Medical Transcription Forums and Blog Medical Transcription Forums and Blog http://medicalforum.mobi en-us Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:35:47 GMT Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:35:47 GMT <![CDATA[Why Fluorescent Bulbs or CFLs...]]>   Why Fluorescent anyway?  Compact fluorescent lamps use approximately 75% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs because more energy is used for light rather than heat.  CFLs do contain small amounts of mercury so they do require special handling and disposal.  However, the amount of energy saved outweighs the dangers for most situations.  If you leave the room for more than 15 minutes, turn a CFL bulb off.

We find these to be ideal for outdoor lights that are left on for long periods of time.  One area that we have run into problems is when the socket is made that you can't hold the base of the bulb to put the bulb in the socket.  It is when you are forced to actually grip the bulb itself.  This can cause minute breakage or cracks between the bulb and the base.  If this happens, it is not unusual for a strong smell that smells like burnt wires and smoke to emit from the crack.  Immediately, shut off the light, air the room and remove the bulb properly.  Because of this problem and the design of our light fixtures in our home, we can replace roughly 1/2 of our lights with CFLs. 

But 1/2 is better than none.       
]]> Wed, 20 Apr 2011 09:42:25 GMT <![CDATA[You've Got to See This: Vivix - Inflammation]]> Inflammation – A Biological Response to Stress

In the past decade, inflammation has become one of the hottest topics in medical research because it is emerging as a possible cause of many of the chronic diseases that threaten the quality and the length of life. . If that’s true, then addressing inflammation could be a singular approach to targeting multiple health conditions and, perhaps, could simplify scientific and medical research strategies for fighting many of the most deadly chronic diseases.

We now know that there are many possible lifestyle and environmental triggers of inflammatory stress, including smoking; a high-fat, high-carbohydrate diet; obesity; radiation; and even exposure to environmental toxins. Persistent, chronic, or uncontrolled low-grade inflammation has been linked to increased risk for the metabolic syndrome and heart disease, diabetes and insulin resistance, rheumatoid arthritis, certain cancers, asthma, allergies, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Acute inflammation is a natural immune system response to injury or infection during which the body orchestrates a symphony of immune system signals, messages, and physiological actions to combat and neutralize foreign invaders that may be responsible for the injury. This inflammatory response can result in the characteristic redness, heat, swelling, and pain that you may see and feel at the site of a wound and is the beginning of the healing process as the body eventually brings nourishment to the site.

Most of the time, inflammation is an acute, on-demand function, a biological stress response that enables our body to fight off disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and parasites. But when inflammation doesn’t shut down on cue, or somehow persists with no particular purpose, it can attack normally healthy cells and cause damage at the cellular level. In autoimmune diseases, a continuously triggered inflammatory response causes damage to its own tissues—sometimes with disastrous health consequences

Recent research has uncovered the benefits of smoking cessation and even moderate exercise as sound approaches to battling inflammatory stress. A September 2010 laboratory study found that a three-week moderate exercise regimen reduced several biomarkers of inflammatory stress, including C-reactive protein (CRP) in diabetic rats, (onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2249.2010.04240.x/abstract). The investigators concluded that moderate physical exercise had significant anti-inflammatory effects and that this may be a good strategy to protect against insulin resistance and vascular complications in diabetics.

Nutritional approaches to reducing inflammatory stress are also receiving more attention. Several studies have supported the benefits of a “Mediterranean” or an “anti-inflammatory” type diet, and spices such as ginger and turmeric are also showing promise. In the 2010 review Dietary polyphenols can modulate the intestinal inflammatory response, plant sources of dietary polyphenols—including green tea extract, various flavonoids, ellagic acid (found in muscadine grapes and pomegranates), and resveratrol (found in red wine and Japanese knotweed)—were shown to successfully modulate intestinal inflammatory response. The investigators concluded that the use of natural preventive treatments in early life could reduce or delay inflammatory bowel diseases, and that polyphenols could play an important role in modulating intestinal inflammation (onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1753-4887.2009.00210.x/abstract).

In February 2011, a new study, A resveratrol and polyphenol preparation suppresses oxidative and inflammatory stress response to a high-fat, high-carbohydrate meal, was published online in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. The researchers from the State University of New York at Buffalo (SUNY) showed that a resveratrol and muscadine grape polyphenol blend was able to suppress the oxidative and inflammatory stress response typically experienced after consumption of a high-fat fast food meal (jcem.endojournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/jc.2010-1812v1). 

