Common cold

Sooner or later, just about everyone comes down with a cold or flu.

Both of them are respiratory infections and may be difficult to identify which one you have.
Generally a cold comes gradually and the flu strikes suddenly.
Some of the frequent cold symptoms are congestion, sore throat, and sneezing are usually less severe than those of the flu, which include fever, headaches, and muscle aches.
A cold rarely produces complications, but the flu can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia.
The below listed supplements can assist the body in combating cold and flu viruses, rather than suppressing symptoms.
Vitamin C is probably the most well known vitamin for preventing and treating colds and flu.
Echinacea is the most well known herb for treating the common cold. It supports the immune system to fight against the virus. Zinc lozenges may also help halt a cold, possibly by destroying the virus itself. Garlic has anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. Many people eat a clove of garlic a day to help support their cardiovascular system. Due to its heavy odor, many people prefer taking garlic capsules. The active part of garlic is allicin, which unfortunately is destroyed by cooking.

Antioxidants definition.

Antioxidants are natural compounds that help protect the body from, harmful free radicals. Many different factors can lead to an excess of free radicals as: exposure to radiation, whether from the sun or from medical x-rays, environmental pollutants such as tobacco and automobile exhaust, household chemicals, a diet high in fat. By destroying free radicals, antioxidants help to detoxify and protect the body.

Thousands of antioxidants naturally occur in plant foods. The most well known are vitamin E, vitamin C, beta carotene, and selenium. Foods rich in natural antioxidants are tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower and peppers. Vegetables and fruits that have a rich color are high in phytonutrients. Blueberries, spinach, carrots, apricots, cantaloupe and mangoes are also containing antioxidants. Citrus fruits are rich sources of Vitamin C and antioxidants. Vegetable oils such as olive oil, soybean oil, safflower oil and whole grains such as wheat, brown rice and soybean provide natural antioxidants.

Phytochemicals

Phytochemicals are the powerful plant compounds that work as antioxidants. Tomatoes contain lycopene - a red carotenoid that exhibits antioxidant properties. Higher consumption of such foods is known to maintain and boost immune functions. Green tea is rich in polyphenols and flavenoids that have antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral properties.

Where to find?

Some of most known antioxidant supplements include Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Coenzyme Q10, Selenium and Zinc. Other antioxidant enriching substances are green tea extract, gingko biloba and flavonoids such as grape seed extract and red wine.

Although colorful fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of antioxidants, and should be a part of our diet, it can be difficult to consume the right amount every day to ensure that we are getting all of the antioxidants that our body needs. This is where antioxidant supplements can be helpful, and should be considered an essential part of your supplementation program.

Health problems

Health problems such as heart disease, macular degeneration, diabetes, cancer etc are all contributed by oxidative damage. Indeed, a recent study conducted by researchers from London found that 5 servings of fruits and vegetables reduce the risk of stroke by 25 percent. Antioxidants may also enhance immune defense and therefore lower the risk of cancer and infection.

How about Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance, also called a lipid, that's produced by the liver.
It's also found in foods high in saturated fat, like fatty meats, egg yolks, shellfish, and whole-milk dairy products. It's a vital part of the structure and functioning of our cells. However, too much cholesterol in your blood may lead to a serious, progressive disease of the arteries, called atherosclerosis.
There are actually three main components doctors evaluate when you have a blood test to check your cholesterol.
They look at LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and another substance called triglycerides.
Eating a lot of fats and not getting enough exercise can cause cholesterol levels to rise. Some people inherit genes associated with elevated levels of cholesterol.
Depending on your overall health profile - which takes into consideration factors such as cigarette smoking, hypertension, low HDL cholesterol, a family history of early heart disease, and age (over 45 for men and over 55 for women) - your doctor may recommend that you have your cholesterol followed more closely.

Herbs used for Cholesterol prevention or treatment.

It's important to manage your cholesterol and reach your goals because if you don't, your high cholesterol may contribute to the progression of atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in your arteries.
The true key to a healthy heart is prevention. The herbal supplements can not accomplish their true potential unless they are a part of a comprehensive diet and lifestyle program that supports cardiovascular health. Always consult with your physician before trying any form of treatment for a known or suspected disease.

Did you know that hydration is the key to fitness especially during the warmest time of the year?
Whether you run, bike, walk or play a game, staying properly hydrated is the key of optimal health and fitness during the hot days of summer.Drinking plenty of water will prevent a host of heat related illness such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Heat related illness can also lead to death if it is not immediately treated.

Factors that affect dehydration
- The rate of perspiration
- Type of clothing an individual is wearing
- Environment conditions (temperature, humidity)
- Fitness level
- Intensity of exercise
- Individual's acclimation to the environment

Adequate fluid replacement
Although there is no specific amount of fluid an individual should drink the following is a list of the least you want to start at and then increase as needed.

Before and during exercise
- Drink 15-20 oz of water 2-3 hours prior to exercise
- Weigh yourself before exercise
- Continue to drink 7-10 oz of water every 10-20 min during exercise
- If exercising more than an hour then a sports drink may be a better option. Drink 8-10 oz every 15-30 min, with carbohydrate solution less than 10%
After exercise
- Weigh yourself again
- For every 1lb lost drink 20-24 oz fluid
- Check your urine. You should have a steady stream of light yellow urine which indicates you are well hydrated

Signs of dehydration
- Thirst
- Decrease urine output
- Dark colored urine
- Dry mouth
- Sweating may stop
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Eyes stop producing tears

Water intoxication
Water intoxication, also called hyponatremia is a possibility as well. However, it mainly affects individuals involved in endurance sports. Due the intensity and duration of these activities, these athletes need to rehydrate with sports drinks instead water to prevent hyponatremia.

Stress how to avoid it

Stress is everywhere. A variety of situations can produce stress: job pressure, family discord, illness, and injuries. Over time, stress can exhaust natural defenses, leaving the body susceptible to a wide range of health problems.

To combat the problem, consumers are looking at many possible answers. Yoga is gaining in popularity, as are other relaxation options like meditation, massage and reflexology.
Likewise, certain nutrients can help you cope, and various herbs and other supplements can calm the mind and restore the balance.
Vitamin B complex promotes health of the nervous system and reduces fatigue.

Calcium and Magnesium relieve the muscle tension and strengthen the heart.

What else you can do to reduce stress

Exercise regularly
Eliminate or restrict your intake of caffeine and alcohol
Maintain a social life with family and friends
Consider counseling and therapy if needed.

Most of all don't let stress destroy your relationship. Admit that you are stressed and use help as needed.