Monday, August 3, 2009

Take Charge of Your Health Care August 3, 2009

















Welcome to the August 3, 2009 edition of take charge of your health care.


Here in the U.S., Congress will be adjoining for the August recess without having produced a healthcare reform bill for President Obama to sign. Some progress has been made, but I am fearful that the final bill will be a watered down version of healthcare reform. Unfortunately there are too many special interests in the U.S., and the big corporate pharmaceutical companies and particularly the big health insurance companies are spending millions on lobbying and ads to try to scare the public. Some version of healthcare will eventually pass which is better than nothing. It can’t come too soon for the 47 million Americans who are uninsured and the millions who are underinsured.

I never thought that I would complain about too many submissions, but I am getting more than 150 submissions per month which is slowing down publication of the carnival. Starting with next month’s carnival, I would like to narrow the focus of this carnival to just the subject topics, and all submissions must be true blogs. Submissions without comments enabled will no longer be accepted by this carnival. I will only accept weight loss articles that have something new to offer. The usual diet and fitness tips and lists will not be included in the Carnival. Preference will be given to those articles dealing with health insurance and benefits, alternative medicine, consumer directed health care, and nutrition and fitness. Again, only 2 articles will be accepted per author or blog, and all articles must have good content and not be spammy. I hold to this strictly for my own posts as well.

To my readers: Thanks for your submissions this month. Let me know what your favorite articIes are and I will be sure to include them in this carnival. I look forward to reading next month’s articles.


alternative medicine

Alvin Hopkinson presents Natural Cures UTI - Addressing the UTI Root Causes are the Best Natural Cures posted at UTI Natural Remedies, saying, "Most UTI cases are due to E coli infections, and the root cause of the problem often involves poor hygiene. Therefore, most of the natural cures UTI specialists recommend are concerned with proper hygiene, as well as lifestyle and diet changes."

Susie presents Patients Remained Free of Diabetes Years after Getting Gastric Bypass Surgery posted at Diabetes Updates. Editor’s note: Some studies suggest that gastric bypass surgery can eliminate diabetes for some, especially type 2 diabetes, which would also indicate that diet and lifestyle changes alone should have an effect on this condition.

brit67chick presents Blood Sugar Support Supplements Part One posted at Reactive Hypoglycemia Info, saying, "Many people take blood sugar supplements for diabetes and hypoglycemia. What the research really says, and why you should probably save your money."

Ross presents Here’s A Quick & Easy Way To Strong & Healthy Bones posted at Energise for Life, saying, "Osteoporosis and bone weakness effects one in three women and 1 in 12 men over the age of 50. In total, osteoporosis causes 310,000 fractures in the UK every year. This is a dramatic statistic and one that actually surprised me. That is really high."

ESN presents 11 Anti-Stress Techniques You Can Use Right Now posted at Massage Therapy Schools. Editor’s note: Everyone can benefit from these stress reduction techniques.

Scientific Living presents Lack of Reason in Modern Medicine posted at Scientific Living, saying, "Discusses some inherent problems and irrational behavior in the current medical system."

00FF00 presents HERBS AND PANDEMICS posted at ooffoo, saying, "Reflecting on the current threat of Swine Flu Pandemic, a classical herbalist and member of the ooffoo community reviews a few herbs, which he values as great anti-virals and which have been found to be useful in both stimulating and strengthening the immune system. Some of these herbs have even been used with some success in previous pandemics (including the 1918 ‘Spanish Flu’ and the SARS virus)."

Brian presents 11 Ways to Reduce Insulin Resistance posted at How To Live a Longer Life, saying, "The following list contains 11 ways to reduce insulin levels, increase insulin sensitivity, reduce insulin resistance, and decrease blood sugar levels without the use of medication."

Christopher X. Gerber presents Fighting Physical Ailment ? With Cognitive Help posted at Experiment: Gerbus, saying, “Maybe it’s true that we can’t always find or create placebos for our problems, sure, but we can at least admit that the potential to heal is not exclusive to external medicine or therapy. There is something internal and mental that can have a healing effect.”

Amy B. Scher presents Apple Cider Vinegar and Diabetes posted at Healthcare Hacks, saying, “The popularly held notion that apple cider vinegar has healthful qualities is gaining acceptance in the scientific community. In fact, this commonly held household item may help people suffering from type-2 diabetes while also helping to lower blood glucose levels and lose weight.”

ChristianPF presents Apple cider vinegar removes warts! posted at Natural Health Ezine, saying, "This is a very effective, cheap, and painless home remedy to remove warts using natural methods..."

Astrid Lee presents Protect Yourself from Negativity with Black Tourmaline posted at World Healing, saying, "Some may not know this, but black tourmaline is a crystal that can absorb negativity from your surrounding/within you (think electronic radiations, nagging colleagues, fights, competition, your own negative self talk, etc ) and bring your mind and body back into balance! An inexpensive but powerful crystal that can help you gain the grounding you wish and need."

Brian presents Think Positive & Fight Depression posted at How To Live a Longer Life, saying, "Thinking positive can can help improve mortality rates and assist in disease prevention and recovery but only in cases where the positive thinking is genuine. How then do you think genuinely positive thoughts when you're fighting depression?"

Justin Hall presents How To Balance Your Life posted at Justin Hall, saying, “Keeping balance in your life is what keeps you healthy, both mentally and physically.”

Brooklyn White presents 100 Ways to Make Your Brain Better, Faster, and Stronger posted at MRI Technician Schools, saying, “In today’s fast-paced, competitive world, building your brain power gives you an edge in the job market as well as other aspects of life. These tips will teach you how to boost your brain and memory to increase productivity and make you a superstar at trivia.”

Alisha Harmann presents Top 50 Blogs for Positive and Conscious Living posted at Master Of Health Administration, saying, “Here are 50 blogs that can get you on the path to positive and conscious living:”

Alisha Harmann presents Top 50 Alternative Medicine Blogs posted at Online Nursing Degree Guide, saying, “Alternative medicine has been shown to be reasonably effective in some cases, and it has even surpassed more conventional treatments.”

Martha Jackson presents Top 50 Holistic Medicine Blogs posted at Nursing Online Degree, saying, “With holistic medicine, the health of the patient involves spiritual, lifestyle, nutritional, emotional, mental, social and environmental aspects in addition to the physical. Holistic medicine can be used in a manner that is complementary to medical practices present in modern Western health care.”

