Theresa May pledges mental health revolution will reduce detentions

Theresa May will pledge to scrap the “flawed” Mental Health Act, warning that it has allowed the unnecessary detention of thousands of people and failed to deal with discrimination against ethnic minority patients.

In an attempt to meet her pledge to prioritise mental illness during her premiership, she will commit to ripping up the 30-year-old legislation and replace it with new laws designed to halt a steep rise in the number of people being detained. Increased thresholds for detention would be drawn up in a new mental health treatment bill to be unveiled soon after a Conservative victory. Mental health charities, clinicians and patients would be consulted on the new legislation.

While the announcement is likely to be welcomed by mental health campaigners, there will be warnings that a lack of resources, rather than badly drafted laws, has been the real driver of the increase in detention.

The overhaul is being described by the Conservatives as the biggest change to the law on mental health treatment in more than three decades.

“On my first day in Downing Street last July, I described shortfalls in mental health services as one of the burning injustices in our country,” May said. “It is abundantly clear to me that the discriminatory use of a law passed more than three decades ago is a key part of the reason for this.

“So today I am pledging to rip up the 1983 act and introduce in its place a new law which finally confronts the discrimination and unnecessary detention that takes place too often. We are going to roll out mental health support to every school in the country, ensure that mental health is taken far more seriously in the workplace, and raise standards of care.”

More than 63,000 people were detained under the Mental Health Act in 2014-15, an increase of 43% compared with 2005-06. Black people are also disproportionately affected – with a detention rate of 56.9 per 100 patients who spent time in hospital for mental illness. It compares with a rate of 37.5 per 100 among white patients.

In its last report on the act, the Care Quality Commission, the independent regulator of healthcare services, said it had “failings that may disempower patients, prevent people from exercising legal rights, and ultimately impede recovery or even amount to unlawful and unethical practice”.

The new legislation would include a code of practice aimed at reducing the disproportionate use of mental health detention for minority groups and countering “unconscious bias”. Safeguards would be introduced to end rules that mean those who are detained can be treated against their will. Those with the capacity to give or refuse consent would be able to do so.

The new bill would form part of a series of measures designed to improve mental health in schools and the workplace. However, ministers would face immediate questions over whether they were providing sufficient funding for their plans.

The Tories would commit to hiring 10,000 staff in the NHS by 2020. An insider said the plan would be funded from existing budgets, because mental health service funding will be up by £1.4bn in real terms by 2020.

The Equalities Act would also be altered to prevent workplace discrimination. Currently patients who have conditions such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder are only protected from discrimination if their condition is continuous for 12 months. That would be altered to take account of the fact that the conditions are often intermittent.

Every primary and secondary school in England and Wales would have staff trained in mental health first aid and be given a single point of contact with local mental health services. Children would be taught more about mental health, including keeping safe online and cyber-bullying.

Large companies would be required to train mental health first responders alongside traditional first aiders.

Theresa May pledges mental health revolution will reduce detentions

Mediterranean diet may reduce risk of form of breast cancer – study

Following a Mediterranean diet could help reduce the risk of contracting one of the worst types of breast cancer by 40%, according to a large study for the World Cancer Research Fund.

The Mediterranean diet, which is rich in olive oil, fish, fruit, nuts, vegetables and wholegrains, has well-publicised benefits, including reducing the risk of stroke and heart disease.

The study published in the International Journal of Cancer on Monday suggests it could also significantly reduce the chances of women getting oestrogen-receptor-negative (ER-negative) breast cancer, a postmenopausal form of the disease that cannot be treated with hormone therapy.

The study’s lead researcher, Prof Piet van den Brandt of Maastricht University in the Netherlands, said:“Our research can help to shine a light on how dietary patterns can affect our cancer risk.

“We found a strong link between the Mediterranean diet and reduced oestrogen-receptor-negative breast cancer risk among postmenopausal women, even in a non-Mediterranean population. This type of breast cancer usually has a worse prognosis than other types of breast cancer.”

The researchers examined 62,573 women aged 55 to 69 over two decades. They were all participants in the Netherlands Cohort Study examining diet and cancer, which began in 1986. Their diets were tracked to see how closely they followed the Mediterranean pattern, which also has a low intake of red meat, sweets and refined grains such as white bread or white rice.

Traditionally it includes moderate consumption of alcohol, but because alcohol is a known risk factor for breast cancer this was excluded from the study. Almost 12,000 cases of breast cancer could be prevented in the UK each year if nobody drank alcohol, previous research has suggested.

Of the women included in the study, 3,354 contracted breast cancer, but 1,033 of the cases were not included in the analysis because the women had a history of breast cancer and/or had incomplete or inconsistent dietary data. The analysis looked at the different components of the Mediterranean diet individually, concluding that nut intake was most strongly inversely associated with ER-negative breast cancer, followed by fruit and fish.

The researchers concluded that, assuming causality, if everyone ate the highest defined Mediterranean diet, around a third (32.4%) of ER-negative breast cancer cases and 2.3% of all breast cancer cases could be avoided.

They said their findings were confirmed in a meta-analysis of cohort studies.

Dr Panagiota Mitrou, director of research funding at the World Cancer Research Fund, said it was an important study. “With breast cancer being so common in the UK, prevention is key if we want to see a decrease in the number of women developing the disease,” he said. “We would welcome further research that helps us better understand the risk factors for the different breast cancer subtypes.”

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the UK, with more than 53,000 new cases each year Photograph: Rui Vieira/PA

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the UK, with more than 53,000 new cases each year. A small study published last year and presented at an American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting suggested eating a Mediterranean diet may help prevent breast cancer returning.

Emma Pennery, clinical director at Breast Cancer Care, described the latest research as “intriguing”. She said: “We know how devastating a diagnosis is and this study adds to evidence that a healthy diet, full of ‘good’ low-saturated fats, plays a part in lowering risk of the disease.

“However, it’s important to remember while lifestyle choices like eating a well-balanced diet and taking regular exercise can help reduce the risk of cancer, they don’t guarantee prevention. So it’s crucial women know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, and contact their GP with any concerns.”

People who have heart disease are already recommended to follow a Mediterranean diet in the UK. Public Health England has said the Mediterranean diet is similar to the official UK advice, which recommends cutting back on sugary, fatty and salty food and drinks.

Mediterranean diet may reduce risk of form of breast cancer – study

Alkalize Your Body With Roots – Top 8 Choices to Reduce Inflammation and Fight Disease

An alkaline environment in your body is important to fight against diseases, including arthritis, obesity and even cancer. And every system has its own ideal pH levels to function well, you can make your body slightly alkalized by taking alkaline diet to improve your overall health.

As modern diet is filled with acidic foods that may result in inflammation and illnesses, increasing the intake of alkaline foods (Top 50 Alkaline Foods to Balance Your Body Naturally) is the key to keeping your pH levels in balance.

