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How To Transform Your Body Into A Fat Burning Machine

Apr 30, 2015

5118

Fat Burning

It may sound incredible, but you can actually transform your body into a fat burning machine. Knowing the right kind of food to eat and identifying foods that you should avoid are the simple steps in achieving this goal. Getting into a crash diet and spending your money on diet programs are usually not sustainable approaches to losing weight. Most of the time, they can result in significant frustrations that may cause you to lose hope that you can actually get the ideal weight and body shape that you are really dying for. Learning the right steps and taking the appropriate approach on how to transform your body into a fat burning machine are usually what it takes to make you successful in achieving your weight loss goals.

Revealing facts about the so-called healthy foods you eat that you don't know about

Wheat is not healthy�

This may sound contradicting to the health advice that you usually hear from others that wheat is one of the super foods that should be included in your diet. However, the ugly truth is, wheat can also have its dark sides that are worth knowing. Wheat contains amylopectin-A, which is a type of carbohydrates that can increase your blood sugar with resulting adverse consequences that can accelerate the aging process, and high risk to diabetes and weight gain.

Gluten can cause inflammatory bowel disease�

Gluten can result in the so-called leaky gut disorder because it can increase the permeability of your gut with resulting abdominal irritation and inflammation of the digestive system. Researchers explain this phenomena as the result of an excessive hybridization of wheat in the past years, causing some modification on its gluten molecules that are not friendly to the digestive system.

Even non-hydrogenated vegetable oil can be unhealthy

It is fairly common to hear about staying away from hydrogenated oil because they are harmful to your cellular membrane that can lead to chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer's, and obesity. It is important to know, however, that even non-hydrogenated vegetable oils can be unhealthy as well. They contain trans fats after heating because the polyunsaturated contents that are found in the vegetable oils can turn into trans fat during the process.

The ideal food choices to transform your body into a fat burning machine naturally

Your ultimate goal in dieting is actually to lose fat and that is exactly what you can achieve when eating these selected, ideal food choices that can help your body to naturally burn fat without any adverse effects. While we could not completely eliminate fats in our diet as our body needs it, there are natural fats found in certain food groups that are more beneficial to your body, such as the following:

Poultry
Eggs
Nuts like macadamia, almonds, hazelnuts, pecan and walnut
Beef
Fatty fishes like trout, salmon, mackerel and tuna
Green, leafy vegetables
Fruits
berries

Natural ways of helping your body burn fat more efficiently

Turning your body into a fat burning machine need not be difficult. There are effective ways of burning body fats consistently with no risks and danger to your health. Here are some of the safest and effective fat burning solutions to get rid of fatty substances from your body.

Eat more nutrition dense foods

You need not eat less if you want to lose weight. All you need is to increase your consumption of nutrition dense foods that can help optimize your ability of transforming your body into a fat burning machine. Cutting down your food consumption may actually harm your body's normal metabolism process that can make you starve for more foods. Engaging in a crash diet is not healthy, as it only promotes losses of muscle tissues that give fatty tissues a greater advantage. As your metabolism drops, the more fatty tissues will form in your body. Loading up the body with nutritious foods will keep your metabolism going that helps the body consistently burn fats.

Loading the body with protein rich foods

Protein is an essential nutrition for building lean muscles. Experts view protein as the only calorie source that has an influence to your body's metabolic process. It helps facilitate weight loss as it drives the body's metabolism to burn fat continuously. It contains amino acids that can rev up the body's metabolism activity. An important form of amino acid found in protein is leucine, as it is known to activate metabolic process more efficiently.

Keep your body active

The level of your physical activity can have a significant implication to the efficiency of your metabolic process that can increase the fat burning ability of your body. Studies show that inactivity for at least four hours can shut down the enzyme controlling the fat metabolism.

Go organic

Food sources grown with pesticide exposure can actually make fat metabolism difficult. Research studies show that the presence of organochlorines can interfere with the body's ability to burn fats. Going organic in your diet is helpful in avoiding the adverse effects of the pollutant organochlorines� found in pesticides that can arrest the body's ability to lose weight.

Let your metabolism kick early

Eating breakfast regularly is more beneficial in activating your metabolism with a good start during the day. By loading the body with foods in the morning, you can help jump start the metabolic activity that can keep your body's energy high throughout the day. Drinking coffee is a good way of stimulating your body's energy to burn fat, with the help of catechins that is known to rev up the metabolism.

