A recent study was done on health care workers using auricular acupuncture to reduce stress levels.
Health care work is a profession where empathy and caring for patients is integral and an absolute necessity. Subjects administered the treatment tested much lower on the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory test for stress levels and higher in courage and patients on the Caring Ability Inventory.
This is great news for anyone working as a health care provider because this can be one of the most stressful jobs out there. To know that you can reduce your stress levels in such an environment in a natural drug free way while maintaining your passion for your work and the people around you is a godsend.
Anyone in a high stress professional life should definitely see an acupuncturist to discover how it can help you live better and work better.
Links to the Articles: – www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24704740
Chinese herbal medicine has a long history of use for various health conditions, including managing cholesterol levels. Listed here are 6 best Chinese herbs that commonly used to help lower cholesterol:
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1. Hawthorn 山楂
Hawthorn
Hawthorn is rich in various beneficial substances such as hawthorn acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, and more. These components contribute to its ability to dilate blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and enhance the activity of gastric digestive enzymes.
Hawthorn is available in different forms, including tablets and granules, making it convenient for consumption. Additionally, dried raw hawthorn fruit can be used to prepare herbal tea or decoctions, allowing for alternative methods of intake.
2. Polygonum multiflorum 何首乌
Polygonum multiflorum Thunb
Polygonum multiflorum can promote intestinal peristalsis, reduce cholesterol absorption and accelerate the excretion of cholesterol. This makes it effective in reducing cholesterol levels and providing anti-atherosclerosis benefits.
Clinical you can used Polygonum multiflorum tablets or granules 2.5 gram each dosage, 3 times per day.
Polygonum multiflorumthe also helps constipation, particularly suits for elderly patient who has chronic constipation and can be diagnosed as Liver and Kidney deficiency in Chinese medicine.
3. Rhubarb root 大黄
Rhubarb Dahuang
Rhubarb root has been shown to have beneficial effects on blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Clinical studies suggest that Rhubarb root can be taken orally in doses of 0.25 grams, four times a day. After one month of treatment, it may help reduce triglyceride levels.
Rhubarb’s strong laxative effect makes it particularly suitable for individuals who have high cholesterol and suffer from constipation.
4. Cassia seed 决明子
Cassia Seed
Cassia seeds have been found to possess the ability to inhibit the formation of atherosclerosis plaques and lower serum cholesterol levels. Take fried Cassia as herbal tea may gradually lower cholesterol levels close to normal range. Average dosage is 5 to 10 gram per day, over the course of one month.
Pollen Typhae
5. Pollen Typhae 蒲黄
Pollen Typhae, also known as Typha pollen or Typhae Pollen (蒲黄), has been found to have the ability to inhibit the intestinal absorption of exogenous cholesterol. This property makes it effective in reducing lipid levels in the blood. It’s important to note that only raw Pollen Typhae is effective in reducing cholesterol, as charcoaled Typhae is commonly used for conditions such as excessive menstruation and painful menstruation.
6. Ginkgo biloba 银杏叶
Ginkgo biloba
Research discovered that Ginkgo biloba has coronary dilation effect and it is able to lower serum cholesterol including total cholesterol and triglycerides.
Ginkgo biloba can be purchased from health food shop as tablets.
Almond Wellness Centre
At Almond Wellness Centre we have different forms of high quality Chinese herbal medicine. These include the “real” dry raw herbs, concentrated herbal granules, patent herbal pills, topical used herbal cream, tinctures. They can be specially tailored for your conditions. Formulas can be prescribed in a number of ways at both our Ringwood clinic and Coburg clinic.
Aging is an inevitable biological process but thankfully there are some measures that can be taken to minimise the potential changes our skin will succumb to. Understanding the skin and its greatest offenders can help you take some control over the aging process.
Skin Layers
Epidermis
The outermost layer of the skin is called the epidermis (stratum corneum) and is about as thick as a sheet of paper! It is avascular-has no arteries, veins or capillaries but is nourished by the dermis via the lymph. The most bottom layer of the epidermis is referred to as the basal layer which is responsible for continual skin cell renewal and maintaining the epidermis. Skin cell renewal occurs every 15-30 days. New cells develop in the basal layer and make their way up to the stratum corneum. Eventually these cells die and slough off and are replaced by new cells. As we age this process slows down.
The epidermis is your skins first line of defence and contains many barrier properties. The cells that comprise the epidermis are coated with ‘humectants’ chemicals that keep the cells moist and flexible and they are cushioned by lipids or special fats to help control moisture loss. The epidermis is also covered by sebum which is produced in the sebaceous glands and primarily keeps the skin lubricated to prevent dryness and keep it looking healthy. An over production of sebum can lead to problems and ‘oily’ skin as we know it.
