Artificial Food Colors - Can They Be Good For You?

My oldest daughter was diagnosed with what was called "hyperactivity" in 1979. Today, the diagnosis might have been "ADHD" (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) or "ADD" (attention deficit disorder). In an effort to help my daughter by natural and alternative methods, I started researching hyperactivity. Keep in mind, we didn't have the internet back in the '70's. We had libraries. And bookstores. (What I wouldn't have given for the internet back then!) After months of research and reading thousands of pages of information, and almost as many pages of notes, I chose to eliminate refined sugars, bleached flours, artificial flavors and artificial colors from her diet. The results were amazing - and successful!
The majority of food colors are made from petroleum. They are a derivative of Petrochemicals and Coal tar. These chemicals are in no way made to be ingested by humans or any other animal. In fact, food dye is pulled off of the market regularly because of health concerns. Yellow #2 food dye has been shown to cause ADHD, multiple types of cancer, male sterility, and many other issues. Yellow 5, Red 40, and six other widely used artificial colorings have been linked to hyperactivity and behavior problems in children and should be prohibited from use in foods, according to the nonprofit Center for Science in the Public Interest. Artificial colors can also cause gastrointestinal problems, hives, headaches and other symptoms. You don't see people digging up petroleum and drinking it with a straw, do you? That's not the kind of "fuel" we're designed to run on. So why would we eat food that has had its color enhanced by petroleum products???
The seven main chemically derived food colors that are still approved by the US Food & Drug administration are:
FD&C Blue No. 1, FD&C Blue No. 2, FD&C Green No. 3, FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Red No. 3. FD&C Yellow No. 5, FD&C Yellow No. 6
These are known as "primary colors" and are mixed together to produce other shades and colors. Artificial colors are labeled "dyes" or "lake pigments" (commonly known as "lakes"). The difference is, dyes dissolve in water, but are not soluble in oil. Dyes are manufactured as powders, granules or liquids. Lakes are made by combining dyes with salts to make compounds. Lakes tint by dispersion (the concentration of the color in a product). Lakes are more stable than dyes and are used for coloring products that contain fats and oils.
Artificial food colors contain plenty of chemicals and are derived from highly toxic sources. The can cause, or accelerate many different diseases, disorders and mutations in humans. The amount of artificial food color in a single piece of candy doesn't seem like it would have much effect. But add that amount to the food color in breads, juices, soda pop, snack foods, meats - just about everything on the shelf in a grocery store - and we're ingesting an enormous amount of chemicals on a daily basis.
A study conducted by the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine showed that food colors have a negative effect on the immune system. Caramel color was shown to diminish immune system function. This could alter our body's ability to fight off infection or cancers. How many auto-immune conditions (such as Celiac disease, Chron's disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, etc.) are affected by our use of artificial food colors.
In 2005 Americans ate (food dyes), swallowed (pill coatings or medicinal syrups) or rubbed on (cosmetics) more than 17.8 million pounds of artificial colors! Artificial food colors were originally made from coal tar, but today are generally made from petroleum distillates (petroleum is what the gas for our cars is made from). Of the 24 food dyes that were originally approved for use in foods in America, 17 are now banned, delisted or no longer produced. Norway banned all products containing coal tar and coal tar derivatives in 1978. It is now 32 years later and the FDA still tells us artificial colors aren't bad for us. Hmmmm.......
Just a note on a "natural" food color:
You may be familiar with or have seen a red color ingredient called carmine; it can be found in strawberry yogurt and a variety of other red products. Carmine is sourced from a mash made by grinding up beetles grown in Peru and the Canary Islands. The mash is strained out to obtain a red liquid. That liquid, made from insects, is then shipped to the United States to food companies, where it is dumped into the yogurt to make it look like there are strawberries in there. People, it's not real strawberry. It's insect juice. That's what's in your yogurt.
Carmine is also used in red juice, cosmetics & lipstick. Some people have a dangerous allergic reaction to this ingredient. They can go into anaphylactic shock, which puts them in a coma (or worse!). As this demonstrates, some of these color additives can be extremely dangerous, but you'll notice companies don't put this information on their labels. "Insect juice" is never listed on your yogurt. They merely list "carmine," and they leave it up to you to figure out what that means.

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Athletes and Food Allergies

What is an allergy? This is any anomalous reaction where the immune system is involved. Your immune system, which is your body's system of defense, has the ability to produce 'markers' for substances it doesn't like. These 'markers' are antibodies. There are two types of antibodies involved in food allergies: Immunoglobulin type E (IgE) and Immunoglobulin type G (IgG).
There are also two types of allergic reactions. The first occurs when IgE antibodies attach themselves to mast cells in the body. When the offending food, called an allergen combines with an IgE antibody, the IgE molecule forces the mast cell to release tiny granules containing histamine and other chemicals that cause the symptoms of classic allergy - skin rashes, sinusitis, eczema and even asthma. All of these reactions are immediate, severe, inflammatory reactions.
However, most food allergies are delayed reactions, do not involve IgE antibodies and their effects are not limited to your skin or airways. They take anywhere from an hour to three days to show themselves and are more difficult to detect. These are the second type of allergic reactions and involve IgG antibodies.
Delayed food allergy is your digestive tracts inability to prevent large amounts of partially digested and undigested food from entering the bloodstream, to which the body reacts. IgG antibodies do not initiate severe, immediate reactions. However, a large build up of IgG antibodies to a particular food indicates a chronic, long-term sensitivity, or food intolerance. Studies have also found that certain foods can cause the release of histamine and invoke a classic allergic symptom without involving IgE. These include tomatoes, mango, mustard, papaya, pineapple, chocolate, buckwheat, sunflower, lectins in peanuts and shellfish. Researchers also believe that undigested proteins could directly affect mast cells in the gut, causing the classic symptoms of allergy.
There are many reasons why you can develop a food allergy. You may have a lack of digestive enzymes, frequent exposure to foods high in irritant chemicals, an immune system deficiency or an imbalance of bacteria and yeast in the gut, which leads to leaky gut syndrome.
How do you test for food allergies?
The best test for detecting which foods you are sensitive to is a quantitative IgG test. This test shows not only if you are allergic, but also how strong your allergic reaction is.
I have personally experienced the negative side effects of food allergies. My sport suffered a lot, as a result. Do not let this happen to you. Have an IgG allergy test done and move another step closer to peak performance!
I am the proud owner of Diet and Nutrition TV. [http://dietandnutritiontv.com]

