Healthy Foods

June 1, 2015 Daily Health TipsadminComments Off

Healthy Foods

Protein and your immune system

Much research has shown that protein malnutrition can have a variety of untoward effects on the immune system. In fact, protein malnutrition may be an important contributing factor in HIV seroconversion (the process by which a person with primary exposure to Human Immunodeficiency Virus becomes infected with that virus). Research studies have show that deficiency of high-quality protein protein can result in depletion of immune cells, inability of the body to make antibodies, and other immune-related problems. In addition, animal studies have shown that the immune system can be significantly compromised with even a 25% reduction in adequate protein intake.

Protein is composed of the 20 amino acids your body needs for growth and repair, and some of these amino acids appear to be particularly important for immune functioning. For example, the amino acids called glutamine and arginine are being considered as nutrition therapy in pre-surgery patients because of their ability to stimulate the immune system. Interestingly, it is not just deficiency of these amino acids that can compromise the immune system, an imbalance in the ratios among amino acids can also affect the immune response.

Therefore, a diet that supports a healthy immune system should contain foods providing high-quality, complete protein, such as that found in eggs, fish, shellfish, and venison. Many vegetables and grains are also excellent sources of many of the immune-stimulating amino acids and, together with other protein sources, are particularly beneficial. The recipes on this web page provide many excellent menus for a meal with complete protein, such as the Baked Seafood with Asparagus, or Poached Fish with Chinese Cabbage.

The essential vitamins for healthy immune function
As discussed above, your body uses a variety of responses to maintain its defense against harmful pathogenic organisms in the environment; therefore, it may not be surprising that nearly all of the vitamins are necessary to maintain and promote some aspect of your immune function. Some vitamins have received more attention in the research literature since they are particularly important to a healthy immune system.

Much has been written about the role of vitamin C in supporting the immune system, in part because it has been promoted as an immune stimulant by the noted scientist and Nobel Prize Laureate, Linus Pauling. Vitamin C appears to support a decrease in the length of time and severity of symptoms associated with upper respiratory viral infections, promote phagocytic cell functions, and support healthy T-cell function. Vitamin C also provides antioxidant activity to support healing at sites of inflammation. An excellent source of vitamin C is citrus fruit. Many vegetables are also excellent sources of vitamin C, such as fresh parsley, raw cauliflower, mustard greens andRomaine lettuce.

Many of the B-vitamins are also very important in supporting a healthy immune system. For example, vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) promotes the production and release of antibodies from B-cells, and deficiency of vitamin B5 results in reduced levels of circulating antibodies. Folic acid deficiency leads to a decrease in T-cells and can result in reduced effectiveness of the soluble factors as well. Vitamin B6 deficiency consistently impairs T-cell functioning and results in a decrease in blood lymphocyte counts. Deficiencies in vitamins B1(thiamin) and B2 (riboflavin) may impair normal antibody response, and low vitamin B12appears to inhibit phagocytic cells and possibly T-cell function.

Almost all whole grains, vegetables and fruits can serve as excellent sources of at least some of these vitamins, but some vegetables are particularly beneficial since they are excellent sources of many of these immune-supporting vitamins. In particular, Romaine lettuce is an excellent source of vitamins B1, B2, C, and folate. Cooked turnip greens and boiled spinach are excellent sources of folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. And cooked cauliflower is an excellent source of vitamin C and folate and a very good source of vitamin B5 and B6. Raw crimini mushrooms are also an excellent source of vitamin B2 and vitamin B5. Red bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin B6. Vitamin B12 can be obtained from protein-providing foods such as fish, shellfish, venison and calf’s liver.

The fat-soluble vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin K are also important to overall health. Vitamin A deficiency has been shown to impair antibody function and T-cell activity. Vitamin E is an important antioxidant and supports a healthy inflammatory response. Vitamin E is also an important component of all cell membranes and promotes healthy cellular functioning overall. T-cells and B-cells from vitamin E-deficient animals show depressed responses, and tumors have been shown to grow faster in vitamin-E deficient animals. Vitamin K supports a healthy blood-clotting ability in your body, and this is necessary for seclusion of areas of infections and injury in the healing process. Cooked turnip greens and boiled mustard greens, mentioned above, are also excellent sources of vitamins E and A, as well as boiled Swiss chard. Other excellent sources of vitamin A include many vegetables such as spinach, freshparsley and carrots. Concentrated sources of vitamin K include raw cauliflower, as well as most green vegetables such asspinach and asparagus.

