LycoRed is introducing a new lycopene ingredient in the form of a dried cherry tomato that is remarkably high in the antioxidant, enabling foods to be fortified without complex regulatory situations posing a barrier.
LycoRed''s VP new product development and scientific affairs, Zohar Nir, explained to FoodNavigator.com at a briefing at the company's plant in Beer-Sheva, Israel that tomatoes have fissures on the skin which make them dry out. Ordinarily this is seen as a negative trait, however the tomato raisins have actually been bred to self-dehydrate within days.
The new variety was developed at the Volcani Institute research centre by Israeli company Tomaisins International, which then approached LycoRed to ascertain the level of lycopene in the raisins.
The results were startling: each 1g raisin was seen to contain 1mg of lycopene, plus other tomato phytonutrients. For comparison, an ordinary cherry tomato contains a fraction of a mg of lycopene; one big 100g tomato contains around 4mg.
Lycopene has been the subject of much recent research, including its potential to reduce risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
Nir said that the tomato raisins are "another dosage form for fortification with lycopene", since they can be diced up into four to eight pieces and used in any food.
The development means that the lycopene fortification market could open up, the company believes, whereas in the past it has been somewhat blocked by regulatory restrictions around the world.
For instance, in Europe lycopene from tomatoes was approved for use in foods as a colouring in 1997. This has meant that the ingredient can be listed on labels as E1161D, but companies have not been able to flag up the lycopene content and its healthy attributes.
No novel foods approval was required for its use in food supplements, since it was used as an ingredient in such products prior to May 1997. But novel foods approval is required for fortification, and it can take years to obtain this.
LycoRed is expecting that its application will be approved at a low load of 2 mg per 100ml. Another company, Vitatene, which markets lycopene produced by fermentation from the Blakeslea trispora fungus, obtained the go-ahead for its use as a healthy ingredient earlier this year.
However when tomato pulp is used as a food ingredient, there is no need for regulatory approvals - since tomato is a long-established safe and nutritious food.
By this logic, Nir said of the dried cherry tomatoes: "I believe we will bypass [regulations]."
He also said that products like tomato raisins indicate the direction of development in the functional ingredients market.
"If we are devoted to nutrition and innovation, this is the way."
While LycoRed has the rights to market the raisins as an ingredient for healthy foods, Tomaisins is retaining the rights for retail, either sold alone or in gourmet foods where they are used for their flavour alone, with no mention of lycopene content.
But the company is insisting that its Lyc-O-Mato brand appear on the label of the finished product in some form - be it alone, or in conjunction with the finished product brand (eg Lyco-O-Mato - [Brand Name).]
"Every label that says lycopene on it is educating the consumer," said Nir.
The tomatoes are grown by Tomaisins in a number of countries around the world, including Mexico, Ethiopia and Israel.
Monday, June 25, 2007
LycoRed to Launch Unique Lycopene Delivery Tomatoes
Whereas ordinary cherry tomatoes contain a fraction of a milligram of lycopene, each Lyc-O-Mato self-dried cherry tomato provides more than 1mg of lycopene. The tomatoes were bred and commercialised by Tomaisins International, Ltd.
Israeli based lycopene supplier LycoRed Ltd., will launch Lyc-O-Mato self-dried cherry tomatoes a new addition to the Lyc-O-Mato line at the IFT trade show this July. These unique tomatoes were developed especially for food fortification at the Israeli agricultural research center, Volcani Institute. The tomatoes were bred and commercialised by Tomaisins International, Ltd. Whereas ordinary cherry tomatoes contain a fraction of a milligram of lycopene, each Lyc-O-Mato self-dried cherry tomato provides more than 1mg of lycopene, the powerful antioxidant that delivers so many health benefits. Only five of these self-dried cherry tomatoes are needed to provide the 5mg lycopene/serving recommended for the fortification of conventional foods.
As well as its fortification potential, the tomatoes serve as a natural alternative to traditional sun-dried tomatoes. The tomatoes can be bought and dried by the consumer, as they dehydrate in about 11 days and provide for an innovative and sweet gourmet concept.
Innovative, Lyc-O-Mato self-dried cherry tomatoes were conventionally bred with a water permeable outer layer that allows them to dehydrate quickly, while still on the plant. Self-dried cherry tomatoes provide a nutritious and tasty addition to a wide variety of foods that will benefit from the savory flavor and added tomato phytonutrients. Like the other ingredients in the Lyc-O-Mato line, the self-dried cherry tomatoes provide, not just lycopene, but the complete array of natural tomato phytonutrients, including beta-carotene, tocopherols and phytosterols. These phytonutrients comprise the Lyc-O-Mato oleoresin tomato lycopene complex which is already well established in the dietary supplement industry. Clinical research suggests that the synergy between the tomato phytonutrients is responsible for lycopene’s role in promoting heart, prostate, and skin health and in protecting cells from oxidative damage.
“The development of this unique means of delivering lycopene for fortification”, says Zohar Nir, VP of New Product Development for LycoRed, “allows us to offer yet another lycopene fortification ingredient that complies with a clean label. These tasty little cherry tomatoes are perfect for fortifying rice mixes, cereals, savory snacks, pastas and as the lycopene ingredient in nutrition bars.” According to Dr. Nir, the company will be licensing the use of the Lyc-O-Mato brand name and logo to manufacturers fortifying their products with the Lyc-O-Mato self-dried cherry tomatoes.
www.lycored.com
Israeli based lycopene supplier LycoRed Ltd., will launch Lyc-O-Mato self-dried cherry tomatoes a new addition to the Lyc-O-Mato line at the IFT trade show this July. These unique tomatoes were developed especially for food fortification at the Israeli agricultural research center, Volcani Institute. The tomatoes were bred and commercialised by Tomaisins International, Ltd. Whereas ordinary cherry tomatoes contain a fraction of a milligram of lycopene, each Lyc-O-Mato self-dried cherry tomato provides more than 1mg of lycopene, the powerful antioxidant that delivers so many health benefits. Only five of these self-dried cherry tomatoes are needed to provide the 5mg lycopene/serving recommended for the fortification of conventional foods.
As well as its fortification potential, the tomatoes serve as a natural alternative to traditional sun-dried tomatoes. The tomatoes can be bought and dried by the consumer, as they dehydrate in about 11 days and provide for an innovative and sweet gourmet concept.
Innovative, Lyc-O-Mato self-dried cherry tomatoes were conventionally bred with a water permeable outer layer that allows them to dehydrate quickly, while still on the plant. Self-dried cherry tomatoes provide a nutritious and tasty addition to a wide variety of foods that will benefit from the savory flavor and added tomato phytonutrients. Like the other ingredients in the Lyc-O-Mato line, the self-dried cherry tomatoes provide, not just lycopene, but the complete array of natural tomato phytonutrients, including beta-carotene, tocopherols and phytosterols. These phytonutrients comprise the Lyc-O-Mato oleoresin tomato lycopene complex which is already well established in the dietary supplement industry. Clinical research suggests that the synergy between the tomato phytonutrients is responsible for lycopene’s role in promoting heart, prostate, and skin health and in protecting cells from oxidative damage.
“The development of this unique means of delivering lycopene for fortification”, says Zohar Nir, VP of New Product Development for LycoRed, “allows us to offer yet another lycopene fortification ingredient that complies with a clean label. These tasty little cherry tomatoes are perfect for fortifying rice mixes, cereals, savory snacks, pastas and as the lycopene ingredient in nutrition bars.” According to Dr. Nir, the company will be licensing the use of the Lyc-O-Mato brand name and logo to manufacturers fortifying their products with the Lyc-O-Mato self-dried cherry tomatoes.
www.lycored.com
Look Younger With Gaba Anti Wrinkle Cream
The latest discovery in the world’s quest to find the best anti aging cream is the GABA anti wrinkle cream. This new anti aging discovery will actually relax your wrinkles and is a natural alternative to the famous Botox injections that are used with the majority of women around the world to attack the onset of fine lines and wrinkles. GABA anti wrinkle cream achieves their objective with no dangerous toxins or needle injections and no expensive office visits. This new anti wrinkle cream is sweeping the globe.
Relax Not Paralyse
GABA anti wrinkle cream relaxes your wrinkles and does not paralyse them. Many of the anti wrinkle creams on the market today freezes or paralyses your face. Women walk around with a frozen and tight look on their faces. Not only is their face ‘lifted’ with these creams, but so are their expressions. GABA anti wrinkle cream will not paralyse the face.
GABA anti wrinkle cream relaxes the wrinkles and smooths them out and does not freeze the rest of your face. Botox injections will literally paralyze facial muscles. Botox is distilled from dangerously poisonous botulism bacteria. This injection even sounds harmful to the body and especially the skin.
In contrast, GABA anti wrinkle cream, or gamma amino-butyric acid simply relaxes the nerves in the skin. Nutritious amino acid naturally nourishes your skin. It can be used under any base makeup or powder and will make your fine lines and wrinkles suddenly vanish.
GABA anti wrinkle cream does not last as long as Botox, but with the cream sitting in your home, it cannot be easier than to add some more GABA anti wrinkle cream when needed. This is more practical than paralyzing your face for several months with Botox.
GABA anti wrinkle cream treatments will last up to ten hours. When applied, it instantly fills lines and creases to reduce their appearance. It increases collagen production and fights irritation. At the same time it goes deep into the layers of the skin to relax the wrinkle nerves. These wrinkle nerves are what make your face feel tense when under stress; hence, you will develop crow’s feet, brow furrows and deep facial wrinkles.
It is the only product on the market with Gabamine, or GABA which reacts with ingredients that are clinically proven to brighten skin, fight aging and reduce cell damage. Women have been searching since the beginning of time for the fountain of youth. GABA anti wrinkle cream may not be the elusive fountain of youth, but it’s a path that leads to an amazing results.
By: Ann Marier
Ann Marier writes informative articles on general health issues providing helpful tips and advice. Her latest articles are about different face creams including antiwrinkle face cream
Relax Not Paralyse
GABA anti wrinkle cream relaxes your wrinkles and does not paralyse them. Many of the anti wrinkle creams on the market today freezes or paralyses your face. Women walk around with a frozen and tight look on their faces. Not only is their face ‘lifted’ with these creams, but so are their expressions. GABA anti wrinkle cream will not paralyse the face.
GABA anti wrinkle cream relaxes the wrinkles and smooths them out and does not freeze the rest of your face. Botox injections will literally paralyze facial muscles. Botox is distilled from dangerously poisonous botulism bacteria. This injection even sounds harmful to the body and especially the skin.
In contrast, GABA anti wrinkle cream, or gamma amino-butyric acid simply relaxes the nerves in the skin. Nutritious amino acid naturally nourishes your skin. It can be used under any base makeup or powder and will make your fine lines and wrinkles suddenly vanish.
GABA anti wrinkle cream does not last as long as Botox, but with the cream sitting in your home, it cannot be easier than to add some more GABA anti wrinkle cream when needed. This is more practical than paralyzing your face for several months with Botox.
GABA anti wrinkle cream treatments will last up to ten hours. When applied, it instantly fills lines and creases to reduce their appearance. It increases collagen production and fights irritation. At the same time it goes deep into the layers of the skin to relax the wrinkle nerves. These wrinkle nerves are what make your face feel tense when under stress; hence, you will develop crow’s feet, brow furrows and deep facial wrinkles.
It is the only product on the market with Gabamine, or GABA which reacts with ingredients that are clinically proven to brighten skin, fight aging and reduce cell damage. Women have been searching since the beginning of time for the fountain of youth. GABA anti wrinkle cream may not be the elusive fountain of youth, but it’s a path that leads to an amazing results.
By: Ann Marier
Ann Marier writes informative articles on general health issues providing helpful tips and advice. Her latest articles are about different face creams including antiwrinkle face cream
Beauty TV launches on Joost(TM)
Beauty TV(R), the world's only beauty TV network today announced that it will bring program offerings to Joost(TM), the world's first broadcast-quality Internet television service. See http://www.joost.com/whatsjoost.html.
Founded in 2006 by Latino entrepreneur Rob E. Angelino, Beauty TV is dedicated to the beauty enthusiast in the ever-growing $150 billion dollar a year beauty industry. Since its launch on January 9, 2007, Beauty TV has delivered programs about beauty, fashion and health to a global audience. With the Beauty TV network on Joost, these enthusiasts worldwide will be able to pick up trends and tips anytime through the online entertainment destination.
Content will be focused on beauty tips, hair, skin, nails, cosmetic surgery, spas, health, fitness, insider interviews, beauty news, product reviews and trends. Future shows will include an on-going in-salon soap opera and a half-hour network pilot, "Beauty TV." Current segments feature interviews with John Paul DeJoria, founder of Paul Mitchell Systems (http://www.paulmitchell.com/).
"I think that Beauty TV is an excellent vehicle to help people become more aware of how important the professional beauty industry is for their lives" John Paul DeJoria, Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO, John Paul Mitchell Systems.
"Beauty TV's business model centers around delivery of the best beauty programming through a number of different mediums, and Joost is an important part of that strategy," said Rob E. Angelino, Founder & CEO. "Our relationship with Joost is very important to expanding the global reach of Beauty TV."
Founded by Janus Friis and Niklas Zennstrom, Joost combines the best of TV and the best of the Internet by offering viewers a full-screen audiovisual experience enhanced with the choice, control and flexibility of Web 2.0. Joost is the first online, global TV distribution platform, bringing together advertisers, content owners and viewers in an interactive, community-driven environment.
Yvette Alberdingk Thijm, executive vice president of content strategy and acquisition for Joost, said, "With professionally-produced programming in every category, Joost is a destination for people who are looking for a full entertainment experience -- one that combines TV-quality programming and the interactivity of the Internet. Beauty TV is perfect for the Joost platform, because fans can watch the beauty and fashion news while they share their own personal tips through Joost's community features."
About Beauty TV
Welcome to Beauty TV(R), the world's only 24/7 Beauty TV Network. Beauty TV has teamed up with United Global Media Group, Inc. (UGMG) http://www.ugmedia.com/ to provide launch support, marketing, content and web production services to launch this new all beauty television network.
Beauty TV's concept is similar to other specific theme networks, such as The Food Network(R) and CNN(R). Beauty TV will use the latest technology to deliver its programming across media channels via mobile TV, web, in-flight entertainment, via IPTV (telecommunication, cable and satellite providers) to viewers across the US, Asia, Latin America and the world.
Over the past several years, the beauty enthusiast has experienced an unprecedented assortment of options to get information. Now through Beauty TV and its affiliates (The Beauty TV Network), the beauty enthusiast can get inside access to the world of beauty in one location. The Beauty TV Network will cover a myriad of beauty topics during its daily broadcasts. From our own inside coverage to content provided by beauty brands, Beauty TV will serve as the focal point for all things beauty. http://www.beautynetwork.tv/
Founded in 2006 by Latino entrepreneur Rob E. Angelino, Beauty TV is dedicated to the beauty enthusiast in the ever-growing $150 billion dollar a year beauty industry. Since its launch on January 9, 2007, Beauty TV has delivered programs about beauty, fashion and health to a global audience. With the Beauty TV network on Joost, these enthusiasts worldwide will be able to pick up trends and tips anytime through the online entertainment destination.
Content will be focused on beauty tips, hair, skin, nails, cosmetic surgery, spas, health, fitness, insider interviews, beauty news, product reviews and trends. Future shows will include an on-going in-salon soap opera and a half-hour network pilot, "Beauty TV." Current segments feature interviews with John Paul DeJoria, founder of Paul Mitchell Systems (http://www.paulmitchell.com/).
"I think that Beauty TV is an excellent vehicle to help people become more aware of how important the professional beauty industry is for their lives" John Paul DeJoria, Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO, John Paul Mitchell Systems.
"Beauty TV's business model centers around delivery of the best beauty programming through a number of different mediums, and Joost is an important part of that strategy," said Rob E. Angelino, Founder & CEO. "Our relationship with Joost is very important to expanding the global reach of Beauty TV."
Founded by Janus Friis and Niklas Zennstrom, Joost combines the best of TV and the best of the Internet by offering viewers a full-screen audiovisual experience enhanced with the choice, control and flexibility of Web 2.0. Joost is the first online, global TV distribution platform, bringing together advertisers, content owners and viewers in an interactive, community-driven environment.
Yvette Alberdingk Thijm, executive vice president of content strategy and acquisition for Joost, said, "With professionally-produced programming in every category, Joost is a destination for people who are looking for a full entertainment experience -- one that combines TV-quality programming and the interactivity of the Internet. Beauty TV is perfect for the Joost platform, because fans can watch the beauty and fashion news while they share their own personal tips through Joost's community features."
About Beauty TV
Welcome to Beauty TV(R), the world's only 24/7 Beauty TV Network. Beauty TV has teamed up with United Global Media Group, Inc. (UGMG) http://www.ugmedia.com/ to provide launch support, marketing, content and web production services to launch this new all beauty television network.
Beauty TV's concept is similar to other specific theme networks, such as The Food Network(R) and CNN(R). Beauty TV will use the latest technology to deliver its programming across media channels via mobile TV, web, in-flight entertainment, via IPTV (telecommunication, cable and satellite providers) to viewers across the US, Asia, Latin America and the world.
Over the past several years, the beauty enthusiast has experienced an unprecedented assortment of options to get information. Now through Beauty TV and its affiliates (The Beauty TV Network), the beauty enthusiast can get inside access to the world of beauty in one location. The Beauty TV Network will cover a myriad of beauty topics during its daily broadcasts. From our own inside coverage to content provided by beauty brands, Beauty TV will serve as the focal point for all things beauty. http://www.beautynetwork.tv/
Superbugs Emerging Across United States
A new study has found that a drug-resistant staph germ known as a Superbug, is found in at least 5 percent of patients who are staying in hospitals, nursing homes, or long term care facilities.
It is being reported that superbugs are becoming increasingly common, a fact that worries many in the health field.
According to a new study, a dangerous drug-resistant staph germ may be infecting at least 5% of hospital and nursing home patients, and up to 30,000 hospital patients may be infected with the bug at any given time.
Previous to the releasing of the report, health officials in the US had estimated that 10 times fewer the amount of cases on an annual basis was a more accurate estimate of annual cases but this according to the study is not the case at all.
"This is a welcome piece of information that emphasizes that this is a huge problem in health care facilities, and more needs to done to prevent it," said Dr. John Jernigan, an epidemiologist with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is the name of a superbug that is being reported more and more in patients in hospitals, nursing homes or long term care facilities. It is quite drug-resistant, and leads to skin rashes, skin infections, blood infections, pneumonia, and other illnesses.
The study is being presented this week at the infection control professionals' association's annual meeting in San Jose.
It is being reported that superbugs are becoming increasingly common, a fact that worries many in the health field.
According to a new study, a dangerous drug-resistant staph germ may be infecting at least 5% of hospital and nursing home patients, and up to 30,000 hospital patients may be infected with the bug at any given time.
Previous to the releasing of the report, health officials in the US had estimated that 10 times fewer the amount of cases on an annual basis was a more accurate estimate of annual cases but this according to the study is not the case at all.