This peer-reviewed and published human study is even more compelling because it is one of the earliest placebo-controlled clinical research studies on resveratrol compounds. In fact, a January 2011 review of resveratrol research published in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences found only six recently completed clinical trials on resveratrol supplementation, and only one other study employed a placebo-controlled design (onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05853.x/abstract).

In the SUNY study, the researchers fed 10 healthy adults either the resveratrol-muscadine polyphenol blend or a placebo before the high-fat fast food meal, and markers of oxidative and inflammatory stress were measured for five hours following the meal. In the group consuming the polyphenol blend, there was a significant reduction in the oxidative stress response typically observed after consumption of a high-fat meal. At three hours, there was also a 150% increase in Nrf-2, an important regulator of the body’s antioxidant defense and detoxification systems.

The investigators also reported a significant blunting of the body’s inflammatory response to eating a high-fat fast food meal in the subjects who consumed the resveratrol-muscadine polyphenol blend. Induction of two well-known inflammatory biomarkers, plasma lipopolysaccharide and IL-1ß, were both significantly reduced after consuming the high-fat meal, but only in the supplement group.

So what are we to do to address the chronic low-grade inflammation that permeates our modern-day lifestyles? Fortunately, many of the same dietary and lifestyle behaviors we’ve recommended for decades to lower the risk for cardiovascular diseases and cancer can also help to reduce the risk for chronic inflammation:

  • Find an exercise you like and participate on a regular basis
  • Reduce stress and keep your blood pressure in check
  • Achieve and maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce inflammation, a biological stress response
  • Don’t smoke and avoid secondhand smoke
  • Eat a healthful diet rich in plant foods, whole grains, legumes, leafy vegetables, colorful fruits, lean cuts of meats and poultry, and low-fat dairy products
  • Choose unprocessed foods low in trans fats, saturated fat, salt, and sugar
  • Seek out anti-inflammatory foods such as fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as well as olive oil
  • Look for anti-inflammatory nutritional ingredients such as resveratrol, muscadine, and pomegranate polyphenols, as well as spices such as ginger and turmeric. 
  • For information about inflammation and your health, talk with your doctor or health care professional to discuss the steps you can take maximize your anti-inflammatory diet and lifestyle.

To your good health!
Shaklee Health Sciences
This message has been sent to all Shaklee Family Members

Vivix is an excellent way to find a high quality product that contains resveratrol and muscadine for an excellent value too (less than a latte a day).  Get yours today here.


]]> Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:15:49 GMT <![CDATA[Sugar: Is it Good or Bad?]]>   Sugar is not the problem in our diets. 

It is the following that causes sugar to get a bad rep.
  • Unbalance of sugar such as eating too many processed foods, too many treat foods over necessary foods and choosing convenience over nutritional value.
  • Types of sugar such as simple sugars like donuts, white breads and pasta VS complex sugars like vegetables and fruits.

These are the things that are causing obesity to rise, triglycerides to rise, cholesterol to rise, and of course, diabetes to rise.

    Don't be mislead by artificial sweeteners either.  The are a vicious villain in the who process because they teach your body to crave a higher intensity of sugar, thereby, never really being satisfied by the natural sweetness of healthy sugars.  Plus many of them have adverse side effects such as migraines, sores in the mouth, and even higher risk of cancer.  Worse of all, your mind tells your body it's ok because it is reading the label that states '0' sugars.  Well, that is not always best.  By the time many realize that they have been deceived, their body has already started to feel the ill side-effects of these sneaky villains.



    ]]>     Wed, 06 Apr 2011 11:08:49 GMT     <![CDATA[Yoga for Stress: Free and Simple Stress Relief]]>   Yoga doesn't have to be hard or expensive.  A few simple tips can help reduce your stress for life.  I even taught my children basic yoga techniques when they were 2 and 3 years old.  Obviously, you would want to use caution when teaching anyone yoga that the type of yoga is age and ability appropriate.  

    Check out what Mayo Clinic has to offer on basic yoga or visit YouTube for other basic videos.  If you live in the Peoria, Il Area, visit  Lisa Nelson Raabe. She is outstanding!  If you don't use Facebook, you can also contact her in the following ways:  www.LisaNelsonRaabe.com, 309.472.6863, or Lisa@LisaNelsonRaabe.com.  Whether you are battling cancer or want to relieve that office stress, she can help.