Biological Treatment for Psoriasis: An Overview

Mar 29, 2015

3816

Psoriasis is characterized by the classic formation of a thickened skin with plaque and scaly appearance. It is considered to be an autoimmune disorder where the immune system causes a rapid proliferation of cellular formation in the skin. The condition commonly affects the scalp, elbows and knees. In its milder form, psoriasis may cause insignificant symptom of dry skin patches that makes the affected person unaware of having the condition. Severe cases of psoriasis may affect the whole body, covering it with red, thick, scaly skin.

Because psoriasis have no cure, the main form of treatment used in managing the disease is controlling the immune responses that trigger the occurrence of the symptoms. The course of the disease is variable. It may consist of periodic worsening and then may stay in remission. Doctors usually prescribe the treatment of using biological agents once the regular medications for managing the symptoms of psoriasis are ineffective. It is known to be a safe substitute for oral medications where psoriasis treatment is unresponsive.

What are biological agents?

Unlike the oral medications indicated for psoriasis that are made from chemicals or plants, biological agents are made up of proteins. They work mainly in targeting the body's immune response that causes the abnormal rapid skin cell formation in psoriasis. These drugs are introduced in the body intravenously or by injection. The proteins in the drugs are cultured from a medical laboratory. Biologic agents produce potent effects, mainly targeting only the specific cell, called the T cells, in the immune system that produces the psoriasis symptoms. The protein from the biological agents works to block the T cell to prevent it from triggering the abnormal occurrence of rapid skin cell activities. It also causes a barrier to the interleukins 12 and 23, and the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) proteins that also contribute to the pathological manifestations of psoriasis symptoms.

When do you need biological treatment for psoriasis?

Doctors usually consider biological agents in treating psoriasis only when the basic drugs prescribed as first line of treatment for the condition fail to produce the expected response from the patient.� Biological agents can be costly, especially when considering it as a lifetime maintenance form of treatment. It can also suppress the activity of the immune system that makes a person more susceptible to infection and other diseases. Your doctor will usually weigh the risks and benefits before prescribing biological treatment for your condition. Among the considerations that doctors will take include the extent of the severity of symptoms, the patient's health condition, the response of the patient to other forms of treatment and the patient's preferences.

Biologic agents are not indicated for patients with an already compromised immune system, such as in the presence of an active infection, because of the potential adverse effect it may produce to the body. Among the side effects of taking biologic agents include the development of flu-like symptoms and respiratory infections. The symptoms, however, are usually mild and manageable with other medications. Rarer side effects usually involve cancer and neurologic disorders like seizure, nerve inflammation in the eyes, and multiple sclerosis.

Commonly prescribed biological agents for psoriasis

There are varieties of FDA approved agents used for the biological treatment of psoriasis which include the following:

Stelara
Simponi
Humira
Enbrel
Remicade

These agents are usually prescribed and taken with other forms of treatment for psoriasis like phototherapy and topical medications. However, using Remicade with phototherapy may cause cancer and doctors usually do not combine these two forms of treatment. In deciding whether biological treatment for psoriasis is right for you, it is important to discuss with your doctor your preferences including the risks and benefits of the treatment.

Diabetes Care and Treatment

Mar 26, 2015

4838

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that ranks 7^th as the leading cause of death among Americans, according to the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes can be acquired through genetics and lifestyle. It is characterized by a high blood glucose or blood sugar level in the body. Diabetes happens when the body is unable to produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar or if the cells inadequately react to the insulin produced by the body. It is a long-term condition that requires maintenance treatment.

Diabetes care and treatment should start with prevention. Living a healthy lifestyle can help prevent the risks of diabetes or reduce the chance of its symptoms from occurring. Reversing diabetes is difficult, but It can be controlled through proper lifestyle, exercise and a healthy diet.

Types of diabetes

Sugar is a source of energy fuelling the body to carry out its normal physiological functions. The sugar consumed goes through the process of breaking down into energy through the bloodstream. However, too much sugar can result to sugar overload that can stress the body's internal organs. Thus, the body needs insulin in order to control and regulate the amount of sugar in the body. In diabetes, the pancreas is incapable of producing enough insulin in the body (type 1 diabetes) or the body lacks the ability of using insulin (Type 2 diabetes).

