of my brother bishops in the United States, I extend Archbishop Pierre a heartfelt greeting and my prayerful support as he embarks on his service to our country,” he said April 12. “A shared closeness with the Church in Mexico already creates a strong fraternal bond between us.”
Archbishop Kurtz also thanked Archbishop Viganò for “his selfless contributions to the life of the Church in the United States.”
It had been speculated that the role of papal nuncio to the U.S. would fall to Archbishop Pierre, who has been nuncio to Mexico since 2007. As
reported by CNA , Vaticanista Sandro Magister asserted in his March 10 blog that the 70-year-old Archbishop Pierre would be “imminently” promoted to the position.
Magister characterized Archbishop Pierre as a “Bergoglian,” and someone in whom Francis confides.
Additionally, a source close to the Mexican bishops' conference told CNA that Archbishop Pierre “is known for suggesting solid, reliable candidates to the episcopate.”
The French prelate was ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Rennes in 1970. In 1995 he was consecrated a bishop and appointed apostolic nuncio to Haiti. He served there until 1999, when he was transferred to Uganda.
In an April 8 speech at the Pontifical North American College's annual rector's dinner, Archbishop Viganò offered a farewell reflection of his four and a half year “mission” as the Pope's representative to the U.S., and the challenges against religious liberty in the country.
“As everyone knows, the past years have been very challenging for the Church in America,” he said, acknowledging in turn other significant events, including Pope Francis' visit to the U.S.
He stressed the need to pray “that the United States of America will protect our freedom, especially our religious liberty, as well as respect the human right to conscientious objection, and that we will be courageous in always defending the freedom to put our Catholic faith into practice without fear.”
“This is an age when we need great courage—courage to stand up for the Truth, even when we are not understood, or persecuted when we are understood. We need to be strong in the face of evil.”
Cardinal Donald Wuerl of Washington, D.C. welcomed the appointment, saying “Archbishop Pierre is recognized for his distinguished diplomatic career and service to the Church. I look forward to welcoming him to this archdiocese where he will make his home as he carries out his responsibilities across the country.”
Philadelphia Archbishop Charles Chaput echoed this welcome, saying, “Throughout his many years of service to the Church, Archbishop Pierre has displayed a strong sense of just diplomacy. Previously, he served as Apostolic Nuncio to Haiti, Uganda, and Mexico. His broad experience will greatly benefit the Church in the United States.”
“I also want to express my deep gratitude to Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, now retiring from his diplomatic duties,” Archbishop Chaput continued.
“Throughout his time as Nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Vigano worked zealously for the spiritual welfare of Catholics and many other good people in our country. I am particularly thankful for his personal friendship and invaluable assistance as the Archdiocese of Philadelphia prepared for the World Meeting of Families and the visit of our Holy Father last year.”
PERFECT WAY TO SAY THE LORD'S PRAY...Our Father.
The Lord's Prayer is a basic and very important pattern as Jesus taught us to pray when the disciples asked.
Given by Jesus in Matthew 6:9-14 ("This is how you should pray," He said), it is considered an outline of an individual Christian's relationship with God and other people.
It praises the Lord and covers everything we need in this life and to attain happiness. This is often one of the first prayers taught to a new Christian, whether a child is learning to pray or an adult is entering the faith. Make it a living prayer, as a guide every day, that God may bless you in every way.
Steps
Quiet your thoughts and focus them on God. If you want, kneel, close your eyes, or make the Sign of the Cross .
Begin with: "Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed [kept holy] be Thy name".
Here, you praise God as your Father and lift up His name as holy.
Praise the Lord's kingdom and desire its fulfillment: "Thy kingdom come." His kingdom brings righteousness, peace, and joy in the presence of the Holy Spirit; and you are asking Him to usher these values into the world.
Next, trust your life into the hands of the Lord, saying: "Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven." God is just and kind, and He sees what is best for you in the long run, so you seek to submit yourself to His will.
Ask God to help you with your daily needs by praying: "Give us this day our daily bread."
Ask Him to wash away your sins , while reminding you that you should let go of your grudges and anger. "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us."
Ask God to guard you from testing and evil. "Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil."
Declare His power, trusting that everything is possible with Him, saying:
"For Thine is the Kingdom, the Power and the Glory forever."
Conclude your prayer humbly by saying:
"Amen."
Jesus taught us:
"After this manner therefore pray: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name.
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the Kingdom, the Power and the Glory forever. Amen." (Matthew 6: 9--13)
Tips
For God to forgive you, it is important you do the same. You need to actually forgive others when you pray as we forgive those who trespass against us.
Do not thoughtlessly recite this prayer – think about it and say if from the heart.
The apparent meaning depicted in the words of Jesus in the Lord's Prayer, as a Christian's first and most ardent desire, is: (1) the glory of God (desiring that God's "will being done on earth" which is all encompassing), and (2) the happiness of man by His kingdom coming and (3) asks for no more of this world than daily bread (this would perhaps include occupation and health), longing meantime for the bread that came down from heaven and (4) whose only other desires are forgiveness of sins, as he heartily forgives others, and (5) sanctification (desiring to avoid wrongdoing).