The idea for creating Diet and Nutrition TV developed from my personal experience working with athletes, bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts, who all believed what worked for someone else would work for them too. They made the error of dieting and supplementing the same way!http://www.allergy-zero.com/

Avoiding Common Food Allergies and Other Allergens is Not As Hard As You May Think

Once you know what your child is allergic to, common food allergies for example, the next step is to limit their exposure to their allergy triggers, this should reduce their chances of developing the symptoms, and however, you will need to take a sensible approach, getting advice from your child's allergy consultant or GP.
If your child has common food allergies, you will need to avoid all contact with the culprit foods, the same goers for latex allergy and drug allergies, but if your child is allergic to air born allergens, e.g. pollen or house dust mites, it is virtually impossible to achieve complete avoidance and you should not turn your home into a sterile environment.
If you find that some of the avoidance measures are not working, especially in relation to house dust mites, then there may be no point in continuing with all of them, even if you do follow the allergy prevention steps, it doesn't necessarily mean that your child's symptoms will completely disappear.
House dust mites are tiny insects that thrive in warm, humid conditions, especially centrally heated homes, the mites are particularly common in beds, carpets, soft furnishings and even your child's cuddly toys, in fact anywhere that collects dust
Your child isn't actually allergic to the mite themselves but to the mites' droppings, the allergy can trigger flare-ups of rhinitis, asthma and eczema, especially in the autumn and winter months when house dust mites are at their highest level due to central heating.
Take action
Replace your carpets with a hard flooring that doesn't have any cracks or grooves for dust to collect
Dust your surfaces regularly with a slightly damp cloth as this will stop the dust becoming airborne, don't forget to wipe your child's toys too
Buy your child a high bed instead of one near the carpet
Use a wooden slatted bed with a big gap underneath for vacuuming
Vacuum regularly, every day if possible, Asthma UK suggests using a vacuum cleaner with good suction and a filtered exhaust that doesn't scatter dust, look for products with high efficiency particulate air( HEPA) filters
Use zip-up anti-allergy barrier covering on bedding, pillows, duvets, mattresses and cushions.
Wash your child's bedding regularly, Asthma UK recommends as hot wash( at 60c) once a week
Don't keep cuddly toys on your child's bed, Asthma UK suggests that parents put soft toys into bags in the freezer for a minimum of six hours every one to two weeks to kill house dust mites, alternatively, you can wash the toys at 60c
Avoid dust traps like cushions and dried flowers
Air your house every day to keep it cool and dry, use a dehumidifier to dry out the air, as this makes it more difficult for house dust mites to survive
Clean your soft furnishing with Anti-house dust mite chemicals, professional dust mite removal systems advertise their services through the yellow pages, although they may be quite expensive.
Pollen
According to the National Pollen and Aerobiology Unit (NPARU), grass pollen affects about 95% of all hayfever sufferers and birch tree pollen affects about 20%, oak tree, plane tree and nettle pollen are also common hayfever triggers.
Different pollens are higher at certain times of the year, if you know which pollen your child is allergic to, see the calendar on the NPARU website to check when your child is most likely to be affected, some people are allergic to more than one type of pollen, so they suffer from symptoms over a longer period
Hayfever tends to be worse in built-up areas because air pollution alters pollen so that it is more likely to trigger an allergic reaction.
Take action
Don't stop your child playing outside- it's healthy for children to have fresh air, however, don't let them out when the pollen counts are high, check the pollen forecasts on the TV, in newspapers or on the internet. Pollen levels tend to be highest in the early morning( 7-10am) and late afternoon(4-7pm)
Grow insect- pollinated plants( usually with brightly coloured flowers) in your garden and replace your lawn with paving
As soon as your child comes indoors, give them a shower and wash their hair and clothes.
Give your child some wraparound sunglasses to wear as these will stop pollen flying into their eyes, look for British Standard BSEN to ensure the sunglasses offer a safe level of ultraviolet (UV) protection
Keep your doors and windows closed, mow the lawn when your child isn't at home and don't let your child play outside for the rest of the day
Keep your car windows closed, some cars can be fitted with pollen filters
Avoid drying clothes outside
Brush or wash your cat or dog when they come indoors as they can carry pollen in their fur
Smear petroleum jelly inside and under your child's nose to trap pollen, this can also soothe any sore skin caused by a constant runny nose
If your child likes playing sports, avoid grassy areas and play on hard surfaces or Astroturf instead
Once your child has been diagnosed with common food allergies or any other allergy, you should try to limit their exposure to any known triggers.

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Basic Information About Sinus Problems

How often have you asked yourself what triggers your sinusitis. Constant headache or pain under the eye, sides of the nose and forehead, or heaviness are some of the common symptoms of sinusitis. There are several factors that can lead to sinus problems. Sometimes ignoring sneezing and stuffy nostrils results and ends in sinusitis allergies. In some cases, injury to the nose or any nasal deformity can also cause sinus problems. Like our noses, sinuses are spaces in the bone found between the eyes and cheek area on both sides of the head. These spaces have a thin membrane that are similar to the linings of our noses that are kept moist by mucus.
There is no doubt, that a person with sinus problems is in constant discomfort. A splitting headache is one of the key signs of a person suffering from chronic sinusitis. Other complaints like pain and pressure around the eyes, across the cheeks and forehead are common occurrence. It is important that one should be on the lookout for signs so as to address the problem at its onset. Like, for example, facial swelling and nasal stuffiness, colds with sore throat and moderate fever with chills, coupled with malaise and fatigue.