Patricia Turner presents 100 Best Health Blogs for Soon-to-be Moms posted at Becoming A Radiologist, saying, “Soon to be moms and dads can save hours of sifting through internet sites and blogs by visiting these top pregnancy and parenting blogs.”

Nancy Miller presents 50 Social Networks for Healthy and Happy Moms posted at Pharmacy Technician Certification. Editor’s note: The author has compiled a list of some of the best blogs and social networking sites for moms.

Barbara Williams presents 100 Useful Websites for Medical Librarians posted at Nursing Schools.net. Editor’s note: The author has provided an excellent resource for medical information.

Brooklyn White presents 50+ Ways to Germ-Proof Your Home, Office, and Life posted at Radiography Schools, saying, “It seems each headline brings a new flu, disease, or other bacterial worry and who has the time to learn them all? Take a proactive stance by learning the best ways to germ proof yourself, kids, office, home, and more.”

Elisha Knackwood presents 25 Free iPhone Apps to Help You Live Healthy posted at Masters In Health Care Online, saying, “Here are 25 free iPhone Apps to help you live a healthy lifestyle.”


Beauty

Robin presents Skin Care posted at Skin Care. Editor’s note: Some good advice on choosing a skin care product.


Consumer Driven Health Care

Beth L. Gainer presents Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Medical Administrator? posted at Calling the Shots, saying, “I'm hoping that this posting can help you stand up to rude administrators who seem bent on placing hurdles in your way or being rude and inappropriate during your visit to the office.”

Beth L. Gainer presents Say 'No' to Thugs posted at Calling the Shots, saying, “We are able to say “no” to our children, teenagers, relatives, friends, and significant others. So why is it so difficult to say "no" to doctors?”

Scientific Living presents Drug Company Hypnotizes Viewers posted at Scientific Living. Editor’s note: The author provides an interesting analysis of those television drug ads.

Alvaro Fernandez presents Debunking 10 Brain Training/ Cognitive Health Myths posted at SharpBrains: Your Window into the Brain Fitness Revolution, saying, "Think about this: How can anyone take care of his or her brain when every week brings a new barrage of articles and studies which seem to contradict each other?"

Brain Blogger presents Natural Good, Chemical Bad ? Right? posted at Brain Blogger, saying, "Arsenic sandwich anyone? Mercury soup, deadly nightshade surprise? No? Really? Well, I’m baffled! They’re all natural you know. And as we know, natural is good; natural is pure. Best of all, natural is healthy"

Brain Blogger presents Time for a Change ? Gender Reassignment posted at Brain Blogger, saying, "I still remember him plainly: middle-aged, married, paunchy around the middle. He didn’t come in to the clinic because he was sick or had a chronic medical illness. He came in because he wanted to be a woman."

Ross presents Hidden Health Danger in the Home posted at Energise for Life, saying, "Every day we are surrounded by silent killers. In our lounge, in our kitchen and in our bedroom. In our pocket and on our lap."

Mick Hart presents Women Under Threat From Alcohol Related Cancer posted at Quit Alcohol Today, saying, " Medical studies have shown that women who drink moderate amounts of alcohol increase their risk of a variety of types of cancer."

Mick Hart presents Understanding Your Drinking Habits And How To Quit Alcohol posted at Stop Drinking Advice, saying, "Discover just how easy it is to stop drinking alcohol through the support of people who have been there before and who understand the real hardships involved."

Vichuda presents H1N1 Virus in Indonesia posted at Kota Medan Guide. Editor’s note: We must still take precautions when traveling to help prevent the spread of the H1N1 flu.

Alvaro Fernandez presents Daniel Goleman: Yes, You Can Build Willpower (meditate on neuroplasticity!) posted at SharpBrains: Your Window into the Brain Fitness Revolution, saying, ""brain science now tells us the brain makes about 10,000 new cells every day, and that they migrate to where they are needed. Once there, each cell makes around 10,000 connections to other brain cells over the successive four months.""

Joel Gray presents Skin Cancer Risks And How To Prevent It From Happening To You posted at Health Tips 101. Editor’s note: The author provides good information about skin cancer prevention and treatment.

Sagarika presents Types of Communicable Diseases posted at Social Work for Mankind. Editor’s note: The author has provided some good information about infectious diseases.

Heartstrong presents Less Than 25% of Heart Problems Diagnosed Before Symptoms Appear posted at Healthy Hearts with Heartstrong. Editor’s note: The author discusses the importance of preventative health care.

Megan Wong presents Little Kiwi, the nutritional powerhouse to combat your sinus drainage posted at Sinus Home Remedy. Editor’s note: The author describes some of the important benefits of kiwi fruit.

Mesquite Pete presents Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes While Backpacking posted at Mosquito Basics, saying, "If you are going hiking or camping, you will want to make sure you are protected from mosquitoes."

Dave Fobare presents Conquer Your CPAP Fears posted at Beat Sleep Apnea. Editor’s note: Some good advice for those who use a CPAP mask for sleep apnea.

lavender presents Swine Flu: Deadly Vaccine posted at News for Freedom Daily, saying, “The swine flu vaccine may cause more harm to you than the actual disease.”

Vichuda presents H1N1 Symptoms and Precautions posted at Kota Medan City Indonesia. Editor’s note: The author provides some good information about the H1N1 Swine Flu.

Dental

Ross presents Mercury Fillings & Mercury Amalgam Removal? The Answers! posted at Energise for Life, saying, "I have absolutely no doubt that having mercury fillings in your mouth is a very bad idea, but having them removed properly is an absolute must." Editor’s note: Good article reminding us of the dangers of amalgam fillings.


Nutrition & Fitness

Helene Zemel presents Despite the Weak Economy, Sales of Nutritional Supplements are Up posted at Work at Home Mom and Dad, saying, "Since the start of the economic recession, we read every day how retail sales are down for almost every product category including cars, restaurant meals, clothing, jewelry, and movies and entertainment. Despite the gloomy economic picture, there is one bright light. Sales of nutritional supplements have been increasing."

Helene Zemel presents GeneWize LifeMap™ Alert Chocolate Chews posted at Health Plans Plus, saying, "GeneWize Life Sciences has just released the LifeMap™ Alert Chocolate Energy Chews. With LifeMap™ Alert you get all the health benefits of chocolate without the calories, fat, sugars, or dairy that you would find in chocolate candy."

Ashley Cook presents Juggling for Fun and Exercise posted at Healthy Living Tips, saying, "Juggling can not only be a fun hobby, but a great source of exercise."