An acidic pH may cause many health problems:

• Weight gain


• Diabetes


• Kidney disease


• Unbalanced hormone


• Premature aging


• Arthritis and joint pain


• Pain muscles


• Fatigue


• Poor digestion


• Easy to be infected


• Stressed


• Headaches and migraines


• Toothache


• Stomach ulcers


• Unhealthy hair


• Dry skin


• Leg cramps

So make small lifestyle changes by including the alkaline-forming foods into your diet. How often do you include these “roots” in your diet? If you don’t remember when you eat such foods last time, start to eat them from today. They not only provide multiple nutrients but also alkalize your body naturally:

Carrot

Carrot is an alkaline-forming food, it’s rich in Beta-carotene which is a strong antioxidant that protects you from diseases. This root is well known to be good for overall health and provides lots of minerals and vitamins.

• Vitamin A improves your eye health;


• Fiber fights against obesity and ease digestive issues;


• Potassium helps keep your blood pressure under control;


• Anti-inflammatory properties makes it good for healing from cuts and wounds;


• A phytonutrient called falcarinol in it helps prevent colon cancer;


• Improves dental health as its anti-bacterial effect;


• Benefits to blood sugar regulation as it’s rich in Carotenoids.

Beet

This nutritious root vegetable is beneficial to your health in many ways, from boosting brain function, lowering high blood pressure to detoxing your organs, especially good for liver detox. It also protects your heart and bones, keep reading to know more potential benefits of beet at the bottom of the article.

Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes

Both potatoes and sweet potatoes are very healthy, control diabetes, protect your bones, fight cancer, maintain blood pressure and control blood sugar. You will like to add these nutritious roots into your plate.

Red Radish and White Radish

• Both red radish and white radish are rich in vitamin C, eat them regularly will make your immune system stronger to fight against illnesses;


• As they are high in fiber and low in calories, they make a good part of the weight loss diet;


• The antioxidants in radishes may prevent heart disease;


• Rich in potassium, they are also good options to lower high blood pressure;


• They are also used to treat digestive problems as they stimulate the production of bile;


• Radishes also help with liver and kidney function.

Turnip

Well known for its bitter flavor, turnip helps your systems function well in several ways. It provides a wide array of antioxidants, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese and beta-carotene.

Yams

Yams are a good source of vitamin B6, which has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. The rich amount of potassium in yams is very important to brain and nervous system. What’s more, rich in fiber and low in calories makes yams a good ingredient for losing weight.

Additional Sources: healthdiaries.com

Related Reading:

8 Super Foods that Create A Balance PH Level In The Body For Preventing Cancers

Great Things That Happen to Your Body When You Eat Beets

A Homemade Carrot Recipe With 2 Ingredients to Remove Cough and Phlegm From Lungs

Alkalize Your Body With Roots – Top 8 Choices to Reduce Inflammation and Fight Disease

6 Proven Ways Vacations Help You Reduce Stress

Stress affects everyone now and then; job issues, health concerns and mortgages are just a few examples of where and how this negative emotion begins. To maintain good physical and mental health, it is important to take a vacation now and then. It’s more than just a good time; research shows it’s actually good for your health and can help you reduce stress.

#1 How vacations lower stress

One plus factor in taking time off from your routine is sunshine. Sunshine is effective in improving one’s mood, wards off depression, improves one’s sex life and helps with sleeping. In addition, sunshine gives our skin a healthy glow, provides nutrients that have a positive effect on our lives and helps our bodies recover from jet lag more quickly.

#2 What about fresh air and play time?

• Most of us spend a lot of time indoors; class schedules or demanding work are just two examples of why we stay indoors. However, fresh air cleans our lungs and gives us additional energy to do things we want or need to do.

• In addition, most of us take little time to enjoy ourselves. Vacations; however, provide an opportunity to let go, enjoy free time and enjoy spending time on the beach or engaging in some fun shopping or exploring.

#3 Creativity can be fun!

When you take time just for you, you don’t have to stay with your normal schedule. Vacation is a time to change your schedule, go to bed later, sleep later and enjoy your meal times when you want to. You have the opportunity to plan activities that you enjoy; activities that you’ve wanted to do all year long.

#4 Getting away means freedom and a change from routine

For many, getting away means freedom from the drab and ordinary hours of 9 to 5, work at the office and freedom from the old alarm clock and online duties. Being free of routine also means no stressful routine to adhere to. A vacation should include things you enjoy doing such as hiking, swimming, touring interesting locations, trying a new restaurant or just relaxing with a good book.

#5 • Most importantly, some doctors feel that when we don’t get away from it all, we could be putting our health in danger.

• Free time adds many positive things to your life such as reducing anxiety levels and providing an opportunity to enjoy life in restful and enjoyable environments.

#6  One of the most productive things getting away can do for you and me is give us the opportunity to appreciate life as it is—without the hardship and anxiety of routine, daily life.

Anxiety affects everyone now and then. To maintain good physical and mental health, it is important to take time just for you now and then, and a vacation could be just what the doctor ordered to reduce stress in your life.

References:

Sykes Cottages

TakeBackYourTime.org

6 Proven Ways Vacations Help You Reduce Stress

Merry Stress-mas: 12 Steps To Reduce Holiday Anxiety

‘Tis the Season 

Ahh, the holidays! Time for many to celebrate their faith. For others, to reflect on the accomplishments of yet another year gone by, and to plan for an even better one ahead. It is also a time to be with family, give thanks, serve others, and enjoy a break from the normal routines of life. Enter stress – the end of happy holidays for so many!

The holidays bring on an increasingly high level of undue stress for more reasons than there are days in the season. Financial struggles, health concerns, passing of a loved one, work deadlines, shopping, travel, and family squabbles are but a few that can spark fear, worry, sadness, anxiety, and depression. If you are not prepared for it, that is!

More Than just Emotional Stress

Add to typical holiday stress an increase in calorie intake, sedentary behavior, late nights/poor sleep, excessive alcohol intake, travel fatigue, and a general lack of attention to one’s health this time of year, and you have the perfect recipe for mental and physical health problems.

Suicide increase during the holidays is largely a myth. There are, however, direct correlations between increased mental and physical stress this time of year leading to exacerbation of depression and other mental health disorders. A resultant spike in the number of calls to suicide prevention and substance abuse hotlines is the natural outcome.

The Impact of the Holidays on our Health is Real

While this is a piece on stress around the holidays, the importance of physical health, which is directly impacted by stress, needs to be considered. The journal Circulation published research in 2004 showing a nationwide increase in heart attacks of 5% during the holidays. Peak incidence of heart attack was shown to occur on both Christmas and New Year’s Day! Coincidence??? Certainly not! An editorial in the same edition of this journal discussed further the “Merry Christmas Coronary” and the “Happy New Year Heart Attack” – related to increased mental and physical stress this time of year.

With the gloomy realities and statistics behind us, we can now focus on what is most important. What can we do to prevent or minimize the fallout of the holiday season to ensure we may enjoy it to the fullest? And, so that we may proceed with peace of mind, good health, and longevity into the year ahead?

12 Simple Steps to Minimize the Holiday Fallout

1. Drink responsibly. Limit your alcohol intake to one drink every 2 hours in social situations. Have a glass of water in between drinks to avoid intoxication and dehydration. Your brain will thank you!