    Don't forget that excellent nutrition is a key to reducing stress too.  Big special with the #1 Natural Nutritional Company going on now through May 20, 2011.  Spend $30 and get a FREE Discount Membership Card - 15% all Orders (current and future).  So you can relieve your stress through better health and a bigger pocket book (or wallet)
    ]]>     Mon, 04 Apr 2011 07:57:02 GMT     <![CDATA[Green to the Bone - Tip How to Make Natural Cleaners Work]]>   Using Natural Cleaners
    • Tile and Grout = mix one part salt, one part baking soda, and one part vinegar to make a past
    • Soap Scum = borax, a little water and a scouring pad
    • Toilet Bowl = sprinkle in baking soda followed by white vinegar and scrub
    • Air Freshener - boil 1 cup vinegar in a pot of water
    • All purpose/grease cleaner= make a paste of baking soda and water, scrub and rinse
    I found these suggestions while searching online but I also noticed that they use vinegar and baking soda frequently.  I don't care for the strong smell of vinegar unless it is to dye Easter eggs plus baking soda can tend to be abrasive at times and the saltiness of it tends to dry and burn my hands.

    Therefore, I did more research to see what others are using.  Some said 7th Generation (but complained about in effectiveness); Simple Works or Green Works (but money still goes back to Clorox); Shaklee Get Clean where people were not only impressed with the nontoxic side but also were elated that it was so effective.  In fact, Oprah, the Vice-President's house and President's house all use Shaklee cleaners. 

    You can find them by clicking here.  Guaranteed too.

    From Benita of Ohio




    ]]>     Mon, 28 Mar 2011 08:08:26 GMT     <![CDATA[Rain Barrels: Why Use a Rain Barrel?]]>   The Benefits of Rain Barrels

    Water conservation is a concern for many areas and using a rain barrel is a good first step.  Using water captured in a rain barrel reduces the amount used from a municipal source, therefore, also reducing your water bill.  Rain Barrels also catch water that would otherwise run off into creeks and storm systems.  Rainwater is good for houseplants, flowers and gardens because it is free from the chemical additives in tap water.
    ]]>     Sun, 20 Mar 2011 11:00:16 GMT     <![CDATA[Go a Little Greener for Less]]>   A Breath of Fresh Air
    • The air inside a house can be more toxic than outside air, partially due to products used for cleaning. Use natural cleaning products, baking soda and vinegar, instead of chemicals and artificial air fresheners, for everyday cleaning. 
    • Houseplants, such as Boston ferns, philodendrons and peace lilies, are excellent at removing toxins and are easy to maintain. 
    • Open the windows and air out the house, even in the winter.
    ]]>     Fri, 18 Mar 2011 21:17:01 GMT     <![CDATA[Gotta Love it: What's in Your Future!]]>


    "You see, it's never the environment;

    it's never the events of our lives,

    but the meaning we attach to the events

    — how we interpret them

    — that shapes who we are today and who we'll become tomorrow." — Tony Robbins


    ]]>     Thu, 17 Mar 2011 04:41:28 GMT     <![CDATA[Happy St Patrick's Day: Enjoy Some Good Ol' Fashion Bread]]> Whole-Wheat Irish Soda Bread

    :  April/May 2005, The EatingWell Diabetes Cookbook (2005) — Subscribe to EatingWell Magazine Today!

    4.7 out of 5 stars based on 15 reviews

    Soda breads are hearty Irish staples - wholemeal flour with large flakes of bran and wheat germ, or white flour or a mixture leavened with baking soda and moistened with buttermilk. The acid in the buttermilk reacts with the baking soda, which is an alkali, creating bubbles of carbon dioxide which rise the bread. Soda breads have the heft of a yeast bread but are made in minutes and the dough can be shaped into scones or a round loaf, depending on the occasion. Originally it would have been baked in a bastible (pot oven) over the open fire.


    READER'S COMMENT:
    "I love this bread. I use it mostly for toast and with soup meals. It is easy to make, hearty and healthy."
    Whole-Wheat Irish Soda Bread Recipe

    2-pound loaf (12 slices)

    Active Time:

    Total Time:

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups whole-wheat flour
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 2 1/4 cups buttermilk

    Preparation

    1. Preheat oven to 450°F. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray and sprinkle with a little flour.
    2. Whisk whole-wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and pour in buttermilk. Using one hand, stir in full circles (starting in the center of the bowl working toward the outside of the bowl) until all the flour is incorporated. The dough should be soft but not too wet and sticky. When it all comes together, in a matter of seconds, turn it out onto a well-floured surface. Clean dough off your hand.
    3. Pat and roll the dough gently with floury hands, just enough to tidy it up and give it a round shape. Flip over and flatten slightly to about 2 inches. Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking sheet. Mark with a deep cross using a serrated knife and prick each of the four quadrants.
    4. Bake the bread for 20 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 400° and continue to bake until the loaf is brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped, 30 to 35 minutes more. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack and let cool for about 30 minutes.