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes affects at least 10% of people who has diabetes. This type of diabetes happens when the body has no enough insulin to use in order to control the blood sugar level. Children who have diabetes usually fall under this type and they are treated with regular insulin injection to regulate their blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes also affects adults with a higher prevalence as they reach the age of 30's or 40's. Insulin therapy is usually prescribed in order to help meet the insulin supply that the body needs for proper functioning. Glycemic control and self monitoring are also taught in order to help the patient understand about the proper care he needs.

Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes that affects 90% of people with diabetes. Type 2 diabetes happens when there is no enough insulin produced by the pancreas. People with type 2 diabetes are subject to maintenance like medicines or insulin to keep their blood sugar at a normal level. A carefully planned diet and enough exercise can help enhance the body's metabolic activity. Proper diet and nutrition are also required for proper weight management among the diabetics.

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes happens to pregnant women at a rate of 2 to 10 percent all over the world. A woman who is not diabetic by nature may develop this type of illness during pregnancy. During pregnancy, there is an increased change of female hormones that can affect the responsiveness of the cells to insulin. When they become less responsive, blood sugar shoots up causing gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes usually disappears after childbirth, but the risk of having it again on the next pregnancy is high. Pregnant women with gestational diabetes are required to observe a healthy meal plan, get enough exercise and take the prescribed medication to help control their blood sugar level throughout pregnancy.

Diabetic care and treatment

Exercise regularly

Exercise is effective in lowering the blood sugar in the body. It has a weight loss benefit and helps to improve the blood circulation that reduces the blood pressure in the body. Walking or jogging at least 30 minutes a day will help you regulate your blood sugar level, which is effective in diabetes control and blood sugar management.

Eat healthy and well balanced diet

Avoid eating too salty or sugary food. Foods high in carbohydrates can lead to high blood sugar if not properly digested by the body. Alcohol drinks with sugar content can also risk increasing the blood sugar level. An ideal diet consists of foods rich in fiber and protein. Skip vogue diets, but stick to healthy eating instead. Some fad diets lack the necessary nutrients your body needs to perform normally. Do not eat too much food in one sitting. Try to eat normally to keep the blood sugar at a normal range.

Keep your weight down

People who are overweight have a higher risk of getting diabetes than those who maintain their normal weight. Engaging in a regular exercise program is very helpful, but make sure to consult your doctor what type of exercise is best and safe for your diabetes.

When to seek your doctor's help

If you notice the following symptoms, consult your doctor for a check-up to confirm whether these are signs of a diabetes.

Frequent urination
Extreme hunger
Unexpected weight loss
Extreme thirst
Fatigue and weakness

Diabetes complications and management

Kidney disease

Kidney disease is composed of filters made of blood vessels. These filters are responsible in screening toxins in the body. When there is an overload of blood sugar in the system, this can damage these filters that will eventually damage the kidneys. Controlling the blood sugar level will help protect kidney against damage and complications.

Eye / vision problems

High blood sugar can result in visual or eye problems. The most common are cataracts and glaucoma. People at the age of 60 or older have a higher risk of developing this complication of diabetes and a regular eye check-up will help you learn the proper eye care to delay or prevent the visual problems in diabetes.

Delayed wound healing

Wounds that don't heal or takes longer than the normal time to heal is considered to be one of the complications of diabetes. Skin problems as well as fungal infections will also likely to develop. Proper skin care is important and seeing your doctor for proper wound treatment is your best option.

Obesity In Children Linked to Lack of Sleep and Breathing Problems

Mar 7, 2015

4909

A child's difficulty to sleep and breathing problems can influence the risk of your child from getting obese. The recent research study published in The Journal of Pediatrics revealed that these two conditions may double the risk for obesity of a child as he reaches the age of 15. The lead researcher, Prof. Karen Bonuck, indicated that sleep and breathing problems are correctable conditions, but when not treated accordingly can increase the risk of the child to become obese.

Sleep disordered breathing

Sleep disordered breathing is considered to be a risk factor to child obesity. The condition includes sleep apnea and snoring. Parents of children in the study were asked to provide information involving their child's sleep duration and sleep disordered breathing symptoms since birth until the child reaches the age of 6 years. Data on body mass index (BMI) were also obtained. The study showed that those with a higher BMI and with severe sleep disordered breathing symptoms are at the greatest risk of getting obese. Their chance to become obese as they reach the age of 7 to 15 years old is twice as much as those who are symptomatic with sleep disordered breathing condition. A study made in Hong Kong revealed that children with an excess weight tend to have a breathing problem because it causes the narrowing or congestion of the child's airway while sleeping. Children with sleep disorders also tend to have enlarged tissues at the back of their throat, increasing their chance to getting obese later on.

