Fast Food: Eating At Your Own Risk

Eating At Your Own Risk

Before you take a bite of a fast food hamburger or the like, do you ever stop to consider what has been involved in the preparation of it? Who has handled your food and how sanitary was the process? Do you ever stop to consider that you could be putting yourself at risk each and every time you choose to trust others in the preparation of your food?

Sure, that last question may seem a bit extreme, but fast food does not automatically mean properly handled food. Cases of food poisoning arise on a daily basis even though the fast food business is flourishing. Fast food has become the American way it seems and we go blindly forth ordering with the illusion that the food has been prepared in sanitary conditions.

From bug problems to breeding bacteria, fast food restaurants have countless dirty secrets behind their counters, and although the rules are put into place and enforced by management, inspectors, the Food and Drug Administration, and so forth, in reality the ideal is not always met.

How Well Is Your Food Cooked

One of the most common causes of food poisoning is bacteria transfer due to the food not being properly cooked or kept at the proper temperature. With such a demand for fast food, it is too easy for the employees to compromise their duties for the sake of saving time, and before they know it, they've served a meal that will give its eater a nasty case of food poisoning. The rules should be followed every time, not some of the time, as is most often the case.

It is up to the management to see that the employees are properly doing their job, and of course, effective management makes all of the difference. Close supervision is a necessity to help ensure that work is being performed properly. Employees must care about their job and in return feel valued so that they will be more willing to perform their job correctly. Too often low pay, long hours, and little recognition makes employees more likely to do less than what is expected of them. Also, improper training leads to improper fulfillment of job duties.

Unclean areas like counters where food has touched can also spread bacteria and cause food poisoning. That is why it is important for employees to clean up after themselves and make sure that their work space is kept clean. Also, containers that haven't been properly washed and food that hasn't been properly rotated are havens for bacteria.

Employees who don't wash their hands before returning to their shift can unknowingly spread bacteria and other diseases. That is why it is of the utmost importance that employees wash their hands and also why every fast food restaurant should have at least one sink designated for hand washing with properly posted instructions, the necessary soap, paper towels, and so forth. Wearing gloves when in contact with food serves as added protection but even gloves can touch unclean surfaces, so they need to be changed after coming into contact with unsanitary surfaces, items, and so on.

Beware Of The Pests

Even pests can present a challenge to cleanliness in fast food working environments, so it is important that restaurants are regularly treated for pests. No one wants an unwelcome visitor in their food, but it has and does happen more than we'd like to think. If an employee witnesses a pest making contact with the food (such as a fly or cockroach), the entire amount of food in the container should be discarded.

Hair nets are a good idea for keeping stray hairs out of food. Hats are more often the rule, but less effective in preventing hairs from getting into the food. Wearing long hair back in a ponytail or braid is a must. Neat grooming can also minimize the likelihood of stray hairs getting into food.

Fast food is convenient but not always clean. Every establishment should go above and beyond the norm to ensure that food is properly handled although sadly many fall short. Before ordering your next meal at a fast food restaurant, take a close look at the employees and the environment if you can. You may not be able to spot what goes on behind the scenes, but trust your instincts for what you are able to observe.

Better yet, if you want to be risk free from food poisoning, cook at home. Until each and every fast food establishment reaches the 100% level of cleanliness, you will be eating at your own risk. Can that ever happen? There is no reason why it shouldn't where health is concerned.

Inside Oral Health Equals Your Total Health

Did you know that your oral health can offer clues about your overall health? Or that problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body? Understand the intimate connection between oral health and overall health and what you can do to protect yourself.

What's the connection between oral health and overall health?

Floss Daily

Your mouth is teeming with bacteria — most of them harmless. Normally the body's natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, can keep these bacteria under control. However, harmful bacteria can sometimes grow out of control and cause oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, dental procedures, medications, or treatments that reduce saliva flow, disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in your mouth or breach the mouth's normal protective barriers may make it easier for bacteria to enter your bloodstream

Your oral health may affect, be affected by or contribute to various diseases and conditions, including:

• Endocarditis. Gum disease and dental procedures that cut your gums may allow bacteria to enter your bloodstream. If you have a weak immune system or a damaged heart valve, this can cause infection in other parts of the body — such as an infection of the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis).
• Cardiovascular disease. Some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke may be linked to oral bacteria, possibly due to chronic inflammation from periodontitis — a severe form of gum disease.
• Pregnancy and birth. Gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
• Diabetes. Diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection — putting the gums at risk. In addition, people who have inadequate blood sugar control may develop more-frequent and severe infections of the gums and the bone that holds teeth in place, and they may lose more teeth than do people who have good blood sugar control.
• HIV/AIDS. Oral problems, such as painful mucosal lesions, are common in people who have HIV/AIDS.
• Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis — which causes bones to become weak and brittle — may be associated with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss.
• Alzheimer's disease. Tooth loss before age 35 may be a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease.
• Other conditions. Other conditions that may be linked to oral health include Sjogren's syndrome — an immune system disorder — and eating disorders.