2. Walk away. Don’t feel you must change anyone’s mind about politics, sports, or anything else for that matter. Engage in positive dialogue.


3. Reach out. If something is upsetting you, sometimes the worst thing to do is hold it in while everyone else is celebrating. Confide in a trusted source.


4. Don’t stress over shopping. Getting into fist fights over the newest TV or toy is clearly not what the holidays are about and will dramatically increase your stress levels. Is it really about the presents?


5. It’s OK not to travel. Many are compelled to travel due to family pressures and the like. It is OK to ‘skip a year’ if you are overwhelmed and feel you need a break.


6. Get to bed. Sleep cycles are impacted enough going into winter with shorter days and longer nights. Be mindful of sleep routines as they have a large impact on buffering chronic stress responses and clearing your brain of toxins.


7. Stick to your regular eating habits. If they are healthy ones, that is. It is OK to ‘sample the goods’ around the holidays, but overdoing it will be sure to weaken your immune system and allow stress to harm your brain and body.


8. Move your body. Exercise should be a regular part of your daily routine, especially around the holidays. It minimizes the effects of stress and burns the excess calories you will likely indulge in.


9. Meditate. Quiet time away from the distractions of the holidays to self-reflect and calm your mind will reduce stress levels.


10. Turn off the tube. TV usage skyrockets during the holidays for many, leading to less physical activity and social disconnection.


11. Play games, read, tell stories. All activities that will engage your mind and connect you to others around you during the holiday season.


12. Connect socially. One of the secrets to stress reduction. Social connection produced hormones that reduce stress. If you have little or no family and friends, volunteer opportunities abound.

There is help

For those experiencing undue stress during the holiday season (or any season) leading to withdrawn, erratic, or dangerous behavior, increased substance use, trouble at work, etc. – there is help! Brain Training such as neurofeedback and meditation are highly effective options for dealing with chronic stress outside of acute or emergency situations. In critical situations, you should call national helplines for immediate support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1.800.273.8255

National Substance Abuse Hotline: 1.800.622.HELP (4357)

Merry Stress-mas: 12 Steps To Reduce Holiday Anxiety

Improve Digestion, Remove Toxins, and Reduce Bloating With Activated Charcoal

Improve Digestion, Remove Toxins, and Reduce Bloating With Activated Charcoal

5 Smart Ways to Reduce Your Healthcare Costs

While the whole world is still in shock over the outcome of the recent US Presidential Elections, the world’s most powerful country still has a lot of issues that need immediate resolutions. One of them is the continuous increase of the US healthcare costs. And regardless of what your political stance is, this problem remains to affect most Americans, especially those who are in their 50s.

Apparently, outgoing US President Barack Obama had his chance of reforming and enhancing the healthcare system. However, the system has not been properly given the needed improvements, because it has been maligned by dissenting opinions from political parties, business leaders, academic authorities, and media experts.

There have been numerous talks about the management of the healthcare system, but most of them lean towards commercialization rather than a benefit that everyone can immediately access. Well, there is nothing wrong in becoming rich, but as we progress, it is inevitable that many Americans will be financially challenged, making it more difficult for them to receive a decent and affordable medical care whenever the need arises. In fact, a lot of Americans have been paying for their healthcare costs already.

For many less privileged citizens, a decent healthcare does not only deal with costs, immediate solutions, or intense workouts. Whether you believe it or not, a lot of them are coping with chronic pains with a wavering hope of getting an appropriate medical resolution. Some of them are even suffering from a terminal illness that can neither receive a good hospital care nor an alternative remedy.

Meanwhile, the major populace of the Americans over 50 years old are able to access high-quality, safe, and affordable medical attention and healthcare choices. Most of the time, patients who can influence the institution receive the best and most rewarding outcomes, while those who expect the blessings from the higher power don’t get what they need – a sad truth that still exists today.

But such circumstance does not have to stay that way forever. You don’t have to suffer from expensive healthcare costs when there are actions you can do in controlling them. On this note, here are 5 ways you can take charge of your healthcare costs that come from well-informed, unintimidated, and fearless patients.

• 
  

   Negotiating with the hospital and/or clinic.

  
  

The patients are not only the people who are affected by the high healthcare costs. Even the medical institutions like hospitals and clinics, as well as, general practitioners in the locality are going through tough times as well.

As such, a lot of healthcare providers in the US are willing to come to terms with regards to medical prices. You can negotiate the costs of medical alternatives like going to other countries for the needed medical care – this happens to be a competitive business as of the present time.

If negotiations are successful, then healthcare insurers pay lesser costs than the retail prices for a certain medical procedure. It also helps the uninsured patients in covering their healthcare expenses. But before getting the treatment, it is best to request a quote from the medical establishment. Don’t hesitate to ask because you will never know anything at all if you don’t inquire.

• 
  

   Negotiating with your healthcare insurer.

  
  

Here’s the thing: every time healthcare insurers deny or ignore their promised medical coverages, then that would be easy money credited to their wallets. You don’t want that to happen.

Nowadays, insurers have strategized to keep on denying their promises. But if you have the unwavering power to insist, then you may have the chance to acquire what you have invested in. When all else fails, you can seek the help and support from healthcare consumer advocates who can talk with the insurers on your behalf – sometimes it comes with a fee.

• 
  

   Considering medical options from other countries

  
  

Globalization has a positive effect on the world economy today. As a result, we intentionally or unknowingly choose products that come from other countries.

We purchase various types of gadgets made in China, buy television sets and other appliances manufactured in South Korea, and/or spend on cars and vehicles assembled in Japan. This goes the same with medical products such as  medical apparatus.

As years pass by, we slowly embrace global products and trust their quality, especially when they carry well-established brands that we patronize. There are also instances when American patients choose to receive medical care in other countries.

• 
  

   Taking advantage of your travel options within the country.

  
  

Just in case you haven’t know it yet, there is a big disparity of 30 to 70 percent among the treatment quotes in the US. Patients who don’t settle with their doctor’s referrals or the availability of a hospital near their residence would actually look farther, but still within the border, for better and much cheaper medical choices that may reduce the travel expenses.

To make it more convenient, you can search online for comparative treatment costs in the US. There are websites that provide coherent medical details and health prices just like How Coster.  This way, you don’t have to go to the hospital or clinic for inquiries. You can just give them a call, which saves your expenses from traveling.

• 
  

   Staying fit and healthy.

  
  

I think you are aware of the saying, “Prevention is better than cure”. Although it’s an old adage, it still works effectively today. If you don’t want to spend on expensive medical treatments, then it is best to keep yourself fit and healthy.

Whether you are having joint problems, diabetes, or cardiovascular diseases, most medical conditions become worse due to poor lifestyle habits. Smoking, alcohol drinking, and unhealthy eating top the list.

Apparently, there are so many advocates who strive to reduce, and hopefully, stop the undesirable lifestyle habits of the Americans. But due to the decrease of longevity rates in the US for the first time in 20 years and the rapid increase of juvenile obesity, the fight to a better and healthier living still goes on.