Sinusitis is one problem that is too much of a burden for a busy person. It slows you down and affects your whole performance as an individual. Most often, you tend to pass off the symptoms as just a common cold that lingers. But when the discomfort becomes unbearable, that is the only time that you seek out immediate remedies. When this happens, several medications can be available, ranging from prescription drugs to home remedies or natural remedies. It solely depends on the person, whatever remedy he chooses to try, just to get that relief from the discomfort. It is a common fact though, that not everyone with sinus problems will find relief from one form of treatment or remedy. There are so many remedies that can be tried, yet all are just temporary and the condition is bound to come back.http://www.allergy-zero.com/effective-ways-to-cure-allergies/

Best Treatments and Care For Sinus Headaches

Sinus headache is very suffering, while you can not reduce the pain without reducing the inflammation in your sinuses. Actually, you can reduce the pain simply by doing some appropriate treatments. However, people sometimes do not have any ideas about what they should do to treat this problem. Therefore, this article will help you to find out best treatments and care to reduce the pain of sinus headache.
As the first step to reduce the pain, you can have acetaminophen or ibuprofen. For people who are older than eighteen, aspirin is save enough to be taken. Then, you can apply warm compresses to the spot of the pain. To reduce the pain faster, you can apply the compresses four times in a day.
As the second step, you can elevate your head by using some extra pillow. Be elevating your head, your sinuses could easily drain so you can get rid of sinus headache faster. Then, you can also try to use nasal spray or decongestant. However, you have to keep in mind that you are not allowed to use nasal continuously more than several days since this certain medicine is quite addictive.
You should also eat properly to get better nutrition as the third step. Better nutrition will be useful for you to help increase your immunity to disease. Besides, you can also take plenty of rest. To help you reduce the severity of your headache, you can do catnaps. Do not think about anything that makes you depressed or tired. Stress and fatigue tend to worsen the pain and the severity.
Then, you can also try to increase the humidity of your indoor room as the fourth step. The easiest thing to provide appropriate humidity level is by providing humidifier device in your home. Or, as an alternative, you can boil a pot of water and inhale the steam for about 10 minutes. It will be quit helpful to reduce the inflammation and to fasten your sinus get dry.

By following those simple steps, you can reduce the pain and severity of headache caused by inflamed sinuses. Just try to apply those steps when this problem makes you in deep suffer.http://www.allergy-zero.com/hypnosis-to-overcome-allergies/

Breathing With Allergies - A Quick Remedy to Breathe With Allergies

We are all very unique and different. One of the few characteristics that we have in common is that we breathe. Breathing allows us to perform two functions. Inhaling allows us to take in oxygen for our body. Exhaling allows us to get rid of waste from our body. It is an important function. Breathing is one of those keys to enable us to get a quality workout or just a passing activity. We want to get a quality workout. With that in mind we should make sure that we can properly and efficiently breathe through our nose and our mouth. Allergies can hinder our breathing to a point where we decide not to workout at all or to have a mediocre workout. Here are some tips to maximize your breathing by minimizing the allergies without taking any medications.
By immersing your head in a sink or basin of tap water, we can remove some of the pollen and other allergens. Make sure your entire face is immersed. Open your eyes for a few seconds or even blink while underwater. Hold your face (and your breath) for about 10 to 15 seconds. Then, pull your head out of the basin or sink. Repeat this about 3 times. At the end, dry your face with a clean new towel.
Another tip is to place a face towel in a basin or sink of cold water (with the ice cubes). Make sure the face towel is immersed for awhile and is very cold. Then, place the face towel on your eyes and your nose for about 10 minutes. You can place it 10 minutes on one eye and then 10 minutes on the other eye so that you can watch television while you are waiting. But, I prefer to place it 10 minutes on both eyes to get it over with. Plus, there is not much positive stuff in television. You should feel refresh and ready to workout. It is similar to when towards the end of a long plane trip when the flight attendant gives you a face towel to rinse your face off. You should feel refreshed and energized.
While you are recovering from allergies, it would be a good idea to exercise indoors. You do not need the extra pollen and allergens to trigger your allergies. Now, your breathing is at its optimal best. Go forth and exercise at your best.

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Causes of Sinusitis

Sinusitis is a medical irregularity that affects the nose and other areas on the face that are controlled by similar membranes. There are two main types of sinusitis and the cause for each type varies. While sinusitis is not generally considered to be serious, it can linger and become a long-term condition. This is referred to as chronic sinusitis.
A person with chronic sinusitis most likely suffers from a compromised or weakened immune system. These folks are usually more prone to the symptoms of sinusitis time and time again as they lack the ability to produce mucus efficiently and may see their cilia either reduced or completely eliminated.
Chronic sinusitis can also be the result of poor air quality. Those who work in areas where the air is polluted, or just generally unhealthy, may find that their mucous membranes decline in efficiency, thereby losing the ability to produce cilia as well.
Stress is another common contributor to chronic types of sinusitis. People frequently placed in stressful situations may over-produce mucus, thus crowding the nasal passages. The same results are seen in people suffering from dehydration; lack of water in the body prevents the nasal passages from working to their full potential.
Sinusitis caused by virus or bacteria is known as acute sinusitis. If a person contracts a viral infection, it may spread to the nose or the nasal cavities. When the nasal cavities become inflamed, the result is sinusitis; the same is true for bacteria. Many small children have a knack for placing foreign and potentially harmful objects into their noses, which may result in sinusitis due to the bacteria found on the item.
Some medications may also contribute to an acute or minor sinusitis flare-up, as they may cause side effects which result in the inflammation of the nasal cavities and membranes. Additionally, people who blow their noses excessively may suffer from sinusitis and its effects