Greg presents The Rise of Albino Wheat -- Whitewheat Bread Live Fit Blog posted at Live Fit Blog, saying, “Early humans consumed a variety of grain products. That has changed drastically in the last few hundred years, as wheat has become the favored grain crop among Western societies. More specifically, red (durham) wheat gained prominence, primarily by simple luck of the draw, as settlers moving to North America from Europe happened to favor red wheat. The now lesser known albino wheat was left behind. “

Britannica Blog presents Can Calorie Restriction Increase Ones Life Span? posted at Britannica Blog, saying, "In the 1930s scientists discovered that a low-calorie diet could increase life span in certain organisms. In the decades since, the effects of calorie restriction have been described in animals such as mice and rats and in smaller organisms, including yeast, worms, and fruit flies. Scientists also have begun to investigate the effects of low-calorie diets in primates. But there remains a burning and as yet unanswered question: does calorie restriction increase life span in humans? The experiments conducted so far have indicated that this route to increased longevity is not universally effective."

Resveratrol Explained presents What Is Resveratrol ? posted at Resveratrol Explained. Editor’s note: There has been proven research demonstrating the efficacy of resveratrol and other anti-oxidants.

Szabolcs Illes presents Easy Exercises – Have A Joy In What You Do And Stay Fit posted at Blog. Editor’s note: The author makes the point that to keep to an exercise routine, it must be fun to do. Choose 1 or more fitness activities that you will really enjoy.

J.D. Bell presents Resveratrol Supplement Web Scam posted at It Takes Work, saying, "Who says nutritional supplement marketers aren't honest?" Editor’s note: The author warns us to be aware of deceptive advertising of nutritional supplements.

Andy presents 5 Binge Eating Recovery Tips posted at Health Fitness Article Directory, saying, "Binge eating recovery might seem hard or even impossible especially if you’ve tried and failed in the past. Many binge eaters spend years trying to recover and only make little or no progress. The following 5 tips are going to save you years of trial and error when trying to stop binge eating."

Andy presents Why Real Weight Loss Will Always Be Hard posted at Weight Loss Window, saying, "I’m sure you’ve seen the “lose 10 pounds in 7 days” ads, all the deceiving miracle diets and all the different weight loss marketing media messages. Well real weight loss is hard and here is why."

Joel Gray presents Healthy Cooking for Special Diets posted at Health Tips 101, saying, “Healthy cooking for special diets doesn’t need to be a chore. The key is to remember important issues for each diet, and to creatively change your recipes to meet those needs.”

Joel Gray presents Exercise The Main Ingredient In A Healthy Diet posted at Health Tips 101, saying, “The importance of exercise regarding a healthy diet cannot be ignored. The lack of a quality exercise plan, will result in not being able to maintain your optimum weight and will not allow for long term weight loss.”

robert galway presents Atkins pre maintenance posted at robertgalway.com, saying, "After experiencing the Induction and OWL phases of the Atkins diet, your next step is to enter the pre-maintenance phase. This phase will set you up for a lifetime of healthy and balanced eating and living. You should begin this phase as you come within 5 to 10 pounds of your target weight goal. Your weight loss will be slowed down even further but it is for a purpose. You want to learn the practices and habits that will determine your long-term success."

robert galway presents Weight Loss posted at robertgalway.com, saying, "Atkins diet foods are easy to find and available everywhere. There are many varieties to choose from, whether you pick prepackaged low-carb diet foods or make your own meals. No matter how you want to do the Atkins plan, there is a solution out there for you."

Daniel James presents Staying Motivated posted at Weight Loss Dude, saying, “Weight loss can be fun, and it should be fun. Get creative with the foods you eat. Go for a nice walk outside in the sun. Don't restrict yourself so much that you go crazy. Enjoy the journey!”

Lucky Balaraman presents Finding Unshakable Happiness: The 5 Pristine Pillars posted at Calm and Cool, saying, “Everyone wants to be happy: it’s human nature. However, finding happiness is not always a piece of cake.”

brit67chick presents Ovo-vegan Diet Cured my Tietze's Syndrome posted at All About Tietze's Syndrome, saying, "I became a vegan not because of ethics, but to help with my hypoglycemia. The vegan diet not only helped control my blood sugar, it also eradicated the joint pain I had had for sixteen years!"

Daniel James presents Self-Experimentation for Weight Loss posted at Weight Loss Dude. Editor’s note: The author reports on some of his weight loss discoveries.

weight loss plans presents Ways To Get Exercise posted at weight loss plans, saying, " You don’t have to bench press 250 pounds or run the Boston Marathon to get exercise. There are some very simple, easy, and fun ways to get exercise!”

weight loss plans presents weight loss, diets, fitness,fat loss, eating , losing weight, Fat burning , nutrition , how to burn fat ,vitamins , diet program ,lose fat posted at weight loss plans. Editor’s note: The author provides some good tips on how to get started on an exercise and fitness program.

Martha Jackson presents Nutrition.edu: 25 Excellent Open Courseware Classes on Nutrition and Healthy Eating posted at Online Radiology Technician Schools, saying, “Are you confused by all the news about food and nutrition? According to Tufts University, only 25 percent of U.S. medical schools have a required nutrition course. You can overcome this knowledge deficiency through open courseware projects that focus on nutrition. These courses are online, they’re free and you can learn at your own pace.”

Elisha Knackwood presents Top 50 Blogs for Healthy Eating & Nutrition posted at Online Surgical Technician Courses. Editor’s note: This list is an excellent resource of blogs on healthy eating and nutrition.

Cory presents Frisbee for Fun and Fitness posted at Eating Healthy, saying, "Frisbee can be both a lot of fun and a great source of exercise."

Alisha Harmann presents Top 25 Ways You’re Wrecking Your Immune System posted at Masters in Nursing Online. Editor’s note: Some good information on how to keep your immune system healthy.

FitJerk presents Energy Bars & Protein Bars - Nutritious Mini-Meal Or Glorified Candy? posted at FlawlessFitness, saying, "Health Bars- They're jam packed with nutrients, minerals and vitamins and come in a million different flavors… BUT, are they really as “healthy” and “nutritious” as they claim to be? Find out..."

Heartstrong presents HEARTSTRONG BLOG posted at HEARTSTRONG BLOG, saying, “Rachel Ray talks about EVOO all the time, but is it really worth the money? And what exactly is extra-virgin olive oil?”

Jessica presents Random Ways To Feel Healthier Today posted at Jessica's Health Tips, saying, "Seven easy to implement ideas to make your life a little healthier."