Sleep duration symptoms

Children with a shorter sleep duration at the age of five or six have about 60 to 100 percent of getting obese upon reaching the age of 15. This finding, however, is interestingly not consistent among children of other age group. Short sleep duration in children refers to sleep that is less than 90% than the other children of their age. Parents are advised to help their children get enough sleep at an ideal duration, considering that about 25 to 50 percent of preschoolers suffer from lack of sufficient sleep.

In a research study published in Pediatrics that was conducted by the University of Chicago researchers, the sleeping patterns of about 308 children between the age of 4 and 10 were tracked down using a special wrist device. These children were categorized with normal, overweight and obese according to their respective body mass index. The study revealed that obese children in the group have variable sleep patterns and they tend to have short duration sleep as the other children. They were also identified to have the unhealthiest blood profile during blood extraction.

Additional findings of the researchers show that those children having the tendency to become obese are more protected when they get adequate sleep. Additional observation was added by Dr. Phyllis Zee, a sleep researcher, where he agreed there is a correlating link between sleep and obesity, but also signifies that the variability of sleep-wake timing in children can also be a contributing factor in regulating weight.

Other researches were also focusing on the resulting interrupted or disordered activity of the body's metabolism and endocrine system caused by the lack of sleep. This is especially significant among children whose body are still growing. Another relation to sleep and obesity are the changes in the levels� of two hormones named leptin and gherlin, which are responsible for appetite and hunger regulation. The body often misinterprets sleep cravings as a hunger that causes an increase in the activities of these hormones that makes a child overeat.

The Relationship of Gut Bacteria to Parkinson’s Disease

Mar 6, 2015

4915

In a recent study conducted by the researchers from the University of Helsinki Institute for Biotechnology in Finland, it was shown that patients with Parkinson's disease have distinctly different bacteria in the gut. The research findings were published in Movement Disorders journal citing the outcome of the research involving 72 patients with the disorder.

What is Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease is a neurologic dysfunction consisting of the degeneration of the brain that is progressive in nature. Individuals with the disease usually experience gradual progression of their symptoms that typically begin with a mild tremor in the hand that continues to manifest slow movement and stiffness. As the disease progresses, significant motor functions are lost. The face shows no facial expression and the arm no longer swings when walking. The speech also becomes slurred and the gait of the person is eventually affected.

Study on distinct gut bacteria in Parkinson's disease

The disease severity in Parkinson's disease has been associated to the gut bacteria present in the body. More people are getting afflicted with Parkinson's disease and the manifestation of the severity depends on the gut bacteria activities. The bacteria appear to outnumber the normal cells in the body, which may cause a significant risk to getting the disorder. The link between Parkinson's disease and gastrointestinal function has been described in the earlier research studies, pointing out in particular the condition of constipation, which are non-motor signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Constipation is often experienced by patients with Parkinson's disease prior to having their motor symptoms.

It has been indicated by the National Parkinson's Foundation that there is about 60,000 new cases of the disease every year in the United States. The majority of new cases of Parkinson's disease show some gut problems. The findings of the research made by Dr. Filip Scheperjans of the Neurology Clinic of Helsinki University Hospital highlighted the fact that the patients having the disease have lesser bacteria from the genus Prevotellaceae. The researchers believe that gut bacteria may interact with the central nervous system through the enteric nervous system called the vagal nerve. Through this pathway, the gut bacteria can influence the neurologic function that is commonly present in Parkinson's disease. It is not clear, however, how the Prevotellaceae family may influence the gut activities in Parkinson's disease. The researchers postulate that the presence of the bacteria may protect a person against the disease or it has the ability to prevent the occurrence of the symptoms in Parkinson's disease.

Another family of bacteria has been associated to Parkinson's disease. This is the Enterobacteriaceae that is being linked to the severity of the symptoms seen in the disorder. The presence of these bacteria appears to be high among individuals who manifest balance and walking problems as symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Significance of the research findings

The researchers are hopeful that the ability to identify how the gut bacteria influence the symptoms in Parkinson's disease can help define the prognosis and identify preventive measures against the disease progression. Further studies, however, are needed in order to determine whether the bacteria can actually influence the progress of the disease and whether the differences in their presence in the gut are permanent.