The epidermis is also host to melanocytes which produce melanin and give your skin it’s colour. Sunlight stimulates the production of melanin and it is in fact a defensive response to stop harmful sun rays from entering the body.
Dermis
This is the layer beneath the epidermis and which is rich in blood and lymph vessels, nerves sweat and oil glands. This area of the skin is nourished by blood circulating through a rich network of arteries, veins and capillaries delivering vital oxygen and removing waste. It is here that fibroblast cells form a network of fibers often referred to as connective tissue. This connective tissue is made up of elastin (elastic fibers) which give skin its suppleness and collagen (dense fibers) which give strength. This combination of elasticity and support is what gives skin its ability to be stretched or pulled and to regain its shape. As we age the rate of collagen production slows down and so to does its resillience.
Subcutaneous fat layer
Below the dermis is the subcutaneous fat layer connecting skin to underlying tissues and muscles. This subcutaneous fat layer also gives skin shape, contour and cushions the outer layers.
Skin ageing can be related to intrinsic (internal) and extrinsic (external) factors:
Intrinsic
Natural aging process:
Reduced collagen production
Reduced resilience in elastin fibers
Cell renewal process slows down
Loss of underlying fat
Decrease in muscle tone
Signs of continual natural aging process (can begin around mid twenties)
Fine lines/wrinkles start to form
Thinner/transparent skin
Hollowing/sagging skin
Extrinsic
Sun Exposure (photo-aging): UV light breaks down collagen and elastin
Smoking-Causes biochemical changes and oxygen deprivation which damages skin cells
Gravity: Although we are unable to feel it the pull of the earth’s gravity combined with a natural deterioration in elasticity with age contributes to sagging of skin in facial areas and other parts of the body
Free radicals in polluted environments and fast foods damage skin cells
Harsh weather conditions: Can lead to dryness and lead to wrinkles and fine lines
Repetitive facial expressions lead to fine lines and wrinkles in those areas (because the skin loses its ability to spring back and grooves develop into permanent lines and wrinkles)
Sleeping positions: Over time sleep lines become permanently etched into the face
As an expectant father, understanding and supplementing necessary nutrients is crucial. These elements not only concern your health but also directly affect the health of your future baby. They act as the fuel of life, providing energy for sperm and ensuring their quantity, vitality, and quality are optimal.
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Zinc
Zinc serves as a crucial guardian of male reproductive ability. As a key component of testosterone, a lack of zinc may lead to fertility issues. To ensure the quantity, vitality, and quality of sperm, a daily intake of 50 milligrams of zinc is indispensable.
Potassium
Potassium is the secret weapon for maintaining sperm vitality. When the body lacks potassium, sperm vitality takes a significant hit. To boost potassium levels, reducing salt intake while consuming more potassium-rich fresh fruits and vegetables is advisable.
Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for maintaining healthy sperm and nervous systems. From dark leafy green vegetables, seeds, legumes to tofu, almonds, and walnuts, they all provide quality sources of magnesium.
Manganese
Severe manganese deficiency may lead to a sharp decrease in sperm quantity. To maintain an adequate supply of sperm, nuts, whole grains, seeds, legumes, and green leafy vegetables are indispensable foods.
Beta-Carotene
This nutrient not only assists in sperm generation but also maintains the health of the testes, promoting the conversion of cholesterol into testosterone.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C effectively prevents sperm from losing vitality due to aggregation, especially for expectant fathers who smoke, making it a powerful ally in fertility.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is the guardian of sperm formation, protecting sperm from damage caused by free radicals. A daily intake of 400-800 international units of vitamin E is crucial for maintaining sperm quantity and quality.
Selenium
Selenium not only participates in the production of testosterone but also prevents free radical damage to sperm. During in vitro fertilization, selenium is crucial in helping sperm successfully combine with eggs. However, please note that daily selenium intake should not exceed 200 micrograms.
CoQ10
As a potent antioxidant, coenzyme Q10 effectively prevents sperm cells from mutating. A daily supplement of 100 milligrams is sufficient to maintain and enhance sperm health. Whether for older or non-smoking expectant fathers, coenzyme Q10 is a good choice.
Omega-3 Fish Oil
Omega-3 fish oil, hailed as the guardian of male reproductive health, not only helps improve sperm quality and vitality but also actively supports the production of prostate and testosterone. For men facing erectile dysfunction, Omega-3 fish oil may also bring hope. Additionally, it is a powerful antioxidant that helps maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is an important driver of sperm production. When the body lacks this vitamin, both the quantity and vitality of sperm may be affected. Therefore, ensuring an adequate intake of vitamin B12 is crucial for maintaining male fertility.