Health Fitness How To presents Help for Eating Disorders posted at Health Fitness Article Directory, saying, "It’s not every day that a person with an eating disorder crosses the path of another individual. In fact, Eating Disorders are often hidden by women and men for years."

Robin presents Dressing For Yoga posted at Yoga Blogger. Editor’s note: The author provides some good information on how to choose comfortable clothing for yoga.

Kelsey Grace presents Top 10 Anti-Aging Supplements posted at Vitamins. Editor’s note: The author provides a good list of some of the best anti-aging supplements.

Kelsey Grace presents Top 10 Memory Improvement Supplements posted at Vitamins. Editor’s note: The author provides a list of supplements that can improve your memory.

Nancy Miller presents The Relationship Between Sleep, Exercise and Diabetes posted at LVN to RN, saying, “You need to realize the importance of sleep, especially if your genes and lifestyle makes you more prone to becoming a diabetic. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, you could try turning to exercise as a solution.”

Margaret Garcia presents Napping Power – How a Snooze Can Do You Good posted at Earn LPN Degree Online, saying, “We all know how essential sleep is to our general well being – normal adults need between six and eight hours each night to recharge our bodies so that we’re fit for a new day. But not many people know that there’s as much benefit in a daytime snooze, the forty winks we call “power naps”.”

Health Fitness How To presents The Must Buy Organic Produce List posted at Health Fitness Article Directory, saying, "Continuing on my transition to becoming an organic consumer, I have discovered some other useful information to consider."

Lucky Tuff presents Want Some Information on How to Lose Weight Fast? posted at How to lose weight fast - weight loss tips, saying, "Are you trying to figure out how to lose weight fast? Then you should know that there is no perfect weight loss tips that everyone should follow. This is simply because everyone’s body type is different. We all have diverse body types, various energy levels, different metabolic rates and varied dietary requirements. There are of course some proven techniques which if followed religiously can give positive results...."

Darryl Kimball presents If You Don't Give Some Thought To The Body Fat Set Point- You Might Be A Dumb Ass! posted at http://www.weightloss4dumbasses.com/, saying, "A very powerful article on the Body Fat Set Point. Is there scientific evidence that it exist and what is the best way to change it. Don't spend another dime on weight loss products and don't start another diet until you read this article on the body fat set point!"


Health Insurance

Abigail Perry presents Why we need a single-payer system posted at i pick up pennies, saying, "My husband and I both have chronic illnesses. Yet conservatives, who have probably never had anything worse than the flu, keep trying to tell me that we have "the best health care system in the world." I'd love for them to try and find $502 a month to keep my husband insured when we only bring in $3245 a month. Or try to find the $1000 in copays he's already racked up in the past 6 months. Or maybe they could just try being minimum-wage, uninsured workers who wait to go to the ER until the staph infection is in their blood, ensuring medical bills they'll never be able to repay."

Brian McKay presents Choosing the Best Health Insurance posted at MonitorBankRates.com, saying, "Health care costs have been increasing by leaps and bounds over the past 20 years. Costs have been driven up because of the increased advances in medical care."

Hal LaPray presents Geography Plays Role of Disparator in Approval Rates for Disability Benefits posted at Disability Information & Resources, saying, "Whether or not you're approved for Social Security benefits may depend on where you live. A survey of more than 200 Social Security Attorneys nationwide revealed that one of the most important factors in determining whether or not a disabled person will be approved for Social Security benefits is Geography."

Michael presents Handling a Hit and Run Accident. What to do in a Hit and Run. posted at Vital Motion, saying, "Chances are you or someone you know may be involved in a hit and run accident at some point."

Hal LaPray presents Interview With A Social Security Attorney posted at Disability Information & Resources, saying, "Steven Packard, a Social Security Attorney who represents disability claimants granted an interview to the local news."

Doug Boude presents Employers: Save Yourself And Your Employees Some Healthcare Cash! posted at Doug Boude (rhymes with 'loud'), saying, "this blog post explores a potential alternative to the way companies currently provide health coverage to their employees; an idea that potentially could save both employer and employee money"

Wenchypoo presents Wenchypoo's Health Care Proposal posted at Wisdom From Wenchypoo's Mental Wastebasket. Editor’s note: The author raises the point that preventive medicine should be incorporated into any health care plan and this would save taxpayers considerable money.


Save Money on Health Care

Smart Unemployment presents Individual Health Insurance: How To Lower Your Premiums In Three Steps posted at Smart Unemployment, saying, "Three ways to lower the cost of your health insurance premium."

Ron King presents Crisis in Caregiving: Can Seniors Go On Living at Home? posted at Blog Long Term Care - Long Term Care for Elders, saying, "A recent study funded by the Connecticut State Legislature found that community-based services such as home care were inadequate to meet the needs of the state"


Health Care Careers

edmond elaine presents 5 Reasons Every Healthcare Worker Should Be Paid More posted at online MHA degree, saying, “The range of service provided by healthcare workers is something that will always be needed in the community.”

Margaret Garcia presents 55 Tips to Survive a Long Hospital Shift posted at Online Nurse Practitioner Schools. Editor’s note: Some good and sometimes humorous tips for surviving those long shift hours.

Aland Amherst presents How Much Money Can a Nurse Make? (It's Surprising) posted at Certified Nurse Assistant, saying, “Nurses at different levels earn according to their specialty. The shortage of nurses makes the career quite a lucrative one. Nurses who start off at the lower levels have a chance of making their salaries better by getting an advanced level of nursing course certificate.”

Barbara Williams presents 50 Happy Nursing Blogs posted at Nursing Schools.net, saying, “These 50 blogs offer a positive spin on nursing.”

Alisha Harmann presents Top 50 Blogs to Help You Further Your Healthcare Career posted at Online Radiology Technician Schools, saying, “the following top fifty blogs can help you stay in tune with healthcare and help you further your healthcare career.”

Barbara Williams presents The 100 Best Blogs For Pharmacy Students posted at Nursing Schools.net, saying, “As healthcare costs boom and the number of Americans on prescription drugs increases, pharmacy’s future looks bright. Here are the 100 best blogs for pharmacy students.”

Brooklyn White presents The Importance of Open Access in Medicine posted at LVN Schools, saying, “open access promotes progress in the field of medicine and allows people in the medical community and patients to keep abreast of the latest developments in the field of medicine.”

PicktheBrain presents 200+ Health and Medical Accounts Worth Following on Twitter posted at Medical Future. Editor’s note: Great list of people to follow on Twitter for the health professional.