Dr. Scheperjans also added that they are hopeful to use the changes in the ecosystem of the gut bacteria as a means of identifying the onset of the motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease. More studies are underway in understanding the underlying biological mechanism occurring between the disease and the gut bacteria. Among the aim of the research is to use the findings about the influence of the gut bacteria to Parkinson's disease in discovering new treatments for the disorder and to create new diagnostic tests that can help prevent the disease.

The Role of Tea and Citrus Flavanoids in Reducing The Risk of Ovarian Cancer

Mar 5, 2015

4753

Women who are fond of drinking tea and citrus may derive some health benefits from its flavanoid contents. In a recent research conducted by the research team of the University of East Anglia, it has been found out that taking tea and citrus products in your diet can actually reduce the risk for ovarian cancer. Foods that are high in flavanoid contents like flavonols and flavanones are known to reduce the occurrence of epithelial ovarian cancer. This is the fifth leading cause of death due to cancer in women.

The research findings on flavanoids

According to research, women who are taking tea or citrus products have lesser risk to ovarian cancer. The sub-classes of flavanoids known as flavonols and flavanones are deemed responsible in giving this kind of protection. The revealing study was based on the observations made on the dietary habit of participating women between the age of 25 and 55. The study took three decades before the conclusion was made. There were about 171,940 women who participated in the study and were monitored after including drinks and foods with flavonols and flavonones in their diet. Flavonols content are high in tea, apples, red wine, and grapes while flavonones are abundant in citrus products. The finding indicates that high consumption of flavanoids reduces the risk to ovarian cancer.

It can be noted that ovarian cancer significantly affects women's health worldwide, with about 6,500 women affected in the UK each year and 20,000 in the United States. The aim of the research is to conduct a large scale study regarding the habitual intake of tea and citrus among women and its effect to the risk of ovarian cancer. The reduction in the risk to cancer is actually traced to the two sub-groups of flavanoids namely the flavonols and flavonones.

Professor Aedin Cassidy, the lead researcher of the study, referred to tea and citrus products as the main sources of these substances. Two cups of black tea can in fact reduce the risk to ovarian cancer by 31 percent. The said study was the first undertaken with the main focus on the health benefits of flavanoids in fighting off the risk for ovarian cancer. The study likewise studied the effects of polymers and anthocyanins against cancer. Among the anti-cancer mechanisms that can be availed from flavanoids include inhibiting the inflammation, proliferation, metastasis and invasion of apoptosis.

Ovarian cancer prevention

The significance of the study provides the possibility of finding preventive treatment against ovarian cancer. This form of cancer is considered to be a silent killer, causing the deaths of thousands of women each year worldwide. Ovarian cancer is usually diagnosed on the later stage of the disease, making the treatment ineffective. About half of the women with ovarian cancer die after five years from the time of diagnosis. This makes ovarian cancer a notorious killer among women. The research finding is promising, giving a better hope to reduce the prevalence of ovarian cancer among women possible. While further research is still needed in order to fully understand how to maximize the benefits of flavanoids, women can, in the meantime, increase their dietary intake of tea and citrus products.

The researchers, however, added that the effects and health benefits of flavanoid against ovarian cancer are also influenced by the differences in lifestyle, agricultural and sociodemographic factors. Moreover, the timing of exposure and the dose of the substances can also influence on the anti-cancer effects of flavanoid diet.

About Nasal Polyps Symptoms and Treatments

Dec 5, 2014

9770

Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps, as their name implies, are small growths that form inside of the nose. In typical cases, they are very small and difficult to spot immediately. In the instances when they grow big enough, they can be seen instantly within the nostrils. They also form along the sinuses, where they branch into the nasal cavity. Polyps are abnormal tissue growths that jut out of any mucous membrane. Nasal polyps grow out of the mucous membrane covering the walls of the nasal cavity. Unlike other types of polyps that form within the body, such as in the bladder or in the colon, these nasal masses normally do not have any serious detrimental effect on a person’s health. They are soft and can even be moved.

Nasal polyps are often described as looking like seedless grapes or teardrops. Small polyps usually do not cause any known symptoms, but larger masses can block the sinuses and lead to a few nasal difficulties and problems. These growths are often associated with asthma, allergies, and conditions that affect the sinus. Polyposis occurs when one has developed several groups of polyps. Anybody can develop nasal polyps, and while they are normally not dangerous to your health, people still have the option to seek professional treatment.