"This is a welcome piece of information that emphasizes that this is a huge problem in health care facilities, and more needs to done to prevent it," said Dr. John Jernigan, an epidemiologist with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is the name of a superbug that is being reported more and more in patients in hospitals, nursing homes or long term care facilities. It is quite drug-resistant, and leads to skin rashes, skin infections, blood infections, pneumonia, and other illnesses.
The study is being presented this week at the infection control professionals' association's annual meeting in San Jose.
Phosphagenics Announces Positive Proof of Concept Results from Studies Utilizing Company's Dermal Drug Delivery Technology
Phosphagenics Limited (AIM: PSG) announced today positive results from pre-clinical studies of its TPM-02 dermal drug delivery technology formulated with retinoic acid, a leading topical treatment for severe acne and an active ingredient used in anti-aging cosmetics.
The proof of concept studies showed a three-fold increase in the amount of retinoic acid delivered into the skin when formulated with TPM-02 compared to a control formulation. Importantly, there was no retinoic acid detected in the bloodstream. TPM-02's ability to deliver an active ingredient to the dermis, the active layer of the skin, highlights the system's potential use in dermatologic and cosmetic products.
This study builds upon Phosphagenics' successes in delivering drugs, including insulin, through the skin without causing skin irritation, and further demonstrates that the TPM-02 technology can be utilized to deliver and hold an active ingredient in the skin, which is optimal in achieving maximum effectiveness from dermatological and cosmetic products.
"These proof of concept studies demonstrate the adaptability and flexibility of Phosphagenics' delivery technology, and we intend to leverage these results in pursuing opportunities in the dermatological and cosmetic fields," said Dr. Esra Ogru, Executive Vice President R&D at Phosphagenics. "The ability to deliver greater amounts of retinoic acid to the skin will produce more effective products for consumers, which is our objective in the areas of dermatology and cosmetics."
In addition to improving the dermal delivery of retinoic acid, Phosphagenics sees broader applications for its TPM-02 technology with additional pre-clinical studies showing potential in the dermal delivery of other compounds, such as coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and omega-3 fatty acids.
About Phosphagenics Limited
Phosphagenics is a Melbourne-based, globally driven biotechnology company focused on the discovery of new and cost effective ways to enhance the bioavailability, activity, safety and delivery of proven pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products. The Company's core technology is built around the science and application of phosphorylation, a process where the addition of a phosphate group has been found to enhance the bioavailability, activity and safety of existing pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals, as well as to assist in the production of drug delivery platforms. Phosphagenics' shares are listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (POH) and the London Stock Exchange's Alternative Investment Market (PSG). An ADR -- Level 1 program has been established in the US with the Bank of New York (PPGNY) for US investors to trade in Phosphagenics' stock on the "over-the-counter" market.
The proof of concept studies showed a three-fold increase in the amount of retinoic acid delivered into the skin when formulated with TPM-02 compared to a control formulation. Importantly, there was no retinoic acid detected in the bloodstream. TPM-02's ability to deliver an active ingredient to the dermis, the active layer of the skin, highlights the system's potential use in dermatologic and cosmetic products.
This study builds upon Phosphagenics' successes in delivering drugs, including insulin, through the skin without causing skin irritation, and further demonstrates that the TPM-02 technology can be utilized to deliver and hold an active ingredient in the skin, which is optimal in achieving maximum effectiveness from dermatological and cosmetic products.
"These proof of concept studies demonstrate the adaptability and flexibility of Phosphagenics' delivery technology, and we intend to leverage these results in pursuing opportunities in the dermatological and cosmetic fields," said Dr. Esra Ogru, Executive Vice President R&D at Phosphagenics. "The ability to deliver greater amounts of retinoic acid to the skin will produce more effective products for consumers, which is our objective in the areas of dermatology and cosmetics."
In addition to improving the dermal delivery of retinoic acid, Phosphagenics sees broader applications for its TPM-02 technology with additional pre-clinical studies showing potential in the dermal delivery of other compounds, such as coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and omega-3 fatty acids.
About Phosphagenics Limited
Phosphagenics is a Melbourne-based, globally driven biotechnology company focused on the discovery of new and cost effective ways to enhance the bioavailability, activity, safety and delivery of proven pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products. The Company's core technology is built around the science and application of phosphorylation, a process where the addition of a phosphate group has been found to enhance the bioavailability, activity and safety of existing pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals, as well as to assist in the production of drug delivery platforms. Phosphagenics' shares are listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (POH) and the London Stock Exchange's Alternative Investment Market (PSG). An ADR -- Level 1 program has been established in the US with the Bank of New York (PPGNY) for US investors to trade in Phosphagenics' stock on the "over-the-counter" market.
Nibbles: Vitamin rules, Michael Moore, and the case of the missing tuna
Rule requires pills to contain what they say
The Food and Drug Administration has announced a rule that will require makers of vitamins and herbs to show that their products are free of contamination and actually contain what they say. The rule will not require herbs, vitamins or weight-loss pills to be tested for safety or effectiveness. FDA officials say the rule will assure people they’re actually buying what they think they are, but others say it doesn’t go far enough…
China seeks ban on some junk food ads
Health authorities in China are seeking a ban on junk food ads on four channels geared toward children between the hours of 4 and 8 p.m., as well as banning such ads on all channels around dinner time. Targeted ads would include those for sodas, potato chips, fried chicken, French fries and chocolate…
Fat may help some with type 1 diabetes
When it comes to women with type 1 diabetes, more fat may be protective against coronary artery calcification, an early sign of heart disease. While having fat underneath the skin or in the abdominal region was associated with calcification, those women who had more fat actually had less calcification than those who had less fat. Thinner men also had more calcification than those with a higher body mass index. Researchers say diabetics shouldn’t try to put on more weight, but that dietary recommendations for those with type 1 diabetes might need to be different from those given to the general population…
More about Omega-3s
Last week we told you about studies showing Omega-3s could help with agitation related to Alzheimer’s and progression of prostate cancer. Another study shows that increased levels of Omega-3 might help prevent blindness that results from abnormal blood vessel development in the eye. A 2 percent change in the intake of Omega-3 among mice studied reduced the severity of retinopathy by 50 percent. A similar study in premature babies, who are at high risk for eye problems, is expected to start soon…
Tuna shortages drive up prices in Japan
Sushi without tuna would be a very sad thing indeed, but more Japanese chefs are experimenting with other options, such as cheaper fish, horse meat and avocado as the price of tuna goes up. More tuna is being sold in countries like the United States, Russia and China, and many nations are cutting back on fishing to help replenish stocks of the fish. Prices in Japan have risen more than a third in the past year, and its getting more difficult to find the top-grade tuna…
Diet tips from Michael Moore
Finally, you’d expect doing a documentary on health care would change your attitude about your own health, and that’s true when it comes to Michael Moore, who has lost about 30 pounds since filming the movie “Sicko.” He says he’s done it by eating 35 grams of fiber a day, taking at least a 30 minute walk daily and getting seven hours of sleep a night. He says he’s been following advice from the Pritikin Longevity Center to eat heavier foods with few calories. He says he wouldn’t use a diet drug, though he’s tried a lot of diet plans, and thinks that staying healthy is a great way to beat a broken health care system.
(By Sarah White for CalorieLab Calorie Counter News)
The Food and Drug Administration has announced a rule that will require makers of vitamins and herbs to show that their products are free of contamination and actually contain what they say. The rule will not require herbs, vitamins or weight-loss pills to be tested for safety or effectiveness. FDA officials say the rule will assure people they’re actually buying what they think they are, but others say it doesn’t go far enough…
China seeks ban on some junk food ads
Health authorities in China are seeking a ban on junk food ads on four channels geared toward children between the hours of 4 and 8 p.m., as well as banning such ads on all channels around dinner time. Targeted ads would include those for sodas, potato chips, fried chicken, French fries and chocolate…
Fat may help some with type 1 diabetes
When it comes to women with type 1 diabetes, more fat may be protective against coronary artery calcification, an early sign of heart disease. While having fat underneath the skin or in the abdominal region was associated with calcification, those women who had more fat actually had less calcification than those who had less fat. Thinner men also had more calcification than those with a higher body mass index. Researchers say diabetics shouldn’t try to put on more weight, but that dietary recommendations for those with type 1 diabetes might need to be different from those given to the general population…
More about Omega-3s
Last week we told you about studies showing Omega-3s could help with agitation related to Alzheimer’s and progression of prostate cancer. Another study shows that increased levels of Omega-3 might help prevent blindness that results from abnormal blood vessel development in the eye. A 2 percent change in the intake of Omega-3 among mice studied reduced the severity of retinopathy by 50 percent. A similar study in premature babies, who are at high risk for eye problems, is expected to start soon…
Tuna shortages drive up prices in Japan
Sushi without tuna would be a very sad thing indeed, but more Japanese chefs are experimenting with other options, such as cheaper fish, horse meat and avocado as the price of tuna goes up. More tuna is being sold in countries like the United States, Russia and China, and many nations are cutting back on fishing to help replenish stocks of the fish. Prices in Japan have risen more than a third in the past year, and its getting more difficult to find the top-grade tuna…
Diet tips from Michael Moore
Finally, you’d expect doing a documentary on health care would change your attitude about your own health, and that’s true when it comes to Michael Moore, who has lost about 30 pounds since filming the movie “Sicko.” He says he’s done it by eating 35 grams of fiber a day, taking at least a 30 minute walk daily and getting seven hours of sleep a night. He says he’s been following advice from the Pritikin Longevity Center to eat heavier foods with few calories. He says he wouldn’t use a diet drug, though he’s tried a lot of diet plans, and thinks that staying healthy is a great way to beat a broken health care system.
(By Sarah White for CalorieLab Calorie Counter News)
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) More Common Than People Think
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a common, painful, debilitating, and chronic inflammatory skin disease primarily occurring in inverse areas of the skin, e.g. axillae and groin. HS causes painful and chronically recurring, deep-seated follicular nodules, papules, pustules and abscesses, leading to suppuration, fibrosis, and scarring of the skin.
Unfortunately HS has been labeled as a rare disease. But in fact it is not rare, it is only rarely diagnosed properly. HS affects at least 1% possibly 4% of the global population. It indiscriminately affects both males and females, and can be found in many countries, affecting many different cultures. I am also aware of at least one celebrity who suffers from HS.
While death caused by HS is considered rare. It is my opinion that the morbidity rate is grossly unreported or underestimated. Due to the fact that many deaths are caused by suicides or complications arising during treatment. When an HS patient dies, various complications or other factors are listed as the primary cause of death. Thereby distorting the actual number of deaths caused by HS.
Due to this method of recording deaths, HS is often overlooked as a serious or dangerous disease. Also, in my opinion, HS is often ignored by the media due to this underreporting of deaths coupled with the fact that it is an extremely horrendous disease. Over the years, we as an HS community have requested and even pleaded with various media outlets for assistance in spreading awareness regarding HS. Mostly we are ignored. Sometimes we are even told that HS is acne, and that no one has ever died from acne. I assure you that HS is NOT acne and people are dying from this horrendous disease.
I am aware of at least three deaths caused by complications that have happened in the last year within our online HS community. But again, this is not an accurate picture as to how many people are dying from this disease. Many people who have this disease have yet to be diagnosed and/or are not online. I am certain that most deaths caused by HS are never recorded as such.
There are millions of people worldwide who have this disease but have not yet been diagnosed. Please consider helping us spread awareness so that we can find these people before they commit suicide or die of complications.
Unfortunately HS has been labeled as a rare disease. But in fact it is not rare, it is only rarely diagnosed properly. HS affects at least 1% possibly 4% of the global population. It indiscriminately affects both males and females, and can be found in many countries, affecting many different cultures. I am also aware of at least one celebrity who suffers from HS.
While death caused by HS is considered rare. It is my opinion that the morbidity rate is grossly unreported or underestimated. Due to the fact that many deaths are caused by suicides or complications arising during treatment. When an HS patient dies, various complications or other factors are listed as the primary cause of death. Thereby distorting the actual number of deaths caused by HS.
Due to this method of recording deaths, HS is often overlooked as a serious or dangerous disease. Also, in my opinion, HS is often ignored by the media due to this underreporting of deaths coupled with the fact that it is an extremely horrendous disease. Over the years, we as an HS community have requested and even pleaded with various media outlets for assistance in spreading awareness regarding HS. Mostly we are ignored. Sometimes we are even told that HS is acne, and that no one has ever died from acne. I assure you that HS is NOT acne and people are dying from this horrendous disease.
I am aware of at least three deaths caused by complications that have happened in the last year within our online HS community. But again, this is not an accurate picture as to how many people are dying from this disease. Many people who have this disease have yet to be diagnosed and/or are not online. I am certain that most deaths caused by HS are never recorded as such.
There are millions of people worldwide who have this disease but have not yet been diagnosed. Please consider helping us spread awareness so that we can find these people before they commit suicide or die of complications.
Researchers Discover Gene For Rare Skin Disorder
esearchers funded in part by the National Institutes of Health have identified the gene that accounts for most cases of Goltz syndrome, a rare skin disorder that can also affect bone and eye development.
The cases appear to result from a defect in the gene known as PORCN, which contains the information needed to make a protein, referred to by researchers as porcupine. The Porcupine protein, which was first identified in fruit flies, was named for the pattern of spikes projecting from skin cells of the larval fly’s body, bearing a resemblance to the quills of a porcupine.
The researchers believe mutations in the PORCN gene cause at least 75 percent of Goltz syndrome cases.
The cases appear to result from a defect in the gene known as PORCN, which contains the information needed to make a protein, referred to by researchers as porcupine. The Porcupine protein, which was first identified in fruit flies, was named for the pattern of spikes projecting from skin cells of the larval fly’s body, bearing a resemblance to the quills of a porcupine.
The researchers believe mutations in the PORCN gene cause at least 75 percent of Goltz syndrome cases.
Study reignites debate on sweetener's safety
Researchers have strengthened a link between aspartame - a common sweetener in diet sodas, medicines and sugar-free candies - and cancer in rats.
The chemical is sold under the brand name NutraSweet.
The study, conducted by a team of Italian scientists, demonstrates that aspartame is particularly potent when animals are exposed in utero and during development. The rats were exposed to the sweetener at levels above and below the recommended daily maximums for people.
The research was published online this month in Environmental Health Perspectives, a U.S. government sponsored, peer-reviewed journal.
This study raises "serious questions about the safety of the artificial sweetener aspartame," said Mike Jacobson, executive director for the Center for Science in the Public Interest, a public health watchdog group based in Washington, D.C.
He is hoping the Food and Drug Administration will take notice and re-evaluate the artificial sweetener.
But the Calorie Control Council, an industry group, disagrees. Beth Hubrich, a registered dietitian for the council, said the methodology was faulty, and she expressed concern that the study would unnecessarily alarm people.
"It is difficult to understand why the National Institute of Environmental Health Safety would publish such studies in Environmental Health Perspectives when the design and execution did not follow guidelines set up by the National Toxicology Program," Ms. Hubrich wrote in an e-mail.
The study, from the European Ramazzini Foundation of Oncology and Environmental Sciences - an independent, non-profit foundation based in Bologna, Italy - indicated that cancers, including lymphomas, leukemias and breast cancer, were more common in rats exposed to the sweetener than in animals that were not exposed. And there was dose-related response.
"On the basis of our scientific data, we believe that aspartame should be avoided as much as possible, especially by pregnant women and children," Morando Soffritti, the lead researcher on the study, wrote in an e-mail.
The acceptable daily intake of aspartame is 50 milligrams per kilogram of body weight in the United States, and 40 milligrams per kilogram of body weight in the European Union.
That's a lot of aspartame. For a 150-pound U.S. adult, that's about 18 cans of diet soda each day. For a 50-pound child, it's closer to six cans a day.
But aspartame isn't just in diet sodas. It is also in yogurts, sugar-free desserts, gums and medicines. Therefore, it is likely that one's daily aspartame consumption is often underestimated, according to Mr. Soffritti.
To investigate the effects of the sweetener on rats, Mr. Soffritti and his team separated pregnant females into three groups. One group was given feed with a high dose of aspartame (100 mg/kg body weight), another group was fed a lower dose (20 mg/kg body weight) and the third group had no sweetener.
Feeding was initiated on the 12th day of pregnancy.
The mother rats were killed after weaning their pups, and their offspring were allowed to live until they died of natural causes. The offspring got the same feed as their mothers.
In all, 400 rats were examined in this study.
When the offspring died, they were examined for cancer and disease. The researchers looked at their skin, fat, mammary glands, brains, pituitary glands and salivary glands.
The Italian team discovered a statistically significant dose-related increase of malignant tumors in rats who were fed the artificial sweetener. The high-dose group showed statistically significant increases in tumors - as much as 15 percentage points higher in males - while the low-dose group showed non-significant increases in lymphomas and leukemias in both sexes, and breast cancers in females.
The results, Mr. Soffritti said, "call for urgent reconsideration of regulations governing the use of aspartame as an artificial sweetener."
"This is not just an opinion," he said, "but in the United States, it is also the law."
The Delaney Clause of the Food Additives Amendment of 1958 mandates that any food additive shown to cause cancer in people or in laboratory animals - as demonstrated in rigorous safety tests - should be considered unsafe by the Food and Drug Administration.
The chemical is sold under the brand name NutraSweet.
The study, conducted by a team of Italian scientists, demonstrates that aspartame is particularly potent when animals are exposed in utero and during development. The rats were exposed to the sweetener at levels above and below the recommended daily maximums for people.
The research was published online this month in Environmental Health Perspectives, a U.S. government sponsored, peer-reviewed journal.
This study raises "serious questions about the safety of the artificial sweetener aspartame," said Mike Jacobson, executive director for the Center for Science in the Public Interest, a public health watchdog group based in Washington, D.C.
He is hoping the Food and Drug Administration will take notice and re-evaluate the artificial sweetener.
But the Calorie Control Council, an industry group, disagrees. Beth Hubrich, a registered dietitian for the council, said the methodology was faulty, and she expressed concern that the study would unnecessarily alarm people.
"It is difficult to understand why the National Institute of Environmental Health Safety would publish such studies in Environmental Health Perspectives when the design and execution did not follow guidelines set up by the National Toxicology Program," Ms. Hubrich wrote in an e-mail.
The study, from the European Ramazzini Foundation of Oncology and Environmental Sciences - an independent, non-profit foundation based in Bologna, Italy - indicated that cancers, including lymphomas, leukemias and breast cancer, were more common in rats exposed to the sweetener than in animals that were not exposed. And there was dose-related response.
"On the basis of our scientific data, we believe that aspartame should be avoided as much as possible, especially by pregnant women and children," Morando Soffritti, the lead researcher on the study, wrote in an e-mail.
The acceptable daily intake of aspartame is 50 milligrams per kilogram of body weight in the United States, and 40 milligrams per kilogram of body weight in the European Union.
That's a lot of aspartame. For a 150-pound U.S. adult, that's about 18 cans of diet soda each day. For a 50-pound child, it's closer to six cans a day.
But aspartame isn't just in diet sodas. It is also in yogurts, sugar-free desserts, gums and medicines. Therefore, it is likely that one's daily aspartame consumption is often underestimated, according to Mr. Soffritti.