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Causes of Sinusitis

The sinuses are the small air chambers located behind the jaw, eyes and cheeks. An estimated 20 million Americans suffer from sinus infections each year, a condition which typically includes symptoms such as headache or fever, pressure around the face, nasal congestion and coughing.
Sinusitis is a condition in which the sinuses are infected or inflamed, which prevents them from being able to remove bacteria effectively from the body. There are several causes of sinusitis, and those with certain pre-existing medical conditions are also more at risk. Even such things as experiencing a change in altitude while flying or diving can cause sinusitis.
The most common causes of sinusitis are allergies or a cold; in fact, around 80 percent of those with a cold also develop sinus trouble, although usually mild. Colds and flu can cause the nasal passages to become congested, causing an obstruction and making it easier for bacteria to grow, which leads to sinusitis.
Allergies and asthma can also lead to sinusitis, again because both of these conditions tend to block the nasal passage. The most common allergens are airborne particles such as dust, animals and food; it's no coincidence that poor air quality also helps to affect the ability of the sinus to operate efficiently. Although fairly rare, an allergic reaction to various types of fungi can also trigger chronic sinusitis.
Abnormalities in a person's nasal passage can also cause a blockage, increasing the possibility of sinusitis. Polyps, which themselves may be the result of previous sinus trouble, are small growths which form in the nasal passage and restrict the flow of air. Although polyps are harmless and non-cancerous, they generally need to be surgically removed.
Sinusitis can also be caused by having enlarged adenoids, a tumor or cleft palate, or a relatively common condition called a deviated septum, in which the middle section of the nose is moved to one side. Even the side effects of certain medications and blowing the nose too hard can cause sinusitis. Stress is something most of us are only too aware of, and studies show that stress can actually lead to excess mucus production, causing the onset of sinus problems.
Of course, it's impossible not to catch a cold or flu occasionally, the main causes of sinusitis. Thorough treatment of a cold, however, will go a long way towards minimizing the symptoms and effects of sinusitis.

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Child Allergy Symptoms - What Do You Need to Look For?

Allergies cause a wide range of symptoms and effect children in different ways, when your child experiences the symptoms for the first time, you may not actually realise that they have had an allergic reaction, this is because many child allergy symptoms are similar to those of other common childhood infections or conditions.
Typical symptoms
Your child may have just one allergy symptom or several, the symptoms are often similar for different allergic diseases and can change over time. General allergy symptoms include:
A runny nose
Sneezing
A blocked or stuffy nose
Itchy eyes, ears, lips, throat or roof of the mouth
Coughing, especially at night
Wheezing and shortness of breath
Rashes
Tiredness
Redness in the face
Some of these symptoms can be caused by other illnesses too, so it's important to see your GP if you are worried about them.
Hidden symptoms
Sometimes an allergy can cause symptoms that aren't typical, especially in children, making them less easy to spot. These include:
Headaches
Unexplained irritability
Nausea
Itching with no sign of a rash
Digestive upset
Hyperactivity
If your child has any unusual, severe or persistent symptoms, it's important to get them checked out by your GP. They may be signs of an allergy but could also be something completely different, for example, persistent or recurrent diarrhoea may be due to a problem with their digestive system.
Recognising allergic children
There are some physical signs that can alert an allergy doctor to a child with child allergies before they do any allergy tests. These include:
Unhealthy pale complexion, many children with multiple allergies are also small for their age
Allergic shiners, these dark circles under the eyes look like the beginning of a black eye or smudged mascara, or you may just assume your child isn't getting enough sleep. But they are more likely to be due to an increased blood flow near your child's sinuses
Creases under the eyelids., called Dennie-Morgan lines, these are associated with nose-related and chest- related allergies in young children
Allergic or `nasal` salute. Children with a constant runny nose tend to rub their noses upwards with the palm of their hand. This can also lead to a crease across the bridge of the nose
Pulling funny faces. If a child's nose, ears or eyes are itchy, they may twitch or wiggle their face. Some children also sniff constantly
Dry, rough skin. This is particularly common on the checks, upper arms and chest, as well as in the creases of the elbows and behind the knees
Poor attention span. Children with glue ear may have difficulty hearing, which can lead to poor concentration.
Classical allergic diseases
These are the main allergic (atopic) diseases that affect children
Allergic rhinitis affects over 20% of the UK population, according to the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology guidelines for the management of allergic and non-allergic rhinitis.

Symptoms:http://www.allergy-zero.com/effective-ways-to-cure-allergies/

Common Cures For Sinusitis

If you are suffering from symptoms of sinusitis the important thing to remember is that you are not alone. There are millions of people across the world that have and are still suffering from this condition.
Sinusitis occurs when the nasal passages become inflamed and blocks the flow of air. This can happen because of smoke, air pollution, allergy, viral and fungal infections. There are two variations of sinusitis, one is chronic and the other is acute.
Chronic sinusitis causes headache, coughing, and ear infections and occurs when the nasal passage is blocked for an extended period of time. Acute sinusitis can usually take place for up to ten days at a time and the headaches associated with it can range from mild to painfully intense.
One common problem with sinusitis infections is the lack of knowledge. Many people have experienced this infection and are oblivious to the simple prevention methods and cures. So what's the main cure for sinusitis? A healthy immune system.
The immune system protects the body by blocking diseases and infections, however, if the immune system is weak it is unable to properly perform this duty. Since infections occur as a result of weak immune systems there are different ways to help strengthen it thus protecting the body against sinusitis.
A healthy diet plays a significant role in creating a healthy body, so proper food intake is vital. Red, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants known as carotenoids, which help to strengthen the immune system, as do foods such as tomato,carrots,pumpkins and cantaloupes. Vitamin C is one of the strongest antioxidants, which can be found in green peppers, oranges and other citrus fruits.
Although diet is a vital factor in curing sinusitis, moderate and consistent exercise is equally important. Studies have shown that in response to exercise there have been physiological changes in the immune system, however, this has to be done in moderation as these studies have also indicated that too much exercise can have the reverse effect.
Not only does exercise improve cardiac function and eliminate poisons from the body, but it allows us to breathe deeper thus releasing toxic by-products through the lungs.