Never Compromise Again on Healthcare Costs

There you have it. Five ways to cut down the healthcare costs. If you are thinking which one is the most effective way, then that would be number 5. In any case, you are suffering from medical conditions, then it is best to listen and comply with what the doctor says and not do reckless activities to avoid frequent hospital trips, which can definitely increase your healthcare costs.

5 Smart Ways to Reduce Your Healthcare Costs

Running shoes with less cushioning can reduce injury, study shows

Runners who wear trainers with no cushioning and land on the ball rather than the heel of the foot significantly reduce the risk of injury, according to a study.

Researchers compared how quickly the force acts when runners’ feet hit the ground – known as the loading rate – which has been shown to influence injury risk.

The study of 29 runners, published in the Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise journal, found significantly lower loading rates for those who wore so-called minimal trainers and landed on the ball of their foot, compared with people in normal running shoes, regardless of whether the latter landed on the heel or ball of the foot.

The lead researcher, Dr Hannah Rice of the University of Exeter, said: “So many people use running as a means of reducing the risk of chronic diseases, but about three-quarters of runners typically get injured in a year.

“Footwear is easily modifiable, but many runners are misguided when it comes to buying new trainers. This research shows that running in minimal shoes and landing on the balls of your feet reduces loading rates and may therefore reduce the risk of injury.”

Running continues to grow in popularity but injury rates have not fallen despite decades of research aimed at reducing them.

Runners in cushioned footwear tend to land on the heel – known as a “rearfoot strike” – while those who run barefoot are more likely to land on the ball of the foot – a “forefoot strike”.

Rearfoot strike runners experience an abrupt vertical impact force each time the foot hits the ground. The impact force is often missing when running with a forefoot strike, but previous research has shown that forward/backward and sideways forces can be higher with a forefoot strike, meaning the total force is similar.

Total force seems to be similar between foot strikes if wearing modern, cushioned trainers. “This seems to suggest that, for runners in traditional, cushioned running shoes, foot strike pattern may not matter for injury risk.

“However, we suspected that the same may not be true of runners who regularly use minimal shoes, which don’t have the cushioning provided by traditional running shoes,” Rice said.

“Our research tells us that becoming accustomed to running with a forefoot strike in shoes that lack cushioning promotes a landing with the lowest loading rates, and this may be beneficial in reducing the risk of injury.”

Any transition to new footwear or to a different foot strike pattern should be undertaken gradually and with guidance, she said.

The research was conducted at the Spaulding National Running Center at Harvard Medical School.
“We found that when running in trainers with no cushioning and landing on the ball of the foot, the loading rate is lower than when running in cushioned shoes, however you land,” Rice said.
“The loading rate is a useful measure, as it tells us how fast the forces are acting, and higher values have been associated with running injury. So in summary, our paper found that running in shoes that have no cushioning and landing on the ball of your foot may reduce the risk of injury in runners.”
Minimal shoes, Rice said, have very little or no cushioning, a heel-toe drop of less than or equal to 4mm (0.16 inches), and a stack height of less than or equal to 16mm. “This is information which manufacturers and footwear shops should be able to provide,” she said.

Running shoes with less cushioning can reduce injury, study shows

NHS seeks to reduce winter deaths as sub-zero weather looms across UK

Sub-zero temperatures are expected to sweep across Britain this week after the first cold snap of the year, prompting warnings that vulnerable people should prepare for a freezing winter.

The chilly weather coincides with the launch of a major NHS campaign urging people with long-term health conditions and the over-65s to take action in an effort to reduce the 25,000 extra deaths that occur each winter.

Prof Keith Willett, medical director for acute care at NHS England, said: “It is vital that the most vulnerable people take preventative steps to keep healthy and stay well. We have a high number of A&E attendances over this time that are due to issues that could have been avoided had people sought advice at the first sign of illness.”

The Stay Well This Winter campaign will use TV, radio and social media to encourage people to wrap up warm and consult a pharmacist as soon as they feel unwell rather than waiting. It also encourages people, particularly those with long-term illnesses or mobility problems, to heat their homes to at least 18C (65F) and to check on friends and neighbours who may be vulnerable.

Prof Paul Cosford, director for health protection at Public Health England, said: “With winter on the way, now is a good time to make sure you, and those you know who may be particularly at risk from the cold, are as prepared as possible. If you qualify for the free flu jab, get it now.

“Also remember that eating a healthy, balanced diet and that staying physically active can keep you healthy.”

He added that assistance with heating costs is available to those who might need it. “There are a variety of ways you can apply for help to keep your house warm, such as winter fuel payments, warm home discounts and cold weather payments. If you meet the criteria, register for priority service with your energy and water suppliers.

“Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18°C (65°F), particularly if you find it hard to get around, have a long-term illness or are 65 or over. You may prefer your living room to be slightly warmer,” he said.

Cold weather increases the risk of heart failure, kidney disease, stroke or dementia, as well as making heart attacks and strokes more likely.

For each degree centigrade the temperature falls below five degrees, there is a 10% increase in the number of older people seeing their GP about breathing problems, a 0.8% increase in emergency hospital admissions, and a 3.4% increase in deaths, research shows.

The UK shivered through a chilly Bonfire night, as temperatures fell below freezing in places, snow fell on higher ground and biting winds made conditions feel colder. On Sunday night temperatures outside the south-east were expected to fall below zero across much of the country.

Tom Crocker, a forecaster at the Met Office, said the cold snap is likely to last: “The forecast over the next few days is staying rather chilly.”

The BBC expects Monday night to be the coldest so far this winter, leading to widespread frost. Crocker expected Monday to be bright but cold across much of the country.

BBC Weather (@bbcweather)

Expect the coldest night of the season so far during Monday night. Widespread frost to greet you on Tuesday morning. Stav D pic.twitter.com/z4kNVZutss

November 6, 2016

“Tuesday looks like being another relatively bright day, but we have got quite persistent rain moving in from the west on Tuesday afternoon,” he said. Snow is expected to be widespread on higher ground.

The precipitation is likely to make Tuesday night warmer, he said, although it is still likely to be below freezing in rural areas.

“It will be turning a little bit milder towards the end of the week, but still chilly and unsettled,” Crocker said. Temperatures are expected to move into the low double figures, especially in the south.

Met Office (@metoffice)

It’s another #cold day – #temperatures will struggle but it will feel much #colder than this with a strong northerly #wind – wrap up warm! pic.twitter.com/EtlvuRFx02

November 6, 2016

NHS seeks to reduce winter deaths as sub-zero weather looms across UK

Mangoes Burn Fat, Destroy Cancer Cells, Alkalize the Body, and Reduce Cholesterol

Mangoes Burn Fat, Destroy Cancer Cells, Alkalize the Body, and Reduce Cholesterol

Pineapple-Beet Smoothie That Reduce Hypertension Naturally! How to Prepare it?

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a serious and common condition that can lead to life-threatening diseases such as heart attack, stroke, heart or kidney failure, and more. It is the most common risk factor for cardiovascular disease in the USA and more than 90% of Americans can expect to develop it in their lifetime. According to a report from the American Heart Association, hypertension contributes to nearly 1,000 deaths per day.