    Nutrition

    Per slice: 165 calories; 1 g fat ( 0 g sat , 0 g mono ); 2 mg cholesterol; 37 g carbohydrates; 8 g protein; 3 g fiber; 347 mg sodium; 179 mg potassium.

    Nutrition Bonus: Fiber (13% daily value).

    Carbohydrate Servings: 2

    Exchanges: 2 starch


    ]]>     Mon, 14 Mar 2011 16:52:53 GMT     <![CDATA[Must See: Next 30 Minutes Could Save Your Life (Plus Receive $100 Kit FREE)]]>

    IN just 30 minutes you can see how to save thousands of dollars and thousands of heartaches by improving your health and reducing the chance of not only you but your entire family of getting sick - major and minor illnesses.

    Are you concerned that change costs alot?  Don't be because it is the lack of change that costs a lot.  In fact, it may cost you your life or your child's life.  By just purchasing $70 and a new membership, you qualify for a free $100 gift. 

    Yes, if you hurry now and commit to making a change that will protect you and your family, you will qualify for our free gift.  Just to say thank you for helping keep the world safer and healthier. 

    Choose one below:
    Multivitamin + Gift
    Variety Pack
    Nontoxic cleaners
    Safe, Pure Water
    Make Your Own

    Hurry, though because the FREE $101 kit expires March 31st, 2011.
    ]]>     Wed, 09 Mar 2011 21:55:41 GMT     <![CDATA[Urgent Peanut Butter Lovers: Skippy Recall]]>

    Urgent Peanut Butter Lovers:  Click Skippy Recall to learn more.

    Skippy Peanut Butter Recall Caused By Salmonella Scare
    By huffingtonpost.com

    First Posted: 03/ 5/11 09:18 PM Updated: 03/ 5/11 09:20 PM

    Are you a peanut butter fan? If so, you may want to check product labels to make sure you're not affected by the latest peanut butter recall.

    The recall, announced Friday, involves Skippy peanut butter jars labeled "reduced fat," both the creamy and super chunk products.

    The recall is due to possible Salmonella contamination. A press release, linked to on the Skippy website, explains:

    Unilever United States, Inc. today announced a limited recall of Skippy® Reduced Fat Creamy Peanut Butter Spread and Skippy® Reduced Fat Super Chunk Peanut Butter Spread, because it may be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

    The recall is limited to retail stores in the following states: Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wisconsin.

    ABC News has more details to check if you may have one of the recalled products.
    ]]>     Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:36:27 GMT     <![CDATA[Hurry: Air Purifier Ebook Plus Allergy Relief Ebook 24 Sale]]> Seize the Deal for 2 Ebooks - Air Purifiers and Allergy Relief.  Couldn't be a better time with allergy season just around the corner.  It's tough to find an Ebook on air purifiers that explains what to look for and why in terms that don't require a rocket scientist to interpret them.

    The best thing about this book is that it saves you tons of money so you make the best choice for the best value for your needs. 

    Check out what 1 buyer had to say:

    Your ebook is full of excellent information. I never realized how many harmful pollutants there were and that my indoor air quality was so much (9 x's) worse than the outdoor air. It scares me to know this information. Knowing that there are so many different types of air pollutants harming our indoor environment should be enough for anyone to realize the importance of breathing in clean air. I like how the book states the following:

    Our bodies are being forced to be the air purifiers for our environment. This puts undue stress on all the major organs such as the liver, heart, and the lungs plus on all the major systems of our body like the nervous system and the respiratory system. How can we expect peak performance from our bodies when they are forced to do additional work? Plain and simple: WE CAN’T!

    This should make everyone think again about why it is so important to invest in an air purifier for the home and office. I would highly recommend that everyone who is confused about air purification and why it is important to have an air purification system in their indoor environment to purchase a copy of Home & Office Air Purifiers: Home & Office Air Purifiers for Dummies today!

    Christy Taylor
    -Peoria, IL

    Wow...check out the deal at Seize the Deal for 2 Ebooks - OVER 50% Savings!

    ]]>     Wed, 02 Mar 2011 15:41:07 GMT     <![CDATA[Halal Vitamins: Looking for Halal Vitamins can be Hard]]>
    The interesting thing is that NONE of Shaklee's vitamins contain pork, pork by-products, or alcohol; therefore, the Shaklee supplements are Halal. 