TREATMENT OF ACNE-skin diseases
ACNE is a long-term
skin disease that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells and oil from the skin . Acne is characterized by areas of blackheads , whiteheads , pimples , and
greasy skin, and may result in scarring . The resulting appearance can lead to anxiety , reduced self-esteem and, in extreme cases,
depression or thoughts of suicide .
Acne is not just a facial condition it can appear on other parts of the body such as shoulders, arms and on the back. These areas of the body have lots of glands which produce oil. If a sustained hygiene regime is not followed then acne can be a result due to infections occurring. Proper hygiene can prevent acne flare-ups.
Keeping the whole of your body clean is important as it will help to keep your skin acne free. Never neglect your personal hygiene regime and clean yourself effectively.
Because we all have different skin and the causes vary from one person to the next there is no cure which will suit all.
However there are many ways of keeping on top of your hygiene by following some simple tips:
■Showering is advisable over a bath – the constant flow of water opens the pores. It can also help with any pain you may experience with acne. Bathing may cause infections to move to a new location and create further outbreaks.
■Shower twice a day under warm water to open the pores which will help wash away dirt, bacteria, oil and chemicals followed by cooler water which will close the pores preventing the pores from being blocked with dirt and bacteria. By showering twice a day will ensure cleanliness. A warm shower is also beneficial for skin which is extremely oily as they can have a drying effect on the skin thus removing any excess oil which can cause acne.
■Do not use harsh soaps: choose soaps, shampoos and cleansers made from natural ingredients which contain vitamin E and antioxidants.
■Do not scrub your skin, as scrubbing can irritate the skin causing discomfort.
If you prefer or have no choice but to take a bath consider adding a few ounces of hydrogen peroxide to the water this will help destroy bacteria in the opened pores. You can bath for approximately 20-30 minutes.
■Use scent free mild soap: your doctor/dermatologist can recommend the best soap to use. Soap containing sulphur has anti-bacterial properties which can help kill bacteria.
■Use a good quality gentle moisturising body wash applied to a sponge.
After every bath/shower you may wish to consider applying a cream containing benzoyl peroxide on the areas of the body covered by acne. This type of cream can kill the bacteria. Before using a cream containing benzoyl peroxide you should seek advice from your doctor as the content of benzoyl peroxide is important – too much can cause redness and irritation.
■Make sure that you remove all soap residues from your body especially when taking a bath – not removing all the soap can aggravate acne especially on the back where it is difficult to get to – consider showering off your body after taking a bath.
■Make sure you wash both your cleaning cloths/towels immediately after having a shower or bath to prevent bacteria breeding.
Purchase a good quality bath sponge with some texture. You may wish to consider using a loofah or a long armed product which will reach those difficult areas such as the back. Using a textured sponge will exfoliate your skin which will remove dead cells preventing further acne. Keep it gentle though; remember you should not scrub your skin.
■Wash from top to bottom in that order. It is advisable to wash your hair first so that the dirt and bacteria is washed down and away. By following this method means by the time you have got to your feet your body is clean and free from dirt, oil, bacteria and chemicals from hair products etc.
■You should shave last if doing so in the shower: not only will it soften the hair and prevent irritation it will stop your pores from collecting dirt, oil, bacteria and chemicals. Shaving also acts as an exfoliator.
■You should shave last if doing so in the shower: not only will it soften the hair and prevent irritation it will stop your pores from collecting dirt, oil, bacteria and chemicals. Shaving also acts as an exfoliator.
■You may wish to invest in a shower filter, they can attach to your shower head: you can then use the shower head for a shower or to fill your bath with water.
■Steam baths/saunas can help in the treatment of acne: the steam will open and cleanse the pores and enhance blood circulation bringing oxygen and nutrients to the skin’s surface. You are advised to shower immediately after a steam/sauna to remove the sweat. Before considering this method of treatment it is always advisable to seek advice from your doctor or dermatologist.
HOW TO TREAT COCKROACH BITE
What do you worry about when there is a number of disgusting cockroaches crawling inside the house?
Probably, you think of these guys getting into your food and spreading diseases. However, there is one more thing to worry about – cockroaches’ bites.
Do roaches bite humans?
Although it doesn’t happen as often as someone may think, chances are you can be bitten by a pesky roach. Important German cockroaches that walk over cooking surfaces and kitchen utensils leave a residual trail of bacteria and the allergens behind them. This can cause serious allergies and health problems in humans. It doesn’t mean you should be scared, because cockroaches are more likely to run away when they see you then to bite you.
So, why do they bite us?
Let’s find out. Why these nasty roaches bite people The main reason these insects bite you is the fact that they are omnivores – eat just about anything. They have been known to eat human flesh. When it comes to bites, they are more likely to bite: Feet; Hands; Fingernails; Eyelashes. It doesn’t mean roaches really desire to bite you. They do it without intention. Food is what they look for. Therefore bites of roaches usually occur in the night, when people sleep with food remnants around their hands or mouth. A remnant of food is what attracts them most. All the cockroach species are capable of biting humans.