What are the causes?

People can have high blood pressure for years without experiencing symptoms or knowing that they have it. The risk of high blood pressure increases with age as arterial walls lose their elasticity. There can be many contributing factors such as:

-More stress
-Excess use of medications
-Being overweight
-Lack of physical activity
-Drinking too much alcohol
-Excessive salt consumption

What Are The Symptoms?

Dizziness or dizzy spells
Headache
Nosebleeds

Although medications can lower hypertension, they may cause side effects such as leg cramps, dizziness, and insomnia. A study conducted by the American Heart Association showed that people with high blood pressure who drank 8 ounces (1 cup) of beets and pineapple juices per day experienced a decrease in blood pressure. The reason it works so fast: Beets contain dietary nitrate, which your body converts to a gas that expands blood vessels and aids blood flow.

Pineapple-Beet Smoothie Recipe

Recipe #1

Ingredients:

½ c sliced cooked beets
1½ c frozen pineapple chunks
¼ c celery leaves
1 c vanilla almond milk
½ c fresh orange juice

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in blender and puree until smooth.
Enjoy your beet drink!.

Recipe #2

Ingredients:

28.2 ounces (approximately 4 cups) pineapple, sliced
Juice of 3 lemons
A pinch of cloves
1/2 Tablespoon cinnamon
8 1/2 cups water

Instructions:

Blend the pineapple with a glass of water.
Stir the lemon juice and spices into the remaining water and stir well.
Enjoy your pineapple drink!.

Other Natural Ways To Lower Hypertension

-Get a vigorous cardio workout of at least 30 minutes.
-Try 5 minutes in the morning and at night. Inhale deeply and expand your belly.
-Eat potassium-rich fruits and vegetables.
-Use less salt in diet.
-Drink Coconut Water.
-Eat dark chocolate daily.
-Ginger-cardamom tea.
-Eat more garlic.

Sources:

– https://draxe.com

– http://abcnews.go.com

– http://www.curejoy.com

Pineapple-Beet Smoothie That Reduce Hypertension Naturally! How to Prepare it?

7 Adaptogenic Herbs That Reduce Cortisol and Stress

7 Adaptogenic Herbs That Reduce Cortisol and Stress

Drink Hibiscus Tea To Reduce High Blood Pressure and Protect Against Heart Disease!

Hibiscus flowers are widely known for their tropical beauty. These large red, orange, pink, or yellow flowers can be worn in the hair or in bright leis around the neck. But many people may not realize that hibiscus also makes a wonderful tea. For example, hibiscus tea (or sour tea) is very popular in Mexico because it is medicinal, delicious, and easy to make.

Hibiscus tea has gained attention in the scientific community too. This is because hibiscus is rich in antioxidants, which protect against cell damage and heart disease, in turn. Considering the high prevalence of cardiovascular disease, hibiscus tea could be beneficial to many people who are interested in natural remedies for heart problems. In this article, I discuss studies, which have shown that hibiscus tea reduces high blood pressure and may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. I also provide a recipe for making hibiscus tea.

The research

A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology was carried out to determine whether hibiscus tea reduces blood pressure among patients at risk for heart disease. Researchers tracked the blood pressure of patients who drank hibiscus tea vs. patients who drank ordinary tea for 12 days. Results showed that patients who consumed hibiscus tea had significantly lower blood pressure than those who drank the ordinary tea. The investigators concluded that hibiscus tea is an effective natural remedy for reducing high blood pressure and for preventing future heart conditions.

Similarly, an investigation from the journal of Circulation demonstrated that daily consumption of 3 cups of hibiscus tea reduced the blood pressure of pre-hypertensive and mildly hypertensive adults. Therefore, incorporating hibiscus tea into a daily routine may protect against the development of hypertension.

Yet another article from the Journal of Human Hypertension reported that drinking hibiscus tea two times a day for a month lowered the blood pressure of patients with mild hypertension and type II diabetes. As such, consuming hibiscus tea is a natural medicinal approach to regulating blood pressure, particularly for people who are managing serious physical health problems.

Taken together, this body of research suggests that incorporating hibiscus tea into a regular dietary routine can reduce high blood pressure and may reduce the risk of heart disease.

Safety and doses

Hibiscus is generally considered safe when consumed as a tea. However, we need more research to determine the exact amounts that are safe for pregnant women, children, and people with liver or kidney disease. Additionally, an article from the journal of Phytomedicine pointed out that more research is needed to understand the long-term effects of hibiscus tea on heart health.

How to make hibiscus tea

There are several recipes for making your own hibiscus tea. Here is one that I like. Hibiscus tea is naturally sour, so you can play around with healthy ways to sweeten it, such as adding raw honey or organic coconut sugar.

References:

Faraji, M. H., & Tarkhani, A. H. (1999). The effect of sour tea (Hibiscus sabdariffa) on essential hypertension. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 65(3), 231-236.

McKay, D. L., Chen, C. O., Saltzman, E., & Blumberg, J. B. (2010). Hibiscus sabdariffa L. tea (tisane) lowers blood pressure in prehypertensive and mildly hypertensive adults. The Journal of nutrition, 140(2), 298-303.

Mozaffari-Khosravi, H., Jalali-Khanabadi, B. A., Afkhami-Ardekani, M., Fatehi, F., & Noori-Shadkam, M. (2009). The effects of sour tea (Hibiscus sabdariffa) on hypertension in patients with type II diabetes. Journal of human hypertension, 23(1), 48-54.

Wahabi, H. A., Alansary, L. A., Al-Sabban, A. H., & Glasziuo, P. (2010). The effectiveness of Hibiscus sabdariffa in the treatment of hypertension: a systematic review. Phytomedicine, 17(2), 83-86.

Hibiscus tea recipe: simplyrecipes.com/recipes/agua_de_jamaica_hibiscus_tea/

About the author:

Dr. B is a health psychologist who writes for the health and medical website pdrmed.com. She is an expert in the effects of stress and nutrition on mental and physical health. Follow: @pdrmed and Contact: drb@earthlink.net

Drink Hibiscus Tea To Reduce High Blood Pressure and Protect Against Heart Disease!

Lemon Coconut Pudding- Treat Joint Pain, Fight Cancer, Reduce Bad Cholesterol & More

Light and dairy free lemon pudding, that not only taste delicious but is so good for health. This pudding contains coconut, lemon, honey, perfect to boost your immune system during the cold and flu season.

These low-carb, ketogenic style recipes is loaded with collagen protein that helps improve your skin, hair, nails, joints and intestinal membrane.

Lemon Coconut Pudding Recipes

Recipe #1

Ingredients:

2 cups young coconut
½ teaspoon lemon extract
1 teaspoon vanilla
½ teaspoon almond extract
1½ tablespoons lemon juice
2 drops stevia
½ teaspoon honey, to balance
1 pinch sea salt
1 cup water, in increments
1 cup ice cubes

Directions:

Put all ingredients, except ice, in a high-speed blender and blend until smooth.
Taste and adjust the sweetness, then add the ice and blend again until cool and creamy.
Serve in small ramekin dishes and garnish with lemon zest before serving.