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Common Symptoms and Types For Allergies - Herbal Remedies to Cure Allergies

The problem of allergy is a disorder which is usually associated with the immune system. In this condition the immune system becomes hyper sensitive to some substances which are known as allergens. Usually our immune system protects our body from the invasion of certain harmful foreign substances like bacteria, parasites, viruses etc. our immune system produces antibodies to destroy these harmful substances. But in the condition of allergy our immune system reacts even when in comes in contact with harmless substances like dust, pollen, certain foods, insect bites and medications. Today millions of people suffer from the symptoms of allergy.
Some of the common symptoms of allergies are watery eyes, uncontrollable sneezing and runny nose, sinus headaches, rashes and itchy hives and other irritations of the skin. Sometimes some patients may suffer from shortness of breath and wheezing. It is also related with some internal symptoms like diarrhea, chronic indigestion and nausea.
Some of the common types of allergies are food allergies, eczema, fever, asthma and hay fever. Allergic problem can be treated with the help of herbal remedies easily. Some of the popular herbal remedies -
1. Ginger is very effective in treating the problem of allergies as it is famous for its anti-microbial property. It reduces the allergic symptoms very effectively and easily as it prevents the excess secretion of histamine.
2. Honey is also helpful in reducing the problem of allergies as against allergens, honey is very helpful in augmenting our body's resistance.
3. Garlic is also very effective in treating the problem of allergies. Garlic helps in relieving the problems of congestion caused due to allergies as it is a decongestant.
4. Eucalyptus is also very effective in treating the problem of allergies as it has expectorant properties. Even oil obtained from eucalyptus is also very effective in reducing the congestion by applying it on the chest. Nasal congestion is also easily reduced and cleared with its help. It also looses phlegm and protect from insect bite.
5. Other herb is nettle which reduces inflammation and facilitates expectoration. Its root is also very helpful and it is used for the treatment of hay fever.
6. Another wonderful herb is licorice. It is an excellent herb which is used for treating asthma and allergies. Its root has anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects and it is very effective in treating the problem of hay fever, bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis. It is also having the feature of an excellent expectorant.

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Coping With Common Food Allergies in Children Today

Common food allergies affect around one in 17 children in the UK and cases are rising fast, if your child has a food allergy, the only way to keep them safe is to avoid any food to which they are allergic, however, if your child has an allergy to common foods e.g. milk, or multiple food allergies, this can be more of a challenge.
The only reliable way to know for certain if your child has a food allergy is to get them professional diagnosed, its important not to self-diagnose the allergy as you may be putting them at risk of nutritional deficiencies, e.g. a lack of calcium if you cut out dairy products.
According to the British Dietetic Association( BDA), around 5-8% of children have a food intolerance rather than an allergy, the symptoms aren't usually life-threatening, but they can cause significant discomfort and distress, they include diarrhea, weight loss, bloating and allergy-like rashes, there is no reliable test for most food intolerances, except celiac disease( gluten intolerance ), other than the elimination diet.
Allergy versus intolerance symptoms
Food allergies
Usually immediate reaction
Small amount of substance triggers symptoms
Often severe symptoms
Same reaction each time
Food intolerance
Slower or delayed reaction
Can usually tolerate small amounts of substance, excessive or prolonged exposure usually triggers symptoms
Much milder symptoms
Reaction may vary
Some children have an asthma attack or develop a rash on exposure to certain food additives, usually sulphites, benzoates and tartrazine.
There is also evidence that some artificial food colouring can affect children's behaviour, making them seem hyperactive, this is a form of food tolerance rather than an allergy, and common culprits are:
Sunset yellow ( E110)
Quinoline yellow ( E104)
Carmoisine (E122)
Allura red (E129)
Tartrazine (E102)
Ponceau 4R (E124)
Contact the Hyperactive Children's Support Group (HACSG) to learn more about the link between food and children's behaviour
Everyone should eat healthy balanced diet, but this isn't always straightforward if you have a food allergy or intolerance, you wont want to restrict your child's diet so much that they begin to resent eating or worry about whether foods are safe, this is why you should seek professional dietary advice from a dietitian, a dietitian can advise on a healthy eating for allergic or tolerant children and suggest suitable food substitutes, especially for wheat or dairy

A dietitian may suggest that your child tries an elimination diet to check for food intolerances, it involves removing specific foods or ingredients from your child's diet to see if the symptoms clear up, you then reintroduce these foods, one at a time, to see if the symptoms recur.http://www.allergy-zero.com/