What species of roaches are capable of biting?
Almost all of them are capable. However, there are 3 species of cockroaches that are most known for their biting addiction. These are: Periplaneta American; German cockroach; Periplaneta australasiae. German cockroach bite as well as American cockroach bite is not fun. These ugly pests have chewing mouth parts due to which they can inflict painful bites causing mild skin reactions in sensitive people.
Wondered how to start German roach extermination?
Find all the answers here. Roach bites can be really dangerous. Here are the answers to some of your burning questions:
What is the best way to prevent roach bites?
To keep them out of the house, don’t eat cookies in bed, clean up food, unwashed dishes etc.
What should I do if the bite doesn’t disappear in 4 days?
You’d better visit a doctor.
Do roaches sting?
No, these insects don’t have stingers but can go for the easiest meal – they can bite humans.
Cockroach bites’ treatment
It’s hardly pleasant to be bitten by a roach. However, if you’ve been bitten by the one don’t dwell on the negatives. Try these recommendations: Clean the wound Dip the cotton swab in some rubbing alcohol and treat a bite. As far as these insects carry tons of bacteria, it is essential to debride a wound properly. Bites can get infected, become bigger and swell badly. Killing the infection by forcing the bacteria out of the bite is the first thing you are to do. Some species of cockroaches can go six weeks without a meal. Consult with a doctor If the bite was not properly cleaned, it may be infected. The bite can become from dark purple, bright red color to a sickly green one. If your bite is infected, purchase some anti bacterial medicine. But before buying any medicine, you’d better consult a doctor.
FECAMDS......IN CHRIST WE HEAL THE SICK
Monday, 11 April 2016
LATEST INFO ON ZIKA VIRUS
The findings are due to be presented at the
American Academy of Neurology's (AAN) 68th
Annual Meeting later this week in Vancouver,
Canada.
Zika virus has previously been linked to fetal
brain abnormalities , microcephaly and Guillain-
Barré syndrome - an autoimmune disorder that
attacks the nervous system, leading to long-
term weakness and paralysis.
The new study, conducted by Dr. Maria Lucia
Brito Ferreira and colleagues at Restoration
Hospital in Recife, Brazil, suggests that
another condition called acute disseminated
encephalomyelitis (ADEM) could be added to
this list.
"Though our study is small, it may provide
evidence that in this case the virus has
different effects on the brain than those
identified in current studies," says Dr.
Ferreira.
"Much more research will need to be done to
explore whether there is a causal link between
Zika and these brain problems."
ADEM typically occurs after an infection, with
50-75% of cases developing after a viral or
bacterial infection, according to the Cleveland
Clinic. In what could be an immune reaction to
the infection, swelling occurs in the brain and
spinal cord that damages the myelin, the
protective coating that surrounds nerve fibers.
The damage to the myelin leads to symptoms
that are very similar to those caused by
multiple sclerosis (MS), including fatigue ,
weakness to the point of paralysis and signs of
white matter tissue damage in the brain.
For their study, Dr. Ferriera and colleagues
followed every patient that visited the hospital
presenting symptoms associated with the
family of viruses that includes Zika virus,
along with dengue and chikungunya. The period
of observation ran from December 2014-June
2015.
Each patient that was followed during the
study came to the hospital with a fever that
was followed by the development of a rash.
Other symptoms shown by these patients
included itching, red eyes and joint or muscle
pain. All patients were found to have Zika
virus.
Findings suggest clinicians ' should be
vigilant' for ADEM in cases of Zika
Of these patients, a total of six went on to
develop neurological symptoms that were
indicative of an autoimmune disorder. For
some, these symptoms developed instantly,
while for others, the symptoms manifested up
to 15 days later. These patients underwent
additional examination and blood testing.
The researchers found that two of these six
patients had developed ADEM. Scans of their
brains showed signs that their white matter
had been damaged. The other four patients had
developed Guillain-Barré syndrome.
After they had been discharged from the
hospital, five of the patients still showed
problems with the working of their muscles.
One patient had problems with their memory
and thinking skills, while another had problems
with their vision.
Dr. Ferreira suggests that caution should be
taken when interpreting the findings of the
study, stating that they do not mean that all
people infected with Zika will experience these
brain problems.
"Of those who have nervous system problems,
most do not have brain symptoms," she
explains. "However, our study may shed light on
possible lingering effects the virus may be
associated with in the brain."
Dr. James Sejvar, a member of the AAN,
states that the findings suggest clinicians
"should be vigilant for the possible occurrence
of ADEM and other immune-mediated illnesses
of the central nervous system."
The most pressing question for Dr. Sejvar,
however, is why the Zika virus has been
strongly associated with diseases such as
ADEM and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
"Hopefully, ongoing investigations of Zika virus
and immune-mediated neurologic disease will
shed additional light on this important
question," he concludes.
Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) gave the go-ahead for an
investigational test to be used to screen blood
donations for Zika.
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