Be sure to tell your dentist if you're taking any medications or have had any changes in your overall health — especially if you've had any recent illnesses or you have a chronic condition.

How can I protect my oral health?

Eat Healthy Foods Daily

To protect your oral health, resolve to practice good oral hygiene every day. For example:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
• Floss daily.
• Eat a healthy diet and limit between-meal snacks.
• Schedule regular dental checkups.

Also, watch for signs and symptoms of oral disease and contact your dentist as soon as a problem arises. Remember, taking care of your oral health is an investment in your overall health.

The Great Benefits Of Drinking Water

Drink 8 to 10 Glasses Per Day

You could possibly live up to several weeks without food, but without water, you will die in a matter of days. In that sense, water is the most essential nutrient, coursing through your body via your bloodstream, hydrating and delivering nutrients to every organ and removing toxins and waste material. About 60 percent of your body weight is water. It is a component of every cell and a participant in many chemical reactions that occur throughout the body.

Hydration

Thirst is a sign that your body and, specifically, your blood are low in water. A series of shifts occurs in your body functions. Water that has been collected and is ready to be excreted now goes back to your bloodstream. Your mouth feels dry because water is being drawn out of your salivary glands and into your blood. You may feel tired and weak. Your body is drawing water from anywhere it can to keep your blood volume normal and your blood pressure stable.

Don't wait until you feel thirsty to drink water. The best thing to do to prevent dehydration is to drink water with and between meals throughout the day.

Heat Regulation

Water helps regulate both internal and external body temperature. When you sweat, the evaporation of water cools both your skin and the blood lying below. If you live in or visit a particularly hot climate, you probably need to drink more water than in a colder climate.

Digestion and Absorption

Water aids in the digestive system by helping to break food down into nutrients in the stomach and aiding in the absorption of nutrients from the intestine into the bloodstream, where they are carried throughout the body.

Carry Extra Water When Exercising

Lubrication and Protection

Water lubricates and cushions all the joints in your body. The fluid in your eyes and mucous membranes is water-based. All of your body tissues are moistened with water. The amniotic fluid in which a fetus floats is mostly water.

Balance

You need to excrete a minimum of 2 cups of water every day to rid your body of dissolved waste materials. The average loss in urine is about 6 1/2 cups. Another 4 cups is lost to breathing, sweating and solid waste. To maintain your body's water balance, you must replenish that lost water. You can do this by drinking at least 8 cups of water a day, preferably more; the rest will come from water in the foods you eat.

It is important to maintain your body's water and electrolyte (mineral) balance so that every cell in your body contains the right amount and mix of fluids. In addition to drinking enough water every day, be sure to replace fluids lost from vomiting or diarrhea. A severe disturbance in this balance can ultimately lead to a heart attack and death.

1. Feel Better

   • Water is necessary to keep your intestines and kidneys functioning properly. Water prevents constipation and keeps the salts and minerals in your kidneys diluted, so they can't form kidney stones. Proper hydration may even help prevent the flu and ease headaches.

   Look Better

   • The skin is the largest organ of the body. When properly hydrated, wrinkles appear less deep and the skin takes on a healthy glow.

   Move Better

   • Water is essential for proper lubrication of joints and muscles. Staying well-hydrated while exercising can help prevent muscle cramps. According to Cruising Chemistry, a website supported by Duke University, the blood is 83 percent water, so the more water you drink while exercising the greater your blood volume and the more oxygen the blood is able to transport to keep you energized.

   Lose Weight

   • Water is a natural appetite suppressant. Drinking a glass of water before every meal can make you feel fuller and help you eat less. Also, water is a major component of food. If you are not drinking enough water, your body may begin to crave food to replace the water deficit. Then, you not only get the water but the extra calories.
     