Miscellaneous

Reba Haas presents Puget Sound Clean Air news for July - check that chiminea and reduce neighbor stress posted at Team Reba Real Estate, saying, "There are ways we can all take control of our environment, even when it's the neighbor with the heavily smoking fire or BBQ. Read this Puget Sound Clean Air newsletter for info and suggestions on how to handle wood smoke issues this summer."

Jason Hulott presents Have you got public liability insurance for your business? posted at Small Business Cover, saying, “Whether you run a small business from home or whether you are the boss of a huge business that employs a great deal of staff it makes sense to consider liability insurance.”

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of take charge of your health care using our carnival submission form. Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.



Thursday, July 30, 2009

Urge Your Representatives & Senators to support a Single Payer Health Care System


It will come as no surprise to most that the health care system in the United States is badly broken. With 47 million uninsured Americans and many more underinsured, many people find themselves not getting the basic care that they need. Often less serious conditions become more serious and costly conditions because many people who lack health insurance simply avoid going to a doctor. In some cases care for the uninsured and underinsured can be similar to that found in Third World Nations. Read my blog post on the Shame of the U.S. Healthcare System: http://healthplansplus.blogspot.com/2007/11/shame-of-american-health-care-system.html.


One major problem is that the U.S. health care system has been held hostage by the for profit insurance companies. With the large profits that these companies make by denying coverage to many or not paying claims, they are able to use these profits to lobby our politicians, pay for ads frightening people from supporting health care reform, and paying 7 figure salaries to their top executives. These companies are clearly in the pockets of our politicians.


Another problem is that the U.S. system is basically an employer sponsored system. Unfortunately the price of health insurance has become so exorbitant that many of the smaller companies have dropped health insurance altogether or have asked their employees to contribute larger and larger percentages of their incomes for their health insurance package with many opting not to take coverage. If you are self-employed, you must pay even higher costs and will be lucky to receive any coverage at all especially if you have a pre-existing condition. Often individuals must pay premiums of over $500 per month and families will usually pay premiums greater than $1200 per month. This is equivalent to paying a second rent each month. Many hard working middle income and working class families will have very little left after paying for food, rent or mortgage, utilities, car expenses, clothing, and other household expenses. With this being the case, many families simply go without any health insurance coverage.


Although some of the blame must also be placed on our health care providers for not containing costs, much blame lies in the reimbursement schedule. One suggestion has been to pay a certain amount to the provider for treatment of a particular condition rather than paying for each visit, procedure, and test ordered separately. If we make a comparison to a restaurant, it might be akin to choosing a prix fixe dinner as opposed to ordering everything a la carte. Clearly some oversight is necessary and would be provided by a single payer system.
Accessibility to health care should be a basic human right. The United States is the only major industrialized country to not have a national health care plan.


When a system is this badly broken, the best solution is just to replace it with something completely different. Only a single payer system would provide healthcare coverage for all. This system, also called Medicare for all, would offer cost savings not found in any other system.


According to Physicians for a National Health Program: “Single payer would be the simplest and most efficient health care plan that Congress could implement.” Unfortunately we are not likely to see a single payer healthcare system unless we the people place enough pressure on our Congressional officers who seem to worry more about their re-election possibilities rather than the health of their constituents. It is about time that they listen to the people that they represent and not the big insurance companies. So for all of my readers in the U.S., who are serious about healthcare reform, please take a few minutes to write or call you representatives in Washington today and ask that they consider a single payer health care option.


If you find yourself without health insurance but need to see a doctor or dentist or save money on prescriptions, visit www.healthplansplus.net.

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Take Charge of Your Health Care Carnival June 28, 2009


















Welcome to the June 28, 2009 edition of take charge of your health care.

As I sit here in cool, rainy New York, I am wondering where summer is, but I know that it will soon be here. Summer is definitely a time to get fit and healthy, and our authors have provided many useful tips on nutrition and fitness.

We have a number of good articles this month on how to save money on healthcare and also some good information on health insurance. For those of us in the United States, we must call our congressmen and senators and demand that a government run insurance plan be a part of our health reform package. Even better would be a single payer health care system which would be the most affordable in the long run. Our employer based and insurance company sponsored health insurance programs are broken leaving over 47 million Americans without healthcare coverage and an even larger number underinsured. When something is broken, you really need to tear down the system and build it from the ground up. My concern about the health care system in America is what prompted me to begin this blog carnival.

President Obama and Vice President Biden have put together an interesting website with the personal experiences of those affected by the healthcare crisis. They urge that we pass on these stories to those we know. You can visit the Health Care Stories for America at: http://stories.barackobama.com/healthcare.

Of course, staying healthy and preventative medicine can save money on healthcare as well. Our authors have provided some excellent submissions on nutrition and fitness, alternative medicine, and consumer driven health care. There are also several good articles on brain fitness.

Because our Take Charge of Your Health Care Carnival has been growing in traffic, remember that only well written articles with good content will be selected. Also, only 2 articles per author, including myself, will be published in each monthly carnival. Thanks for submitting your quality articles this month.


Alternative Medicine


Dave Fobare presents Don't Be Afraid Of Your CPAP Mask posted at Beat Sleep Apnea. Editor’s note: If you suffer from sleep apnea, you will want to read this well written article on how to adjust to using your CPAP mask.

FitJerk presents How To Boost & Strengthen Your Immune System With Top Herbal Remedies posted at FlawlessFitness, saying, "Although Swine Flu is the talk of the town, preventing swine flu is the best option. Here's a list of some of the top herbal remedies that are known to help boost your immune system and help keep it strong year-round. These immune boosters are pretty inexpensive and can be taken as a preventative measure."

FitJerk presents Build Self Confidence In Mere Weeks! The Newbie Self Conscious Drill posted at FlawlessFitness, saying, "Do you feel you lack confidence or self worth? It's a hard thing to admit. Here is an awesome technique to boost self confidence in weeks! A more confident you will be respected & admired no matter WHAT you look like."

Scientific Living presents Get Rid of Your Chronic Pain!!!- Part 1 of 5 posted at Scientific Living, saying, "There is a treatment for chronic pain called prolotherapy, which is 80 to 100 percent curative, when performed by a skilled physician. Though acknowledged by reputable sources, prolotherapy is still not widely known. Please help me spread information about this wonderful treatment!"

Chris & Chat presents Warts Removers posted at C&C Spa and Facial Care Center. Editor’s note: The author presents an informative post on warts and wart removal.