Recipe #2

Ingredients:

½ cup of lemon juice
3 tablespoons of grass-fed beef gelatin (vegan substitute: 3 tbsp agar powder or agar flakes)
2 cups of full-fat organic coconut milk (in can)
¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract
Stevia to taste

Instructions:

First, Put 1/2 cup of water into a pan, sprinkle the gelatin over the water and set aside for a few mins until it becomes soft and spongy.
Now, put the lemon juice, coconut milk, and vanilla into a mixing bowl or mason jar.
Next, heat the gelatin mixture on low- low heat just until dissolved and no more.

Health Benefits of These Ingredients

Coconut

Coconut milk provides a great dose of anti-inflammatory medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) that are easily metabolized by the body and used to burn fat.

Lemon

Its high vitamin C content is one of the reasons why it’s best to keep a steady supply of lemons in your home. These citrus fruits also have antioxidants known as flavonoids, which are known to fight heart disease, cancer, and inflammation.

Honey

Honey offers many health benefits than you can imagine. Raw, organic honey is also known to help lower your risk of acquiring colon cancer and may reduce bad cholesterol.

Stevia

Stevia, a natural sweetener coming from the Stevia rebaudiana herb. It is incredibly sweet – more than 250 times than sugar! However, it does not have the effect of spiking your sugar levels, it’s safer and calorie-free. Stevia regulates the blood sugar levels, blood pressure and promotes healthy weight.

Sources:

– http://drjockers.com

– http://www.popsugar.com

– http://www.mysequinedlife.com

Also Read:

Lemon Coconut Pudding- Treat Joint Pain, Fight Cancer, Reduce Bad Cholesterol & More

Bicycle helmets reduce risk of serious head injury by nearly 70%, study finds

A major study of bike helmet use around the world from more than 64,000 cyclists has found helmets reduce the risks of a serious head injury by nearly 70%.

The study also found neck injuries are not associated with helmet use and cyclists who wear helmets reduce their chance of a fatal head injury by 65%.

The compulsory wearing of bike helmets in Australia has long been a source of frustration for some cyclists, who argue it reduces participation rates. Previous studies have indicated helmet use encourages risk-taking behaviour or does not reduce serious injury to the brain.

But a comprehensive review by Australian statisticians Jake Olivier and Prudence Creighton from the University of New South Wales that drew together data from more than 40 separate studies found helmet use was associated with dramatically reduced odds of head injuries.

The findings were presented in Finland this week at Safety 2016, the world conference on injury prevention and safety promotion.

Olivier’s findings were particularly significant for serious or fatal head injuries and found the reduction was greater for these kinds of more serious injuries.

“Helmet use is associated with odds reductions of 51% for head injury, 69% for serious head injury, 33% for face injury and 65% for fatal head injury. Injuries to the neck were rare and not associated with helmet use,” the study found.

“These results suggest that strategies to increase the uptake of bicycle helmets should be considered along with other injury prevention strategies as part of a comprehensive cycling safety plan.”

The researchers cautioned that helmets were not a “panacea for cycling injury” and did not eliminate head or face injuries or offer protection to other parts of cyclists’ bodies. But it does make the case more difficult for those who oppose mandatory helmet wearing, they said.

“The legislation of mandatory helmets for cyclists is a controversial topic and past research on its effectiveness has been somewhat mixed,” the study said. “Irrespective of past research, the results of this review do not support arguments against helmet legislation from an injury prevention perspective.”

However, critics claim that helmet laws put people off cycling, causing far wider weight-related health problems due to Australians favouring driving, or not moving at all. One study found that 16.5% of people say they would ride more often if they were not required to wear a helmet at all times.

Chris Rissel, a professor of public health at the University of Sydney, told a 2015 Australian Senate inquiry into the subject that cycling numbers dropped after the helmet laws were introduced in the 1990s, which made remaining cyclists more vulnerable.

“In safety terms there is a phenomenon called safety in numbers,” he said. “As more people cycle, our roads become safer for these cyclists.

“Drivers become used to seeing cyclists and adjust their behaviour, and infrastructure tends to be improved to better cater for cycling. Even if cyclists wear helmets they are less safe with fewer cyclists on the road than they would be with more cyclists about.

“Helmets are a barrier to new riders, particularly for occasional and non-regular riders. The need to wear a helmet reinforces the message that cycling is dangerous – with perceptions of danger a major reason people give for not cycling.”

The NSW government has recently reviewed cycling laws and introduced harsh new penalties for a range of offences. The fine for not wearing a helmet has risen from $ 71 to $ 319.

Bicycle helmets reduce risk of serious head injury by nearly 70%, study finds

5 Garden Herbs To Reduce Your Risk Of Cancer

Cancer has been amongst the leading causes of death in humans in recent centuries. This is partially attributable to processed foods and environmental contamination. However, a few cancer preventatives that you’re not aware of may already be growing in your backyard. Here we will discuss five herbs that have scientific studies supporting their potential use in the prevention of cancer.

1. Oregano

Famous for its wholesome flavor as a “pizza herb”, oregano has a number of proven health benefits. In fact, oregano essential oil was used for hundreds of years by our ancestors as a way to reduce skin irritation and treat coughing fits. Recent research has shown it to possess antimicrobial properties ^1-2 and potentially reduce the risk of kidney stones ³.

The most interesting thing about this herb however is recent research supporting its use as an anti-cancer agent. All this research has centered around a key compound contained in the herb called carvacrol. Carvacrol is believed to be responsible for a number of health benefits including anti-tumor activity. Studies in cell culture models have shown that carvacrol can inhibit the growth of various types of cancer and promote apoptosis (cell death) in various cancerous cell lines ^4-5.

2. Hops

As any home-brewer would know, hops is essential to preserving the flavor in beer. The herb, which has edible leaves and shoots, can also be brewed as a flavorsome tea. In a departure from its traditional usage in breweries, recent scientific studies have shown that hops may be used to help fight cancer all thanks to a special molecule it contains called xanthohumol.

Xanthohumol has been shown to inhibit key enzymes that are involved in the propagation of cancerous cells ^6-7. But before you go and drink large amounts of beer, you should be aware that only trace amounts of hops is present in alcoholic beverages. Any anti-cancer benefits from beer consumption are negligible, and perhaps even increased due to the other toxins present. A nice natural hops tea is the preferred method to consume this wondrous herb.

3. Horehound

Horehound is no stranger to the world of medicine. It has been in usage since the time of the ancient Romans as a remedy for chest infections. More recently it’s been used to treat digestive issues such as diarrhea and constipation, making horehound an essential part of any medicinal garden.

The herb is abundant in flavonoids,  the group of compounds which give plants their color. Flavonoids are a major source of phytonutrients in plants and are often responsible for many health benefits, including reduced risk of cancer. Being a large source of flavonoids, it should be no surprise then that studies have shown horehound to help prevent the progression of various cancer cell lines, including colon and breast cancers ^8-9.