     
     

     

     H2O

     As you can see water is a very important part of life that we often take advantage of daily. You must incorporate drinking water for ultimate health and wellness. How much water can be determined by your weight and other factors. Remember, wellness is not just a focus but rather a lifestyle. If you are wanting to know more about how to calculate the right amount of water you should drink daily? Get serious and hire your personal healing team GetHealthy2011 Here is to your health and happy H2O drinking.
     
     
     
     
     

Healing High Blood Pressure Naturally

Hypertension "The Silent Killer"

 

With one in three adults suffering from high blood pressure, it is a common condition that many people seek a natural treatment for. If not treated, high blood pressure can lead to serious health conditions and can even prove to be fatal. While extremely high blood pressure should be cared for by a health professional, there are many natural methods that can be used to keep it under control.

1. Causes

   • Some of the most common factors that contribute to high blood pressure include obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, use of certain medications, sodium intake and genetics.
     If you have family members that suffer from high blood pressure, have your blood pressure checked frequently and consider investing in a blood pressure machine of your own to use at home. Often there are no outward signs that your blood pressure is high and you may not know you have a problem until things are out of control.

   

   Healthy Eating and Exercise

   Lifestyle Changes

   • Some of the best natural treatments you can use to lower your blood pressure are simple lifestyle changes. Quitting smoking and consuming fewer alcoholic beverages are two of the best ways to help your blood pressure remain normal.
     Also lower your sodium intake by using less salt or using a salt alternative for cooking and seasoning your food. Also make sure that you eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. This helps to keep your blood flowing smoothly and helps prevent arteries from becoming clogged, which can cause your blood pressure to rise.

   Vitamin and Herbal Supplements

   • Vitamin and herbal supplements that include coenzyme Q10, which has been shown to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, can be used to treat high blood pressure naturally.
     Garlic has also proven to help lower high blood pressure, though this supplement should not be taken in conjunction with prescription blood thinners as it can cause an excessive thinning of the blood.
     Another beneficial herb to treat high blood pressure commonly used by herbal practitioners is hawthorn, which provides a significant reduction in blood pressure and has no apparent interactions with prescription drugs.

Natural Herbs and Supplements

There are a number of different herbs that lower blood pressure and improve heart health, thereby increasing overall well-being. Some of these blood pressure herbs have a direct effect on the blood vessels and the heart. Others have an indirect impact, yet still are helpful in healing hypertension by either reducing stress, reducing water retention, reducing plaque build-up on artery walls, or simply providing necessary minerals for a healthy circulatory system. In conjunction with a healthy diet to reduce blood pressure, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle, herbs for high blood pressure can dramatically impact heart health in a natural, normalizing way.

Primary Herbs that Lower Blood Pressure

When using herbs that lower blood pressure, it is crucial to include one or several of these foundational blood pressure herbs. They work to normalize and strengthen heart function, each with a slightly different effect. Over time, using these plants for healing hypertension will create a normal blood pressure, and their use can be discontinued.

Hawthorne berries are one of the most effective heart tonics. This herb balances the circulatory system, either stimulating or relaxing blood flow, depending on which effect is necessary. Lime blossom has a calming effect on both the nervous system and the circulatory system, thereby managing stress and tension, while at the same time calming the heart rate. Mistletoe is a blood pressure herb with similar properties to lime blossom. This herb also relaxes the nerves, specifically the vagus nerve, which then lowers the heart rate and blood pressure. At the same time, mistletoe improves the strength of peripheral capillary walls. Yarrow is another foundational blood pressure herb, which causes a dilation of the peripheral vessels, allowing a greater ease in blood flow.

All of these herbs blend well together. Drink one to three cups of tea, with a single blood pressure herb, or with equal parts of any combination. Infuse two teaspoons of dried herbs in one cup of boiling water for ten minutes.

Secondary Herbs that Lower Blood Pressure

Aside from the primary herbs for high blood pressure, there are other useful plants which can offer a more well-rounded treatment by addressing the factors which cause high blood pressure. High levels of stress are directly related to hypertension. Healing is as simple as being able to manage emotional and mental tension naturally. Although herbs will not create mental stability, they will help, through calming and soothing the nervous system. Valerian, skullcap, hops, and chamomile are all excellent nervine tonics.
Water retention caused by too much sodium in the diet can put pressure on artery walls, exacerbating high blood pressure. The diuretic herbs work by encouraging the kidneys to eliminate waste through the urine. Parsley and dandelion are excellent diuretic herbs for high blood pressure.