Paul Hooper presents H Miracle - The Most Effective Hemorrhoid Cure on the Market posted at online-niche-store.com. Editor’s note: The author provides some natural ways to treat hemorrhoids without surgery.

pnreddy presents Treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder With Hypnotherapy posted at Alternative Medicine Zone. Editor’s note: Hypnotherapy can be effective for OCD without the side effects of medication.

Megan Wong presents Popular and Classic Sore Throat Remedies posted at Sinus Home Remedy. Editor’s note: This is timely advice when so many colds and the flu are going around.

Megan Wong presents Your loyal sinus blockage companion posted at Sinus Home Remedy. Editor’s note: The author provides useful information on using essential oils to treat sinus blockage.


Consumer Driven Health Care

Alvaro Fernandez presents Book Announcement: The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness posted at SharpBrains: Your Window into the Brain Fitness Revolution, saying, "While most of us have heard the phrase “use it or lose it,” very few understand what “it” means, or how to properly “use it” in order to maintain brain function and fitness. Here's the story on how my interest turned into a blog and now a book!"

Brain Blogger presents Reflections on Plasticity posted at Brain Blogger, saying, "Neuroplasticity is a relatively new concept for researchers. Up until the 1970s, scientists held firm to the belief that once we exit childhood, our neurons are fixed and we are unable to grow any new ones, except for very select areas of the brain such as the hippocampus where memory is processed."

Alvina Lopez presents 100 Awesome Anti-Aging Brain Games (Online and Off) posted atMasters of Healthcare. Editor’s note: Use these on and offline games to help keep your brain well tuned. Use it or lose it is very important when it comes to brain function especially as we get older.

Margaret Garcia presents 50 Fascinating Online Psychology Tests posted at Forensic Science Technician, saying, “Find out more about yourself with these 50 online psychology tests and Web sites packed full of interesting quizzes.”

Mike Wheeler presents Brain Memory Pill posted at Brain Stimulant, saying, “Astra-Zeneca in conjunction with Targacept is developing new memory pills that could become available for sale over the counter.

Lucky Balaraman presents See Yourself with Your Eyes Closed! posted at Calm and Cool, “once you are settled into your true identity, the people who move with you closely become nicer to you and your immediate environment consequently becomes more pleasant!”

Mike Wheeler presents Brain Stroke Clinical Trial Using Stem Cells posted at Brain Stimulant, saying, “The company Reneuron has just recently gotten the go ahead to commence a new trial that will use stem cells to treat patients with stroke damage. The trial will use stem cells to replace missing brain matter in those who have had stroke brain trauma.”

pankaj gupta presents How to - Learn About Any Disease Online (For Free) posted at Best ultrasound schools. Editor’s note: The author provides good information on how to search online for accurate information on illnesses.

sagarika presents Dimensions of Health posted at Social Work for Mankind, saying, “According to the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948, “ Health is generally defined as being "a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity".” Editor’s note: The author reminds us that good health is more than just physical health and you must consider emotional and social well being as well.

Aparna presents Rubbing nails cures hair loss? posted at Beauty and Personality Grooming, saying, "rubbing the nails of both the hands can reduce hair fall and give you dense, thick and strong hair. Moreover, it can also prevent graying of hair."

James J. Gormley presents One flu over the cuckoo’s nest? Phony Swine Flu products are dangerous posted at The Gormley Files, saying, "Swine flu swindlers are peddling a variety of bogus "cure" kits. This article alerts readers to these scams and shows what is being done to protect consumers."

Mick Hart presents Stop Drinking Alcohol - Join The Alcoholics Online Support Group posted at Stop Drinking Advice, saying, "Discover just how easy it is to stop drinking alcohol through the support of people who have been there before and who understand the real hardships involved."

SwissTgallery presents Johnson & Johnson Refuses to Remove Cancer Causing Chemicals from Baby Products posted at Organic Baby Wearhouse, saying, "Last Friday a letter signed by 50 groups representing about 1.7 million people was sent to William Weldon, the CEO of Johnson & Johnson. The letter was asking the company to reformulate its iconic baby shampoo and other care products to be free of the cancer causing chemicals 1,4-dioxane and formaldehyde. The widespread response it in reaction to a recent study showing many J&J products as containing small amounts of these dangerous chemicals."

Mikkal Travvis presents How To Survive A Flu Pandemic posted at Bird Flu Pandemic. Editor’s note: Some helpful tips to help you avoid catching the flu.

Mesquite Pete presents
Mosquitoes - Fact and Fiction posted at Mosquito Basics, saying, "Some myths and facts about mosquitoes."

Victor presents Being You in How to Get Rid of Anxiety and Panic.Testing. posted at How to get rid of anxiety and panic, saying, “constructive and positive thinking can reduce your stress level when problems and confrontations come around.”

Paul Hooper presents 7 Methods to Help You Quit Smoking posted at online-niche-store.com. Editor’s note: The author has provided some excellent tips on how to stop smoking.

Patricia Turner presents The Top 50 Surgeon Bloggers posted at Surgical Technician Schools, saying, “With the internet making all sorts of information possible, medical professionals have found a place they can share their thoughts, insight, advice, and more. Visit these top 50 blogs for answers to general surgery, specialty, cosmetic, and more.”

Den Levin presents Top Causes of Anxiety and How to Handle Them posted at Battle Anxiety, saying, "There are many common causes of anxiety."

Farid presents Five Steps to Better Skin posted at Acne treatment, saying, "There are five essential steps in skin care regime. By following this progression of steps regularly, you will be giving yourself better skin. Skin is like any other of the body's organs, and it needs to be healthy to operate correctly, which, in the case of skin, means looking great. If you want better skin, you should start following these five steps immediately"

Farid presents Puffiness Around Eyes Treat, Reduce Under Eye Puffiness posted at Puffiness around the eye, saying, "If you're predisposed to under eye puffiness, or you just find yourself looking in the mirror and seeing bags under the eyes, there are several different types of remedies and treatments to fix it. From cucumbers and tea bags to eye masks, there are a number of temporary, short-term solutions. But when you have puffiness around the eyes that occurs more regularly, you may want to explore other, more effective long term treatments available out there."


Dental Care

dentalheroes presents Comprehensive List of Dental Plan Providers posted at Dental Plan & Dental Insurance News. Editor’s note: If you are looking for a dental plan, you will find this list very helpful.