    With 97% of the labels on supplements being inaccurate, it is comforting to know that not only can you enjoy the top of the line vitamins from the #1 Natural Nutritional Company in the USA but also relax knowing that the vitamins are halal vitamins.  Your health and values are important to us.

    To purchase these outstanding vitamins that are effective and proven, just visit ExtremeHealthMakeovers.com.

    Below you can view the response from Shaklee pertaining to animal ingredients in the Shaklee products:

    halal vitamins, halal products, vegan supplements, vegan vitamins


    ]]>     Sat, 26 Feb 2011 15:08:46 GMT     <![CDATA[GreenCleaners: Can NonToxic Cleaners Work?]]>     BEFORE

        AFTER

    Who says you can't clean with a green cleaner?  Who says they aren't effective.  All we did was fill this filthy sink with hot water, add a scoop of Nature Bright whitener by Shaklee, and "Voila (Wa La)"...there you have it - a sparkling clean skin without the harmful toxins found in bleach and other toxic cleaners.

    Best of all, you can use it to whiten virtually anything - clothes, dishes, sinks, tubs, showers etc.

    ]]>     Tue, 22 Feb 2011 06:22:06 GMT     <![CDATA[Beginner Exercise Video Series Squat]]>

    Exercise is a key component to losing weight. This group of beginning exercise videos will help start you on your way to losing weight. As part of the chocolate diet, we still say just make sure you at least take 10,000 steps every day, but more exercise will help you lose weight faster and better. This Squat Exercise is the last in this series of beginning exercises.

    We'll be getting to more strenuous exercises soon, but we all know we need to begin slow. So for now, just follow along. Do the exercise from day one and keep adding one every day. Please comment and let us know what exercise you like best (and how you are using healthy dark chocolate in your weight loss program.)]]>     Sat, 19 Feb 2011 17:26:46 GMT     <![CDATA[Massage Therapy is More than Just Feeling Pampered]]>



    There are many types of massage therapies and just like any occupation, not all massage therapists are created equal.  You'll want to educated yourself on the various types of massage so that you can choose a therapists that fits your needs.



    10 Most Popular Types Of Massage Therapy
    Which Massage Is Right For You?
    By Cathy Wong, About.com Guide
    Updated April 16, 2010
    About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

    To view the full article, click     here.

    1) Swedish Massage Therapy

    This is the most common type of massage therapy in the United States. It is also known as Swedish massage or simply massage therapy.

    Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil.

    Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing. If you've never had massage before, this is a good one to try first. To learn more, read the full article on Swedish massage.

    2) Aromatherapy Massage

    Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs.

    The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc. One of the most common essential oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender.

    Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component. To learn more, read the full article on aromatherapy massage.

    3) Hot Stone Massage

    Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body.

    The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth is comforting. Hot stone massage is good for people who have muscle tension but prefer lighter massage. To learn more, read the full article on hot stone massage.

    4) Deep Tissue Massage

    Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle.

    Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage. To learn more, read the full article on deep tissue massage.

    5) Shiatsu

    Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians.

    Each point is held for for two to eight seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.

    People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards. To learn more, read the full article on shiatsu.

    6) Thai Massage

    Like shiatsu, Thai massage aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Thai massage also includes compressions and stretches.

    You don't just lie there--the therapist moves and stretches you into a sequence of postures. It's like yoga without doing any work. Thai massage is more energizing than other forms of massage. It is also reduces stress and improves flexibility and range of motion. To learn more, read the full article on thai massage. Also, see photos of a Thai massage session.

    7) Pregnancy Massage

    Also called prenatal massage, pregnancy massage is becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers. Massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage know the proper way to position and support the woman's body during the massage, and how to modify techniques.

    Pregnancy massage is used to reduce stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pains, and reduce anxiety and depression. The massage is customized to a woman's individual needs. To learn more, read the full article on pregnancy massage.

    8) Reflexology

    Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage. Reflexology involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet. To learn more, read the full article on reflexology.

    9) Sports Massage

    Sports massage is specifically designed for people who are involved in physical activity. But you don't have to be a professional athlete to have one-it's also used by people who are active and work out often. The focus isn't on relaxation but on preventing and treating injury and enhancing athletic performance.

    A combination of techniques are used. The strokes are generally faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen muscles and increase flexibility.