Enjoy Daily Fruits & Veggies

Another issue with healing hypertension is dealing with arteriosclerosis, which is a condition in which the artery walls are constricted and hardened by a build-up of cholesterol and fatty deposits. Cleansing herbs such as garlic will help this condition, more so when taken over a period of time. The primary blood pressure herbs, especially lime blossom, are also effective for preventing and minimizing plaque build-up.
Nettles is another ideal supporting herb to lower blood pressure naturally. It acts as a blood cleanser, helping to remove toxins, as a mild diuretic, reducing water retention, and provides a boost of mineral nutrition. Deficiencies of magnesium, potassium, and calcium are linked to hypertension – nettles provides all three.

Using Herbs for High Blood Pressure to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally

Herbs for high blood pressure are a safe and effective way to heal and return the body to a state of balance, unlike medications, which tend to only manage the condition, causing a lifelong dependency on the prescription drugs. Healing hypertension with herbs will eventually lead to normalized blood pressure, with no need for drugs or herbs, although a healthy diet and lifestyle will always be necessary to maintain a strong heart and fluid circulatory system. If high blood pressure is a possibility, also be sure to consult a physician to have levels checked and to discuss the best options for well-being

Dealing with high blood pressure is very serious since it is often referred to as the "Silent Killer". It is important to maintain a well balanced lifestyle and diet. If you are in need to make changes to your diet and lifestyle you may need to consider a health counselor to help you towards better health. Feel free to contact our offices at Change Your Health Now in just 30 days you will see and feel the difference in your health. Get healthy 2011!!

Take Charge Of Your Self-Image: Love You Just The Way You Are

Accepting Who You Are

Negative self-esteem and a low self-image are among the leading challenges confronting teenagers and adults. Here are some tips on coping with self-esteem issues.

Self-esteem and depression go hand in glove. So do low self-image and poor performance. And that low performance can be evidenced at home, at school, and at the workplace -- resulting in negative consequences and, thus, even lower self-esteem. It can be a depressing, never-ending cycle. How then can a person overcome a low self-image and build a strong sense of self-worth?

1. Take Charge of Your Mind

"If you see yourself as unqualified, insignificant, unattractive, inferior, or inadequate, you will probably act in accordance with your thoughts," writes Joel Osteen, the popular pastor and bestselling author. "If your self-worth is low, you will imagine yourself as a born loser, a washout, unworthy of being loved and accepted."
What's the solution? Simple: Take charge of your mind!

Stop letting your mind dictate negative thoughts to you - and then watching yourself perform (or not) accordingly. Your life is too important for you to let yourself be a spectator or (worse) a victim.
Take charge of your thoughts. That's the key to emotional stability. So, do it right now. One way to do this is to watch what goes into your mind. If you feed your mind with angry music, addictive behavior, gossip, and/or other negative input, don't be surprised at the negative result. Determine to put positive stuff in your mind. Keep the negative to a minimum.
What sort of positive stuff? Inspirational music...constructive reading (such as books and articles from self help experts)...healthy relationships...prayer...and so on.
By this one simple step, you can achieve emotional stability and vanquish  fears and insecurities that may be plaguing you.

Loving YOU

2. Decide to Accept Yourself

There is only one "YOU" in the universe. And that is the person that YOU are responsible for. Don't let other people dictate the value of "you." This is not an area in which you can be a spectator. The sad truth is that we're accustomed to being spectators - TV, sports, even the Internet. Don't be a spectator with your life. You need to be the leader in your life. And that starts with accepting who you are, understanding where you're at, and then deciding where you're going - and how you're going to get there.

3. Encourage and Serve Others

The very best way to enhance your personal worth and value is to serve others. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. That's right -- the Golden Rule! Practice it. Live by it.
Love your neighbor as you love yourself. Note the symbiotic implications there. If you don't love your neighbor, what does that do to your attitude toward yourself? Is it any coincidence that the most self-centered people tend to be the most bitter and paranoid?
Make a conscious decision to enhance the lives of those around you. Pay them sincere compliments. Encourage them. Help them. Assist them. Listen to them. You will never lack for friends if you do these things -- sincerely. Don't fake it. People will ultimately spot a fraud. You must do this honestly and sincerely. If you do, your life will change dramatically for the better.