Minerals that support your immune system
Zinc is one of the minerals in food that has received the most attention for its ability to support immune function. Zinc is a potent immunostimulant, and its deficiency can result in profound suppression of T-cell function. Children with severe zinc deficiencies show signs of growth retardation and susceptibility to infections. However, an excess of zinc has also shown negative effects on immune function and can inhibit the phagocytic cells (macrophages and neutrophils). So, maintaining adequate but not excessive levels of zinc is important. This is one reason food is such an excellent source of obtaining nutrition versus supplementation; food contains a balanced variety of the micronutrients whereas supplementation with individual nutrients can lead to too much of some and not enough of others. Healthy levels of zinc can be provided by including the good sources of zinc, such as boiled Swiss chard,collard greens, and both summer squash and winter squash, or the very good or excellent sources of zinc like lamb, raw crimini mushrooms and calf’s liver in your diet.

Many other minerals are important in supporting immune function. Clinical research studies have shown that irondeficiency results in impaired response to antibodies, and defective phagocytic cell functioning. Copper deficiency is associated with an increase in infections and may impair development of immune cells such as T-cells and the phagocytic cells. Selenium and manganese are important for supporting healing from inflammation and may be immunostimulants. Selenium can be obtained from fish and shellfish, as well as tofuand whole grains. Excellent sources of copper are turnip greens,calf’s liver and raw crimini mushrooms, and very good sources include spinach, asparagus and summer squash and boiled Swiss chard. Iron can be provided by fresh parsley, spices such asthyme or cinnamon, tofu, beans and peas, and many other vegetables such as spinach and Romaine lettuce.

Antioxidants and phytonutrients that promote healthy immune function
Reactive oxygen species, free radicals and other damaging molecules are generated at sites of infection and inflammation. Your body needs these molecules at the site of infection to help kill unhealthy cells; however, when your antioxidant systems are not functioning, or when not enough antioxidants are present in your diet, these molecules are not disarmed after they have done their jobs and can become damaging to healthy tissue as well. Many fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants and phytonutrients that help maintain healthy tissue around the sites of infection and support healing. Fruits and vegetables, especially colored foods like strawberries, cherries, carrots, andtomatoes contain many beneficial phytonutrients with antioxidant potential. More detailed information on the health benefits of phytonutrients can be obtained from the FAQ: What is the Special Nutritional Power Found in Fruits and Vegetables.

What can I do to stay healthy?

June 1, 2015 Daily Health TipsadminComments Off

Create a Healthy Lifestyle

Eating the right foods and the right amounts of foods can help you live a longer, healthier life. Research has proven that many illnesses—such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure—can be prevented or controlled by eating right. Getting the nutrients you need, such as calcium and iron, and keeping your weight under control can help. Try to balance the calories you get from food with the calories you use through physical activity (select for more information about physical activity). It is never too late to start eating right. Here are some helpful tips.

Eat a variety of food, especially:
Fruits. Choose citrus fruits or juices, melons, and berries.

Dry beans (such as red beans, navy beans, and soybeans), lentils, chickpeas, and peanuts.

Whole grains, such as wheat, rice, oats, corn, and barley.

Whole grain breads and cereals.

Eat foods low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol, especially:
Fish.

Poultry prepared without skin; lean meat.

Low-fat dairy products.

Weight Control
Weighing too much or too little can lead to health problems. After age 45, many people gain too much weight. You can control your weight by eating healthy foods and being physically active. For more information, select the next section, “Physical Activity.”

Ask your health care professional:
What is a healthy weight for me?

What are some ways I can control my weight?

Keep track of your weight. Use your personal prevention chart.

Physical Activity
Research shows that physical activity can help prevent at least six diseases: heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity (excess weight), diabetes, osteoporosis, and mental disorders, such as depression. Physical activity also will help you feel better and stay at a healthy weight. Research suggests that brisk walking can be just as good for you as an activity such as jogging. Try to do a total of 30 minutes of constant physical activity, such as fast walking, most days of the week.

Before you start being physically active:
Talk with your doctor about ways to get started.

Choose something that fits into your daily life, such as walking, gardening, raking leaves, or even washing windows.

Choose an activity you like, such as dancing or swimming.

Try a new activity, like biking.

Ask a friend to start with you, or join a group.

Don’t quit:
Make time for physical activity, start slowly, and keep at it.

If the weather is bad, try an exercise show on TV, watch an exercise tape in your home, walk in the mall, or work around the house.

