Fish Oil and Psoriasis

Fish Oil and Psoriasis - How Beneficial is it to Your Health?

Here's a good article contributed by Susan M. Taylor.

There are dozens of published studies concerning fish oil and psoriasis. The best results are seen when skin problems, of all kinds, are treated from the inside out and from the outside in.

Most problematic skin conditions are related to underlying nutritional deficits. Often, these are not outright nutritional deficiencies. The person may seem to be in relatively good health, were it not for the problems with his or her skin.

So, it's not outright nutritional deficiencies that researchers have looked at, but the "role" that dietary habits, particularly eating patterns that provide few essential nutrients, play in inflammatory skin diseases. Here's what we have learned, so far.

We know that psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition that can disappear and reappear, seemingly without cause. We also know that the condition can sometimes "spread", having a negative effect on the joints, fingernails and toenails.

Treatments for the condition have included drugs, topical ointments and non-drug treatments, such as regular exposure to UV light and dietary interventions, which have proven beneficial in mild, moderate and severe cases. Results seen concerning increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and psoriasis treatment have been mixed.

As with most medical conditions, a complete treatment plan, which in this case should include changes in dietary habits and the use of good skincare products, is most beneficial. Research groups, particularly those related to the pharmaceutical industry, tend to look for a magic pill that can be prescribed to anyone and will work for most people.

If you think about it and you know anything about the importance of good nutrition, you realize that it doesn't make sense to look for miracle drugs. Other than antibiotics, there really aren't any. Even they are accompanied by unwanted side effects, including a reduction in beneficial bacteria in the gut.

A few of the latest studies concerning fish oil and psoriasis have focused on alternative treatments, because of all of the limited effectiveness and the side effects (some of which are very serious) caused by conventional drug treatments. Typically, doctors prescribe steroids or anti-inflammatory drugs. Steroids are of limited benefit and contribute to a variety of health problems. Anti-inflammatory drugs cause damage to the liver, which can be life threatening.

If you suffer from psoriatic plaques, here are a few of the things that you should try, judging from the evidence seen in fish oil and psoriasis studies, as well as other investigations.

Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables

Choose fish or fowl rather than red meat

Avoid processed foods and refined simple carbohydrates, which include white bread, white rice, white sugar and pasta

Use olive or canola oils for cooking, rather than corn, peanut or other types of vegetable oils

Use probiotics to improve the production of beneficial bacteria in the bowel

Eat more fiber or take fiber supplements

Take an omega-3 supplement, every day

The benefits seen in the fish oil and psoriasis studies are due to the natural anti-inflammatory activity.


Through the use of the suggestions mentioned above, you can reduce inflammation throughout your body and improve your overall health.

I have found a pure pharmaceutical grade fish oil product that is naturally high in DHA and EPA and also high in anti-inflammatory properties that comes from the world's most pristine oceans. See my website for more details of omega 3 fish oil products - the key to optimal health. To learn more about choosing the best fish oil product on the market today and the one I personally use and recommend to keep your mind and body young and active visit my website: Omega 3 fish oil supplements

Susan M. Taylor is a passionate advocate of preventative health care. She likes sharing information on her research and educating the public about the numerous benefits of omega 3 fatty acids.

Even though Psoriasis is not a critical life threatening disease, the itch and the pain could prove to be unbearable at times. Some doctors prescribe itch lotion that contains steroid. (for e.g. cortisolsteroid). Such cream and lotion may have long term side effects. )

Always choose anti itch Psoriasis cream and lotion which do not contain powerful compound such as steroid.

Don't suffer with psoriasis any longer. Avene Akerat Psoriasis Skin Cream gives you relief from the painful symptoms associated with psoriasis.

Anti Aging Products - Do They Work?

Anti aging products are popular items that are in high demand despite the global economic slow down. Just go to any pharmacies, departmental stores and shopping centers, chances are that you will be able to find all sorts of anti aging products that comes in various forms such as creams, lotions, vitamins, spas and drinks to name a few.

Not just women, men are also increasingly cautious and sensitive about their physical looks when they hit the 40s and beyond. Anti aging products are usually not regulated by the FDA or the ministry of health since it is considered cosmetic in nature.

It’s not surprising that sometime these anti aging products don’t actually benefit as much as advertised but we feel the effect of it as being really good in addressing aging due to our emotion. We make our mind that the product is good, buy it and then later try to justify with our emotion.