To investigate the effects of the sweetener on rats, Mr. Soffritti and his team separated pregnant females into three groups. One group was given feed with a high dose of aspartame (100 mg/kg body weight), another group was fed a lower dose (20 mg/kg body weight) and the third group had no sweetener.
Feeding was initiated on the 12th day of pregnancy.
The mother rats were killed after weaning their pups, and their offspring were allowed to live until they died of natural causes. The offspring got the same feed as their mothers.
In all, 400 rats were examined in this study.
When the offspring died, they were examined for cancer and disease. The researchers looked at their skin, fat, mammary glands, brains, pituitary glands and salivary glands.
The Italian team discovered a statistically significant dose-related increase of malignant tumors in rats who were fed the artificial sweetener. The high-dose group showed statistically significant increases in tumors - as much as 15 percentage points higher in males - while the low-dose group showed non-significant increases in lymphomas and leukemias in both sexes, and breast cancers in females.
The results, Mr. Soffritti said, "call for urgent reconsideration of regulations governing the use of aspartame as an artificial sweetener."
"This is not just an opinion," he said, "but in the United States, it is also the law."
The Delaney Clause of the Food Additives Amendment of 1958 mandates that any food additive shown to cause cancer in people or in laboratory animals - as demonstrated in rigorous safety tests - should be considered unsafe by the Food and Drug Administration.
Consumer group report blasts US sunscreens
The Environmental Working Group claims its new study covering more than 700 sunscreen products currently retailing in the US market finds that most of the products fall short of manufacturer's claims or else contain potentially unsafe ingredients.
The study looked at name-brand sunscreens and worked towards a database that lists products, outlining the ones that offer the best combination of both safety and effectiveness.
According to the EWG this criteria takes into account sunscreens products that are deemed to have been formulated with 'safe' ingredients, as well as having the highest rate of protection against sunburn, preventing the effects of longer-term damage to the skin.
The EWG claims that 85 per cent of the products it assessed with SPF ratings of 15 or more actually offered less than satisfactory sunburn protection or contained potentially unsafe ingredients.
The report highlights the fact that the complex formulation of sunscreens can lead to a number of problems that are sometimes overlooked by formulators, one of which is the fact that sunscreen chemicals can break down when exposed to the sun's rays and have to be formulated with stabilizers.
Another potential problem, according to the group, is that some formulations, particularly those using nanotechnology, contain particles that are so small they can penetrate the skin presenting as yet unknown health risks.
The EWG says its research is based on nearly 400 peer-reviewed studies of the 17 sunscreen chemicals approved for use in the US, a study on sunscreen ingredient toxicity, as well as a product-by-product assessment of protection from UVA and UVB radiation.
"Our research shows that some products are far more effective than others, while presenting fewer safety concerns," said Jane Houlihan, vice president for research at EWG.
The results of the combined studies have been compiled on the group's websites, which is aimed at informing consumers about which products are deemed to be safest and which are not.
"EWG has conducted this research because the FDA has failed to do so," Houlihan added.
The group also underlines the fact that in response to this lack of regulation, US citizens have since filed nine class-actions against advertising standards in California, while the Connecticut Attorney General has petitioned the FDA to set standards and six senators have petitioned the FDA - all urging for a review on sunscreen regulations.
In the face of lobbying from interest groups such as EWG the Cosmetic Toiletry and Fragrance Association (CTFA) has launched an online database, through its Online Infobase, which is claimed to provide reliable information on cosmetic ingredients that is backed up by balanced scientific study.
The subscription service provides information on all chemicals that are regulated by the FDA for use in personal care formulations.
The study looked at name-brand sunscreens and worked towards a database that lists products, outlining the ones that offer the best combination of both safety and effectiveness.
According to the EWG this criteria takes into account sunscreens products that are deemed to have been formulated with 'safe' ingredients, as well as having the highest rate of protection against sunburn, preventing the effects of longer-term damage to the skin.
The EWG claims that 85 per cent of the products it assessed with SPF ratings of 15 or more actually offered less than satisfactory sunburn protection or contained potentially unsafe ingredients.
The report highlights the fact that the complex formulation of sunscreens can lead to a number of problems that are sometimes overlooked by formulators, one of which is the fact that sunscreen chemicals can break down when exposed to the sun's rays and have to be formulated with stabilizers.
Another potential problem, according to the group, is that some formulations, particularly those using nanotechnology, contain particles that are so small they can penetrate the skin presenting as yet unknown health risks.
The EWG says its research is based on nearly 400 peer-reviewed studies of the 17 sunscreen chemicals approved for use in the US, a study on sunscreen ingredient toxicity, as well as a product-by-product assessment of protection from UVA and UVB radiation.
"Our research shows that some products are far more effective than others, while presenting fewer safety concerns," said Jane Houlihan, vice president for research at EWG.
The results of the combined studies have been compiled on the group's websites, which is aimed at informing consumers about which products are deemed to be safest and which are not.
"EWG has conducted this research because the FDA has failed to do so," Houlihan added.
The group also underlines the fact that in response to this lack of regulation, US citizens have since filed nine class-actions against advertising standards in California, while the Connecticut Attorney General has petitioned the FDA to set standards and six senators have petitioned the FDA - all urging for a review on sunscreen regulations.
In the face of lobbying from interest groups such as EWG the Cosmetic Toiletry and Fragrance Association (CTFA) has launched an online database, through its Online Infobase, which is claimed to provide reliable information on cosmetic ingredients that is backed up by balanced scientific study.
The subscription service provides information on all chemicals that are regulated by the FDA for use in personal care formulations.
Toxic algae alert issued for reservoir near Heppner
Officials with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have issued an alert for high levels of toxin-producing blue-green algae in Willow Creek Reservoir near Heppner.
Water sampling confirmed a bloom of blue-green algae in concentrations that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals.
Corps officials have notified state and county health departments.
Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals.
The toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water.
Blue-green algae plants occur naturally in lakes and are often associated with increased water temperatures and nutrients in lake water.
Algal blooms are rapid buildups of algae that are often found near the shore because of wind and waves and are visible as masses of green, yellow or bluish-green slime.
Exposure to toxins can produce numbness, tingling and dizziness which can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting also should get medical attention if they persist or worsen.
Children and pets are particularly susceptible.
Monitoring will continue in the reservoir until the levels of toxic algae decline enough to meet state guidelines, officials said.
Information online: http://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/
With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit Willow Creek Reservoir and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, catch-and-release fishing and bird watching.
Water sampling confirmed a bloom of blue-green algae in concentrations that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals.
Corps officials have notified state and county health departments.
Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals.
The toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water.
Blue-green algae plants occur naturally in lakes and are often associated with increased water temperatures and nutrients in lake water.
Algal blooms are rapid buildups of algae that are often found near the shore because of wind and waves and are visible as masses of green, yellow or bluish-green slime.
Exposure to toxins can produce numbness, tingling and dizziness which can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting also should get medical attention if they persist or worsen.
Children and pets are particularly susceptible.
Monitoring will continue in the reservoir until the levels of toxic algae decline enough to meet state guidelines, officials said.
Information online: http://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/
With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit Willow Creek Reservoir and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, catch-and-release fishing and bird watching.
Natural Ways To Keep Skin Healthy, Smooth, Itch-Free This Summer
With temperatures rising, more exposed skin and more plants in full bloom, people are more prone to experiencing rashes, acne outbreaks and other skin inflammations.
Ayurvedic natural remedies can help keep your skin healthy, clear and beautiful, according to Gurusimran Khalsa, Ayurvedic expert and vice president of marketing for Banyan Botanicals, the leading provider of organic Ayurvedic herbs and products in the U.S.
"Even though Ayurveda is thousands of years old, people in Western countries are paying attention to it now more than ever because major studies have proven its effectiveness in restoring and maintaining health," said Khalsa. "Leaders in the field of natural health like Drs. Andrew Weil and Deepak Chopra have also helped bring it to the forefront."
From an Ayurvedic perspective, problems such as rashes, acne, hives, boils, psoriasis and eczema occur when too much heat accumulates in the body, explained Khalsa. This can happen any time of year, but the warmer temperatures make heat-related imbalances of the skin more prevalent in the summer. Excess heat is normally eliminated through the GI tract, but when the system becomes overloaded with toxins, heat becomes trapped and is absorbed into the blood. The body then resorts to using the skin as an organ of elimination of the toxins. This will usually manifest as some type of skin inflammation.
Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to maintaining and regaining health. For skin flare-ups, Ayurvedic remedies incorporate the use of herbs to cool and restore balance in the body, dietary recommendations, and quick yoga and breathing techniques. A daily dose of the traditional Ayurvedic formula Triphala will eliminate excess heat from the body, remove toxins from the GI tract, support healthy elimination, and promote the skin's natural healing process. Cooking with spices like tumeric and using neem on the skin helps remove toxins from the blood. Neem has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can be used in the form of oil you rub on your skin, soap to clean and cool irritated skin, or powder that can be applied as a paste to weepy, oily or oozy skin inflammations, Khalsa explained. For this reason, neem is great to use on poison ivy or poison oak.
If your skin is irritated, avoid consumption of spicy foods, minimize alcohol and coffee consumption, drink plenty of fresh water and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially cooling foods like greens vegetables, basmati rice, sweet juicy fruits, coconut, cucumber and cilantro.
These easy moves can also help, according to Khalsa. A simple seated forward bend cools the system and releases heat from the body. Shitali Pranayama, the cooling breath, is excellent for eliminating heat from the body. The practice is as follows: Curl or roll the sides of your tongue upward into a tube or straw. Inhale slowly through the rolled tongue, and then close the mouth and exhale normally through the nose. If you are unable to roll your tongue into a tube, lightly clench your teeth together with the tongue pressed against the teeth. Inhale the air through your teeth and sides of your mouth. Practice for 10-26 rounds of breath.
"It's important to try to keep your body in balance and listen what it's telling you," advises Khalsa. "The skin tells you a lot about what's going on inside."
Ayurvedic natural remedies can help keep your skin healthy, clear and beautiful, according to Gurusimran Khalsa, Ayurvedic expert and vice president of marketing for Banyan Botanicals, the leading provider of organic Ayurvedic herbs and products in the U.S.
"Even though Ayurveda is thousands of years old, people in Western countries are paying attention to it now more than ever because major studies have proven its effectiveness in restoring and maintaining health," said Khalsa. "Leaders in the field of natural health like Drs. Andrew Weil and Deepak Chopra have also helped bring it to the forefront."
From an Ayurvedic perspective, problems such as rashes, acne, hives, boils, psoriasis and eczema occur when too much heat accumulates in the body, explained Khalsa. This can happen any time of year, but the warmer temperatures make heat-related imbalances of the skin more prevalent in the summer. Excess heat is normally eliminated through the GI tract, but when the system becomes overloaded with toxins, heat becomes trapped and is absorbed into the blood. The body then resorts to using the skin as an organ of elimination of the toxins. This will usually manifest as some type of skin inflammation.
Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to maintaining and regaining health. For skin flare-ups, Ayurvedic remedies incorporate the use of herbs to cool and restore balance in the body, dietary recommendations, and quick yoga and breathing techniques. A daily dose of the traditional Ayurvedic formula Triphala will eliminate excess heat from the body, remove toxins from the GI tract, support healthy elimination, and promote the skin's natural healing process. Cooking with spices like tumeric and using neem on the skin helps remove toxins from the blood. Neem has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can be used in the form of oil you rub on your skin, soap to clean and cool irritated skin, or powder that can be applied as a paste to weepy, oily or oozy skin inflammations, Khalsa explained. For this reason, neem is great to use on poison ivy or poison oak.
If your skin is irritated, avoid consumption of spicy foods, minimize alcohol and coffee consumption, drink plenty of fresh water and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially cooling foods like greens vegetables, basmati rice, sweet juicy fruits, coconut, cucumber and cilantro.
These easy moves can also help, according to Khalsa. A simple seated forward bend cools the system and releases heat from the body. Shitali Pranayama, the cooling breath, is excellent for eliminating heat from the body. The practice is as follows: Curl or roll the sides of your tongue upward into a tube or straw. Inhale slowly through the rolled tongue, and then close the mouth and exhale normally through the nose. If you are unable to roll your tongue into a tube, lightly clench your teeth together with the tongue pressed against the teeth. Inhale the air through your teeth and sides of your mouth. Practice for 10-26 rounds of breath.
"It's important to try to keep your body in balance and listen what it's telling you," advises Khalsa. "The skin tells you a lot about what's going on inside."
Study: Superbug more common than thought
A dangerous, drug-resistant staph germ may be infecting as many as 5 percent of hospital and nursing home patients, according to a comprehensive study.
At least 30,000 U.S. hospital patients may have the superbug at any given time, according to a survey released Monday by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology.
The estimate is about 10 times the rate that some health officials had previously estimated.
Some federal health officials said they had not seen the study and could not comment on its methodology or its prevalence. But they welcomed added attention to the problem.
"This is a welcome piece of information that emphasizes that this is a huge problem in health care facilities, and more needs to done to prevent it," said Dr. John Jernigan, an epidemiologist with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
At issue is a superbug known as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, which cannot be tamed by certain common antibiotics. It is associated with sometimes-horrific skin infections, but it also causes blood infections, pneumonia and other illnesses.
The potentially fatal germ, which is spread by touch, typically thrives in health care settings where people have open wounds. But in recent years, "community-associated" outbreaks have occurred among prisoners, children and athletes, with the germ spreading through skin contact or shared items such as towels.
Past studies have looked at how common the superbug is in specific patient groups, such as emergency-room patients with skin infections in 11 U.S. cities, dialysis patients or those admitted to intensive care units in a sample of a few hundred teaching hospitals.
It's difficult to compare prevalence estimates from the different studies, experts said, but the new study suggests the superbug is eight to 11 times more common than some other studies have concluded.
The new study was different in that it sampled a larger and more diverse set of health care facilities. It also was more recent than other studies, and it counted cases in which the bacterium was merely present in a patient and not necessarily causing disease.
The infection control professionals' association sent surveys to its more than 11,000 members and asked them to pick one day from Oct. 1 to Nov. 10, 2006, to count cases of the infection. They were to turn in the number of all the patients in their health care facilities who were identified through test results as infected or colonized with the superbug.
The final results represented 1,237 hospitals and nursing homes -- or roughly 21 percent of U.S. inpatient health care facilities, association officials said.
The researchers concluded that at least 46 out of every 1,000 patients had the bug.
There was a breakdown: About 34 per 1,000 were infected with the superbug, meaning they had skin or blood infections or some other clinical symptom. And 12 per 1,000 were "colonized," meaning they had the bug but no illness.
Most of the patients were identified within 48 hours of hospital admission, which means, the researchers believe, that they didn't have time to become infected to the degree that a test would show it. For that reason, the researchers concluded that about 75 percent of patients walked into the hospitals and nursing homes already carrying the bug.
"They acquired it in a previous stay in health care facility, or out in the community," said Dr. William Jarvis, a consulting epidemiologist and former CDC officials who led the study.
The infection can be treated with other antibiotics. Health care workers can prevent spread of the bug through hand-washing and equipment decontamination, and by wearing gloves and gowns and by separating infected people from other patients.
The study is being presented this week at the association's annual meeting in San Jose, Calif., but has not been submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed medical journal.
At least 30,000 U.S. hospital patients may have the superbug at any given time, according to a survey released Monday by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology.
The estimate is about 10 times the rate that some health officials had previously estimated.
Some federal health officials said they had not seen the study and could not comment on its methodology or its prevalence. But they welcomed added attention to the problem.
"This is a welcome piece of information that emphasizes that this is a huge problem in health care facilities, and more needs to done to prevent it," said Dr. John Jernigan, an epidemiologist with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
At issue is a superbug known as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, which cannot be tamed by certain common antibiotics. It is associated with sometimes-horrific skin infections, but it also causes blood infections, pneumonia and other illnesses.
The potentially fatal germ, which is spread by touch, typically thrives in health care settings where people have open wounds. But in recent years, "community-associated" outbreaks have occurred among prisoners, children and athletes, with the germ spreading through skin contact or shared items such as towels.
Past studies have looked at how common the superbug is in specific patient groups, such as emergency-room patients with skin infections in 11 U.S. cities, dialysis patients or those admitted to intensive care units in a sample of a few hundred teaching hospitals.
It's difficult to compare prevalence estimates from the different studies, experts said, but the new study suggests the superbug is eight to 11 times more common than some other studies have concluded.
The new study was different in that it sampled a larger and more diverse set of health care facilities. It also was more recent than other studies, and it counted cases in which the bacterium was merely present in a patient and not necessarily causing disease.
The infection control professionals' association sent surveys to its more than 11,000 members and asked them to pick one day from Oct. 1 to Nov. 10, 2006, to count cases of the infection. They were to turn in the number of all the patients in their health care facilities who were identified through test results as infected or colonized with the superbug.
The final results represented 1,237 hospitals and nursing homes -- or roughly 21 percent of U.S. inpatient health care facilities, association officials said.
The researchers concluded that at least 46 out of every 1,000 patients had the bug.
There was a breakdown: About 34 per 1,000 were infected with the superbug, meaning they had skin or blood infections or some other clinical symptom. And 12 per 1,000 were "colonized," meaning they had the bug but no illness.
Most of the patients were identified within 48 hours of hospital admission, which means, the researchers believe, that they didn't have time to become infected to the degree that a test would show it. For that reason, the researchers concluded that about 75 percent of patients walked into the hospitals and nursing homes already carrying the bug.
"They acquired it in a previous stay in health care facility, or out in the community," said Dr. William Jarvis, a consulting epidemiologist and former CDC officials who led the study.
The infection can be treated with other antibiotics. Health care workers can prevent spread of the bug through hand-washing and equipment decontamination, and by wearing gloves and gowns and by separating infected people from other patients.
The study is being presented this week at the association's annual meeting in San Jose, Calif., but has not been submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed medical journal.
Breaking Health Study Finds Extra Weight Ideal for Type 1 Diabetics
Usually when a person has diabetes, one of there main concerns is body weight. Most diabetes strive to keep off and maintain their weight constantly.
However according to HealthDay News, a new research, conducted by a health team at the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, has found that a little extra weight could possibly be connected with better coronary health for those with type 1 diabetes. This is considered a breaking health find.
The health team stated that people with diabetes are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease at a much younger age than those without diabetes. In fact, heart disease and other complications of the cardiovascular system are the top killers amongst diabetics of all ages, reported HealthDay News.
On the other hand, the situation is different for those with the genetically passed type 1 diabetes. Dr. Trevor Orchard, professor of epidemiology at the University of Pittsburgh, said, "Gaining weight may reflect good or better treatment with insulin therapy, which may partly explain why participants who gained weight over time [in the study] had lower mortality rates."
According to HealthDay News, the University of Pittsburgh study was conducted with 315 patients with type 1 diabetes. The study took 18 years, beginning in 1986. Patients underwent CT scans often and had their waist circumference, abdominal fat, body mass index, and amount of fat underneath the skin checked regularly.
The study found that the more fat in general a person had, the more likely they were to suffer from coronary artery complications and build up. Of those who had the complications, those with more fat had less severe symptoms and complications, said HealthDay News.
Dr. Orchard said of the study, "This is not a firm recommendation to people with type 1 diabetes to put on weight, but it does raise the possibility that weight recommendations in type 1 diabetes may be somewhat different than those for the general population, and emphasizes the complex relationship between body fat and cardiovascular risk in diabetes."