4. Verbena

Verbena is commonly used in ornamental gardening due to its ability to attract bees and birds as a result of its sweet scent. Also commonly used in various cuisines, verbena makes for a nice meal topping or as a flavorsome addition to any salad. Perhaps more interestingly, verbena has numerous health benefits due to the herb containing a number of iridoids and antioxidants which possess both antimicrobial and anti-tumor properties.

In a promising study, human cancer cells were exposed to chemical extracts of verbena. It was observed by researchers that verbena had an antiproliferative (reduced progression) effect on the cancer cells ¹⁰. Whilst the research behind Verbena’s ability to reduce the spread of cancer is limited, it certainly won’t hurt your taste buds to add this sweet herb to your salad mixes!

5. Meadowsweet

Ah, meadowsweet. As the name implies, this is a sweet herb belonging to the Rosaceae family and is related to roses and peaches. The usage of meadowsweet dates back to the time of the Bronze age where it has been found by the remains of druids. Whether you realize it or not, you almost certainly are already acquainted with this plant, since it contains the main ingredient found in aspirin: salicylic acid.

More than salicyclic acid alone however, meadowsweet contains numerous compounds which have been studied for their medicinal usage, including heparin, as well as various flavonoids. A recent scientific study in mice showed that consumption of the flowers led to a 67% reduction in the acquisition of cervical cancer ¹¹. Whilst these results have not yet been confirmed in human trials, the research does sound promising.

In conclusion, whilst medicine may focus on ways to treat cancer once it has arisen, a lot can be done to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Eating a healthy diet supplemented by a variety of natural herbs such as the ones mentioned is a good place to start. Adding these herbs to your salads, or extracting their nutrients into delicious, earthy teas, may just be the routine that keeps you healthy well into your advanced years.

References –

1. Adam K, Sivropoulou A, Kokkini S, et al. 1998. Antifungal activities of Origanum vulgare subsp. hirtum, Mentha spicata,Lavandula angustifolia, and Salia fruticose essential oils against human pathogenic fungi. Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry 46: 1739-1745.

2. Souza El, Stamford TLM, Lima EO, et al. 2007. Effectiveness of Origanum vulgare L. essential oil to inhibit the growth of food spoiling yeasts. Food Control 18(5): 409-413.

3. Khan A, Bashir S, Khan SR, et al. 2011. Antiurolithic activity of Origanum vulgare is mediated through multiple pathways. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine 11: 96.

4. Mehdi SJ, Ahmad A, Irshad M, et al. 2011. Cytotoxic effect of carvacrol on human cervical cancer cells. Biology and Medicine 3(2): 307-312.

5. Yin Q-H. 2012. Anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effect of carvacrol on human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG-2. Cytotechnology 64(1): 43-51.

6. Miranda CL, Yang Y-H, Henderson MC, et al. 2000. Prenylflavonoids from hops inhibit the metabolic activation of the carcinogenic heterocyclic amine 2-amino-2-methylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline, mediated by cDNA-expressed human CYP1A2. Drug Metabolism and Disposition 28(11): 1297-1302.

7. Deeb D, Gao X, Jiang H, et al. 2010. Growth inhibitory and apoptosis-inducing effects of xanthohumol, a prenylated chalone present in hops, in human prostate cancer cells. Anticancer Research 30(9): 3333-3339.

8. Yamaguchi K, Liggett JL, Kim N-C, et al. 2006. Anti-proliferative effect of horehound leaf and wild cherry bark extracts on human colorectal cancer cells. Oncology Reports 15(1): 275-281.

9. Hamedeyazdan S, Fathiazad F, Sharifi S, et al. 2012. Antiproliferative activity of Marrubium persicum extract in the MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention 13(11): 5843-5848.

10. Encalada, M. A., Rehecho, S., Ansorena, D., Astiasarán, I., Cavero, R. Y., & Calvo, M. I. (2015). Antiproliferative effect of phenylethanoid glycosides from Verbena officinalis L. on Colon Cancer Cell Lines. LWT – Food Science and Technology,63(2), 1016-1022.

11. Peresunko, A. P., Bespalov, V. G., Limarenko, A. I., & Aleksandrov, V. A. (1993). Clinico-experimental study of using plant preparations from the flowers of Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim for the treatment of precancerous changes and prevention of uterine cervical cancer. Vopor Onkl., 39(7), 12th ser., 291-295.

5 Garden Herbs To Reduce Your Risk Of Cancer

Want to Reduce Your Waistline? Try This Amazing Weight Loss Tea

A healthy lifestyle is essential to help you reduce the waistline and maintain a healthy weight: keep a healthy and balanced diet, regular exercise, have enough sleep, try to protect you from stressful situations. There are also some natural solutions to remedy this problem, the recipe we’re talking about is one of them. Simply made this tea with 3 common ingredients to promote the fat burning process. It also benefits to your overall health in several other ways.

Follow the instructions to get an instant result in just 7 days.

How to Make This Weight Loss Tea

Ingredients:

• 1 cinnamon stick


• 3 bay leaves


• 1 tablespoon of green tea

Instructions:

Boiling 3-4 cups of water and add the ingredients. Leave the mixture for 10-15 minutes before drinking.

For boosting weight loss, drinking 3 cups of the tea daily for a week. One cup before breakfast, one before lunch and the last one before your bedtime.

This tea will help you lose fat in the resistant areas such as abdomen and thighs.

Weight Loss Benefits of These 3 Ingredients

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has been proven to be able to thin your blood to increase blood circulation, thus boosting the metabolism and aiding in weight loss.

But this is not the only reason to use cinnamon in this tea, this spice helps you in other ways too:

• Regulates blood sugar


• Reduces the LDL cholesterol levels


• Fights against infections


• Eases arthritis pain


• Anti-cancer


• Prevents Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease


• Improves mood and treats depression


• Relieves cough and sore throat when you’re suffering from cold or flu

Finding more uses of cinnamon at here.

Bay Leaves

This plant has great medicinal properties to help relieve several ailments:

• Treats type 2 diabetes


• Relieves joint pain


• Cures cold and infection


• Anti-cancer


• Improves sleep


• Treats kidney stones

And, bay leaves are good for weight loss as they promote digestion and cure the digestive disorders. When combined with cinnamon stick in this tea, they are an excellent fat-burning ingredient.

Green Tea

Regular intake of green tea can help you lose weight actually:

Green tea contains caffeine and EGCC, which can speed up your metabolism effectively.

There are substances in green tea that promotes the levels of hormones which can break down fat.

Green tea is one of the healthiest drink to help you lose weight naturally. This article explains more reasons how it helps.

Additional sources: MeghanTelpner , WeightLossRecipesDiet

More By Author:

// A Natural & Safe Homemade Ginger Ale to Treat Migraines

// 12 Prebiotic-Rich Foods For A Healthy Gut

// What Will Happen In Your Body If You Drink Honey Lemon Water More Often

// Get The Best Of Natural Living Ideas At Seekingfit.com

Want to Reduce Your Waistline? Try This Amazing Weight Loss Tea

Give young people and gay men free condoms to reduce STIs, watchdog says

Local authorities should run schemes to supply young people with free condoms and sex advice in an attempt to curtail the number of sexually transmitted infections, a health watchdog body has said.