Some anti aging products in particular those from China contain toxic compounds and harmful ingredients that are never printed on the product labels. Some anti aging products from well-known international brands are in fact mass-produced and manufactured in China.

Product quality control is a challenge and it is not surprising for factories in China to source for cheaper ingredients to replace those of the original formula. Doing so would help to reduce manufacturing cost and further improve the product profit margin. A typical incident of cost cutting that went seriously wrong is the Sanlu baby milk power that is mix with melamine.

Have it ever occur to you that some anti aging products could in fact accelerate aging process instead of reversing or slowing it down? Some of the contents and ingredients of these wellness products carries along with it long term side effects.

Thousands of dollars were spent on advertisements to promote some of these anti aging products. Some of the efficacy claims of these products are downright outrageous and and ridiculous. For instance there are products which is touted being able to reverse aging. Aging is natural process and unstoppable. In other words you cannot stop aging but you can certainly slow down the process of aging.

The skin is the largest human organ; you wouldn’t want to apply anything on your skin, which you would otherwise not put into your mouth. The cream or lotion that you apply to the skin will eventually absorb into the blood stream. Increasingly number of cosmetic products such as anti aging products contains nanoparticles.

Toxic chemicals and compounds from the nanoparticles can easily cross the blood brain barrier and pose serious health complications. Some research indicates possibility of tiny particles reaching the placenta.
Check out http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-world/nanoparticles-could-pose-threat-to-humans-scientists-20090917-frxj.html

Instead of heading off to the nearest store to buy anti aging products why not considered the age old proven method to deal with aging gracefully?

No anti aging product will help if you do not have enough sleep. Getting enough sleep is important as it contributes to overall health. It is an established fact that a person may age prematurely due to prolong lack of sleep.

Lack of sleep could throw your hormones out of balance and disrupt the body system ability to repair cells and replenish vital energy better known as the 'Chi. Sleep is the body's natural way to healing and to grow.

In summary there are some anti aging products which helps in terms of improving your skin and making you look younger and youthful. It is unfortunate though that majority of the anti aging products don't work as claimed.

Furthermore, quite a number of these anti aging products contains harmful ingredients many of which carries long term side effects. Anti aging products that works for your friend may not work for you.

The best way to determine if any of these anti aging products are suitable for you or not is by improving your knowledge. Determine if the advertised product claims live up to current scientific sense.

Use the Internet forums to gather feedback from those who has used the products. Learn from those who know these products. Talk to friends who are familiar with these products and ask if they would recommend such products.

Check the product creator and manufacturer. Gather feedback from consumer reports websites and make sure it is not black listed by consumer complaint departments and other complaint boards.

Free H1N1 Flu Jab

Some companies in Singapore, notably multi national corporations such as the one I am currently work for (STX) are starting to offer free H1N1 flu shots for employees. Doctors and those working in the front line medical health services are given priorities to get the swine flu shot due to the nature of their jobs that expose them to potential H1N1 flu infections.



No doubt such kind intentions are much appreciated however I wonder if it is necessary for healthy adults to get the H1N1 jab much less children, elderly and pregnant woman.

Singapore has already received stockpiles of H1N1 vaccine to deal with any potential major H1N1 outbreak.


In general there are two types of H1N1 vaccines. The so-called ‘adjuvanted’ H1N1 vaccine contains substances that increase the body responses to the swine flu jab as well as boost up the body immune system. The other type of H1N1 vaccine does not contain any booster (adjuvant) and thus considered much safer by doctors to be administered to pregnant women and children.



Many countries including the United States are trying to get all their citizens vaccinated against H1N1. There are many reports and information circulating in the Internet which question the safety of such vaccination and also if it is really necessary for other healthy person to get the jab at all.



The fact that the World Health Organization has granted some of these H1N1 vaccine manufacturers almost complete full immunity against any liability that might arise out from these flu jab such as serious side effects really bothers me. After all, the vaccine wasn’t fully tested for its long-term side effects.



So should you or should you not get the H1N1 flu jab? Some argued that the vaccine has been administered to thousands if not millions of people worldwide with minimal fatalities observed or reported. Opponents of H1N1 vaccination on the other hand claim that the swine flu fatalities and risks have been over hype and that the risk outweighs the benefits.

See "H1N1 Not As Dangerous As It Is Thought To Be."

As for me, I wouldn’t want to take any chances though. Why get the swine flu jab if you are healthy? Let your natural body immune system and defense mechanism deal with the incoming pathogens and virus. After all, that has always been the way Mother Nature let we human deal with diseases.