However according to HealthDay News, a new research, conducted by a health team at the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, has found that a little extra weight could possibly be connected with better coronary health for those with type 1 diabetes. This is considered a breaking health find.
The health team stated that people with diabetes are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease at a much younger age than those without diabetes. In fact, heart disease and other complications of the cardiovascular system are the top killers amongst diabetics of all ages, reported HealthDay News.
On the other hand, the situation is different for those with the genetically passed type 1 diabetes. Dr. Trevor Orchard, professor of epidemiology at the University of Pittsburgh, said, "Gaining weight may reflect good or better treatment with insulin therapy, which may partly explain why participants who gained weight over time [in the study] had lower mortality rates."
According to HealthDay News, the University of Pittsburgh study was conducted with 315 patients with type 1 diabetes. The study took 18 years, beginning in 1986. Patients underwent CT scans often and had their waist circumference, abdominal fat, body mass index, and amount of fat underneath the skin checked regularly.
The study found that the more fat in general a person had, the more likely they were to suffer from coronary artery complications and build up. Of those who had the complications, those with more fat had less severe symptoms and complications, said HealthDay News.
Dr. Orchard said of the study, "This is not a firm recommendation to people with type 1 diabetes to put on weight, but it does raise the possibility that weight recommendations in type 1 diabetes may be somewhat different than those for the general population, and emphasizes the complex relationship between body fat and cardiovascular risk in diabetes."
Breast Cancer, Out of the Dark
While trying to sleep in his apartment in the mid-1980s, Mr. Stevens noticed that the street lamp outside was so bright he could almost read in his bedroom. "You couldn't do that a thousand years ago or even a few hundred years ago," he says. "People just don't experience dark anymore."
That observation sent his brain racing. As an epidemiologist, Mr. Stevens had been puzzling over a curious trend in breast-cancer statistics: The rates shoot up as societies grow more industrialized. Many other cancers — stomach, colon, and liver cancers — become less prevalent as a country modernizes, largely because people benefit from better sanitation and safer food. But epidemiologists could not figure out why breast-cancer rates in modernized societies were five times the levels documented in the developing world.
That observation sent his brain racing. As an epidemiologist, Mr. Stevens had been puzzling over a curious trend in breast-cancer statistics: The rates shoot up as societies grow more industrialized. Many other cancers — stomach, colon, and liver cancers — become less prevalent as a country modernizes, largely because people benefit from better sanitation and safer food. But epidemiologists could not figure out why breast-cancer rates in modernized societies were five times the levels documented in the developing world.
Disease sleuths try to stop spread of infection
Every day, public health workers throughout Colorado knock on doors or make calls to track down people who may have been exposed to a reportable, contagious disease.
It could be whooping cough or HIV, mumps or meningitis. Doctors and laboratories are required by law to report certain diseases to state and local health departments, which then begin investigations aimed at stopping the spread of infection.
The state’s chief medical officer calls such work “shoe leather epidemiology.”
“We track people down as quickly as we can,” said the official, Dr. Ned Calonge. “Public health will go to people’s houses.”
Although diseases are tracked and statistics regularly posted on the state Health Department Web site, workers’ efforts usually get little notice.
But some cases make headlines, such as the recent tuberculosis death of a 19-year-old college student from Nepal. Kalpana Dangol, who attended Colorado State University at Pueblo and lived in Colorado Springs, died at Memorial Hospital on June 8.
Although public health officials investigate and treat about 120 TB cases across the state each year, the fact that the victim died — no local deaths specifically from TB had occurred in the past five years — elevated its profile.
(Dangol’s was officially the second TB-related death in El Paso County this year. In March, an autopsy revealed a man who died in a car crash had active tuberculosis. Although he died of crash injuries, his death was recorded as TB-related.)
Had it not been for publicity surrounding Andrew Speaker, the Atlanta lawyer undergoing treatment for an especially dangerous strain of tuberculosis at National Jewish Medical and Research Center in Denver, the Springs case likely wouldn’t have garnered as much interest, Calonge said.
Last week, health departments in El Paso and Pueblo held TB skin-testing clinics for people who may have been exposed in the Dangol case. About 160 people were identified for testing, including 15 employees at Memorial Hospital.
In a separate TB investigation in October, health officials tested 222 people after a teacher in Falcon School District 49 with an extensive travel history was found to have the disease.
Other recent communicable disease investigations, although much larger, have been much quieter.
In May, a case of whooping cough in a child led to a twocounty investigation.
“Basically, this investigation got huge,” said Dr. Bernadette Albanese, medical director at the El Paso County Department of Health and Environment.
An estimated 1,000 people in Teller and El Paso counties were notified they may have been exposed to the bacterial disease, formally known as pertussis. Six cases were confirmed. Last week, lab results confirmed two more unrelated cases that sparked tracking.
The El Paso County Health Department also helped tackle a measles investigation that originated at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair last month in Albuquerque. Sixteen people from El Paso County at the fair needed to be notified after New Mexico officials announced that a 15-year-old girl from India who attended the event had the disease. None of those potentially exposed became sick, Albanese said.
Seeking people out in such cases often falls to Corliss Brecht, a communicable disease specialist who works in the basement of the Health Department.
“Usually, this is a phone conversation,” she said. “I’ll introduce myself as being a public health nurse from the Health Department and let them know I was investigating a case of whatever the disease is, and I understood they may have been exposed.”
Brecht explains the disease and how it spreads, and then she helps arrange testing.
Overwhelmingly, people cooperate when asked to submit to testing for communicable diseases, said Rosemary Bakes-Martin, administrator of the El Paso County Department of Health and Environment.
For those who refuse, there can be consequences.
“If we really felt like there was somebody who was going to infect others, we would have some powers we could take advantage of,” Bakes-Martin said.
It’s a power she has used.
About a year ago, the department issued a “cease and desist” order to someone with HIV who continued having sex and in another instance, ordered that a person with active TB be quarantined to his home.
A TB quarantine case in Arizona continues to make national news. Robert Daniels, originally from Russia, has spent the past nine months in a medical jail ward because he is viewed as a dangerous health threat. He was confined for failing to wear a mask in public.
By law, public health officials must keep health information confidential, although such high-profile cases often make their way to the media, sometimes when the patients decide to step forward.
In the Dangol case, her identify was released by the Coroner’s Office, not health officials, who said privacy laws restrict them from releasing names, regardless of whether the person has died. Records from the Coroner’s Office, however, are public.
“Certainly, the media was very upset with me for refusing to give this person’s name,” Calonge said. “If I thought that we needed to release the name in order to protect the public, then we would have done it.”
Calonge and local health officials said it’s important to keep such information confidential even in the case of a death, in part because of the risk of alienating family and friends who may refuse to cooperate if they feel their loved one has been disparaged.
“We get easier access to information because we do keep it confidential,” Calonge said. “If people think you won’t keep information confidential, they won’t provide it.
“I have real concerns in tuberculosis because we believe that undocumented people don’t seek care because they’re afraid we’ll deport them or report them based on that information. This issue about keeping the information confidential, I believe, is a key cornerstone of public health practice.”
DETAILS
Several conditions, even though not transmitted from person to person, also are reportable, such as plague, West Nile virus and hantavirus.
DETAILS
Some conditions physicians and labs are required to report to the state or local health department include pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis A, measles, tuberculosis, meningococcus, HIV, gonorrhea, mumps, polio, smallpox, cholera, E. coli and salmonella.
It could be whooping cough or HIV, mumps or meningitis. Doctors and laboratories are required by law to report certain diseases to state and local health departments, which then begin investigations aimed at stopping the spread of infection.
The state’s chief medical officer calls such work “shoe leather epidemiology.”
“We track people down as quickly as we can,” said the official, Dr. Ned Calonge. “Public health will go to people’s houses.”
Although diseases are tracked and statistics regularly posted on the state Health Department Web site, workers’ efforts usually get little notice.
But some cases make headlines, such as the recent tuberculosis death of a 19-year-old college student from Nepal. Kalpana Dangol, who attended Colorado State University at Pueblo and lived in Colorado Springs, died at Memorial Hospital on June 8.
Although public health officials investigate and treat about 120 TB cases across the state each year, the fact that the victim died — no local deaths specifically from TB had occurred in the past five years — elevated its profile.
(Dangol’s was officially the second TB-related death in El Paso County this year. In March, an autopsy revealed a man who died in a car crash had active tuberculosis. Although he died of crash injuries, his death was recorded as TB-related.)
Had it not been for publicity surrounding Andrew Speaker, the Atlanta lawyer undergoing treatment for an especially dangerous strain of tuberculosis at National Jewish Medical and Research Center in Denver, the Springs case likely wouldn’t have garnered as much interest, Calonge said.
Last week, health departments in El Paso and Pueblo held TB skin-testing clinics for people who may have been exposed in the Dangol case. About 160 people were identified for testing, including 15 employees at Memorial Hospital.
In a separate TB investigation in October, health officials tested 222 people after a teacher in Falcon School District 49 with an extensive travel history was found to have the disease.
Other recent communicable disease investigations, although much larger, have been much quieter.
In May, a case of whooping cough in a child led to a twocounty investigation.
“Basically, this investigation got huge,” said Dr. Bernadette Albanese, medical director at the El Paso County Department of Health and Environment.
An estimated 1,000 people in Teller and El Paso counties were notified they may have been exposed to the bacterial disease, formally known as pertussis. Six cases were confirmed. Last week, lab results confirmed two more unrelated cases that sparked tracking.
The El Paso County Health Department also helped tackle a measles investigation that originated at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair last month in Albuquerque. Sixteen people from El Paso County at the fair needed to be notified after New Mexico officials announced that a 15-year-old girl from India who attended the event had the disease. None of those potentially exposed became sick, Albanese said.
Seeking people out in such cases often falls to Corliss Brecht, a communicable disease specialist who works in the basement of the Health Department.
“Usually, this is a phone conversation,” she said. “I’ll introduce myself as being a public health nurse from the Health Department and let them know I was investigating a case of whatever the disease is, and I understood they may have been exposed.”
Brecht explains the disease and how it spreads, and then she helps arrange testing.
Overwhelmingly, people cooperate when asked to submit to testing for communicable diseases, said Rosemary Bakes-Martin, administrator of the El Paso County Department of Health and Environment.
For those who refuse, there can be consequences.
“If we really felt like there was somebody who was going to infect others, we would have some powers we could take advantage of,” Bakes-Martin said.
It’s a power she has used.
About a year ago, the department issued a “cease and desist” order to someone with HIV who continued having sex and in another instance, ordered that a person with active TB be quarantined to his home.
A TB quarantine case in Arizona continues to make national news. Robert Daniels, originally from Russia, has spent the past nine months in a medical jail ward because he is viewed as a dangerous health threat. He was confined for failing to wear a mask in public.
By law, public health officials must keep health information confidential, although such high-profile cases often make their way to the media, sometimes when the patients decide to step forward.
In the Dangol case, her identify was released by the Coroner’s Office, not health officials, who said privacy laws restrict them from releasing names, regardless of whether the person has died. Records from the Coroner’s Office, however, are public.
“Certainly, the media was very upset with me for refusing to give this person’s name,” Calonge said. “If I thought that we needed to release the name in order to protect the public, then we would have done it.”
Calonge and local health officials said it’s important to keep such information confidential even in the case of a death, in part because of the risk of alienating family and friends who may refuse to cooperate if they feel their loved one has been disparaged.
“We get easier access to information because we do keep it confidential,” Calonge said. “If people think you won’t keep information confidential, they won’t provide it.
“I have real concerns in tuberculosis because we believe that undocumented people don’t seek care because they’re afraid we’ll deport them or report them based on that information. This issue about keeping the information confidential, I believe, is a key cornerstone of public health practice.”
DETAILS
Several conditions, even though not transmitted from person to person, also are reportable, such as plague, West Nile virus and hantavirus.
DETAILS
Some conditions physicians and labs are required to report to the state or local health department include pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis A, measles, tuberculosis, meningococcus, HIV, gonorrhea, mumps, polio, smallpox, cholera, E. coli and salmonella.
Protect skin from sun; see doctor for unusual moles
Your skin is your body's largest organ. Many things outdoors can harm your skin. They include the sun, yard chemicals, plants that cause rashes and injuries from scrapes, scratches, splinters and chafing. Skin problems are more common among older people.
Many people, including construction and landscape workers, athletes and even children, are often active during the day when the sun's damaging rays are the strongest. UV rays can be increased if reflected off water or snow.
Sunburn damages your skin. The fact that sunburned skin may peel and become sore, dry, itchy and tight is a sign that it is not good for you. Sunburns also increase the chance of early wrinkles and leathery skin. The sun can damage your hair too.
Excess sunburn or exposure can create moles, freckles, blotches and other skin blemishes. Fair-skinned people with freckles and moles are especially at risk for skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US. The sun causes most skin cancers. You are at a greater risk of skin cancer if you have had frequent or severe sunburns.
Three common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Melanoma is an especially dangerous skin cancer that can spread in the body. If treated early, the chance of recovery could be very good. (Source: Skin Cancer Foundation)
Exercisers and sports participants are at risk for skin problems. Sweating, chafing, the cold or heat, sun and infections are common causes. Excess moisture can create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus. Foot odor, blisters, jock itch, acne, athlete's foot and inflamed hair follicles are just a few of the skin troubles faced by many athletes.
Children may need extra attention. Bug bites, sunburn, rashes, bruises, splinters and scrapes are preventable skin problems.
Skin rashes triggered by allergies can be especially difficult for people who enjoy the outdoors. Poison ivy rash is common in the spring and summer in the Mid-South.
Winter weather can irritate skin. Hands are especially at risk for chapping. Moisturizers can keep your skin lubricated.
Many skin conditions are treatable by over-the-counter medications or ointments, but some do require prescriptions.
What you should do
Limit your time in the sun. Take special care if a close relative has had melanoma or you have freckles, moles or fair skin.
Avoid being in the sun when it's high (from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Stay indoors and in the shade when possible.
Block the sun. Wear a hat to protect your skin and hair from the sun. Wear a shirt that covers you. Wear protective sunglasses. When outside, sit or walk under an umbrella. Wear dark-colored fabrics.
Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Use sunscreen on all exposed skin at least 30 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply the sunscreen frequently, especially if you get in water or perspire.
See a dermatologist if you have a mole that bleeds, has an irregular shape or color, is large, crusty or raised.
Pay extra attention to children to protect their skin. Help them to apply sunscreen, bug repellant and to wear appropriate clothing, shoes and hats when needed. Protect bare feet on hot pavement, around pools and on lawns.
In the winter, pat yourself dry after bathing. Avoid long hot baths and harsh soaps. Drink plenty of water. Use moisturizers. Wear gloves. Avoid drinks like alcohol and caffeine that dehydrate your body. Find relief for your hands by applying petroleum jelly before bedtime and wearing cotton gloves overnight to treat cracked, sore fingertips and skin. Consider using a humidifier to keep the humidity in your home higher during the winter. Keep a bottle of moisturizer at each sink in your home.
For people who work or exercise outdoors, prevent excess moisture on your skin. Bathe and change into clean clothes quickly. Wear absorbent socks and change socks frequently. After exercising, wash and dry your feet. Let your shoes dry out. To avoid jock itch, keep the skin in the groin area dry. Work out in loose pants. Wear cotton clothing, soft knits, and fleece to wick excess moisture. Wear work or garden gloves for outdoor work. Wash lawn chemicals and cleaning agents immediately off your skin.
Avoid blisters and chafing by wearing clothes, shoes and stocks that fit well. Keep your skin well lubricated to help reduce friction. Some athletes use petroleum jelly on their feet. Foot powders and spray antiperspirants on feet are easy ways to decrease moisture. Acrylic socks can eliminate friction in tennis shoes.
If you get fever blisters, use lip balm with sunscreen before going outdoors. Ask your doctor about a preventive drug like acyclovir if you get fever blisters frequently.
Be prepared with an emergency kit to treat scrapes, cuts, blisters and splinters. If you are allergic to stings, put on insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts, pants and a hat, and avoid perfume that can attract insects. Carry a special emergency kit.
For more information
Go to Healthymemphis. org/links for information on skin cancer and prevention and treatment of skin problems from outdoor activity.
Family Health ...Take Charge! is provided by the Healthy Memphis Common Table: healthymemphis.org. This article supports the care and advice of your doctor. Talk to your care provider about any health condition or before starting new treatments.
Many people, including construction and landscape workers, athletes and even children, are often active during the day when the sun's damaging rays are the strongest. UV rays can be increased if reflected off water or snow.
Sunburn damages your skin. The fact that sunburned skin may peel and become sore, dry, itchy and tight is a sign that it is not good for you. Sunburns also increase the chance of early wrinkles and leathery skin. The sun can damage your hair too.
Excess sunburn or exposure can create moles, freckles, blotches and other skin blemishes. Fair-skinned people with freckles and moles are especially at risk for skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US. The sun causes most skin cancers. You are at a greater risk of skin cancer if you have had frequent or severe sunburns.
Three common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Melanoma is an especially dangerous skin cancer that can spread in the body. If treated early, the chance of recovery could be very good. (Source: Skin Cancer Foundation)
Exercisers and sports participants are at risk for skin problems. Sweating, chafing, the cold or heat, sun and infections are common causes. Excess moisture can create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus. Foot odor, blisters, jock itch, acne, athlete's foot and inflamed hair follicles are just a few of the skin troubles faced by many athletes.
Children may need extra attention. Bug bites, sunburn, rashes, bruises, splinters and scrapes are preventable skin problems.
Skin rashes triggered by allergies can be especially difficult for people who enjoy the outdoors. Poison ivy rash is common in the spring and summer in the Mid-South.
Winter weather can irritate skin. Hands are especially at risk for chapping. Moisturizers can keep your skin lubricated.
Many skin conditions are treatable by over-the-counter medications or ointments, but some do require prescriptions.
What you should do
Limit your time in the sun. Take special care if a close relative has had melanoma or you have freckles, moles or fair skin.
Avoid being in the sun when it's high (from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Stay indoors and in the shade when possible.
Block the sun. Wear a hat to protect your skin and hair from the sun. Wear a shirt that covers you. Wear protective sunglasses. When outside, sit or walk under an umbrella. Wear dark-colored fabrics.
Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Use sunscreen on all exposed skin at least 30 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply the sunscreen frequently, especially if you get in water or perspire.
See a dermatologist if you have a mole that bleeds, has an irregular shape or color, is large, crusty or raised.
Pay extra attention to children to protect their skin. Help them to apply sunscreen, bug repellant and to wear appropriate clothing, shoes and hats when needed. Protect bare feet on hot pavement, around pools and on lawns.
In the winter, pat yourself dry after bathing. Avoid long hot baths and harsh soaps. Drink plenty of water. Use moisturizers. Wear gloves. Avoid drinks like alcohol and caffeine that dehydrate your body. Find relief for your hands by applying petroleum jelly before bedtime and wearing cotton gloves overnight to treat cracked, sore fingertips and skin. Consider using a humidifier to keep the humidity in your home higher during the winter. Keep a bottle of moisturizer at each sink in your home.