Other Important Factors
For the health of the baby, expectant fathers may consider incorporating these nutrients into their daily diets, laying a solid foundation for the future baby’s health. Of course, nutrient supplements are only part of maintaining fertility. Good lifestyle habits are equally important. Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding bad habits such as smoking and excessive drinking, and regularly undergoing physical examinations are key to maintaining male fertility.
Finally, it is worth noting that supplements cannot completely replace a healthy diet. Only when we obtain sufficient nutrients from our daily diets can supplements exert their maximum effects. Therefore, in the pursuit of fertility, let us start from the little things in life and create a healthy and harmonious environment for ourselves and our future families.
Below, I have listed a few quit smoking tips or techniques that have been proven effective in helping to combat your cravings. As long as you employ one or more of these concepts, you take another step toward a healthier and happier smoke-free you!
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MAKE SUER YOU TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF.
Do what is right to support your “smoke-free” journey.
First step: when and where are your cravings?
The first step toward becoming “smoke free” is to identify when and where your smoking cravings occur, i.e. after eating, after a cup of coffee, during stressful situations, etc.
When you become aware of the triggers that precede your cravings, it will become easier for you to begin to break the habit. As long as you refrain from grabbing a cigarette for at least 20-30 minutes after the craving trigger, you will have a much better chance of quitting. As time ticks by, it will become easier to remove yourself from the cravings and you may even forget you wanted a cigarette in the first place.
Manage you habit
Cravings may feel like they last forever, but will most likely dissipate within 3-5 minutes. Invent your own ideas to bust the cravings or use the suggestions below to help you manage them when they occur. Plan ahead by writing down these suggestions in your day planner, on post it notes in your house, car, or at your desk, or even on your screen saver. Remember to make these healing activities fun and enjoyable, as well as easily accessible!
Affirmation
An affirmation is positive statement, which when spoken repeatedly, helps to bolster the positive and desired changes you are embarking upon. Repeating the affirmation helps to remind you of why you are no longer smoking, imprinting in your mind and body a positive image of a “smoke –free” existence.
An example of an affirmation might be:
“I am a non-smoker, and I make healthy choices in my life”, or
“I am strong, healthy, and vibrant, and choose healthy things in my life.”
Setting boundaries
Set up contracts with other smokers that you associate with. Let them know that you are choosing to kick the habit and that you want them to refrain from smoking around you. This includes friends, spouses, and family members.
If you are in a public location and someone lights a cigarette, you can do one of two things:
ask them to put it out, or
leave the situation and socialise elsewhere.
The desire to pick up a cigarette and smoke, when others are doing so, is strong.
Support person
The decision to quit smoking is an important one, and by taking the positive steps toward quitting, you may experience some unpleasant and uncomfortable emotions. Ask someone, whom you are close with, to act as sounding board for you, and to provide you with encouragement.
Ear seeds/needles
In your acupuncture treatment at Almond Wellness Centre, you may receive ear seeds/needles. These seeds/needles are held in place on the ear with a small piece of adhesive tape, and are located on specific points in your ear which help reduce stress, calm the mind. When a craving occurs, rub each of the ear seeds for approximately 15-30 seconds. Rubbing them throughout the day will help fortify and support your acupuncture treatments.
Chinese herbal tea
Chinese herbal tea can help detox and ease off the discomfort around your mouth, nose and chest area. It also has calm effect, which can help fight cravings.
Breathe deeply
Many of us do not take full, deep breaths. Take time out during the day to breathe deeply. Begin by inhaling into your belly. Then, allow the breath to move up into your chest, making it rise as full as you can. As you exhale, focus on completely expelling the air from your body. In you exhale, making the sound SSSSSSSSSSSS, activates and opens the lungs and chest.
Refrain from drinking coffee
Coffee can dehydrate your body and lead to cravings. Most people associate a cup of coffee with a cigarette. In order to be successful, you need to break the coffee and cigarette relationship.
Drink Water
Sip water frequently throughout the day. It will help to curb your cravings and will cleanse and flush the body tissues.
Food choices
Eat lots of carrots, celery and other vegetables. They will satiate your appetites, as well as provide your body with the nutrients it needs to regain health and vitality. Candy and other sweets will upset the sugar level in your body, which can aggravate any withdrawal symptoms that you may experience. Sugar substitutes, such as NutraSweet, are sweeter than sugar and can cause even more cravings.