Types of nasal polyps

There are different types of nasal polyps, each with its own characteristics and forms of treatment. Antrochoanal nasal polyps grow as single large masses and are predominantly found among children, where males are usually affected more than females are. They are pedunculated, meaning they lie on top of a stalk that grows out of the nasal lining, and originate from the maxillary sinuses. Antrochoanal polyps are also unilateral and edematous, tending to accumulate fluid within their tissues. Ethmoidal polyps are bilateral and grow in multiple masses. They are mostly found among adults and affect both males and females. The grape-like appearance commonly attributed to nasal polyps are found in ethmoidal polyps.

They also cause a wide variety of symptoms than antrochoanal polyps. Allergic nasal polyps are usually the most common type of polyp, and can be triggered by any types of allergies that affect the nasal cavity. Non-allergic nasal polyps are similar in appearance and characteristics to allergic polyps, but develop without the allergen stimulus. Certain polyps are often commonly associated with papillomas, which are benign tumors that grown on the epithelium.

Associated causes of nasal polyps

The exact cause of nasal polyps is yet to be discovered, though many experts agree that they are associated mostly with allergies. Allergic rhinitis of the nasal airways is believed to be the most likely culprit. Chronic infection or inflammation in the nasal and sinus cavity linings often lead to a manifestation of polyps. Ethmoidal polyps are mostly triggered by allergies, while antrochoanal polyps are usually a product of nasal infections. Other diseases and illnesses thought to be linked to the development of polyps are asthma, cystic fibrosis, nasal mastocytosis, Kartagener’s syndrome, and rhinosinusitis. Samter’s triad is another known condition that normally leads to polyposis of ethmoidal polyps.

Some theories suggest that certain people have a susceptibility in their immune systems that makes them naturally predisposed to developing nasal polyps. Others suggest that these people may have different chemical or genetic markers present in the mucosal linings of their nasal cavities. Large polyp masses are believed to be formed from small sessile polyps with no stalks that eventually become pedunculated due to gravity, resulting in the polyp’s visible appearance.

Symptoms of nasal polyps

Nasal polyps that are large enough can lead to several inconvenient and difficult symptoms. They can block the nasal airways either partially, leading to great discomfort for most people, or completely, making it difficult for them to breathe. This obstruction also leads to Rhinolalia clausa, also known as hyponasal speech, wherein the speaker is not able to speak properly due to the blocked airways and often sounds as if he or she is sick.

The nose also becomes quickly congested and stuffy, often leading to discharge that may contain blood. Postnasal drip occurs, oozing out mucus that is usually stored in the intestinal tract, stomach, and throat. People with nasal polyps can develop anosmia, the loss of or a decrease in the ability to smell, and ageusia, an impaired ability to taste. They often feel pain all over their face, as if there is a source of pressure pushing against it. Ethmoidal polyps can cause a vacuum headache, similar to those felt in airplane rides caused by a sudden altitude change. Nasal polyps also lead to colds, allergies, and bouts of sneezing.

Treatment for nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are usually treated with nasal sprays. Nasal corticosteroids, such as Nasonex, Omnaris, and Rhinocort, are available as sprays and can reduce the size of polyps and even completely do away with them. Mometasone furoate is another nasal spray that can reduce any inflammation in the cavity linings. Oral corticosteroids are used for cases wherein nasal sprays are not working. They may be taken together with a spray for added effectiveness, though this is only advised for a short period as it may run the risk of causing adverse side-effects. Injectable corticosteroids are only for severe nasal polyp cases. A mixture of warm water and salt can clear the nasal airways and discourage any polyps from growing. A number of surgeries are available to manually remove the polyps.

Doctor’s team recommends �: �The�Nasal Polyps Treatment Miracle�

New Discovery of the Source of Neuron Death in Alzheimer’s Disease

Dec 4, 2014

6124

Neuron Death in Alzheimer’s Disease

New research from Georgetown University Medical Center has revealed information on Alzheimer’s disease that drastically changed many assumptions in its progression and development. The study, published in the scientific journal Molecular Neurodegeneration, has discovered that neuron death, one of the major effects of Alzheimer’s, may be influenced by tau proteins. This phenomenon was previously believed to be caused by amyloid-beta, or Abeta, plaque peptides. The results help explain why certain people with buildups of Abeta plaque do not have dementia or related disorders. It also enables experts to more accurately pinpoint possible Alzheimer’s cases among potential patients. This discovery dramatically alters the medical understanding of Alzheimer’s disease, and also reveals more key information on the factors that could cause the disorder.

Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most widespread forms of dementia that gets worse with old age. Alzheimer’s currently has no cure and ends in death for its patients. Symptoms of the disease include short and long term memory loss, impaired cognitive ability, drastic mood swings, confusion, frustration, and aggression. Many Alzheimer’s patients have difficulty in relating to other people and end up becoming socially withdrawn from their friends and family. As the disease progresses, the functions of the rest of the body slowly begin to break down and lead to death approximately seven years after an initial diagnosis are made. Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disorder, wherein the neurons slowly begin to lose their structure and function, eventually leading to death.

Amyloid beta plaques

While a definitive cause behind Alzheimer’s has yet to be established, it is believed that amyloid beta peptides do play a major influencing role. Amyloid beta peptides stick together as groups of protein aggregates known as amyloid plaques. These plaques are commonly found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, as well as those with other kinds of dementia disorders. Many medical experts support the amyloid hypothesis, which states that these amyloid plaques are a major causal agent that contributes to the development of Alzheimer’s. They believe that accumulations of plaque produce toxic effects on neural cells and result in death.

Role of tau proteins

Doctor Charbel E-H Moussa, senior investigator of the Georgetown Medical Center study, discerned that the neuronal death associated with dementia is controlled by tau proteins instead of amyloid beta plaques. Abnormalities in tau in the brain cause amyloid proteins to accumulate as sticky plaque aggregates inside neurons. While the cells attempt to force these protein clumps out, any amyloid proteins that remain in the cell, along with any tau proteins that are not functioning, become responsible for cell death. Moussa’s research showed that fewer amounts of plaque gathered outside cells with fully functioning tau. Malfunctioning tau proteins prevent brain cells from clearing out toxic waste and lead to amyloid plaque build-up. Thus, it is important that tau proteins are able to function properly to prevent any neuron death from occurring as a result of amyloid aggregation.

Further research

A known cure or cause behind Alzheimer’s disease has yet to be established, thus the information discovered in the Georgetown study does present some promising results. Tracking the effects of malfunctioning tau in the brain can be difficult, as some proteins may appear normal while others may have already lost function. In some cases, tau defects may not cause amyloid plaques to form. Moussa’s goal is to find a way to assist functional tau in clearing up neural garbage. He has already worked on the approved cancer drug nilotinib, but claims that it still needs levels of functioning tau to work properly.

Genetic Link Discovered Behind Febrile Seizures in Children

Dec 4, 2014

4525

Febrile Seizures in Children

Seizures are common complications that can result from infectious diseases among young children. Understanding these seizures is an important step in diagnosing and immediately treating them. A recent international study conducted by researchers from the University of Tubingen in Germany has revealed groundbreaking information on one of the most common types of epileptic seizures to strike children – febrile seizures. The study has revealed valuable information which points to a genetic source that may be the underlying cause behind these seizures, knowledge that had previously remained unknown. The research findings put forward very promising results that could help physicians diagnose possible cases and prevent febrile seizures from occurring among children.

Febrile seizures

Febrile seizures, also referred to as febrile convulsions, are epileptic seizures caused by the changes in the body temperature. They normally inflict children between the ages of 6 months to 5 years. During a fit, the body becomes entirely stiff while both the arms and legs involuntarily twitch. The child may end up loosing their bladder or bowel control, and may also start to foam at the mouth or vomit. The child’s breathing patterns become irregular and he or she may fall unconscious while their eyes stay wide open. A febrile seizure typically does not reach five minutes long, and the inflicted child returns to normal condition an hour after. Febrile seizures occur during high fevers caused mostly by a viral infection. Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and midazolam, are the commonly prescribed medications for these kinds of seizures.

The STX1B gene

The mechanism that the researchers were able to link to febrile seizures involved the STX1B gene. The STX1B, or Syntaxin 1-B, gene is responsible for encoding the STX1B protein. Syntaxin proteins function as vesicles for transport. Syntaxin 1-B is involved in neural synaptic transmission. The researchers discovered that the likelihood of developing febrile seizures lay in the occurrence of mutations in the STX1B gene. STX1B mutations were revealed to be the possible source behind epileptic seizure attacks.

Research experiments and findings

The experiments conducted for this study were carried out as a joint effort from several universities around Germany. The researchers at Tubingen initially isolated the STX1B genetic mutations through a process known as exome sequencing, which is used to sequence specific sections of a genome. Analysis of the mutations connected them to two families with members that were especially vulnerable to both febrile seizures and epileptic fits. Upon studying more patients, the researchers discovered more STX1B mutations.