For people who work or exercise outdoors, prevent excess moisture on your skin. Bathe and change into clean clothes quickly. Wear absorbent socks and change socks frequently. After exercising, wash and dry your feet. Let your shoes dry out. To avoid jock itch, keep the skin in the groin area dry. Work out in loose pants. Wear cotton clothing, soft knits, and fleece to wick excess moisture. Wear work or garden gloves for outdoor work. Wash lawn chemicals and cleaning agents immediately off your skin.
Avoid blisters and chafing by wearing clothes, shoes and stocks that fit well. Keep your skin well lubricated to help reduce friction. Some athletes use petroleum jelly on their feet. Foot powders and spray antiperspirants on feet are easy ways to decrease moisture. Acrylic socks can eliminate friction in tennis shoes.
If you get fever blisters, use lip balm with sunscreen before going outdoors. Ask your doctor about a preventive drug like acyclovir if you get fever blisters frequently.
Be prepared with an emergency kit to treat scrapes, cuts, blisters and splinters. If you are allergic to stings, put on insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts, pants and a hat, and avoid perfume that can attract insects. Carry a special emergency kit.
For more information
Go to Healthymemphis. org/links for information on skin cancer and prevention and treatment of skin problems from outdoor activity.
Family Health ...Take Charge! is provided by the Healthy Memphis Common Table: healthymemphis.org. This article supports the care and advice of your doctor. Talk to your care provider about any health condition or before starting new treatments.
Soap causing eczema
Use of strong soaps is leading to a rise in eczema, skin experts have warned.
Researchers from the University College London's Institute of Child Health report that strong soaps strip away the protective outer layers.
They are removing the protective outer layer of skin, which can be damaged even by a strip of adhesive being pulled off.
When this layer goes, allergy-causing particles can penetrate the skin.
These are then absorbed by Langerhans cells in the epidermis.
"Good standards of cleanliness are clearly important to prevent spreading of unpleasant diseases," said the doctors .
Around one in five Irish babies will suffer from eczema at some time in their childhood.
Researchers from the University College London's Institute of Child Health report that strong soaps strip away the protective outer layers.
They are removing the protective outer layer of skin, which can be damaged even by a strip of adhesive being pulled off.
When this layer goes, allergy-causing particles can penetrate the skin.
These are then absorbed by Langerhans cells in the epidermis.
"Good standards of cleanliness are clearly important to prevent spreading of unpleasant diseases," said the doctors .
Around one in five Irish babies will suffer from eczema at some time in their childhood.
Roche and Toyama Chemical Enter Licensing Agreement to Develop Potential Breakthrough Drug to Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
Toyama Chemical Co., Ltd. and Roche announced today that they have entered into a licensing agreement for the worldwide research, development and commercialization of Toyama Chemical's novel oral rheumatoid arthritis agent T-5224. By inhibiting a specific inflammatory process, T-5224 has the potential to block signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis as well as the progressive destruction of joint and bone. T-5224 is currently in phase I. With this partnership, Roche is further strengthening its promising portfolio and R&D pipeline in the area of rheumatoid arthritis.
"This novel oral compound complements Roche's developing portfolio of drug candidates in inflammation and rheumatoid arthritis. The agent T-5224 has the potential to inhibit a key trigger of rheumatoid arthritis and has already shown promising pharmacological efficacy and safety in early clinical studies," said Jean-Jacques Garaud, Head of Roche Pharma Development. "Our new collaboration is good news for all patients with rheumatoid arthritis as well as for our two companies. We are looking forward to collaborating with our new colleagues in Japan to develop T-5224."
"By entering into a research and development collaboration with Roche, one of the world's leading research and development companies, we are able to increase Toyama's potential for novel drug development in the anti-inflammatory field, which is a field of concentration for Toyama Chemical," said Masuji Sugata, President of Toyama Chemical.
Under the terms of the agreement, Toyama Chemical has granted Roche exclusive rights to research, develop, and sell T-5224 worldwide excluding Japan where Toyama Chemical will retain exclusive rights. The agreement also encompasses the joint research and development of back-up candidates to T-5224. Toyama Chemical will receive upfront payments and milestone payments totalling up to 370 million US dollars, based on certain development and commercial milestones. If approved for marketing, Toyama Chemical will receive royalties based on the net sales of T-5224 by Roche.
About T-5224
T-5224 is an inhibitor of the transcription factor AP-1 (Activator Protein-1) which is known to play an important role in the pathology of rheumatoid arthritis. AP-1 turns on a variety of genes in response to inflammation triggers, including many that are responsible for the proteins that are the targets of current rheumatoid arthritis products. In addition, in joint cells called osteoclasts, AP-1 stimulates the production of enzymes that are thought specifically to cause the destruction of bones and joint tissue. Therefore, by inhibiting the AP-1 process, T-5224 affects several key pathways and may prevent the progression of this disabling disease in many patients.
T-5224 was first identified as a drug candidate in rheumatoid arthritis through collaboration between Toyama Chemical Research and Professors Shunichi Shiozawa of Kobe University and Shuichi Hirono of Kitasato University. Non-clinical studies were completed through this collaboration and Phase I studies have been carried out in Japan since June of last year. Toyama Chemical is receiving, through the Contract Development Program, support from the Japan Science and Technology Agency, an independent administrative institution, for its research and development in Japan.
About rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive, systemic autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of multiple joints and fatigue as well as the possibility of osteoporosis, anaemia, and lung, skin and liver effects. This inflammation causes pain, stiffness and swelling, resulting in loss of joint function due to destruction of the bone and cartilage, often leading to progressive disability. Further, as chronic inflammation continues, there may be shortening of life expectancy as a result of effects on major organ systems. After 10 years, less than 50% of patients can continue to work or function normally on a day to day basis. RA affects more than 21 million people worldwide.
About Roche in rheumatoid arthritis
One of the most important drivers for growth at Roche over the next few years is expected to be the company's emerging franchise in autoimmune diseases with rheumatoid arthritis as the first indication. Following the launch of MabThera (rituximab) there are a number of projects in development, potentially allowing Roche to build on further opportunities. MabThera is the first and only selective B-cell therapy for RA, providing a fundamentally different treatment approach by targeting B cells, one of the key players in the pathogenesis of RA. Actemra is Roche's second novel medicine and is a humanised monoclonal antibody to the interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor, inhibiting the activity of IL-6, a protein that plays a major role in the RA inflammation process.
Actemra is the result of research collaboration by Chugai and is being co-developed globally with Chugai. Additional projects creating a rich pipeline include compounds in Phase I, II and III clinical trials. Notably, ocrelizumab, a fully humanised anti-CD20 antibody, is just entering phase III development for RA.
About Toyama Chemical
Toyama Chemical specializes in research and development, and strives to contribute to the further development of global health care through new drug development. Toyama concentrates its R&D in three fields: anti-infective agents, anti-inflammatory agents, and cerebral function improvers and cardiovascular drugs. Pharmaceuticals now in the pipeline include T-3811, a synthetic antibacterial agent; T-614, an oral anti-rheumatic agent; and T-817MA, a treatment for Alzheimer's disease. The company has formed strategic partnerships with domestic and overseas pharmaceutical manufacturers as well as establishing clinical research subsidiaries in the U.S. and U.K. Validation of Toyama's success can be found in their technology exports and their royalty income which is the highest among mid-sized Japanese pharmaceutical companies. Toyama is taking an aggressive, outward-looking approach, globalizing its activities with the aim of becoming a key pharmaceutical manufacturer. Additional information about the Toyama Chemical is available on the Internet at http://www.toyama-chemical.co.jp/eng.
About Roche
Hoffmann-La Roche Inc. (Roche), based in Nutley, N.J., is the U.S. pharmaceuticals headquarters of the Roche Group, one of the world's leading research-oriented healthcare groups with core businesses in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics. For more than 100 years in the U.S., Roche has been committed to developing innovative products and services that address prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases, thus enhancing people's health and quality of life. An employer of choice, in 2006, Roche was named one of the Top 20 Employers (Science magazine), ranked the No. 1 Company to Sell For (Selling Power), and one of AARP's Top Companies for Older Workers, and in 2005, Roche was named one of Fortune magazine's Best Companies to Work For in America. For additional information about the U.S. pharmaceuticals business, visit our websites: http://www.rocheusa.com/ or http://www.roche.us/.
All trademarks used or mentioned in this release are protected by law. Roche
"This novel oral compound complements Roche's developing portfolio of drug candidates in inflammation and rheumatoid arthritis. The agent T-5224 has the potential to inhibit a key trigger of rheumatoid arthritis and has already shown promising pharmacological efficacy and safety in early clinical studies," said Jean-Jacques Garaud, Head of Roche Pharma Development. "Our new collaboration is good news for all patients with rheumatoid arthritis as well as for our two companies. We are looking forward to collaborating with our new colleagues in Japan to develop T-5224."
"By entering into a research and development collaboration with Roche, one of the world's leading research and development companies, we are able to increase Toyama's potential for novel drug development in the anti-inflammatory field, which is a field of concentration for Toyama Chemical," said Masuji Sugata, President of Toyama Chemical.
Under the terms of the agreement, Toyama Chemical has granted Roche exclusive rights to research, develop, and sell T-5224 worldwide excluding Japan where Toyama Chemical will retain exclusive rights. The agreement also encompasses the joint research and development of back-up candidates to T-5224. Toyama Chemical will receive upfront payments and milestone payments totalling up to 370 million US dollars, based on certain development and commercial milestones. If approved for marketing, Toyama Chemical will receive royalties based on the net sales of T-5224 by Roche.
About T-5224
T-5224 is an inhibitor of the transcription factor AP-1 (Activator Protein-1) which is known to play an important role in the pathology of rheumatoid arthritis. AP-1 turns on a variety of genes in response to inflammation triggers, including many that are responsible for the proteins that are the targets of current rheumatoid arthritis products. In addition, in joint cells called osteoclasts, AP-1 stimulates the production of enzymes that are thought specifically to cause the destruction of bones and joint tissue. Therefore, by inhibiting the AP-1 process, T-5224 affects several key pathways and may prevent the progression of this disabling disease in many patients.
T-5224 was first identified as a drug candidate in rheumatoid arthritis through collaboration between Toyama Chemical Research and Professors Shunichi Shiozawa of Kobe University and Shuichi Hirono of Kitasato University. Non-clinical studies were completed through this collaboration and Phase I studies have been carried out in Japan since June of last year. Toyama Chemical is receiving, through the Contract Development Program, support from the Japan Science and Technology Agency, an independent administrative institution, for its research and development in Japan.
About rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive, systemic autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of multiple joints and fatigue as well as the possibility of osteoporosis, anaemia, and lung, skin and liver effects. This inflammation causes pain, stiffness and swelling, resulting in loss of joint function due to destruction of the bone and cartilage, often leading to progressive disability. Further, as chronic inflammation continues, there may be shortening of life expectancy as a result of effects on major organ systems. After 10 years, less than 50% of patients can continue to work or function normally on a day to day basis. RA affects more than 21 million people worldwide.
About Roche in rheumatoid arthritis
One of the most important drivers for growth at Roche over the next few years is expected to be the company's emerging franchise in autoimmune diseases with rheumatoid arthritis as the first indication. Following the launch of MabThera (rituximab) there are a number of projects in development, potentially allowing Roche to build on further opportunities. MabThera is the first and only selective B-cell therapy for RA, providing a fundamentally different treatment approach by targeting B cells, one of the key players in the pathogenesis of RA. Actemra is Roche's second novel medicine and is a humanised monoclonal antibody to the interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor, inhibiting the activity of IL-6, a protein that plays a major role in the RA inflammation process.
Actemra is the result of research collaboration by Chugai and is being co-developed globally with Chugai. Additional projects creating a rich pipeline include compounds in Phase I, II and III clinical trials. Notably, ocrelizumab, a fully humanised anti-CD20 antibody, is just entering phase III development for RA.
About Toyama Chemical
Toyama Chemical specializes in research and development, and strives to contribute to the further development of global health care through new drug development. Toyama concentrates its R&D in three fields: anti-infective agents, anti-inflammatory agents, and cerebral function improvers and cardiovascular drugs. Pharmaceuticals now in the pipeline include T-3811, a synthetic antibacterial agent; T-614, an oral anti-rheumatic agent; and T-817MA, a treatment for Alzheimer's disease. The company has formed strategic partnerships with domestic and overseas pharmaceutical manufacturers as well as establishing clinical research subsidiaries in the U.S. and U.K. Validation of Toyama's success can be found in their technology exports and their royalty income which is the highest among mid-sized Japanese pharmaceutical companies. Toyama is taking an aggressive, outward-looking approach, globalizing its activities with the aim of becoming a key pharmaceutical manufacturer. Additional information about the Toyama Chemical is available on the Internet at http://www.toyama-chemical.co.jp/eng.
About Roche
Hoffmann-La Roche Inc. (Roche), based in Nutley, N.J., is the U.S. pharmaceuticals headquarters of the Roche Group, one of the world's leading research-oriented healthcare groups with core businesses in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics. For more than 100 years in the U.S., Roche has been committed to developing innovative products and services that address prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases, thus enhancing people's health and quality of life. An employer of choice, in 2006, Roche was named one of the Top 20 Employers (Science magazine), ranked the No. 1 Company to Sell For (Selling Power), and one of AARP's Top Companies for Older Workers, and in 2005, Roche was named one of Fortune magazine's Best Companies to Work For in America. For additional information about the U.S. pharmaceuticals business, visit our websites: http://www.rocheusa.com/ or http://www.roche.us/.
All trademarks used or mentioned in this release are protected by law. Roche
Stem-cell foes; health care costs
Today, a vast majority of those "nasty freedom-loving rights-supporting progressive populists" here in the Divided States of the two Americas and I feel that it is time for the venomous, vitriolic, vociferous vermin making up the immoral minority in our midst to stuff a sock in it, put a lid on it, snakily slither backwards under the Stone Age rock from which they crawled at the dawn of ancient time and leave the rest of us to live as we see fit without any further interference.
Recently reported was a possible breakthrough made by three teams of researchers - two from the prestigious Harvard University - concerning an alternative to the use of stem cells to releive pain and suffering and to save lives. The method involves using cells from skin. It must be emphasized strongly and clearly that this research seems to work as intended on mice - further testing will show whether it will also work on humans.
Some people who are/were against stem cell research never had someone close to them suffering and perhaps terminally ill. From their ivory towers they could therefore look down with disdain and impunity on the rest of us enlightened mere mortals. Others were looking for and were willing to support an alternative to the use for the common good of stem cells.
I sincerely hope that if the skin cell alternative does prove to work out properly, the anti-rights, anti-choice, anti-freedom minority in our midst will cease and desist and ride off into the sunset. Why should "life" only be good and precious as defined by a small-minded, inflexible and intractable minority who don't have all the answers nor do they even come close? Even one or more of them may be saved someday by their own follies by the caring, sharing true progressive populists among them.
David Daugman Attleboro
Health care could be better at lower cost
To the editor:
The World Health Organization ranks U.S. health care number 37. This ranking could be greatly improved by our doctors serving more patients. To do this, their offices would need to stay open longer during the day. This includes medical specialists.
What good is it if you have one of the best doctors there is, if you can't be scheduled to see him/her in weeks or months? Being told to go to the emergency room if your condition needs care right away. Wait time is usually long unless you are judged to be sick enough for immediate care.
Did you know that the Veterans Administration Health Care system now has a top rating above even the most outstanding hospitals in the nation? The cost, on average, for a VA patient is more than $500 less expensive than the average cost per person in the U.S. population. Did you know that the VA treats their patients with health care personnel that work for the government? Socialized medicine. We can't have that. Should we? It's not just about money. Is it?
Arthur Kenyon Attleboro
Recently reported was a possible breakthrough made by three teams of researchers - two from the prestigious Harvard University - concerning an alternative to the use of stem cells to releive pain and suffering and to save lives. The method involves using cells from skin. It must be emphasized strongly and clearly that this research seems to work as intended on mice - further testing will show whether it will also work on humans.
Some people who are/were against stem cell research never had someone close to them suffering and perhaps terminally ill. From their ivory towers they could therefore look down with disdain and impunity on the rest of us enlightened mere mortals. Others were looking for and were willing to support an alternative to the use for the common good of stem cells.
I sincerely hope that if the skin cell alternative does prove to work out properly, the anti-rights, anti-choice, anti-freedom minority in our midst will cease and desist and ride off into the sunset. Why should "life" only be good and precious as defined by a small-minded, inflexible and intractable minority who don't have all the answers nor do they even come close? Even one or more of them may be saved someday by their own follies by the caring, sharing true progressive populists among them.
David Daugman Attleboro
Health care could be better at lower cost
To the editor:
The World Health Organization ranks U.S. health care number 37. This ranking could be greatly improved by our doctors serving more patients. To do this, their offices would need to stay open longer during the day. This includes medical specialists.
What good is it if you have one of the best doctors there is, if you can't be scheduled to see him/her in weeks or months? Being told to go to the emergency room if your condition needs care right away. Wait time is usually long unless you are judged to be sick enough for immediate care.
Did you know that the Veterans Administration Health Care system now has a top rating above even the most outstanding hospitals in the nation? The cost, on average, for a VA patient is more than $500 less expensive than the average cost per person in the U.S. population. Did you know that the VA treats their patients with health care personnel that work for the government? Socialized medicine. We can't have that. Should we? It's not just about money. Is it?
Arthur Kenyon Attleboro
How your skin health reflects the health of your large intestine
Did you know that the health of your large intestine is reflected in the health of your skin? Your large intestine and skin are organs that interact with the environment. They both absorb and emit chemicals, water, and other metabolic products. The large intestine is the body's largest internal organ; its purpose is to absorb food, nutrients and water. The function of the skin is to hold not only all of your other organs, tissues, capillaries and muscles in place, but also to allow your body to breathe. It is a respiration organ -- it both inhales and exhales.
Part of the function of your skin is to excrete waste. Sweating, for example, is not just for cooling your skin; it also opens your pores and excretes toxins. This is one reason why people who use deodorants and antiperspirant chemicals on their skin develop breast cancer, liver cancer or other forms of cancer; these products block the body's ability to open up and excrete toxic wastes through the skin. Sweating is good for you!
When you look at someone who is suffering from skin problems, it is a clear indication that something similar is going on in the large intestine. For example, people who suffer from severe acne are usually heavy consumers of milk and dairy products.
The link between skin disorders and intestinal health problems
Processed dairy products are what I call stagnating foods (raw dairy is a different story, however). They do not digest easily in the human body. They have no fiber whatsoever, and they contain a protein that is very difficult for humans to digest. When milk enters the digestive tract, it can actually stay lodged there for an extended duration and putrefy because there is no fiber to move it out. It begins to create pus-filled sores on the inside of the large intestine wall. The exact same thing happens to the skin -- it creates sores with pus called acne. It is a reflection of what's happening in the large intestine, except you are seeing it from the outside.
Conventional doctors who do not understand holistic health only look at what's happening locally; they think bacteria in the skin cause acne. We all have bacteria on and in our skin, so the presence of bacteria isn't the cause of acne. Do you think clear-skinned people have sterilized their facial skin? Hardly. If you are suffering from acne, try going dairy-free for thirty days and see for yourself just how much your acne is reduced or eliminated.