Dr Tooth presents Affordable Dental Care for Low-Income Adults posted at WorlDental, saying, "Millions of Americans still do not have access to any affordable dental care, to a qualitative and the most necessary treatment procedures. In the same time, any untreated dental problem will affect the whole body, causing other, bigger health problems."

The Mouth Doctor presents Treating Gum Disease The Natural Way: Treating Gum Disease The Natural Way posted at Treating Gum Disease The Natural Way, saying, "Learn about the causes of gum disease, gingivitis, bleeding gums, bad breath and the natural and safe way to cure gum disease, gingivitis, bleeding gums, bad breath."


Nutrition & Fitness

Helene Zemel presents The Science behind GeneWize LifeMap Nutrition™ posted at Health Plans Plus, saying, "There is proven scientific research that demonstrates that vitamins and other supplements can repair DNA damage."

Rusty Moore presents Why Walking is Necessary for Good Health - Even If You Are Extremely Fit and Lean posted at Fitness Black Book, saying, "I use to think that walking was just for people who weren't fit enough to do any "real" exercise. I figured that any activity that 99% of the population can easily do, just can't be tough enough to make a real difference in health. Walking just doesn't seem to challenge the body like "true" exercise (intervals, circuits, HIIT). I am first to admit that I have been wrong when it comes to this line of thinking. Not only do I admit my thinking has been wrong, I'm immediately going to do my best to walk daily. Some recent studies have proven how valuable walking is to long-term health."

Helene Zemel presents GeneWize LifeMap™ Alert Chocolate Chews posted at Health Plans Plus, saying, "GeneWize Life Sciences has just released the LifeMap™ Alert Chocolate Energy Chews. With LifeMap™ Alert you get all the health benefits of chocolate without the calories, fat, sugars, or dairy that you would find in chocolate candy."

Scientific Living presents How to Choose a Supplement posted at Scientific Living, saying, "A guide on how to navigate through the myriad of supplement choices, and find something that is affordable, effective, and safe."

Darwin presents Will Resveratrol Benefits Create the Biggest Blockbuster Drug Ever? posted at Darwin's Finance, saying, "This article highlights how the "fountain of life" drug resveratrol with weight loss benefits may be the biggest blockbuster drug ever - but thinks about supplements vs FDA approved source."

Sarah Scrafford presents The Twitter Diet: 100 Tips, Tools, and Twitter Feeds for Your Weight Loss posted at Ultrasound Technician Schools, saying, “Twitter is a powerful tool for both business people and the regular Joes and Janes. From marketing to sharing information to creating community, Twitter does it all. Now, Twitter has become a new way to help people lose weight too.” Editor’s note: This is an excellent resource for those that are interested in weight loss.

Andy presents 100 Weight Loss Tips & Tricks posted at Personal Hack, saying, "The following 100 weight loss tips are divided into 4 sections: Get Moving, Adjust Your Eating Habits, Adjust Your Thinking, and Additional Tips." Editor’s note: The author provides some very good weight loss suggestions and tips.

vegefood presents Spicy Chicken with Green Chillies Vegetarian Culinary Recipes posted at Vegetarian Culinary, saying, "Great vegetarian culinary recipe for spicy chicken with the delicious green chillies. Mmm!" Editor’s note: You will find some good healthy recipes on this site.

Alisha Harmann presents What Are Superfoods? Top 10 Facts (and Myths) posted at My Health, saying, “Superfoods are foods said to be able to improve your health and are sometimes touted as having abilities that so called "normal foods" do not.” Editor’s note: The author presents 10 facts and myths about superfoods.

South Beach Steve presents Cinnamon, Diabetes, and Heart Health posted at Log My Loss. Editor’s note: The author sites numerous studies showing the beneficial effects of cinnamon on blood sugar.

Margaret Garcia presents Walk the Path to Good Health posted at Dental Assisting School. Editor’s note: Good article on the benefits of walking as an exercise.

Chris presents How to Feel Your Chi Energy in Just Ten Minutes posted at Martial Development, saying, "Qigong is popular form of preventative medicine. Learn the basics here."

Kasha Deveine presents Ban the Treadmill! The Role of Cardio Exercise in Losing Weight and Burning Fat posted at Ask Kasha, saying, “I’d like to introduce you to High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), the key to getting all the benefits of cardio in an exercise program that will blast away fat, increase growth hormones and change the way you look in minimum time.”

Phil B. presents Bodybuilding Problems posted at Phil for Humanity, saying, "I always wondered if extreme bodybuilding has any bad effects on the human body."

Cory presents How To Change Your Eating Habits posted at Eating Healthy, saying, "By the time we become aware of the fact that we need to change the way we have been eating, for our entire life, we are kind of attached to it."

Cash Tree presents Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Aging posted at Acids and Aging, saying, "Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness in industrialized countries. DHA is a key fatty acid found in the retina. Epidemiological studies examining the association between DHA or fish intake and AMD have generally shown a protective relationship”

Nancy Miller presents 50 Best Foods for Weight Loss posted at Radiography Schools, saying, “This list of 50 delicious super foods will help you lose weight, stay healthy and feel great. Fit one of two of these foods into your diet each day to keep yourself looking fabulous and away from the doctor.”

pnreddy presents Healthy Food Choices For Children posted at Fitness Health Zone.com, saying, “There are many nutritious foods you can offer that your children will love to eat.”

Sarah Scrafford presents 100 Nutrition Tips for Before, During, and After Pregnancy posted at Healthcare Administration Degree, saying, “Nutrition is an important element of pregnancy beginning before conception and continuing until after the baby is born. Here you’ll find helpful tips to ensure you understand all you need to when it comes to nutrition and your pregnancy–before, during, and after.”

Robert Galway presents Ab Workouts posted at robertgalway.com, saying, "Ab workouts are meant to train the abs as a muscle group to make them defined or larger and not target the area for fat burning. I know people that are super lean but they over train there abs and not a single one pops out. Ab workouts are a dime a dozen these days but most people are focusing on the wrong type of exercises in their quest for six pack abs. Regular crunches and situps are out and swiss ball exercises are in if you are seeking the very best ab workout. We hear it all the time that if you want to burn fat then you have to get off your couch and stop watching so much television."

Joshua presents How to Help Your Child Lose Weight posted at Family and Parenting, saying, "Childhood obesity is an epidemic. Here are some tips on how to help your child lose weight.

Ashley Cook presents How to Get a Good Workout on a Treadmill posted at Healthy Living Tips, saying, "Tips to get a good workout on a treadmill."