Professor Holger Lerche of the University Department of Neurology and Epileptology at Tubingen noted that these findings could indicate a connection between STX1B mutations and epilepsy in general. Experts from the Universities of Leuven and Luxembourg conducted further experiments on STX1B mutations using zebrafish as models, for the similarities between their organ development and that of humans. One of the principal investigators, Camila Esguerra, discovered that inputting the zebrafish with genes that were genetically altered produce the expected epileptiform attacks. In addition, the brainwave activities of the zebrafish were compromised by hyperthermia, similar to instances of fever.

Further studies by genetic experts

Many genetic experts are banding together to continue research on the possible mechanisms behind epilepsy. The EuroEPINOMICS Consortium is furthering studies on epilepsy and is geared toward discovering new methods for treatment. The IonNeurONet network is also conducting research on epilepsy and is attempting to gain more information on other types of nervous system disorders. The German Federal Ministry for Education and Research is funding these collective efforts and is helping to gather patients with confirmed STX1B mutations that are willing to volunteer for experiments and test studies.

The Link Between Oxytocin and Cerebro-Spinal Fluid in Autism

Dec 3, 2014

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treatment research for autism

Researchers from the Stanford University Medical Center have discovered a link between the amounts of oxytocin in the bloodstream and in the cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) surrounding the brain. The hormone oxytocin has always been associated with the development of anxiety and certain social behaviors. Many scientists have attempted to study these factors by analyzing the levels of oxytocin in the brain, but the taking of cerebro-spinal fluid presents a myriad of potential risks to the patients. The study, led by Professor Karen Parker, has provided a safer and less invasive method for measuring the oxytocin levels. The findings show promising results for patients suffering from anxiety or autism spectrum disorders. The information discovered could become an instrumental factor in diagnosing these disorders, as well as in developing methods of treatment.

�What is oxytocin?

Oxytocin belongs to the group of neurohypophysial hormones. These hormones are manufactured by the hypothalamus and secreted and stored in the posterior pituitary gland. Oxytocin has an integral role in the sexual reproduction of both males and females, and is responsible for facilitating many biological processes during childbirth, such as the contraction of muscles in the uterus. Most studies on oxytocin have been targeted toward its influence on several psychological behaviors, such as social bonding and interaction, anxiety, maternal behavior, and even sexual orgasm. Genetic abnormalities in the oxytocin receptor gene are believed to be connected to certain unfavorable social behaviors, including outward aggression and becoming socially withdrawn. Oxytocin has been labeled the “bonding hormone” for its role in encouraging empathy and trust among social groups and influencing the ostracism of non-group members.

Problems with CSF extraction

The standard procedure for measuring oxytocin levels in cerebro-spinal fluid is by collecting a fluid sample. The method for fluid extraction is an invasive procedure known as a lumbar puncture, also referred to as a spinal tap. During this process, a physician inserts a needle into an area of the lower lumbar region of the spine, in between two spinal vertebrae. The procedure normally takes a few minutes, while the needle extracts the fluid culture to be analyzed. There are several risks to such a delicate invasive method, such as infection, nerve damage, pain for the patient, fluid leakage, and bleeding that could occur in the spinal cord.

Measuring from the bloodstream

The research conducted by Parker’s team sought to measure oxytocin levels through the bloodstream by taking a simple blood sample. They gathered a group of 27 test subjects of various ages and collected cerebro-spinal fluids from a lumbar puncture while taking a blood sample. The results showed a definitive connection between oxytocin in both blood and CSF. The scientists also surveyed the anxiety levels of the subjects through questionnaires. While oxytocin levels are generally lower in the blood than in CSF, both compartments were discovered to follow the same patterns in terms of anxiety scores. Subjects with low levels of blood oxytocin also showed low levels of CSF oxytocin, and this in turn corresponded to higher anxiety levels. Thus, regulating oxytocin levels could be used as a potential treatment in controlling anxiety disorders.

Further research

These findings present very promising results for future studies. Parker and the lead author of the study, Dean Carson, claim that the information discovered could be used in the treatment of anxiety symptoms in autistic children. The varying level of oxytocin among children with autism suggests that oxytocin therapy may produce different benefits for different patients. Researchers are also testing to determine if oxytocin could be used to treat a variety of other psychiatric conditions, such as social withdrawal and phobias.

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