In summary, my personal opinion is that there is no need to put your health at risk by taking a vaccine that’s rush out to the market without full studies of its mid and long term implications and side effects. Nevertheless the risks pose by such vaccine may not be as serious as some claim to be.


So ultimately the decision really depends on the condition of your personal health, environmental surroundings which may predispose you to higher chances of being infected with the swine and last but not least, your appetite for risk in terms of taking such vaccine. Massive H1N1 vaccination has come under much criticism from not just the public but also some of the better-established health experts’ community at large.

Natural Stress Management Using Aromatherapy To Beat Stress

Aromatherapy as we know it today was accidentally discovered in 1910 by a French chemist named Rene-Maurice Gattefosse. After burning his hand during an experiment in a perfume factory, he plunged it into a vat of Lavender essential oil, and was amazed at how quickly and well his hand later healed. Thus modern aromatherapy was born. The use of aromatic plants in healing and medicine can be traced back to thousands of years BC however, and evidence of the use of essential oils has even been found in Egyptian tombs and hieroglyphics.

The practice of aromatherapy harnesses the healing properties of aromatic plants and trees in the form of essential oils which are extracted from the leaves, flowers, stems, bark and roots. The extracted oils are highly concentrated, but when diluted they are suitable for use in baths, oil burners, massage oils, creams, lotions and sprays.


Aromatherapy is an extremely effective treatment for stress, as there are a number of oils which have sedating, relaxing and uplifting properties. The connection between smell and emotion is very strong, and breathing in pleasant smells triggers positive reactions in the brain which creates a sense of well being. This therapeutic effect works in addition to the healing properties of the oils.


Essential oils should not be taken internally but should be absorbed into the body either through inhalation or through the skin. There are a number of oils available which are used to treat stress and its symptoms, and there is a wide variety of ways in which oils can be used.

Probably the most relaxing way to enjoy aromatherapy is in the form of a massage by a qualified aromatherapist, however there are still plenty of benefits to be had by practicing aromatherapy at home. Good quality essential oils can be purchased from reputable suppliers such as drugstores, natural health stores and specialist web sites. Do not buy cheap low quality oils as these are usually synthetically produced, and whilst they may smell the same, they contain none of the therapeutic benefits of the plant.

Oils such as Bergamot, Neroli, Frankincense, Geranium, Ylang-Ylang and Sandalwood are very safe, and will induce relaxation and lift your mood. Lavender, Roman Chamomile, Rose, Jasmine, Marjoram and Clary Sage have the same effect, but these oils should not be used if you are pregnant. You should avoid using any essential oils in the first trimester of pregnancy without taking advice from a doctor or a qualified aromatherapist.


You can use essential oils on their own or blended with one or two other oils for maximum effect. If you are using them on the skin they should always be diluted in a carrier oil such as Sunflower or Sweet Almond. Ways that you can use essential oils at home include:

Baths. Fill the bathtub with warm (not hot) water, then dilute 4 � 6 drops of essential oil in a few tablespoons of vegetable oil or milk, and add to the water. Close the door so that the vapours don't escape, and soak for at least ten minutes.


Oil Burner. Add 2tbsp warm water to the oil burner bowl and then add 3 � 6 drops of essential oil. Light the candle underneath, and the heat will disperse the oils into the air.

Lamp Ring. Place two or three drops of essential oil onto a lamp ring, and place the ring on a light bulb. The heat from the light bulb will cause the oils to disperse into the air.


Room Sprays. Use a new plant sprayer, and add warm but not boiling water. Add the essential oil (4 drops per � pint water) and shake before use. Spray into the air, but avoid spraying onto surfaces and fabric which are likely to stain.

Massage. For massage, the essential oils must be diluted in a carrier oil such as Sunflower, Sweet Almond or Grapeseed. You will probably need around 7-10 teaspoons of carrier oil for a full body massage, so add 1 drop of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. Mix well and apply to the skin with long sweeping strokes, always massaging towards the heart.


Using aromatherapy oils at home should be done with care. The essential oils are usually quite safe, but some oils can present hazards if not properly used. If you are in any doubt, always consult a qualified aromatherapist.


You should bear in mind the following guidelines before using essential oils:


1) Never use undiluted oils directly on the skin


2) Always seek professional advice from a medical practitioner or qualified aromatherapist if you have sensitive skin, are prone to allergic reactions, are pregnant or breast feeding, have a medical condition or are taking anticoagulant drugs.