Skin Moisturization

December 14, 2013 Daily Health TipsadminComments Off

Skin Moisturization

Did you know that moisturizer is a compound that has four principal functions? Moisturizers repair the skins barrier. Moisturizers help maintain skin integrity and appearance, as well as restore the lipid barrier’s ability to hold and redistribute water. Moisturizers also reduce transepidermal water loss.

What types of moisturizers are there?

Occlusive moisturizers such as lanolin, silicones, mineral oil, and petrolatum prevent water loss from the skin. Humectants such as glycerin function by increasing absorption of water from the air to the skin.

Emollient creams and lotions soften and smooth the skin, thereby improving the skins appearance. We recommend applying a good moisturizer immediately after cleansing the skin.

Note: lotions are easy to apply, but are not as effective as emollients and heavier creams at protecting the skin and preventing water loss. However, petrolatum can block eccrine and follicular openings, promoting acne. It’s important to consult a professional who can assist which skin care product to choose.

Thicker Creams and Ointments

Hydrolatum

Euccerin cream

Aquaphor

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial cream

Vaseline petroleum jelly

Lighter Creams

Kiehl’s Super Multi-Corrective Cream

CerVe Cream

DML cream

Aveeno Intense Relief repair cream

Lighter Lotions

Curel lotion

Cetaphil lotion

Kiehl’s Crème de Corps Lightweight Body lotion

DML lotion

Which product do you think is best for your skin? Call us today to discuss which brands provide the best bang for your buck!

Healthy foods

June 6, 2013 Daily Health TipsadminComments Off

Healthy Foods

Protein and your immune system

Much research has shown that protein malnutrition can have a variety of untoward effects on the immune system. In fact, protein malnutrition may be an important contributing factor in HIV seroconversion (the process by which a person with primary exposure to Human Immunodeficiency Virus becomes infected with that virus). Research studies have show that deficiency of high-quality protein protein can result in depletion of immune cells, inability of the body to make antibodies, and other immune-related problems. In addition, animal studies have shown that the immune system can be significantly compromised with even a 25% reduction in adequate protein intake.

Protein is composed of the 20 amino acids your body needs for growth and repair, and some of these amino acids appear to be particularly important for immune functioning. For example, the amino acids called glutamine and arginine are being considered as nutrition therapy in pre-surgery patients because of their ability to stimulate the immune system. Interestingly, it is not just deficiency of these amino acids that can compromise the immune system, an imbalance in the ratios among amino acids can also affect the immune response.

Therefore, a diet that supports a healthy immune system should contain foods providing high-quality, complete protein, such as that found in eggs, fish, shellfish, and venison. Many vegetables and grains are also excellent sources of many of the immune-stimulating amino acids and, together with other protein sources, are particularly beneficial. The recipes on this web page provide many excellent menus for a meal with complete protein, such as the Baked Seafood with Asparagus, or Poached Fish with Chinese Cabbage.

The essential vitamins for healthy immune function

As discussed above, your body uses a variety of responses to maintain its defense against harmful pathogenic organisms in the environment; therefore, it may not be surprising that nearly all of the vitamins are necessary to maintain and promote some aspect of your immune function. Some vitamins have received more attention in the research literature since they are particularly important to a healthy immune system.

Much has been written about the role of vitamin C in supporting the immune system, in part because it has been promoted as an immune stimulant by the noted scientist and Nobel Prize Laureate, Linus Pauling. Vitamin C appears to support a decrease in the length of time and severity of symptoms associated with upper respiratory viral infections, promote phagocytic cell functions, and support healthy T-cell function. Vitamin C also provides antioxidant activity to support healing at sites of inflammation. An excellent source of vitamin C is citrus fruit. Many vegetables are also excellent sources of vitamin C, such as fresh parsley, raw cauliflower, mustard greens andRomaine lettuce.

Many of the B-vitamins are also very important in supporting a healthy immune system. For example, vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) promotes the production and release of antibodies from B-cells, and deficiency of vitamin B5 results in reduced levels of circulating antibodies. Folic acid deficiency leads to a decrease in T-cells and can result in reduced effectiveness of the soluble factors as well. Vitamin B6 deficiency consistently impairs T-cell functioning and results in a decrease in blood lymphocyte counts. Deficiencies in vitamins B1(thiamin) and B2 (riboflavin) may impair normal antibody response, and low vitamin B12appears to inhibit phagocytic cells and possibly T-cell function.