The benefits of healthy intestines
When a large intestine is healthy -- when it is not carrying putrefied, undigested food matter and instead contains healing, cleansing phytonutrients like chlorophyll from fresh fruits and vegetables -- it is going to perform its function well. A person who has a healthy large intestine will reflect that in their complexion. Their skin will look young. This helps explain why people who routinely engage in a lot of juicing -- drinking the juice from raw fruits and vegetables -- have such healthy looking skin. It is not only because the juice is nourishing their skin, it is also because the juice is cleansing their large intestine. Their entire digestive system gets healthier, and their skin reflects that improved level of health.
Probiotics are good for both the large intestine and the skin for many of the same reasons. The large intestine is kept healthy by maintaining a friendly terrain that welcomes helpful bacteria. We must have friendly bacteria in the gut in order to be healthy individuals for a variety of reasons, some of which are only beginning to be understood by medical researchers. Healthy skin also provides the right terrain for friendly bacteria, while discouraging the growth of harmful bacteria.
The importance of water for digestion and skin
There are other similarities between these two organs: their positive reaction to sufficient dietary water. Water actually helps lubricate the movement of fecal matter through the large intestine. In a person who is chronically dehydrated, the peristaltic action of the large intestine is reduced; thus fecal matter spends a longer amount of time in the body, emitting toxins and poisoning the body.
So many people are chronically dehydrated, it's no surprise that millions of people suffer from diseases of the large intestine and bowel like Crohn's Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Likewise, water is important for healthy skin, lubricating it and keeping it soft and supple. Without water, all tissues in the body become crippled at the cellular level; they begin to shrivel and lose their ability to function properly. They are unable to do the basic things that every cell needs to do to survive, which is to take in nutrients and excrete metabolic waste products.
Keep your tissue flexible for better performance
You'll notice that people who drink a lot of water and do not consume dehydrating beverages such as soda, coffee and sugary drinks tend to have much better skin. They also have healthier large intestines, even though you cannot see that from the outside. Another interesting similarity between the two organs is that they both benefit from nutrition which allows them to operate with a healthy amount of tissue flexibility. Minerals like silica and certain types of nutrients such as collagen can also help in this process. Of course, good protein assimilation is crucial for this, too.
Healthy large intestine tissue is flexible tissue; the same thing is true with skin. Healthy looking skin, when stretched, snaps back into place without showing signs of wear, tear, or stretching. When a person suffers nutritional deficiencies, especially certain minerals and amino acids, they begin to lose the flexibility of the protein fibers in cells throughout their body. This can affect their skin and their large intestine, as well as other organs.
If you see somebody who appears to be aging rapidly, such as a person who smokes cigarettes, you are witnessing the stiffening or hardening of the fibrous connective tissue in their skin. As the same time, they are losing physiological efficiency in their kidneys and liver, reducing their ability to remove toxins from the blood. They are losing metabolic process efficiencies in their large intestine, small intestine, the brain, the heart and all the organs of the body, and the skin reflects all of this. Looking at your skin is actually a very good way to get a quick glimpse at the overall health of not only your digestive tract and your large intestine, but your entire body.
If you want a healthy digestive system, all you really have to do is adopt a healthy lifestyle. The same things that irritate skin also irritate your digestive tract. If something is giving you acne, rashes, eczema or any kind of skin problems, chances are it is doing the same thing to your large intestine and perhaps your entire digestive tract.
Remember, the body is holistic. One organ can reflect the health status of another, or even of the entire body. You can tell a lot from the skin, and even from fingernails or eyes. All you have to do is learn to pay attention to your body and interpret the obvious signs of health or disease.
As a side note, Chinese Medicine relies heavily on tongue diagnosis, which is based on the same holistic principles being presented here. The character of the tongue can reveal an extraordinary amount of information about the health of a person's internal organs. Tongue diagnosis is extremely advanced, amazingly accurate and is a medical technology that has been developed and improved for nearly 5,000 years. In fact, an experienced Chinese Medicine doctor can tell more from your tongue and pulse than a Western doctor can tell from $10,000 worth of blood tests and an MRI. (No kidding.)
Part of the function of your skin is to excrete waste. Sweating, for example, is not just for cooling your skin; it also opens your pores and excretes toxins. This is one reason why people who use deodorants and antiperspirant chemicals on their skin develop breast cancer, liver cancer or other forms of cancer; these products block the body's ability to open up and excrete toxic wastes through the skin. Sweating is good for you!
When you look at someone who is suffering from skin problems, it is a clear indication that something similar is going on in the large intestine. For example, people who suffer from severe acne are usually heavy consumers of milk and dairy products.
The link between skin disorders and intestinal health problems
Processed dairy products are what I call stagnating foods (raw dairy is a different story, however). They do not digest easily in the human body. They have no fiber whatsoever, and they contain a protein that is very difficult for humans to digest. When milk enters the digestive tract, it can actually stay lodged there for an extended duration and putrefy because there is no fiber to move it out. It begins to create pus-filled sores on the inside of the large intestine wall. The exact same thing happens to the skin -- it creates sores with pus called acne. It is a reflection of what's happening in the large intestine, except you are seeing it from the outside.
Conventional doctors who do not understand holistic health only look at what's happening locally; they think bacteria in the skin cause acne. We all have bacteria on and in our skin, so the presence of bacteria isn't the cause of acne. Do you think clear-skinned people have sterilized their facial skin? Hardly. If you are suffering from acne, try going dairy-free for thirty days and see for yourself just how much your acne is reduced or eliminated.
The benefits of healthy intestines
When a large intestine is healthy -- when it is not carrying putrefied, undigested food matter and instead contains healing, cleansing phytonutrients like chlorophyll from fresh fruits and vegetables -- it is going to perform its function well. A person who has a healthy large intestine will reflect that in their complexion. Their skin will look young. This helps explain why people who routinely engage in a lot of juicing -- drinking the juice from raw fruits and vegetables -- have such healthy looking skin. It is not only because the juice is nourishing their skin, it is also because the juice is cleansing their large intestine. Their entire digestive system gets healthier, and their skin reflects that improved level of health.
Probiotics are good for both the large intestine and the skin for many of the same reasons. The large intestine is kept healthy by maintaining a friendly terrain that welcomes helpful bacteria. We must have friendly bacteria in the gut in order to be healthy individuals for a variety of reasons, some of which are only beginning to be understood by medical researchers. Healthy skin also provides the right terrain for friendly bacteria, while discouraging the growth of harmful bacteria.
The importance of water for digestion and skin
There are other similarities between these two organs: their positive reaction to sufficient dietary water. Water actually helps lubricate the movement of fecal matter through the large intestine. In a person who is chronically dehydrated, the peristaltic action of the large intestine is reduced; thus fecal matter spends a longer amount of time in the body, emitting toxins and poisoning the body.
So many people are chronically dehydrated, it's no surprise that millions of people suffer from diseases of the large intestine and bowel like Crohn's Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Likewise, water is important for healthy skin, lubricating it and keeping it soft and supple. Without water, all tissues in the body become crippled at the cellular level; they begin to shrivel and lose their ability to function properly. They are unable to do the basic things that every cell needs to do to survive, which is to take in nutrients and excrete metabolic waste products.
Keep your tissue flexible for better performance
You'll notice that people who drink a lot of water and do not consume dehydrating beverages such as soda, coffee and sugary drinks tend to have much better skin. They also have healthier large intestines, even though you cannot see that from the outside. Another interesting similarity between the two organs is that they both benefit from nutrition which allows them to operate with a healthy amount of tissue flexibility. Minerals like silica and certain types of nutrients such as collagen can also help in this process. Of course, good protein assimilation is crucial for this, too.
Healthy large intestine tissue is flexible tissue; the same thing is true with skin. Healthy looking skin, when stretched, snaps back into place without showing signs of wear, tear, or stretching. When a person suffers nutritional deficiencies, especially certain minerals and amino acids, they begin to lose the flexibility of the protein fibers in cells throughout their body. This can affect their skin and their large intestine, as well as other organs.
If you see somebody who appears to be aging rapidly, such as a person who smokes cigarettes, you are witnessing the stiffening or hardening of the fibrous connective tissue in their skin. As the same time, they are losing physiological efficiency in their kidneys and liver, reducing their ability to remove toxins from the blood. They are losing metabolic process efficiencies in their large intestine, small intestine, the brain, the heart and all the organs of the body, and the skin reflects all of this. Looking at your skin is actually a very good way to get a quick glimpse at the overall health of not only your digestive tract and your large intestine, but your entire body.
If you want a healthy digestive system, all you really have to do is adopt a healthy lifestyle. The same things that irritate skin also irritate your digestive tract. If something is giving you acne, rashes, eczema or any kind of skin problems, chances are it is doing the same thing to your large intestine and perhaps your entire digestive tract.
Remember, the body is holistic. One organ can reflect the health status of another, or even of the entire body. You can tell a lot from the skin, and even from fingernails or eyes. All you have to do is learn to pay attention to your body and interpret the obvious signs of health or disease.
As a side note, Chinese Medicine relies heavily on tongue diagnosis, which is based on the same holistic principles being presented here. The character of the tongue can reveal an extraordinary amount of information about the health of a person's internal organs. Tongue diagnosis is extremely advanced, amazingly accurate and is a medical technology that has been developed and improved for nearly 5,000 years. In fact, an experienced Chinese Medicine doctor can tell more from your tongue and pulse than a Western doctor can tell from $10,000 worth of blood tests and an MRI. (No kidding.)
Dry, Itchy Skin? It May Mean a Sensitivity to Gluten
People Who have dry, itchy skin, including eczema, psoriasis, or similar skin conditions, may be suffering from gluten-sensitivity, says Dr. Shari Lieberman, PhD, CNS, FACN, author of The Gluten Connection (Rodale Press).
JUNE 25, 2007, MIAMI Summer is here, but millions of people may be dreading swimsuit season because of disfiguring skin conditions.
'People who have dry, itchy skin including eczema, psoriasis or similar skin conditions may be suffering when they don't have to,- says Shari Lieberman, PhD, CNS, FACN. 'The condition may be caused by gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
Lieberman, a clinical nutritionist and author of The Gluten Connection: How Gluten Sensitivity May Be Sabotaging Your Health (Rodale Press, 2007), explains: 'It's been estimated that more than 30 percent of the American population suffers from gluten sensitivity, which is an auto-immune response to gluten. Their digestive system is unable to break down this protein. The result is a reaction that can take on the symptoms of many different types of conditions, such as eczema or dermatitis or other more debilitating diseases, such as diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or even some types of heart conditions.-
The 'worst-case- of gluten sensitivity is celiac disease, says Lieberman, but gluten sensitivity causes problems in millions of people whose gluten sensitivity has not reached that stage.
Although people seek medical help and pharmacological solutions, if they are gluten-sensitive, relief only comes from a gluten-free diet, she stresses.
In The Gluten Connection, Lieberman identifies the conditions that gluten can cause or contribute to, which are all backed up by research and case studies, and tells readers how to go live successfully on a gluten-free diet.
'I advise my patients who suffer from symptoms that cannot be resolved medically: Go gluten-free. Wheat, barley, and rye are not essential nutrients. Going gluten-free is not difficult and can dramatically improve the quality of an afflicted person's life.-
The Gluten Connection by Shari Lieberman, PhD, CNS, FACN with Linda Segall is available through Rodale Press (www.rodalestore) or through local or online bookstores.
JUNE 25, 2007, MIAMI Summer is here, but millions of people may be dreading swimsuit season because of disfiguring skin conditions.
'People who have dry, itchy skin including eczema, psoriasis or similar skin conditions may be suffering when they don't have to,- says Shari Lieberman, PhD, CNS, FACN. 'The condition may be caused by gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
Lieberman, a clinical nutritionist and author of The Gluten Connection: How Gluten Sensitivity May Be Sabotaging Your Health (Rodale Press, 2007), explains: 'It's been estimated that more than 30 percent of the American population suffers from gluten sensitivity, which is an auto-immune response to gluten. Their digestive system is unable to break down this protein. The result is a reaction that can take on the symptoms of many different types of conditions, such as eczema or dermatitis or other more debilitating diseases, such as diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or even some types of heart conditions.-
The 'worst-case- of gluten sensitivity is celiac disease, says Lieberman, but gluten sensitivity causes problems in millions of people whose gluten sensitivity has not reached that stage.
Although people seek medical help and pharmacological solutions, if they are gluten-sensitive, relief only comes from a gluten-free diet, she stresses.
In The Gluten Connection, Lieberman identifies the conditions that gluten can cause or contribute to, which are all backed up by research and case studies, and tells readers how to go live successfully on a gluten-free diet.
'I advise my patients who suffer from symptoms that cannot be resolved medically: Go gluten-free. Wheat, barley, and rye are not essential nutrients. Going gluten-free is not difficult and can dramatically improve the quality of an afflicted person's life.-
The Gluten Connection by Shari Lieberman, PhD, CNS, FACN with Linda Segall is available through Rodale Press (www.rodalestore) or through local or online bookstores.
5 percent in hospitals may have staph germ
A dangerous, drug-resistant staph germ may be infecting as many as 5 percent of hospital and nursing home patients, according to a comprehensive study.
At least 30,000 U.S. hospital patients may have the superbug at any given time, according to a survey to be released today by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology.
The estimate is about 10 times the rate that some health officials had previously estimated.
At issue is a superbug known as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, which cannot be tamed by certain common antibiotics. It is associated with sometimes-horrific skin infections, but it also causes blood infections, pneumonia and other illnesses.
The potentially fatal germ, which is spread by touch, typically thrives in health care settings where people have open wounds. But in recent years, "community-associated" outbreaks have occurred among prisoners, children and athletes, with the germ spreading through skin contact or shared items such as towels.
Past studies have looked at how common the superbug is in specific patient groups, such as emergency-room patients with skin infections, dialysis patients or those admitted to intensive care units in a sample of a few hundred teaching hospitals.
It's difficult to compare prevalence estimates from the different studies, experts said, but the new study suggests the superbug is eight to 11 times more common than some other studies have concluded.
The researchers concluded that at least 46 out of every 1,000 patients in the study had the bug.
About 34 per 1,000 were infected with the superbug, meaning they had skin or blood infections or some other clinical symptom. And 12 per 1,000 were "colonized," meaning they had the bug but no illness.
The researchers also concluded that about 75 percent of patients walked into the hospitals and nursing homes already carrying the bug.
The infection can be treated with other antibiotics. Health care workers can prevent spread of the bug through hand-washing and equipment decontamination, and by wearing gloves and gowns and by separating infected people from other patients.
At least 30,000 U.S. hospital patients may have the superbug at any given time, according to a survey to be released today by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology.
The estimate is about 10 times the rate that some health officials had previously estimated.
At issue is a superbug known as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, which cannot be tamed by certain common antibiotics. It is associated with sometimes-horrific skin infections, but it also causes blood infections, pneumonia and other illnesses.
The potentially fatal germ, which is spread by touch, typically thrives in health care settings where people have open wounds. But in recent years, "community-associated" outbreaks have occurred among prisoners, children and athletes, with the germ spreading through skin contact or shared items such as towels.
Past studies have looked at how common the superbug is in specific patient groups, such as emergency-room patients with skin infections, dialysis patients or those admitted to intensive care units in a sample of a few hundred teaching hospitals.
It's difficult to compare prevalence estimates from the different studies, experts said, but the new study suggests the superbug is eight to 11 times more common than some other studies have concluded.
The researchers concluded that at least 46 out of every 1,000 patients in the study had the bug.
About 34 per 1,000 were infected with the superbug, meaning they had skin or blood infections or some other clinical symptom. And 12 per 1,000 were "colonized," meaning they had the bug but no illness.
The researchers also concluded that about 75 percent of patients walked into the hospitals and nursing homes already carrying the bug.
The infection can be treated with other antibiotics. Health care workers can prevent spread of the bug through hand-washing and equipment decontamination, and by wearing gloves and gowns and by separating infected people from other patients.
Research finds fortunes in skin and bones
Fiskeriforskning has detected a substance in fishmeal that may amount to many hundreds of millions of Kroner (NOK) in increased revenues for the Norwegian aquaculture industry. And it's derived from what's now regarded as poor-priced by-product of the fishing trade.
© Fiskeriforskning
The fish feed must contain about 30 per cent fishmeal in order for the salmon to grow and develop normally. However, because fishmeal is a scarce resource and an expensive ingredient in the salmon feed, producers have been using increasingly larger amounts of vegetable ingredients from agriculture.
Scientists at Fiskeriforskning's department in Bergen have invested a huge amount of time identifying which substances in the fishmeal the salmon rely on, so that nutiritonists can produce a better and more reasonably priced feed.
Better growth
The research so far shows that a key component is hydroxyproline - an amino acid and a building block in proteins. The tests show that feed with an increased content of hydroxyproline causes the salmon to grow more and faster, and that it is more robust.
Up to now, it was not thought that the level of hydroxyproline limited the growth and development of the fish. However, Senior Scientist Anders Aksnes says that with more hydroxyproline in the feed, the salmon eats more and thier weight increases by 14 per cent, compared with that achieved by using most commercial diets currently available.
Improved fish health
Because the fish grows faster, the production time can be reduced. In addition, the health is strengthened such that there are fewer sores and fin injuries on the fish. The results also indicate that feed with more hydroxyproline causes fewer deformations in the bone structure. Improved fish health means a better quality fish, and thus greater earnings.
"We expect that these improvements together amount to a significant profit for the Norwegian fish farming industry," says Aksnes.
Increased production
Using fishmeal with more hydroxyproline means that more vegetable products can be used, which are cheaper and found in unlimited quantities. This makes it possible to increase feed production, and thus much more salmon can be produced in the future.
The amount of hydroxyproline in fishmeal can be increased by producing a meal based on fish skin and bones, which are rich in this substance. For the fishing industry, these results are good news, as these fractions are usually seen as poorly paid residual raw materials. This discovery means skin and bone may become a more valuable resource in future.
New knowledge
"This is new basic knowledge about what fishmeal and fish feed contain and how the different biological components affect the growth and health of the fish", says Aksnes.
"This means that we can improve salmon production and can get better economy and increased earnings in the aquaculture industry," he adds.
A patent has been applied for on the use of hydroxyproline in fish feed. Further the results from current investigations will also be published in a scientific article.
© Fiskeriforskning
The fish feed must contain about 30 per cent fishmeal in order for the salmon to grow and develop normally. However, because fishmeal is a scarce resource and an expensive ingredient in the salmon feed, producers have been using increasingly larger amounts of vegetable ingredients from agriculture.
Scientists at Fiskeriforskning's department in Bergen have invested a huge amount of time identifying which substances in the fishmeal the salmon rely on, so that nutiritonists can produce a better and more reasonably priced feed.
Better growth
The research so far shows that a key component is hydroxyproline - an amino acid and a building block in proteins. The tests show that feed with an increased content of hydroxyproline causes the salmon to grow more and faster, and that it is more robust.