Corn Gluten Causes Damage in Patients With Celiac Disease

A 2005 Study published in the journal Gut identified that corn gluten caused an inflammatory reaction in patients with celiac disease. There have been a number of research studies pointing out the detrimental effect that corn gluten plays in those with gluten intolerance.
Corn is a grain. Corn has gluten. Many believe that corn gluten does not induce damage the same way that wheat, barley, and rye do. The fact of the matter is, gluten has not been studied adequately. Most of what we know about celiac disease and gluten have to do with gliadin (the gluten found in wheat only). As a physician with 10 years of experience treating gluten sensitivity, I have seen corn be a severe problem for the majority of gluten intolerant patients. Many claim that they don't react to corn and feel fine after eating it. The same can be said of those with silent celiac disease. Remember that a lack of symptoms does not mean that internal damage is not occurring. All of that being said, we should not make assumptions. Common sense and intelligent thought should be used as a basis for our dietary decisions.
Gluten aside, consider the following about corn:
1. It is the second most commonly genetically modified food on the planet (soy is #1)
2. Genetic modification of foods continues to kill animals in scientific studies.
3. It is an incomplete protein.
4. It is difficult for humans to digest (ever see corn in your stool?)
5. It is high in calories and low in nutrient value
6. It is a new food to the human genome.
7. It is being used as a staple food for our cattle, fish, chicken, and cars.
8. Cows and fish are not designed to eat grain. (Have you ever seen a fish jump out of a lake into a corn field for supper?)
9. When animals eat corn as a staple they have shorter life spans.
10. Corn fed beef is linked to heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and obesity. Grass fed beef is not.
11. Fructose derived from corn is toxic to the liver and contributes to severe health issues.
12. Corn syrup has mercury in it. The list can go on and on and on...
Many consumers bow to the alter of "Gluten Free" packaged foods as if the label is a safety net. "Gluten Free" on the package does not mean that the food is healthy. Do not deny yourself the God given right to be healthy.
Remember, corn has gluten. The gluten in corn has not been adequately studied. Many studies to date have shown that corn induces inflammatory damage in those with gluten sensitivity. Almost half of all celiac patients don't get better on a wheat, rye, and barley free diet. Is there a link between corn and refractory celiac disease? At this point in time we do not know for sure, but 10 years of clinical experience with gluten intolerant patients reacting to corn is enough data for me.

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Could it Be Lactose Intolerance?

Living with frequent episodes of digestive discomfort certainly makes you wonder what is causing the problem and what can be done about it. It is a good possibility that these digestive symptoms are caused by lactose intolerance, a condition that makes it difficult to digest lactose, the main sugar found in milk and dairy products. Here are the common symptoms of lactose intolerance:
Gas
Bloating
Abdominal cramping
Diarrhea
The symptoms of intolerance usually start to occur within about 30 minutes of consuming dairy products, although it may take up to two hours for the lactose intolerance symptoms to set in. If you've suspected that lactose intolerance is the cause of your symptoms, you've probably tried products like Lactaid® or other lactase supplements or treatments to ease the pain. Maybe you've made an effort to eliminate foods with lactose from your diet - such as milk, cheese, ice cream, sour cream, pizza, etc.
One issue that comes up when attempting to eliminate the symptoms of intolerance is just how difficult it is to identify all the foods with dairy products in them. If you think you may be lactose intolerant, you are probably avoiding the obvious offenders like milk and cheese. But lactose is an ingredient in a number of foods you may not suspect, including:
• Processed cereals
• Baked goods
• Lunch meats
• Margarine
• Breakfast drinks
• Soups
Even some coffee creamers labeled as non-dairy may have milk-based ingredients that contain lactose. Since dairy can be hidden in so many of the things we like to eat, you may have suffered from lactose intolerance symptoms without knowing they were the result of consuming lactose. That also means you probably didn't take lactase supplements before you ate, and once again, you started feeling the onset of gas pains and cramps, abdominal bloating and diarrhea.
Pinning down lactose intolerance as the cause of your symptoms takes some time and effort. You can obtain a medical diagnosis, which can also help to rule out other conditions, such as a milk allergy.
But even with a diagnosis of intolerance, you are still responsible for managing your symptoms.
A number of people have tried and found success with Lactagen®, a clinically tested program that is based on changing the bacteria in the digestive system. Adapting your intestinal system to be able to digest lactose comfortably could be easier than trying to avoid lactose altogether, or remembering to take lactose intolerance pills.
Keeping a diary of your symptoms and what seems to bring them on can be a good first step in managing intolerance. Consulting your health care practitioner for a diagnosis may be helpful as well.

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Decongestants For Allergy Relief

Many individuals that suffer from allergies have discovered that over-the-counter decongestants are an appropriate means of achieving relief from the troublesome symptoms that often accompany this medical condition. There are two main types of this medication. They are identified as "Pseudoephedrine" and also "Phenylephrine".
Today, there is a new law in effect in numerous locations that requires obtaining the decongestants that contain the ingredient "Pseudoephedrine" directly from a pharmacist. If you are interested in this type for your allergies, it is important to understand that this law is in effect. Here, you will learn about why decongestants are considered to be a productive move for those that suffer from allergies.
Understanding the Functionality of Decongestants
When an individual experiences an allergy, the tissues that are located within the nose immediately start to become inflamed. This happens when the nasal cavity has come in direct contact with the allergen that is resulting in the reaction. As inflammation settles into the nasal cavity, the body immediately starts producing additional fluid and even mucous. In the eyes, the blood vessels will also go into a state of inflammation.
When decongestants are taken for allergies, it reduces the inflammation that is being experienced in these areas. Additionally, fluid and mucous creation is halted and relief from the symptoms associated with allergies is eliminated. Considering the bodily reactions associated with this type of allergy medication, it is considered to be beneficial to consume these OTC medications.
Health Risks
If you are interested in taking decongestants for allergy relief, it is important to understand that there are some health risks involved. The most important thing to keep in mind when taking this type of medication is that they may result in a drastic increase in blood pressure.
Many individuals may also notice that they are not able to urinate in the same amounts as they are able to when they are not taking the OTC medication. Additionally, complications associated with the sleep cycle, such as insomnia, may occur. Many may even experience mood swings. If you want to take decongestants for allergy relief, it is important to weigh both the advantages and disadvantages of doing so. Overall, this medication is beneficial, but it may not be right for everyone.