Almost all whole grains, vegetables and fruits can serve as excellent sources of at least some of these vitamins, but some vegetables are particularly beneficial since they are excellent sources of many of these immune-supporting vitamins. In particular, Romaine lettuce is an excellent source of vitamins B1, B2, C, and folate. Cooked turnip greens and boiled spinach are excellent sources of folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. And cooked cauliflower is an excellent source of vitamin C and folate and a very good source of vitamin B5 and B6. Raw crimini mushrooms are also an excellent source of vitamin B2 and vitamin B5. Red bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin B6. Vitamin B12 can be obtained from protein-providing foods such as fish, shellfish, venison and calf’s liver.

The fat-soluble vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin K are also important to overall health. Vitamin A deficiency has been shown to impair antibody function and T-cell activity. Vitamin E is an important antioxidant and supports a healthy inflammatory response. Vitamin E is also an important component of all cell membranes and promotes healthy cellular functioning overall. T-cells and B-cells from vitamin E-deficient animals show depressed responses, and tumors have been shown to grow faster in vitamin-E deficient animals. Vitamin K supports a healthy blood-clotting ability in your body, and this is necessary for seclusion of areas of infections and injury in the healing process. Cooked turnip greens and boiled mustard greens, mentioned above, are also excellent sources of vitamins E and A, as well as boiled Swiss chard. Other excellent sources of vitamin A include many vegetables such as spinach, freshparsley and carrots. Concentrated sources of vitamin K include raw cauliflower, as well as most green vegetables such asspinach and asparagus.

Minerals that support your immune system

Zinc is one of the minerals in food that has received the most attention for its ability to support immune function. Zinc is a potent immunostimulant, and its deficiency can result in profound suppression of T-cell function. Children with severe zinc deficiencies show signs of growth retardation and susceptibility to infections. However, an excess of zinc has also shown negative effects on immune function and can inhibit the phagocytic cells (macrophages and neutrophils). So, maintaining adequate but not excessive levels of zinc is important. This is one reason food is such an excellent source of obtaining nutrition versus supplementation; food contains a balanced variety of the micronutrients whereas supplementation with individual nutrients can lead to too much of some and not enough of others. Healthy levels of zinc can be provided by including the good sources of zinc, such as boiled Swiss chard,collard greens, and both summer squash and winter squash, or the very good or excellent sources of zinc like lamb, raw crimini mushrooms and calf’s liver in your diet.

Many other minerals are important in supporting immune function. Clinical research studies have shown that irondeficiency results in impaired response to antibodies, and defective phagocytic cell functioning. Copper deficiency is associated with an increase in infections and may impair development of immune cells such as T-cells and the phagocytic cells. Selenium and manganese are important for supporting healing from inflammation and may be immunostimulants. Selenium can be obtained from fish and shellfish, as well as tofuand whole grains. Excellent sources of copper are turnip greens,calf’s liver and raw crimini mushrooms, and very good sources include spinach, asparagus and summer squash and boiled Swiss chard. Iron can be provided by fresh parsley, spices such asthyme or cinnamon, tofu, beans and peas, and many other vegetables such as spinach and Romaine lettuce.

Antioxidants and phytonutrients that promote healthy immune function

Reactive oxygen species, free radicals and other damaging molecules are generated at sites of infection and inflammation. Your body needs these molecules at the site of infection to help kill unhealthy cells; however, when your antioxidant systems are not functioning, or when not enough antioxidants are present in your diet, these molecules are not disarmed after they have done their jobs and can become damaging to healthy tissue as well. Many fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants and phytonutrients that help maintain healthy tissue around the sites of infection and support healing. Fruits and vegetables, especially colored foods like strawberries, cherries, carrots, andtomatoes contain many beneficial phytonutrients with antioxidant potential. More detailed information on the health benefits of phytonutrients can be obtained from the FAQ: What is the Special Nutritional Power Found in Fruits and Vegetables.

Create a Healthy Lifestyle

June 6, 2013 Daily Health TipsadminComments Off

Create a Healthy Lifestyle

Eating the right foods and the right amounts of foods can help you live a longer, healthier life. Research has proven that many illnesses—such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure—can be prevented or controlled by eating right. Getting the nutrients you need, such as calcium and iron, and keeping your weight under control can help. Try to balance the calories you get from food with the calories you use through physical activity (select for more information about physical activity). It is never too late to start eating right. Here are some helpful tips.