    10) Back Massage

    Some massage clinics and spas offer 30-minute back massages. If a back massage is not expressly advertised, you can also book a 30- or 40-minute massage and ask that the massage therapist to focus on your back. Massage for Neck and Back Pain?

    These are just 10 of the more popular types of massage. There are many more. Learn about more alternative therapies.

    In the Peoria, Il area, I prefer CharsTherapy (call 309-685-7606) because she is trained in many various types of massages and can help you choose what is best for YOU.





    ]]>     Thu, 17 Feb 2011 13:18:54 GMT     <![CDATA[Beginner Exercise Video Series Shoulder Raise]]>

    Exercise is a key component to losing weight. This group of beginning exercise videos will help start you on your way to losing weight. As part of the chocolate diet, we still say just make sure you at least take 10,000 steps every day, but more exercise will help you lose weight faster and better. This shoulder raise exercise is next in this series of beginning exercises.

    We'll be getting to more strenuous exercises soon, but we all know we need to begin slow. So for now, just follow along. Do the exercise from day one and keep adding one every day. Please comment and let us know what exercise you like best (and how you are using healthy dark chocolate in your weight loss program.)]]>     Tue, 15 Feb 2011 01:21:43 GMT     <![CDATA[Beginner Exercise Video Series Leg Curl]]>

    Exercise is a key component to losing weight. This group of beginning exercise videos will help start you on your way to losing weight. As part of the chocolate diet, we still say just make sure you at least take 10,000 steps every day, but more exercise will help you lose weight faster and better. This Leg Curl Exercise is next in this series of beginning exercises.

    We'll be getting to more strenuous exercises soon, but we all know we need to begin slow. So for now, just follow along. Do the exercises from day one and keep adding one every day. Please comment and let us know what exercise you like best (and how you are using healthy dark chocolate in your weight loss program.)]]>     Sun, 13 Feb 2011 19:08:37 GMT     <![CDATA[Just Freeze it Off: Is that Even Possible?]]>
    Check it out:

    Freezing Fat: Weight Loss Treatment Zeltiq Approved by FDA
    New Treatment Freezes Unwanted Fat Cells, Doctors Say It Won't Replace Diet and

    Click here to see the video and read the full article.

    In addition to Zeltiq, the FDA also cleared another weight-loss method called Zerona, which aims a low-energy laser at troublesome areas, forcing the fat cells to empty in a matter of weeks.

    "They certainly don't replace diet and exercise," Bass said, "but they're another option for a subset of patients that just need to take a little bit off."

    The FDA clearance can mean a bonanza for marketers who can use that for pronouncement in advertising. The fat-freezing device has been used "off label" for fat-busting. It's manufacturers have solid scientific evidence to support its effectiveness in freezing on average 22 percent of the fat layer reduction. It's mostly for people of normal body weight with just a few nagging trouble spots.

    The laser device, in contrast, is the first of its kind to receive FDA clearance which means, while safe, the body of scientific evidence is less robust and less well-documented. But unlike liposuction, these treatments are non-invasive, meaning there's virtually no down time and very little physical risks.

    The laser device, in contrast, is the first of its kind to receive FDA clearance which means, while safe, the body of scientific evidence is less robust and less well-documented. But unlike liposuction, these treatments are non-invasive, meaning there's virtually no down time and very little physical risks.

    New weight-loss treatments are always sought as more and more Americans struggle with expanding waistlines.

    The FDA is also expected to review a weight-loss pill known as Contrave in December. The drug shows promise: Researchers found that clinical trial participants began losing weight four weeks after starting the drug regimen and lost an average of 6.1 percent of their body fat after more than a year of treatment.

    But, so far, none of the weight-loss treatments seems to be magic pill. Some have embarrassing gastrointestinal side effects and doctors have continuously stressed that pills and lasers are never meant to replace old-fashioned diet and exercise.
    ]]>     Sat, 12 Feb 2011 18:02:25 GMT     <![CDATA[Beginner Exercise Video Series Crunch]]>

    Exercise is a key component to losing weight. This group of beginning exercise videos will help start you on your way to losing weight. As part of the chocolate diet, we still say just make sure you at least take 10,000 steps every day, but more exercise will help you lose weight faster and better. This Crunch Exercise is next in this series of beginning exercises.

    We'll be getting to more strenuous exercises soon, but we all know we need to begin slow. So for now, just follow along. Do the exercise from day one and keep adding one every day. Please comment and let us know what exercise you like best (and how you are using healthy dark chocolate in your weight loss program.)]]>     Fri, 11 Feb 2011 11:45:52 GMT