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Describing the Post Nasal Drip Causes

Post nasal drip is characterized by dripping mucus, nasal congestion and irritation. This occurs because there is excessive production of mucus by the sinus which usually happens when one's sinus has an infection. When post nasal drip is left untreated, it can lead to halitosis which may further damage one's self esteem. There are a lot of available treatments for drip however the best treatment will depend on the main cause of post nasal drip and of course, based on the recommendation of your doctor.
The various possible drip causes include allergies, rhinitis, sinusitis and gastric acid problems. Allergies are usually triggered by allergens which may be inhaled irritants such as dust, fur or pollen. These particles cause the lining of the sinus and the mucus membrane to swell. Meanwhile some people can also be allergic to some foods such as sea foods or dairy products for instance. Dairy products cause mucus to thicken and may actually also cause the inflammation of the nasal linings that leads to increase production of the mucus by the sinuses. Eating foods that you are allergic to continuously also causes thickening of mucus and therefore clogged nasal passages.
Dry environment is another cause of drip since the dry environment influences the mucus to be dry and stagnant where bacteria may thrive in. Smoking is also a possible cause of post nasal drip since they cause inflammation of the nasal passages and mucous membranes causing an increase in the secretion of mucus. Drinks with caffeine and alcohol also cause thickening of mucous because of mucous drying up. When one has the flu or common colds, post nasal drip is also a common complication especially since sinus infections can result from these colds and flu. Disorders such as those of the throat and those related to swallowing will also cause post nasal. Lastly, anything which causes fluctuations in the estrogen levels of the body is a possible cause of post nasal drip.

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Diagnosing Allergies in Children, The Essential Questions You Need to Ask

You should seek medical advice if your child develops any signs of an allergic reaction so that they can receive the most appropriate treatment. Even if their symptoms are very mild or you think you know what they are allergic to, it's important to get a proper diagnosis. This is because some allergies get worse over time or you may find that your child is also allergic to other things that you didn't know about, if your child has eczema or asthma, insist on allergy testing to check whether or not an allergy could be triggering their symptoms.Diagnosing allergies is important to be able to effectively treat the allergy and stop it re-occurring
Be prepared
It isn't always easy to pinpoint allergy triggers, so it helps if you do some research before you consult a healthcare professional, your child's medical history will help to decide whether or not allergy tests could be helpful, so make sure you provide as many details as possible.
Essential questions
A healthcare professional is; likely to ask you the following questions to help identify the specific allergens triggering your child's symptoms:
How long has your child had the symptoms?
What were the symptoms?
How severe were they?
Has you child had these symptoms before?
Can you think of anything that may have triggered them, e.g. a new food or high pollen count?
Do the symptoms happen at a particular time of day or in a particular environment, i.e. home or school?
Do they occur all year round or just at certain times?
Did you give your child any treatment when the symptoms occurred; if so what did you give them and what happened?
Is there a family history of allergies, eczema, hayfever or asthma?
Keep a diary
Make a note of the following each time your child develops the symptoms:
1.what your child has recently eaten, touched or breathed
2.where you were at the time
3.what time of day it was
4.what form the symptoms took
Research your family history
Allergies tend to run in families, so if you, your partner or your other children have any allergies, write them down, including the triggers and symptoms, ask any grandparent too, as you may not remember that you had an allergy or eczema as a very young child or how severe it was.
Who to approach
A pharmacist or GP is likely to be your first port of call for diagnosing allergies, the healthcare professional you choose may depend on your child's symptoms and their severity.
Your local pharmacist: increasing numbers of pharmacist are receiving allergy training through Allergy UK `s Accredited Pharmacy Allergy Screening Service, as the service isn't available on the NHS, you will have to pay for the pharmacy consultation and a finger-prick blood test for most common allergens, the test involves taking a small drop of blood from your child's finger with a sterile single-use lancet( needle), and the results are available in around 30 minutes, once you have the test results, the pharmacist may give you advice on avoiding the allergens or suggest that you consult tour child's GP
You can find your nearest accredited pharmacist through Allergy UK`s website, look for two valid certificates on display in the pharmacy to prove that the pharmacist has completed the full training.

Your GP: your GP can deal with most common allergies by providing appropriate medicines and advice, if your child has a sever allergic reaction or non-specific symptom, such as a rash or wheezing, you should consult your GP straightaway, your GP may decide that your child will benefit from being referred to a specialist NHS allergy clinic, therefore it is always important to get any rash or symptom sorted out as quick as possible, so if there is a problem always get it checked out. It is so important to get diagnosing allergies early on so treatment can be given at an early age to prevent the longterm effects of any allergy.http://www.allergy-zero.com/