Up to now, it was not thought that the level of hydroxyproline limited the growth and development of the fish. However, Senior Scientist Anders Aksnes says that with more hydroxyproline in the feed, the salmon eats more and thier weight increases by 14 per cent, compared with that achieved by using most commercial diets currently available.
Improved fish health
Because the fish grows faster, the production time can be reduced. In addition, the health is strengthened such that there are fewer sores and fin injuries on the fish. The results also indicate that feed with more hydroxyproline causes fewer deformations in the bone structure. Improved fish health means a better quality fish, and thus greater earnings.
"We expect that these improvements together amount to a significant profit for the Norwegian fish farming industry," says Aksnes.
Increased production
Using fishmeal with more hydroxyproline means that more vegetable products can be used, which are cheaper and found in unlimited quantities. This makes it possible to increase feed production, and thus much more salmon can be produced in the future.
The amount of hydroxyproline in fishmeal can be increased by producing a meal based on fish skin and bones, which are rich in this substance. For the fishing industry, these results are good news, as these fractions are usually seen as poorly paid residual raw materials. This discovery means skin and bone may become a more valuable resource in future.
New knowledge
"This is new basic knowledge about what fishmeal and fish feed contain and how the different biological components affect the growth and health of the fish", says Aksnes.
"This means that we can improve salmon production and can get better economy and increased earnings in the aquaculture industry," he adds.
A patent has been applied for on the use of hydroxyproline in fish feed. Further the results from current investigations will also be published in a scientific article.
Gel Smart/Pedifix Introduces the First Anatomically Designed All Gel Digital Cap
Gel Smart/Pedifix has introduced the first anatomically designed All-Gel Digital Cap recommended for soothing as well as protecting fingers and toes. The All-Gel Digital Cap provides superior cushioning and protection and relief for corns, calluses, nails, cuticles, hammer toes and partially amputated digits.
The unique design of the cap provides added thickness at the distal end where extra cushioning is required, and the sidewalls are tapered while maintaining sufficient pliability and stretch for comfort in a variety of footwear styles. Additional features of the cap design, is in the engineering of a comfort vent at the distal end allowing the release of perspiration.
The gel used in the All-Gel Digital Cap is Gel Smart’s soft, medical grade M-GEL, which releases vitamin-enriched mineral oil continuously on contact to soften and soothe skin. M-Gel’s material is clear in color and allows discrete use in open dress shoes.
The products design does not restrict circulation, and can be recommended under the supervision of a health care provider for individuals who have diabetes or arthritis. The product can be trimmed and is available in three sizes, to accommodate most toes and fingers comfortably.
A trusted partner to a wide range of medical, consumer health care and industrial companies, Gel Smart offers for private labels extensive lines of versatile orthopedic and skin care products that continue to improve on standard designs. The company also provides unique customization and product development services, which are available to companies of all sizes in other industries as well.
Based in Whippany, New Jersey, Gel Smart has more than 20 years of experience in producing ultra soft gels using both thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and silicone compounds. It is a recognized pioneer in developing visco-elastic products using mineral-oil TPEs and in meeting the challenges of producing consistent quality gels in Shore A-3 durometer ranges.
Working with a long-standing production partner in Taiwan, Gel Smart delivers highest-quality raw materials and products at very competitive prices. With comprehensive design capabilities ranging from gel concepts to packaging finished products to customer requirements, Gel Smart is an ideal partner to OEM and private label manufacturers in taking new ideas to market.
The unique design of the cap provides added thickness at the distal end where extra cushioning is required, and the sidewalls are tapered while maintaining sufficient pliability and stretch for comfort in a variety of footwear styles. Additional features of the cap design, is in the engineering of a comfort vent at the distal end allowing the release of perspiration.
The gel used in the All-Gel Digital Cap is Gel Smart’s soft, medical grade M-GEL, which releases vitamin-enriched mineral oil continuously on contact to soften and soothe skin. M-Gel’s material is clear in color and allows discrete use in open dress shoes.
The products design does not restrict circulation, and can be recommended under the supervision of a health care provider for individuals who have diabetes or arthritis. The product can be trimmed and is available in three sizes, to accommodate most toes and fingers comfortably.
A trusted partner to a wide range of medical, consumer health care and industrial companies, Gel Smart offers for private labels extensive lines of versatile orthopedic and skin care products that continue to improve on standard designs. The company also provides unique customization and product development services, which are available to companies of all sizes in other industries as well.
Based in Whippany, New Jersey, Gel Smart has more than 20 years of experience in producing ultra soft gels using both thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and silicone compounds. It is a recognized pioneer in developing visco-elastic products using mineral-oil TPEs and in meeting the challenges of producing consistent quality gels in Shore A-3 durometer ranges.
Working with a long-standing production partner in Taiwan, Gel Smart delivers highest-quality raw materials and products at very competitive prices. With comprehensive design capabilities ranging from gel concepts to packaging finished products to customer requirements, Gel Smart is an ideal partner to OEM and private label manufacturers in taking new ideas to market.
Arpida receives FDA approval to initiate Phase II trial with intravenous iclaprim
Arpida Ltd. has announced that it has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration for a Phase II trial with intravenous iclaprim in the treatment of patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) or healthcare-associated pneumonia (HCAP) suspected or confirmed to be due to Gram-positive pathogens.
According to US data, pneumonia accounts for approximately 15% of all hospital-associated infections and 27% of all infections acquired in the intensive care unit; moreover it has a high mortality rate. The number of treatment options in this field is currently very limited, particularly for infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). This has given rise to a large and urgent medical need for safe drugs which are efficacious against these resistant pathogens.
Results of a special Phase I study, conducted in 2005, have shown that iclaprim achieves high concentrations in the specific compartments of the lung where clinically relevant pathogens, including MRSA, are most commonly found and could therefore become an efficacious drug for the treatment of pneumonia.
The Phase II trial is designed as a multi-centre, randomised, double-blind, comparative study. The efficacy and safety of two different dosing regimens of iclaprim will be compared to the current standard of care vancomycin. More than 130 patients will be enrolled. Patients will be treated for 7-14 days and a Test-of-Cure (TOC) visit will be performed 7-14 days after the end of therapy. The primary endpoint will be the clinical cure rate at the TOC visit. Enrolment is expected to start in the second half of 2007.
Intravenous iclaprim is also being developed for complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI). In this indication the drug candidate has completed patient enrolment in two pivotal Phase III trials. The first of the two studies has already been evaluated and shows a good efficacy in cSSSI as well as excellent safety. Top-line data of the second trial are expected shortly. If these confirm the strong results of the first trial, an NDA filing can be expected before the end of this year.
Dr. Paul Hadvary, Head of Development of Arpida Ltd, commented: "Based on our positive results with iclaprim in cSSSI trials and on its good tissue distribution particularly to the key lung compartments, we feel that this compound could demonstrate good efficacy in hospital-acquired, ventilator- and healthcare-associated pneumonia. I am pleased that the US FDA has consented that we initiate studies in these seriously ill patients as I believe that iclaprim could add a potent weapon to the clinicians' armamentarium to combat this potentially life-threatening infection."
Arpida (SWX: ARPN) is a biopharmaceutical company with research facilities near Basel, Switzerland and in the USA. It focuses on the discovery and development of novel drugs that seek to overcome the growing problem of microbial resistance.
Arpida's leading product candidate is intravenous iclaprim, a broad-spectrum antibiotic that targets severe infections requiring hospital treatment, including those caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In November 2006, intravenous iclaprim has successfully completed its first Phase III trial in the treatment of cSSSI (complicated skin and skin structure infections). In March 2007, patient enrolment into the Phase III programme was completed. The US Food and Drug Administration have granted fast track status to intravenous iclaprim for the treatment of cSSSI.
An oral formulation of iclaprim has successfully completed three Phase I trials: an ADME study (absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion) with radiolabelled compound, a Phase I bioavailability trial with a solution and one with a capsule formulation. Arpida believes that the availability of an oral formulation could potentially fulfil an important clinical medical need for the treatment of serious bacterial infections, particularly those caused by MRSA. Iclaprim could be offered not only as an intravenous therapy for hospital use in acute situations, but also as an oral formulation, allowing early patient discharge followed by outpatient treatment. This switch should be a valuable instrument in reducing healthcare costs and enhancing patient comfort.
Arpida's third most advanced programme, AR-709, targets upper and lower respiratory tract infections acquired in the community setting. AR-709 exhibited potent activity against a collection of 611 pneumococcal clinical isolates from Europe, the USA and Asia irrespective of the mechanisms of resistance to currently used drugs. Promising results of "first-in-man" studies with AR-709 were published in March 2007.
An additional compound, AR-2474, has achieved in vivo proof of concept. AR-2474 has been shown to be highly effective in eradicating MRSA in preclinical models of skin infection and nasal carriage.
Moreover, the company has several other leads in optimisation and additional discovery programmes derived from its own discovery platform at various research stages.
According to US data, pneumonia accounts for approximately 15% of all hospital-associated infections and 27% of all infections acquired in the intensive care unit; moreover it has a high mortality rate. The number of treatment options in this field is currently very limited, particularly for infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). This has given rise to a large and urgent medical need for safe drugs which are efficacious against these resistant pathogens.
Results of a special Phase I study, conducted in 2005, have shown that iclaprim achieves high concentrations in the specific compartments of the lung where clinically relevant pathogens, including MRSA, are most commonly found and could therefore become an efficacious drug for the treatment of pneumonia.
The Phase II trial is designed as a multi-centre, randomised, double-blind, comparative study. The efficacy and safety of two different dosing regimens of iclaprim will be compared to the current standard of care vancomycin. More than 130 patients will be enrolled. Patients will be treated for 7-14 days and a Test-of-Cure (TOC) visit will be performed 7-14 days after the end of therapy. The primary endpoint will be the clinical cure rate at the TOC visit. Enrolment is expected to start in the second half of 2007.
Intravenous iclaprim is also being developed for complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI). In this indication the drug candidate has completed patient enrolment in two pivotal Phase III trials. The first of the two studies has already been evaluated and shows a good efficacy in cSSSI as well as excellent safety. Top-line data of the second trial are expected shortly. If these confirm the strong results of the first trial, an NDA filing can be expected before the end of this year.
Dr. Paul Hadvary, Head of Development of Arpida Ltd, commented: "Based on our positive results with iclaprim in cSSSI trials and on its good tissue distribution particularly to the key lung compartments, we feel that this compound could demonstrate good efficacy in hospital-acquired, ventilator- and healthcare-associated pneumonia. I am pleased that the US FDA has consented that we initiate studies in these seriously ill patients as I believe that iclaprim could add a potent weapon to the clinicians' armamentarium to combat this potentially life-threatening infection."
Arpida (SWX: ARPN) is a biopharmaceutical company with research facilities near Basel, Switzerland and in the USA. It focuses on the discovery and development of novel drugs that seek to overcome the growing problem of microbial resistance.
Arpida's leading product candidate is intravenous iclaprim, a broad-spectrum antibiotic that targets severe infections requiring hospital treatment, including those caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In November 2006, intravenous iclaprim has successfully completed its first Phase III trial in the treatment of cSSSI (complicated skin and skin structure infections). In March 2007, patient enrolment into the Phase III programme was completed. The US Food and Drug Administration have granted fast track status to intravenous iclaprim for the treatment of cSSSI.
An oral formulation of iclaprim has successfully completed three Phase I trials: an ADME study (absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion) with radiolabelled compound, a Phase I bioavailability trial with a solution and one with a capsule formulation. Arpida believes that the availability of an oral formulation could potentially fulfil an important clinical medical need for the treatment of serious bacterial infections, particularly those caused by MRSA. Iclaprim could be offered not only as an intravenous therapy for hospital use in acute situations, but also as an oral formulation, allowing early patient discharge followed by outpatient treatment. This switch should be a valuable instrument in reducing healthcare costs and enhancing patient comfort.
Arpida's third most advanced programme, AR-709, targets upper and lower respiratory tract infections acquired in the community setting. AR-709 exhibited potent activity against a collection of 611 pneumococcal clinical isolates from Europe, the USA and Asia irrespective of the mechanisms of resistance to currently used drugs. Promising results of "first-in-man" studies with AR-709 were published in March 2007.
An additional compound, AR-2474, has achieved in vivo proof of concept. AR-2474 has been shown to be highly effective in eradicating MRSA in preclinical models of skin infection and nasal carriage.
Moreover, the company has several other leads in optimisation and additional discovery programmes derived from its own discovery platform at various research stages.
Acne Skin Care Product Reviews
Before using any acne skin care products, it is important to realize that everyone’s skin condition is different and there is no one acne skin care product that is suitable for everyone. Therefore, it is important to choose the correct type of acne skin care products that is suitable for you. Most acne products are meant to be used in the long term so don’t expect results in a couple of days. With that said, there are some tips that can help maximize the use of your acne skin care products. Here are the 7 tips :
1. You should wash your face regularly to keep your face fresh
Acne Skin Care Product Reviews
and clean. However do not overdo it. This is one of the acne myths in that the more times you wash your face, the better. It is not true, just once or twice each day is good enough.
2. Try to keep your long hair away from your face particularly your forehead. If you have oily hair, it is a must since the oils on your hair can aggravate acne problems.
3. You should drink plenty of fluids to keep your body hydrated. A minimum of 8 glasses of water is recommended.
4. Having plenty of sleep is also important in keeping your acne problems under control. A well rested body has a lower chance of an acne breakout. Do not sleep late as well.
5. If you do have pimples appearing, do not try to squeeze them. There is a chance of bacteria infecting the skin when you squeeze the pimple and may cause permanent scarring.
6. Studies have shown that stress can cause acne problems as well. Your mental state of well-being is also important too.
7. Lastly, make sure to follow the instructions on the acne skin care product as instructed. Do not use more than the recommended amounts thinking that you will get better results. More often than not, it will be the reverse.
By following these simple 7 tips with your acne skin care products and given time, your acne problems can be resolved.
1. You should wash your face regularly to keep your face fresh
Acne Skin Care Product Reviews
and clean. However do not overdo it. This is one of the acne myths in that the more times you wash your face, the better. It is not true, just once or twice each day is good enough.
2. Try to keep your long hair away from your face particularly your forehead. If you have oily hair, it is a must since the oils on your hair can aggravate acne problems.
3. You should drink plenty of fluids to keep your body hydrated. A minimum of 8 glasses of water is recommended.
4. Having plenty of sleep is also important in keeping your acne problems under control. A well rested body has a lower chance of an acne breakout. Do not sleep late as well.
5. If you do have pimples appearing, do not try to squeeze them. There is a chance of bacteria infecting the skin when you squeeze the pimple and may cause permanent scarring.
6. Studies have shown that stress can cause acne problems as well. Your mental state of well-being is also important too.
7. Lastly, make sure to follow the instructions on the acne skin care product as instructed. Do not use more than the recommended amounts thinking that you will get better results. More often than not, it will be the reverse.
By following these simple 7 tips with your acne skin care products and given time, your acne problems can be resolved.
The Franck Provost Spa and Salon introduces creative nails
Welcome to the world of creative and the most expensive nail care line from USA! Indulge in the most exquisite spa manicures and pedicures that are facials for your hands and feet, with products enriched with vitamins and therapeutic ingredients found only in the most skin care treatments. The creative spa manicures and pedicures feature an aroma therapeutic of highest quality skin smoothening moisturizers and technologically advanced exfoliators, each customised to meet the unique needs of your hand and feet.
Solar manicure (45 mins)
An intensive therapy for dry parched hands.. an exfoliating sweet almond and seat salt treatment, which gently polishes your skin, followed by a moisturizing shea butter massage to smoothen your hands. A fresh coat of creative nail enamel finishes the manicure.
Spa manicure (45 mins)
Ultimate spa experience for your hands. It includes exfoliation with the mixture of jojoba, rice and almond oil enriched with vitamins for your hand. A special massage with a spa manicure lotion will complete the pampering of your hands. A fresh coat of creative nail enamel finishes the manicure.
Raw earth spa pedicure (75 mins)
An absolute heavenly super hydrating aroma therapeutic packed with vitamins and minerals to promote clean, healthy looking feet. You are first cleansed with a fizzing mineral soak, followed by a warm sugar scrub to gently exfoliate and smoothen the skin. A moisturising volcanic clay foot follows this to deeply hydrate the skin and prepare it for a rejuvenating foot and calf massage. A fresh coat of creative nail enamel finishes the pedicure.
Heavenly sole pedicure (45 mins)
This pedicure is to remove unpleasant foot odour and cleanse and revitalise tired feet confined in shoes for long hours. A special product called black scracher is used, which has special ingredients to remove foot odour caused by perspiration in summer. This pedicure starts with a soak in footbath rich in minerals. Cleansing of the whole feet by a triple action cleansing cream. An invigorating foot scrub follows this to complete the process of deep cleansing. A special liquid talc gel is used to massage and deodorize your feet. A soft buffing of the nails completes the pedicure.
Franck Provost
Aryston Centre, Juhu
(Opp. JW Marriott Hotel)
Landmark Bldg, Pali Naka,
Bandra (W), Mumbai
Contact: 67021440 / 67036971
Solar manicure (45 mins)
An intensive therapy for dry parched hands.. an exfoliating sweet almond and seat salt treatment, which gently polishes your skin, followed by a moisturizing shea butter massage to smoothen your hands. A fresh coat of creative nail enamel finishes the manicure.
Spa manicure (45 mins)
Ultimate spa experience for your hands. It includes exfoliation with the mixture of jojoba, rice and almond oil enriched with vitamins for your hand. A special massage with a spa manicure lotion will complete the pampering of your hands. A fresh coat of creative nail enamel finishes the manicure.
Raw earth spa pedicure (75 mins)
An absolute heavenly super hydrating aroma therapeutic packed with vitamins and minerals to promote clean, healthy looking feet. You are first cleansed with a fizzing mineral soak, followed by a warm sugar scrub to gently exfoliate and smoothen the skin. A moisturising volcanic clay foot follows this to deeply hydrate the skin and prepare it for a rejuvenating foot and calf massage. A fresh coat of creative nail enamel finishes the pedicure.
Heavenly sole pedicure (45 mins)
This pedicure is to remove unpleasant foot odour and cleanse and revitalise tired feet confined in shoes for long hours. A special product called black scracher is used, which has special ingredients to remove foot odour caused by perspiration in summer. This pedicure starts with a soak in footbath rich in minerals. Cleansing of the whole feet by a triple action cleansing cream. An invigorating foot scrub follows this to complete the process of deep cleansing. A special liquid talc gel is used to massage and deodorize your feet. A soft buffing of the nails completes the pedicure.
Franck Provost
Aryston Centre, Juhu
(Opp. JW Marriott Hotel)
Landmark Bldg, Pali Naka,
Bandra (W), Mumbai
Contact: 67021440 / 67036971
Friday, June 22, 2007
The best new pain cures, with a focus on women
y Melanie Haiken
Health.com
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You've got achy shoulders from carrying the kids, the groceries, or your incredibly heavy handbag. You look for the right pill to pop, but what should you take? Aspirin? Ibuprofen? Or, you're about to get your period. You know you'll get killer cramps or that nasty headache any minute now, but nothing you take seems to help once the pain hits.