They should also consider giving free condoms to gay men, among whom the increase in infections such as HIV and gonorrhoea is of serious concern.

The draft guidance from Nice, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, has opened for consultation two days after NHS England lost a high court battle brought by Aids campaigners who want it to pay for drugs to prevent gay men who do not use condoms becoming infected with HIV.

NHS England has said it will appeal, but if it loses it will weigh up the value of the drug, Truvada, which costs about £5,000 a year per person, against treatments needed for other groups, including children with cystic fibrosis.

Related: NHS England reconsiders decision over HIV PrEP drug

Nice says condoms need to be more widely accessible to prevent sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, particularly by the 16-24 age group and men who have sex with men. They should be free for those most at risk.

It comes amid concern that the use of condoms is primarily motivated by birth control, rather than their ability to prevent the spread of infections, and are therefore substituted with other forms of stopping pregnancy that do not offer the same protection against STIs.

Approximately 435,000 STIs were diagnosed in England in 2015, including 200,000 cases of chlamydia, says Nice. Syphilis and gonorrhoea rates have risen by 76% and 53% respectively between 2012 and 2015. The Family Planning Association (FPA) has estimated that the cost to the NHS of treating STIs was £620m in 2014. Nearly 4,000 people are infected with HIV in England every year. The lifelong treatment they require costs an average of £380,000.

“We know condoms can protect against many sexually transmitted infections including chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis,” said Christine Carson, programme director of the centre for guidelines at Nice. “The recent increase in rates of gonorrhoea and syphilis among men who have sex with men has been attributed to high levels of sex without using a condom.

“If local authorities and other commissioners can work together to increase condom availability and use among high-risk groups we could significantly reduce the rates of STIs.”

Nice recommends more condom schemes should be set up by local authorities targeted at young people, based on existing models that offer a free supply but tied to sexual advice and counselling. The most common such scheme is the C-card, the most successful of which allows young people to obtain free condoms once they have been through an information and advice session with a trained counsellor.

The FPA said getting condoms to young people was key to tackling STIs. “However, as well as making condoms more easily and widely available, it’s also really important to back that up with education and support and to think about what barriers may exist to people actually choosing to use them,” said chief executive Natika H Halil.

“This should start with statutory sex and relationships education in schools so young people are equipped with the skills and confidence they need to have those important conversations about safer sex with partners.”

Halil added: “Condoms are already available for free in some places but there are always opportunities to reach more people, including in non-traditional health settings.

“It’s also important to reiterate the fact that condoms protect against both unplanned pregnancy and STIs, so even if you are using another method of contraception and don’t think about using condoms, you may be at risk of infection.”

Give young people and gay men free condoms to reduce STIs, watchdog says

7 Foods That Reduce Bloating and Flatten Your Stomach

7 Foods That Reduce Bloating and Flatten Your Stomach

Tailored Acupuncture May Reduce Pain Intensity for Chronic Pain Sufferers (Fibromyalgia)

Tailored acupuncture is helping reduce pain intensity for people suffering with fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition.  Rather than taking prescription medication, a growing number of people suffering with this painful condition seek relief in complementary medicine — like acupuncture, massage, and hydrotherapy.  Relaxation, exercise, and stress-reduction measures are also used in trying to control pain symptoms.

However, within two years of being diagnosed with fibromyalgia, 1 in 5 patients used acupuncture to find comfort from the relenting pain.

Until recently, most of the information on the pros and cons of acupuncture to ease chronic pain symptoms have been based on clinical trials of standard, rather than individually tailored acupuncture treatment.

A new study was initiated to evaluate the effectiveness of individualized tailored acupuncture procedures for patients suffering with fibromyalgia.  The findings of this latest research showed a substantial reduction in pain intensity for people living with chronic pain.

Chronic Pain (Fibromyalgia)

Fibromyalgia is considered a rheumatic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain.  Mood, memory, sleep, and fatigue issues accompany this painful condition.  The Mayo Clinic cites, “researchers believe that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain processes pain signals.”

Life-disrupting symptoms of fibromyalgia include — tension headaches, sensitivity to temperature, sounds, and bright lights, muscle stiffness, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).  Many people who have fibromyalgia also have temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), depression, and anxiety.

Fibromyalgia symptoms sometimes begin after a physical trauma, surgery, infection, or significant psychological stress.  In other cases, symptoms slowly build up over time with no single triggering event.

Women are much more likely to develop fibromyalgia than are men. There’s no known cure for fibromyalgia.

Tailored Acupuncture Treatment Relieves Pain

Individualized tailored acupuncture treatments showed greater pain relief for people with fibromyalgia, according to a recent study conducted at Doňa Mercedes Primary Health Centre, in Seville, Spain.

Researchers looked at the potential use of acupuncture to ease fibromyalgia’s symptoms.  A total of 164 participants, aged over 17 years and diagnosed with fibromyalgia, were enrolled in this trial; 153 participants completed the study. The research team, led by Dr. Teresa Leiva, compared individualized tailored acupuncture to sham acupuncture in 153 patients.

Sham acupuncture consisted of using the same guide tubes as the genuine acupuncture group, but without inserting needles. The sham treatment solely focused on the dorsal and lumbar regions.

In both groups, each patient received 20-minute-long treatments, every week for nine weeks.  During the trial, the patients continued taking any prescription drugs they were already using.

The participants completed questionnaires rating various conditions — like depression, levels of pain, and the overall impact of fibromyalgia on their lives.

Tailored versus Sham Acupuncture in Fibromyalgia

After 10 weeks, the tailored acupuncture group reported a 41 percent drop in pain.  On the other hand, the sham acupuncture group reported a 27 percent reduction in pain.

A year later, the tailored group and sham group reported 20 percent and 6 percent reductions in pain, respectively.

In addition, anxiety, fatigue, and depression were considerably better at the 10-week mark for the tailored acupuncture group.  Additionally, the side effects of the acupuncture treatments were few and mild.

The researchers noted how the tailored acupuncture treatment improved the participants’ condition.

“This treatment produced an improvement in the participants’ condition, reflected by a reduction in pain intensity and enhanced functional capacity and quality of life after the intervention and during the follow up period.”

The researcher concluded their study suggesting that tailored acupuncture may be a viable treatment for fibromyalgia.

“Individualised acupuncture treatment in primary care in patients with fibromyalgia proved efficacious in terms of pain relief, compared with placebo treatment. The effect persisted at 1 year, and its side effects were mild and infrequent. Therefore, the use of individualised acupuncture in patients with fibromyalgia is recommended.”

The original research paper titled, “Acupuncture for fibromyalgia in primary care: a randomised controlled trial,” was published in Acupuncture in Medicine, a BMJ journal.

Tailored Acupuncture May Reduce Pain Intensity for Chronic Pain Sufferers (Fibromyalgia)