3) Seek advice from a qualified aromatherapist before using oils on children.

The Benefits Of Cammomile

Chamomile is a herb plant native to central and southern Europe. This plant is now grown throughout the world. The flowers and leaves from this plant are dried and used as tea. Chamomile is well known for its healing properties and has been used as sleep promoting supplements for ages. This herb contains the chemical 'chrysin' which is known to promote drowsiness and encourages sleep.

The flower of the chamomile contains essential oils and flavonoids. Chamomile oil has anti fungal properties and can be used to treat some of the skin ailments that are caused by fungal infections. The oil can be added into a hot bath (or spa) to helps moisturize and soothe dry skin.

On the other hand the flavonoids has anti oxidant properties that helps the body to heal and increase protection against free radicals which harms the body. Surveys and studies indicates that this herb contain anti-histamine properties that contributes to the reduction of inflammation, swelling from allergies and boost up the body immune system.

Drinking Chamomile tea regularly helps to promote relaxation and and alleviate stress. Some other possible benefits are relieve of back pain, improve rheumatism, regulate menstrual periods and alleviate symptoms of common cold.

Summary:
Chamomile has both anti-inflammatory and sedative properties and has been historically used to help stop fits and fevers particularly in ancient Egypt. Chamomile is perfect for childhood ailments including earache and is noted for its gentle nature. Chamomile is also commonly used in shampoo for children or for fine blond hair. Chamomile can also be used for allergies, anemia, burns, dermatitis, diarrhea, fever, indigestion, menstrual and menopausal symptoms, insomnia, toothache, ulcers and even rheumatism. Chamomile is the most widely used essential oil and many people enjoy chamomile tea or other household products as part of their daily life.

Alternative Cancer Treatment

Here is a great posting on alternative cancer treatment. One of the important factors highlighted in that posting is with regards to how toxins are released to the body, in particular the blood stream as cancer cells dies during cancer therapy treatments.

Detoxification is one key aspects of alternative cancer treatment often overlook by modern convention cancer treatment. Detoxification should always be part and parcel of your daily health regime. Don't wait for health problems to affect you drastically before you start to take action to detoxify your body. After all, you got nothing to loose by regulating and cleaning up your body system regularly.

Nanotechnology - Benefits & Risks

Nanotechnology is an exciting new technology that offers tremendous opportunities in terms of improving quality of life. Nanotechnology involves the study, creation and controlling of materials , structures and systems that exist at the scale of atoms and molecules.

Such emerging technology offers great commercial rewards in areas of biological, electronics, electrical, chemical, mechanical and consumer goods such as cosmetics, textile, household and agricultural products. In the not too distant future, the adoption of nanotechnology will affect all aspect of our life.

Nanofilters capable of filtering particles the size of virus or even smaller could be cheaply produced and sold at affordable cost to be deployed in third world countries which are struggling to combat contaminated and polluted source of drinking water.

A vast range of applications many of which we envisioned only in the realm of science fiction can now be truly realized and implemented successfully with the help of nanotechnology. For instance, although still in experimental stages, scientist and nanotechnologist are now able to design and build tiny robots the size of pinhole to seek out and destroy specific cancer cells.

Cancer treatment breakthrough via nanotechnology could pave the way for medical scientist to not only improve treatment but also to develop long term effective vaccines agains AIDS and other such diseases.

Micro sensors build with nanotechnology better known as ‘nanosensors‘ or ‘dot sensors’ are capable of monitoring and detecting miniscule changes in temperature, pressure, displayment, flow, chemical response and other microscopic changes right at atomic and sub molecure level.

Nanocapsules containing drugs could be delivered to specific cells in the body with pinpoint accurarcy ,all without affecting other surrounding tissues and cells. Nanosensors can be programmed to determine the exact condition, the time and the necessary dosage to be released by the nanocapsules.
Its amazing how nanotechnology could someday make it possible for doctors and scientist to treat illness in a very radical different way.


On the other hand, the indiscriminate use of nanotechnology without any due consideration for social and ethical issues can have huge implications to humankind. Human may try to play God and strive to create new species through the manipulation of gene and biological engineering. Nanotechnology could become the catalyst for the development of new generation of weapons.

The increase presence of nanoparticles in cosmetic products may be detrimental to health. Nanoparticles are so tiny that it may cross the blood brain barrier or penetrate deeply beyond the external surface of the skin right through into organs and blood stream.

Nanotechnology – Skin Deeper Cosmetics.