You're not alone: Many women have a tough time finding the right kind of relief for their pain --and for good reason: Until recently, experts hadn't actually studied women's pain specifically, and most research wasn't conducted with a woman's hormones and physique in mind. All that's changing, though.
Docs now know that to banish our aches, they must develop treatments formulated for women's bodies. What's more, researchers are also looking for -- and finding -- ways to head pain off at the pass, so those of us with chronic troubles such as migraine, fibromyalgia, or backache don't have to be hobbled by pain on a daily basis. Here, how the new research will help you live an (almost) pain-free life. (Health.com: Smart ways to banish painexternal link )
The prevention revolution
"The old way of dealing with pain was to 'wait until it hurts enough to treat it,'" says Carol A. Foster, M.D., director of Valley Neurological Headache and Research Center in Phoenix, Arizona, and author of "Migraine: Your Questions Answered." "But in the last few years, there has been a complete turnaround. Now we know that prevention and early intervention are absolutely critical."
The new thinking has made all the difference for Carolyn Robbins of Petaluma, California, who suffers from chronic back and neck pain, the result of a spinal-disk injury combined with nerve damage from Guillain-Barre syndrome. "If you've ever had an exposed nerve in your tooth, you know what it feels like," says Robbins, who describes her pain as "electrical shocks" in her upper and lower back.
The 45-year-old mother of two doesn't wait until pain hits her full force before treating it. She now relies on a daily prevention regimen, starting with a hot shower and a double dose of ibuprofen. She swims two to three times a week for strength and mobility, and gets weekly massage and chiropractic treatments. And during those times when things get really bad, she pulls out the stronger painkillers prescribed by her doctor. "I've found that it's not a good idea to try to power through the pain, because other things start to go wrong," Robbins says. "Pain depletes your system as much as exposure to germs."
Just five years ago, a "kitchen sink" approach like Robbins' might have been pooh-poohed by pain-management types, who would have been quick to prescribe hard-core, addictive drugs such as oxycontin for such a serious condition. But now the focus has switched. "It used to be, people treated the pain and didn't always treat the underlying disease," Foster says.
The problem with such an approach, though, is that it sets up a vicious cycle of dependence. "Giving narcotic pain pills to headache patients is like giving cookies to diabetics," she adds.
So how do you break the habit of heading straight for the medicine cabinet? No matter what your source of pain, the first step is to get an accurate diagnosis and then set up an early intervention strategy with your doctor, says Neil Kirschen, M.D., president of the American Association of Orthopedic Medicine and chief of pain management at South Nassau Community Hospital in New York. "The whole goal of pain management today is to keep pain from becoming chronic," he says.
The reason? Pain actually causes the brain to fire off a stress response that, over time, makes nerves more and more sensitive -- and thus better able to telegraph intense pain to you. In other words, pain actually begets pain.
Nan Weiner, executive editor at San Francisco magazine, is a case in point. When she broke her ankle eight years ago, it never completely healed, and the pain became chronic. What should have been a relatively simple injury became an odyssey that had Weiner visiting specialists all over San Francisco. She finally found a podiatrist who "took a detective-like approach to the problem," Weiner says, by exploring and treating each joint and tendon in a methodical search for the pain's source. Thanks to this care, which includes regular pain-preventing cortisone shots, the 55-year-old mother of one has been able to resume her hobby of salsa dancing.
Zooming in on female pain
We know that men don't suffer menstrual pain, but that's not the only fun they're missing. "Research is uncovering very dramatic differences in how the genders experience pain," says Mark Allen Young, a professor at New York College of Podiatric Medicine and author of "Women and Pain: Why It Hurts and What You Can Do."
It all starts with hormones. There is no getting around how profoundly hormones such as estrogen and testosterone affect the central nervous system, which is responsible for perceiving and transmitting the sensation of pain. According to experts, this is one reason why conditions such as osteoarthritis, headaches, and irritable bowel syndrome strike women at much higher rates than men.
Our physical differences really matter, too. "We've only recently begun to grasp that women's body architecture is completely different from men's," Young says. Because women walk differently, for instance, they put pressure on joints, muscles, and bones in very different ways than men do. "Starting with the knees and hips and working up to the shoulders, spine, and neck, how a person walks can have a huge impact on how pain develops later in life," Young says. Just last year, one medical-implant maker finally recognized this fact by creating a knee implant just for women.
Women are also more prone to conditions involving the immune system, says Deborah Metzger, M.D., an OB-GYN and specialist in integrative pain management in Los Altos, California. Scientists have long known that women have stronger immune systems than men, she says. That strength can backfire, though, leading women to suffer from far more autoimmune disorders -- in which the immune system attacks itself -- and the host of mysterious diseases thought to sometimes result from an overreactive immune system, such as celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and many types of pelvic pain.
"Women tend to have hyperalert immune systems, which is good," Metzger says. "But once the immune system gets stirred up, it can turn into a feeding frenzy." The fired-up immune activity produces inflammatory chemicals that fuel all types of muscle and joint pain; it can also activate nerves in vulnerable spots like the lower back (sciatica), the head (migraines), and the pelvis (endometriosis and pelvic pain).
New relief for headaches
There's good news for women who suffer migraines -- and most other types of headaches -- which they do at twice the rate of men. Headaches are one area where the new focus on prevention can be seen in a host of treatment options, including Botox. Considered experimental just a few years ago, Botox injections (in which the botulinum toxin type A is used to paralyze specific muscles in the forehead, brow, temples, and neck) is now offered by many hospital pain clinics. Botox is also extremely effective for certain types of neck pain, such as cervical dystonia.
Another treatment that's crossing over from fringy "alternative" practitioners to mainstream pain clinics is neuromodulation, a.k.a. transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS. "Think of TENS as acupuncture without needles that you can wear at home," says Joseph Shurman, M.D., pioneer of a new pain-management model at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, California, and chairman of pain management. (Take that! (for pain)external link )
Extremely effective for neck pain, back pain, and some kinds of headaches, the treatment involves applying electrodes to the skin to stimulate particular nerves. "Neuromodulation works by trying to change the pain message into something else," Kirschen says.
Acupuncture is also a routine part of treatment in many headache clinics; it's used in conjunction with pain medication and other treatments. Women seem to respond particularly well to this therapy, Young says. "There are certain acupuncture points that are better for women than for men," he adds.
Fighting the fatigue
In the past year, some of the biggest headlines in pain management have been about fibromyalgia (chronic bodywide pain in joints, muscles, and tendons) and CFS, two conditions that strike women at as much as six times the rate of men. After years of failing to take these conditions seriously, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other groups have recently mounted aggressive public-information campaigns alerting women to the prevalence of these conditions and the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment. Experts have also made dramatic gains in finding treatments that work by focusing on the sleep problems and physical weakness that seem to fuel these diseases. (Could painkillers be hurting your heart?external link )
Marly Silverman of Pompano Beach, Florida, learned she had fibromyalgia and CFS more than 10 years ago. "It felt like acid chemicals going through my veins," she says, describing the excruciating pain that forced her to quit her job as vice president of a bank after fruitlessly seeking treatment from a variety of specialists. Today, Silverman manages her pain with a plethora of remedies, including painkillers, antispasmodics (muscle relaxants), and lidocaine patches for localized pain. To speed research into these complex and mysterious illnesses, Silverman founded PANDORA, a patient advocacy and research organization that cosponsors a national conference on the latest research into these and related neuro-endocrine immune conditions.
In studying other immune-triggered conditions such as Crohn's disease -- which also affects women at two to six times the rate of men -- experts have made a similar breakthrough. Instead of treating digestive symptoms such as gas, diarrhea, and constipation (common in Crohn's and IBS), experts realized the culprit might be an underlying food sensitivity, most likely to wheat gluten, milk protein, or one of several other common allergens. What happens, integrative pain specialist Deborah Metzger says, is that an overreactive immune system protests against the irritating foods, causing systemic inflammation throughout the body. She says that in recent years she's had great success by putting patients on the Sugar Busters diet, which eliminates sugar, white flour, and other suspect foods. Metzger's advice: Find a doctor who will analyze all aspects of your lifestyle rather than just medicate pain symptoms.
How to be a good pain patient
There's no question that women aren't always taken seriously when they ask for help with a condition that doesn't have a clear-cut explanation. Just ask those with pelvic pain. Chronic pain is bad enough, but pain down there can be very difficult to describe. "I see so many patients who come in with pelvic, vulvar, ovarian, and/or lower-back pain that they've been dealing with for years, but they can't even tell exactly where the pain is coming from," Metzger says. "There are certain nerves on the abdominal wall that tend to be vulnerable spots. It takes time and patience to pinpoint what's really going on."
That's what happened to Jo Ziegler, 39, of Katonah, New York. She struggled for more than a year with lower- abdominal pain. And it wasn't until after trying a wheat- and sugar-free diet and having a colonoscopy that she visited a surgeon who made a correct hernia diagnosis. One simple outpatient procedure, and Ziegler was rid of the pain.
Often, the biggest treatment barriers women encounter are plain old stereotypes: Women are perceived as "emotional" when they try to talk about what's bothering them, says Joseph Shurman, M.D., whose wife, Gloria Shurman, Ph.D., suffers from chronic pain. "But how can you not get emotional if it hurts, and it seems like nobody will listen?" Gloria says.
The solution is to take a proactive approach, the Shurmans say, even if you need to look in the mirror and give yourself a pep talk and write down a list of symptoms or questions before you head for the doctor's office. "The most important thing is to be persistent," Gloria Shurman says. "If you're in pain, don't ever take no for an answer."
Health.com
Adjust font size:
Decrease fontDecrease font
Enlarge fontEnlarge font
You've got achy shoulders from carrying the kids, the groceries, or your incredibly heavy handbag. You look for the right pill to pop, but what should you take? Aspirin? Ibuprofen? Or, you're about to get your period. You know you'll get killer cramps or that nasty headache any minute now, but nothing you take seems to help once the pain hits.
You're not alone: Many women have a tough time finding the right kind of relief for their pain --and for good reason: Until recently, experts hadn't actually studied women's pain specifically, and most research wasn't conducted with a woman's hormones and physique in mind. All that's changing, though.
Docs now know that to banish our aches, they must develop treatments formulated for women's bodies. What's more, researchers are also looking for -- and finding -- ways to head pain off at the pass, so those of us with chronic troubles such as migraine, fibromyalgia, or backache don't have to be hobbled by pain on a daily basis. Here, how the new research will help you live an (almost) pain-free life. (Health.com: Smart ways to banish painexternal link )
The prevention revolution
"The old way of dealing with pain was to 'wait until it hurts enough to treat it,'" says Carol A. Foster, M.D., director of Valley Neurological Headache and Research Center in Phoenix, Arizona, and author of "Migraine: Your Questions Answered." "But in the last few years, there has been a complete turnaround. Now we know that prevention and early intervention are absolutely critical."
The new thinking has made all the difference for Carolyn Robbins of Petaluma, California, who suffers from chronic back and neck pain, the result of a spinal-disk injury combined with nerve damage from Guillain-Barre syndrome. "If you've ever had an exposed nerve in your tooth, you know what it feels like," says Robbins, who describes her pain as "electrical shocks" in her upper and lower back.
The 45-year-old mother of two doesn't wait until pain hits her full force before treating it. She now relies on a daily prevention regimen, starting with a hot shower and a double dose of ibuprofen. She swims two to three times a week for strength and mobility, and gets weekly massage and chiropractic treatments. And during those times when things get really bad, she pulls out the stronger painkillers prescribed by her doctor. "I've found that it's not a good idea to try to power through the pain, because other things start to go wrong," Robbins says. "Pain depletes your system as much as exposure to germs."
Just five years ago, a "kitchen sink" approach like Robbins' might have been pooh-poohed by pain-management types, who would have been quick to prescribe hard-core, addictive drugs such as oxycontin for such a serious condition. But now the focus has switched. "It used to be, people treated the pain and didn't always treat the underlying disease," Foster says.
The problem with such an approach, though, is that it sets up a vicious cycle of dependence. "Giving narcotic pain pills to headache patients is like giving cookies to diabetics," she adds.
So how do you break the habit of heading straight for the medicine cabinet? No matter what your source of pain, the first step is to get an accurate diagnosis and then set up an early intervention strategy with your doctor, says Neil Kirschen, M.D., president of the American Association of Orthopedic Medicine and chief of pain management at South Nassau Community Hospital in New York. "The whole goal of pain management today is to keep pain from becoming chronic," he says.
The reason? Pain actually causes the brain to fire off a stress response that, over time, makes nerves more and more sensitive -- and thus better able to telegraph intense pain to you. In other words, pain actually begets pain.
Nan Weiner, executive editor at San Francisco magazine, is a case in point. When she broke her ankle eight years ago, it never completely healed, and the pain became chronic. What should have been a relatively simple injury became an odyssey that had Weiner visiting specialists all over San Francisco. She finally found a podiatrist who "took a detective-like approach to the problem," Weiner says, by exploring and treating each joint and tendon in a methodical search for the pain's source. Thanks to this care, which includes regular pain-preventing cortisone shots, the 55-year-old mother of one has been able to resume her hobby of salsa dancing.
Zooming in on female pain
We know that men don't suffer menstrual pain, but that's not the only fun they're missing. "Research is uncovering very dramatic differences in how the genders experience pain," says Mark Allen Young, a professor at New York College of Podiatric Medicine and author of "Women and Pain: Why It Hurts and What You Can Do."
It all starts with hormones. There is no getting around how profoundly hormones such as estrogen and testosterone affect the central nervous system, which is responsible for perceiving and transmitting the sensation of pain. According to experts, this is one reason why conditions such as osteoarthritis, headaches, and irritable bowel syndrome strike women at much higher rates than men.
Our physical differences really matter, too. "We've only recently begun to grasp that women's body architecture is completely different from men's," Young says. Because women walk differently, for instance, they put pressure on joints, muscles, and bones in very different ways than men do. "Starting with the knees and hips and working up to the shoulders, spine, and neck, how a person walks can have a huge impact on how pain develops later in life," Young says. Just last year, one medical-implant maker finally recognized this fact by creating a knee implant just for women.
Women are also more prone to conditions involving the immune system, says Deborah Metzger, M.D., an OB-GYN and specialist in integrative pain management in Los Altos, California. Scientists have long known that women have stronger immune systems than men, she says. That strength can backfire, though, leading women to suffer from far more autoimmune disorders -- in which the immune system attacks itself -- and the host of mysterious diseases thought to sometimes result from an overreactive immune system, such as celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and many types of pelvic pain.
"Women tend to have hyperalert immune systems, which is good," Metzger says. "But once the immune system gets stirred up, it can turn into a feeding frenzy." The fired-up immune activity produces inflammatory chemicals that fuel all types of muscle and joint pain; it can also activate nerves in vulnerable spots like the lower back (sciatica), the head (migraines), and the pelvis (endometriosis and pelvic pain).
New relief for headaches
There's good news for women who suffer migraines -- and most other types of headaches -- which they do at twice the rate of men. Headaches are one area where the new focus on prevention can be seen in a host of treatment options, including Botox. Considered experimental just a few years ago, Botox injections (in which the botulinum toxin type A is used to paralyze specific muscles in the forehead, brow, temples, and neck) is now offered by many hospital pain clinics. Botox is also extremely effective for certain types of neck pain, such as cervical dystonia.
Another treatment that's crossing over from fringy "alternative" practitioners to mainstream pain clinics is neuromodulation, a.k.a. transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS. "Think of TENS as acupuncture without needles that you can wear at home," says Joseph Shurman, M.D., pioneer of a new pain-management model at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, California, and chairman of pain management. (Take that! (for pain)external link )
Extremely effective for neck pain, back pain, and some kinds of headaches, the treatment involves applying electrodes to the skin to stimulate particular nerves. "Neuromodulation works by trying to change the pain message into something else," Kirschen says.
Acupuncture is also a routine part of treatment in many headache clinics; it's used in conjunction with pain medication and other treatments. Women seem to respond particularly well to this therapy, Young says. "There are certain acupuncture points that are better for women than for men," he adds.
Fighting the fatigue
In the past year, some of the biggest headlines in pain management have been about fibromyalgia (chronic bodywide pain in joints, muscles, and tendons) and CFS, two conditions that strike women at as much as six times the rate of men. After years of failing to take these conditions seriously, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other groups have recently mounted aggressive public-information campaigns alerting women to the prevalence of these conditions and the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment. Experts have also made dramatic gains in finding treatments that work by focusing on the sleep problems and physical weakness that seem to fuel these diseases. (Could painkillers be hurting your heart?external link )
Marly Silverman of Pompano Beach, Florida, learned she had fibromyalgia and CFS more than 10 years ago. "It felt like acid chemicals going through my veins," she says, describing the excruciating pain that forced her to quit her job as vice president of a bank after fruitlessly seeking treatment from a variety of specialists. Today, Silverman manages her pain with a plethora of remedies, including painkillers, antispasmodics (muscle relaxants), and lidocaine patches for localized pain. To speed research into these complex and mysterious illnesses, Silverman founded PANDORA, a patient advocacy and research organization that cosponsors a national conference on the latest research into these and related neuro-endocrine immune conditions.
In studying other immune-triggered conditions such as Crohn's disease -- which also affects women at two to six times the rate of men -- experts have made a similar breakthrough. Instead of treating digestive symptoms such as gas, diarrhea, and constipation (common in Crohn's and IBS), experts realized the culprit might be an underlying food sensitivity, most likely to wheat gluten, milk protein, or one of several other common allergens. What happens, integrative pain specialist Deborah Metzger says, is that an overreactive immune system protests against the irritating foods, causing systemic inflammation throughout the body. She says that in recent years she's had great success by putting patients on the Sugar Busters diet, which eliminates sugar, white flour, and other suspect foods. Metzger's advice: Find a doctor who will analyze all aspects of your lifestyle rather than just medicate pain symptoms.
How to be a good pain patient
There's no question that women aren't always taken seriously when they ask for help with a condition that doesn't have a clear-cut explanation. Just ask those with pelvic pain. Chronic pain is bad enough, but pain down there can be very difficult to describe. "I see so many patients who come in with pelvic, vulvar, ovarian, and/or lower-back pain that they've been dealing with for years, but they can't even tell exactly where the pain is coming from," Metzger says. "There are certain nerves on the abdominal wall that tend to be vulnerable spots. It takes time and patience to pinpoint what's really going on."
That's what happened to Jo Ziegler, 39, of Katonah, New York. She struggled for more than a year with lower- abdominal pain. And it wasn't until after trying a wheat- and sugar-free diet and having a colonoscopy that she visited a surgeon who made a correct hernia diagnosis. One simple outpatient procedure, and Ziegler was rid of the pain.
Often, the biggest treatment barriers women encounter are plain old stereotypes: Women are perceived as "emotional" when they try to talk about what's bothering them, says Joseph Shurman, M.D., whose wife, Gloria Shurman, Ph.D., suffers from chronic pain. "But how can you not get emotional if it hurts, and it seems like nobody will listen?" Gloria says.
The solution is to take a proactive approach, the Shurmans say, even if you need to look in the mirror and give yourself a pep talk and write down a list of symptoms or questions before you head for the doctor's office. "The most important thing is to be persistent," Gloria Shurman says. "If you're in pain, don't ever take no for an answer."
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