Eat a variety of food, especially:

Fruits. Choose citrus fruits or juices, melons, and berries.

Dry beans (such as red beans, navy beans, and soybeans), lentils, chickpeas, and peanuts.

Whole grains, such as wheat, rice, oats, corn, and barley.

Whole grain breads and cereals.

Eat foods low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol, especially:

Fish.

Poultry prepared without skin; lean meat.

Low-fat dairy products.

Weight Control

Weighing too much or too little can lead to health problems. After age 45, many people gain too much weight. You can control your weight by eating healthy foods and being physically active. For more information, select the next section, “Physical Activity.”

Ask your health care professional:

What is a healthy weight for me?

What are some ways I can control my weight?

Keep track of your weight. Use your personal prevention chart.

Physical Activity

Research shows that physical activity can help prevent at least six diseases: heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity (excess weight), diabetes, osteoporosis, and mental disorders, such as depression. Physical activity also will help you feel better and stay at a healthy weight. Research suggests that brisk walking can be just as good for you as an activity such as jogging. Try to do a total of 30 minutes of constant physical activity, such as fast walking, most days of the week.

Before you start being physically active:

Talk with your doctor about ways to get started.

Choose something that fits into your daily life, such as walking, gardening, raking leaves, or even washing windows.

Choose an activity you like, such as dancing or swimming.

Try a new activity, like biking.

Ask a friend to start with you, or join a group.

Don’t quit:

Make time for physical activity, start slowly, and keep at it.

If the weather is bad, try an exercise show on TV, watch an exercise tape in your home, walk in the mall, or work around the house.

Aftercare instructions for tattoo removal

May 12, 2013 Daily Health TipsadminComments Off

AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS for tattoo removal

Proper aftercare is necessary to prevent infection, skin texture change, or other unwanted side effects. When you visit us at Maine Laser Clinic, we will give you aftercare instructions to take home after your treatment. Tattoo removal is a relatively simple outpatient procedure, but we take care to inform you of the important steps you can take to achieve a great result.

The laser tattoo removal treatment creates a superficial skin wound. Some patients may experience bruising or swelling. There is immediate whitening of the treated area, which usually lasts for several minutes. Many clients then develop blisters, crusts, or scabs within 8 to 72 hours, which may last for 1 to 2 weeks or more. The treated areas may be pink or pale after the scab separates. Scarring, which can be hypertrophic or even keloid, can occur but is exceptionally rare. Reduced or excess skin pigment in the treated area can occur, and is temporary except in very rare cases. Healing is usually complete within 4 weeks, although this may vary.

Steps to Follow

Keep the treated area clean and dry while it is healing. Clean the area gently with soap and water and then pat the area dry. You may apply a thin coating of antibiotic ointment up to three times a day for 3 days while the area is healing and you should keep the area covered with a sterile dressing for those 3 days.
Blistering is common and is likely to occur 8 hours after your treatment. Do not be alarmed, blisters heal very well and are part of the normal healing process. Blisters indicate your immune system is healing the area and beginning to remove the ink from your tattoo. It is natural for blisters to pop, and this helps the skin to heal faster in many cases. Continue to put antibiotic ointment over the blisters once they have popped for at least 24 hours.
You may apply cool compresses as necessary for 24 hours after the laser treatment to help reduce discomfort and inflammation. You may take plain Tylenol, but avoid aspirin (it can increase the risk of bruising and/or bleeding.)
Do not pick at the scab or allow the skin to become scraped, as this may result in infection and scarring. Shaving should be avoided in the treated area until it is completely healed.
Feel free to shower 2 hours after the treatment, but take care to avoid high pressure water hitting the treated area. Baths, hot tubs, swimming pool, or any form of soaking are not recommended until all blistering and scabbing are completely healed, as they may increase the risk of infection.
Exercise is generally safe after treatment, taking into account the other aftercare instructions provided here.
Wear a sun block with an SPF of 25 or higher over the area for 3 months following the treatment. Do not wear makeup or any cream or medication on or near the treated area unless recommended by our office for 48 hours.
Itching is very common due to the dehydrating effect of the laser treatment. Use Aquaphor, vitamin E ointment, or hydrocortisone cream to keep the treatment area moisturized.
If the area looks infected (honey colored crusting and oozing or spreading redness), if you experience an unusual discomfort or bleeding, if any other complications develop, or if you have any questions or concerns, contact New Look immediately.
Of course, if you have any extreme reaction, seek immediate medical attention.