EFFECT OF SALT(sodium) TO THE HUMAN TEETH

Many Turlock patients believe that sugar
is the absolute worst for your teeth. We
are all familiar with the fact that
consuming too much sodium can increase
chances of developing high blood pressure,
heart attack and stroke, but you may not
know that salt can be just as aggravating
to your teeth as sugar. Dr. Cesar Acosta
wants his patients to know the facts when
it comes to sodium and dental health.

Salt and Tooth Decay

I’m sure you’re wondering how sodium
comes into play with oral health. The salt
itself does not damage tooth enamel, but
sodium and carbohydrates often go
hand-in-hand, especially when it comes
to processed foods. Oral bacteria feasts
on simple sugars and produces tough
acids whenever you consume any food or
beverage that contains carbohydrates.
The acids are kept in contact with tooth
enamel by plaque that forms in your
mouth throughout the day. The longer it
remains in your mouth, the more time the
tooth enamel becomes damaged.

Bread, pizza, pasta, and salty snacks are
among the top sources of sodium in the
American diet. While most of these foods
are relatively low in sugar, some of their
starches can be broken down into simple
sugars by the enzymes in your mouth. As
your body breaks them down, the starches
generate the same damaging effects to
your teeth as sugar would.
Sodium can also weaken your teeth. A lot
like bones, tissues make up your teeth rely
on calcium to give them structure and
strength. A high sodium intake is shown to
increase the amount of calcium your body
disposes of through urine, which can lead
to osteoporosis and tooth loss.

The Other View of Salt and Your Teeth

The American Heart Association does not
recommend using salt liberally in your
diet. You should not consume more than
1,500 milligrams a day. Rather than
consuming sodium, applying it to your
teeth or using it as a mouthwash can
actually be beneficial. The American
Dental Association believes that sodium
lauryl sulfate and other sodium-based
compounds act as foaming detergents in
toothpaste. A mild salt rinse is also
recommended to sooth painful tooth sores
or bacterial infections.
No matter what your diet may be, it is
very important that you partake in daily
oral hygiene, as well as annual dental
cleanings and checkups. Contact our
office today to schedule an appointment
or for more information.

EFFECTS OF SALT INTAKE

High salt intake has been linked to
increased blood pressure and greater
risk for heart problems . But according to
new research, low salt intake may be just as
harmful .

Published in The Lancet, the study found
that low salt, or sodium, intake may raise
the risk of heart attack, stroke , and death,
compared with an average salt intake.
Lead author Andrew Mente, of the Michael
G. DeGroote School of Medicine at McMaster
University in Canada, and colleagues say
their results indicate only people with high
blood pressure (hypertension) who have a
high salt intake should reduce their salt
consumption.
Furthermore, the researchers suggest
current recommendations for daily salt
consumption may be set too low.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans
recommend that Americans consume less
than 2,300 milligrams of sodium each day -
the equivalent to 1 teaspoon of salt.
However, a report from the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) earlier
this year revealed that around 90 percent
of Americans consume salt at levels above
the recommended limit.
It is widely accepted that too much salt in
the diet can lead to high blood pressure,
increasing the risk for heart attack, stroke,
and other cardiovascular diseases.
But does reducing salt intake to the levels
recommended in current guidelines really
reduce the risk of such outcomes? This is
what Mente and colleagues set out to
investigate.
Risks of high salt intake only found in
people with hypertension
The team analyzed data of more than
130,000 individuals spanning 49 countries.
They looked at the sodium intake of
participants and how this related to the risk
of heart disease and stroke among those
with and without high blood pressure.
Compared with people who had an average
sodium intake, the rates of heart attack,
stroke, and death were higher among those
who had a low sodium intake, regardless of
whether participants had high blood
pressure.
Interestingly, low salt intake in the study
was defined as an intake of less than 3,000
milligrams a day, which is above current
recommendations in the United States.
Furthermore, the researchers found that
only individuals with high blood pressure
appeared to be subject to the risks
associated with high salt intake - defined as
more than 6,000 milligrams daily.
Mente says the team's findings are
"extremely important" for individuals with
high blood pressure.
#FECAMDSIMSU.

FEDERATION OF CATHOLIC MEDICAL AND DENTAL STUDENTS

Great thanks for a successful RURAL MEDICAL OUTREACH @OBOKWU EZINIHITTE MBAISE LGA....
Great thanks also to the host family Mr and Mrs Austin Enyinna....God bless you

EFFECTS OF BLEACHING CREAMS...[hydroquinone]

Everyone, regardless of being a man or
woman, wants to have a flawless, even and
smooth skin tone. Skin bleaching is a good
option to get rid of the black spots or any
other type of spots on skin. But, skin
whitening options have become very
complicated these days and there are plenty
of options available in the market leaving
the customers confused.
Although skin bleaching or whitening could
be a good option for getting rid of dark
spots or skin discolouration, the process is
not free from side effects. Some of the
products are rather very harmful and cause
skin cancer too. Therefore, it is very
important you find out the side effects of
skin bleaching before you opt for the
whitening of your skin.
Harmful Effects of Skin Whitening or
Bleaching
Bleaching is, in fact, a process in which the
hair on the skin is bleached to match with
the actual skin tone. However, the side
effects are:

Dark grey spots

Skin cancer

Acne

Swelling of the skin

Thinning of the skin

Cataracts

Setting down of fat on face, chest, upper
back and stomach

Increase in appetite and weight gain
Osteoporosis

Neurological and kidney damage due to high
level of mercury used in the creams

Psychiatric disorders

Severe birth defects

Asthma

Liver damage

Some of these side effects could be seen
almost immediately while some are seen
after prolonged use of skin whitening
creams.

Why Skin Bleaching?
In some of the parts of the world, it is
believed that light and pale skinned people
portray beauty, richness and success as well.
In some parts, dark complexioned people
are considered below standard and so
people opt for skin whitening or bleaching
creams, pills and other products.
Studies reveal that most of the young boys
and girls prefer using skin whitening
products so that they get a good status in
their group, family and society. In fact, the
commercials shown on the television also
portray the same thing. All these things have
a great impact on the minds of young men
and women and they opt for whatever
cream or pill they can afford.
Natural Ways of Skin Bleaching
Here are some of the natural ways for
getting flawless and fair skin without using
skin bleaches.
Diet - Diet is the most important part that
you should take care of if you want a
flawless skin. Take away all refined food
products and replace them with healthy and
nutritious ones.
Water - Increase your intake of water. This
helps keep skin free of dehydration and so
the look is healthy and unblemished.
Cleansing - Take proper care of cleaning
your skin. Choose the product that is natural
and effective. Pay attention to exfoliating
your skin from time to time so that you get
rid of the dead skin.
Limes and Lemons - Citric acid is natural
bleach and will help you have a lighter skin
time without any side effect. You can make
a face mask with lime juice, few drops of
glycerin and flour to make a paste. Apply
this on your face and leave for 20 - 30
minutes. Wash with normal water.
Once you know the side effects of using
over-the-counter skin whitening products,
you will definitely want to learn more about
natural skin whitening methods. These
methods are harmless and even cost you
nothing extra.

15 PROMISES OF THE HOLY ROSARY

 Besides the Indulgences attached to the
Rosary , Our Lady revealed to St. Dominic and

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.

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.

 Here's how to get rid of bacteria for a brighter smile

 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

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.

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.

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:

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.

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:

》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

If you have any of these warning signals,
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.

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.

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.

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!

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."

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.