SwissTgallery presents Sticking With Your Home Workout Routine posted at healthy diet, saying, "You can often find motivation in dedication. When you truly make up your mind to see something through, it can be motivating. However, on days when the motivation isn’t there, dedication needs to be present to carry you through. Don’t give yourself an option to workout, make it a necessity, a daily requirement. More than likely you will find that you will never regret a workout after the fact."

Darryl Kimball presents Weight Loss 4 Dumb Asses - My Dumb Ass Work Out Book - Are You Mentally Conditioned to Stay Overweight? posted at www.weightloss4dumbasses.com, saying, "Has the constant advertising of the diet, weight loss, and fitness industry convinced you that losing weight is difficult. Have you been convinced that it takes a lot of time, or that it is just too hard, or that it takes money to lose weight? Perhaps you have allowed yourself to become mentally conditioned to stay overweight!"

Steve Faber presents Belly Fat Loser » How to Lose Belly Fat – An Easy to Follow Plan for Success posted at Belly Fat Loser, saying, “Although it’s has been known for quite some time that the layer of fat surrounding your abdominal organs wasn’t healthy, the dangers appear to far more serious than was originally thought.”

Jack presents Urban Fitness posted at Urban Lover, saying, "Some tips for getting fit while living in the inner city."


Save Money on Health Care and Health Insurance

Silicon Valley Blogger presents Get The Right Coverage! Insurance Policies You Need and Those To Avoid posted at The Digerati Life. Editor’s note: The author explains the different types of insurance available plus some sources for getting quotes.

MatthewPaulson presents What Are Health Savings Accounts and Should I Have One? posted at Fine-Tuned Finances, saying, “an HSA can be set up to help pay for costs associated with high deductible health care plans and do so from a tax-advantaged position.” Editor’s note: Health savings accounts are explained by the author.

MatthewPaulson presents How to Pay off a Big Medical Bill posted at Fine-Tuned Finances, saying, “Each year, more than 80 million people struggle to pay medical bills in reality they can not fit into their budget. Additionally 700,000 are forced into bankruptcy because of medically-related expenses. So what do you do if you have a whopper of a bill you can not afford to pay?” Editor’s note: Many people don’t realize that medical bills can be negotiated.

The Smarter Wallet presents 12 Ways To Save On Drugs: Cut Your Medication Costs posted at The Smarter Wallet. Editor’s note: These 12 tips will help you save money on prescription drugs.

Carl Stevens presents Three Ways to Find Affordable Health Insurance posted at Three Ways to Lower Your Health Insurance Premium, saying, "How to lower the cost of your health insurance premium without changing your type of health insurance or level of coverage."

Debt Freedom Fighter presents The Benefits of Insurance for Your Family posted at Discover Debt Freedom!, saying, “It is very important to obtain the different types of insurance that may be needed by your family prior to an adverse event occurring, as that is what insurance is supposed to protect you from. The numerous benefits of insurance for your family can only be obtained if the insurance policy is in place before the unexpected occurs.”

J.D. Bell presents Barack Tells Congress To Get Off Their Pork-Filled Butts posted at It Takes Work, saying, "Mr. Obama is getting a little impatient with his Legislative backup singers." Editor’s note: An interesting perspective on healthcare reform.

Jack Schmidt presents Health Insurance Can Improve Your Love Life posted at SectorMatic Money Journal, saying, "Personal Finance - Everything for the Big Spender on a Budget. Now you can live like a fat cat, even if you're on a money diet. Laugh all the way to the bank with Jack Schmidt and SectorMatic. It's for you!" Editor’s note: A humorous look at a serious subject—health insurance.


Miscellaneous

Ashley Cook presents Spring Cleaning and Women's Health posted at Healthy Living Tips, saying, "Some natural alternatives for cleaning around the house."

Lucy presents Uncovering the True You posted at Lucy's Life, saying, "Why do so many of us not truly know ourselves?"

Lucky Balaraman presents When I Called God with a Complaint posted at Calm and Cool. Editor’s note: You will enjoy this story.

Susan Johnston/Julie Salickram/Allan-Michael Brown/Megan Johnson/Chris Gesualdi presents Boston’s Best Outdoor Dining Options The Blog @ Directory of Boston posted at The Blog @ Directory of Boston, saying, "Now that warm weather is returning to Boston, this is prime time for al fresco dining. Here's a list of 5 favorite Boston outdoor restaurants."

Ruoall Chapman presents Everything you need to know about how to Make Online Beats posted at Make Online Beats. Editor’s note: This article is a must read if you are considering a career in the music industry. As a pianist and teacher, I know that music can help with cognitive development and concentration.

Ruoall Chapman presents Online Spyware Removal posted at Online Spyware Removal. The author presents some good information and reviews on antispyware.

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of take charge of your health care using our carnival submission form. Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.

Technorati tags:
take charge of your health care, blog carnival.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

GeneWize LifeMap™ Alert Chocolate Chews


I am pleased to announce that GeneWize Life Sciences has just released the LifeMap™ Alert Chocolate Energy Chews. This is the first of the GeneWize LifeStyle Boosts products to be released to the general public.


Researchers have found that certain compounds in chocolate cause the brain to release endorphins which are chemicals that make us feel good. Other compounds in chocolate improve cognitive function, increase energy, and help normalize appetite. A study led by Professor Ian MacDonald of the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom found that “consumption of a cocoa drink rich in flavanols — a key ingredient of dark chocolate — boosts blood flow to key areas of the brain for two to three hours” thus improving cognitive ability. (Science Daily)


Chocolate is also rich in the same polyphenol antioxidants found in red wine. Antioxidants have been scientifically proven to protect the body against free radical damage—one of the main causes of premature aging and artery-clogging plaque, a main cause of atherosclerosis. According to Penny Kris-Etherton, Ph.D., a registered dietitian at Pennsylvania State University: “New and yet-to-be-published studies are showing that antioxidants in chocolate -- dark chocolate and cocoa powder -- may increase "good" (HDL) cholesterol levels by as much as 10 percent.” (CNN.com) Other studies have shown that consuming chocolate can indeed lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation.


LifeMap™ Alert Chews are a low calorie chocolate-based confection containing a patented dietary supplement called Chocamine®. Chocamine® is a cocoa extract containing an exclusive blend of the compounds associated with the health benefits of chocolate without the calories, fat, sugars, or dairy that you would find in chocolate candy. The result is a clinically tested product that has all the benefits of chocolate without the drawbacks!


For more information on LifeMap™ Alert Chews, visit
www.customizednutrition4u.com or contact me at 888-404-8363 to order.