Diagnosing an Environmental Allergy For Better Health and Vitality

Environmental medicine is the treatment of three groups of allergies. These are:
    Inhalant Allergies-is any substance which you breathe in or smell every day. This type of allergy can be hay fever, dust, mold spores or even the family pet. The allergy is the body's reaction to compounds in the air from the offending source.
    Food Allergies- If inhalant allergies turns up negative, food allergies are tested next. These are much more difficult to diagnose. Often the final diagnosis is determined by the patient keeping a daily log of all foods consumed.
    Chemical Allergies- most doctors do not consider chemical sensitivity to be an allergy. But pesticides, herbicides, car exhaust, fresh paint... all can be attributed to chemical allergies.
After all typical tests have been performed, the practitioner now has a good foundation to make a final diagnosis.
Signs In Your Body Of An Allergy
Allergies and its sensitivities can produce symptoms in any part of your body. Different people will even show different symptoms for the same allergen. Below are some common reports from different case studies:
Allergic Arthritis is simply just joint pain.
    Asthma- is not having the ability to get air into your body. In environmental medicine, therapies are based on finding the cause and treating it. By using nutrient therapy, stress management and environmental controls- most food allergies can be reduced or eliminated.
    Brain Allergy- the central nervous system can show a range of symptoms from depression, hyperactivity, fatigue, brain fog, headaches and even mental illness.
    Autism- some children diagnosed as autistic actually just have an undiagnosed food allergy.
    Chronic Fatigue Syndrome- an herbal therapy regimen often gives the patient the needed boost for the immune system to "rejuvenate".
    Dementia- many people have shown considerable improvement after their allergy triggers have been identified.
    Epilepsy- to date, no direct link has been found relating epilepsy to food allergies.
Currently, environmental medicine is a relatively new field of allergy research but extensive testing is making the medical community realize sensitivity reactions to anything we contact can be a trigger for many allergic reactions.

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Diet Tips to Help Alleviate the Symptoms of Hay Fever

If you suffer from hay fever or you know of someone who is then, you can understand how a distressing condition it can be. The symptoms are incessant sneezing, itchy eyes and throat that can leave you feeling irritable and depressed. There is no specific factor that causes or triggers hay fever however, there is a strong association that pollen is the main culprit.
The number of cases of people suffering from hay fever is on the rise and has risen considerably over the last 15 years. A large percentage of this rise has been attributed to more people living in urban areas such as cities and towns compared to people living in the countryside. This interesting correlation would lead to the conclusion that air pollution plays a major role in the cause of hay fever.
The onset of hay fever is associated with the warmer summer days. During the summer there are more pollutants in the air that people in urban areas are breathing in. To help combat the affect of this increase in pollutants you should consider strengthening your immune system by eating more foods that are high in antioxidants. These include the essential vitamins A C and E or ACE for short.
However, the most common suspects that are linked to the cause of hay fever can be contained in the food you eat. The two main suspects are cows milk and wheat. These two food types are contained in many foods as either the main or added ingredient. Another key suspect is the pollen and grass pollen. There is an interesting connection between these three because they are all grass related for example, cows cannot produce milk without eating grass. It may be that many people who suffer from hay fever are intolerant to the proteins that are commonly contained within milk and wheat products. One cause could be the connection to gluten. Gluten is a sticky protein that is contained in wheat and has been found to irritate the digestive system.
If you suffer from hay fever you may want to have a look at your diet and review what you are eating. If your diet contains a lot of dairy products such as cows milk, butter, cheese or yoghurt then cut down on these for a while. If your diet is lacking in nutrient rich food then introduce more natural wholesome food. These should include fresh organic green leaf vegetables and fruit.

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Diet Tips to Help Relieve Your Allergy Symptoms

The number of people who suffer from allergies is on the increase. An allergy can be defined as an intolerance to certain foods, chemicals etc. These intolerances can be varied and widespread. Common foods that people are allergic to is cows milk and wheat. These two substances are also commonly used as the main or added ingredients in many of the foods people eat in their diet today. We also have an intolerance to a particular food or drink that we consume in large quantities. For example, if we consume certain drinks that are high in caffeine we can become intolerant to caffeine.
Certain people have more extreme symptoms when they consume certain foods such as cows milk and wheat. These more extreme symptoms can cause severe allergic reactions. The ironic thing is that the foods most likely causing these severe allergic reactions are the food that are consumed in greater quantities. In a way, people can become and are addicted to the food that causes these allergic reactions.
Allergic reactions can also be caused by a number of other factors other than food. It can involve pollution in the environment that we live or the chemicals that are made in manufacturing products such as soap and shampoo. Nature can also cause allergic reactions in some people through grass pollen. Grass pollen is commonly linked to hay fever which can cause severe reactions and discomfort for many people. As there can be many factors that can cause allergic reactions in people it is best to consult an allergy specialist. They can give you an allergy intolerance test to identify what substances maybe causing these reactions. A nutritional expert may also help by looking at your current diet. Then determine if certain foods are causing digestive imbalances that could encourage the onset of allergic reactions.
If you do suffer from allergies there are actions that you can take right away to relieve your condition. A good place to start is by looking at your current diet. You can begin the process of introducing new foods that can help relieve the symptoms and omit foods that can be aggravating the condition. There are certain foods that are heavily linked to allergic reactions such as dairy products and wheat. If you eat a lot of these try and cut out these food types. You can test if one of these foods is causing an allergic reaction by removing one food type for a 2 week period. During this period you can monitor your symptoms. Keep doing this test until you identify a food that improves your condition after omitting it. Vitamin C and minerals such as magnesium also help to reduce allergies.

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Different Allergies in Children to Watch Out For

Allergy in children usually develops in particular stages during childhood, although they often overlap, this progression of allergic disorders is known as the Allergic March. Eczema is usually diagnosed first in very young babies, this is often followed by food allergies in the first three years of life, as children get older, they become more likely to develop rhinitis and then asthma, however, if your baby has eczema it doesn't mean that they will go on to develop the other allergies, but it does increase the chances of this happening.
Allergic asthma
According to Asthma UK, one in 11 children in the UK now has asthma. Asthma affects the airways, the small tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs, if the airways become irritated, e.g. by an allergen, they can become narrower and inflamed, this triggers asthma symptoms.
Symptoms:
According to the British Guideline on the Management of Asthma, asthma in children causes:
Recurrent wheezing
Coughing
Difficulty breathing
Chest tightness
These symptoms are often worse at night and in the early morning. In severe cases, an asthma attack, the child cant breathe enough oxygen into their lungs.
Common triggers:
Allergic triggers include house dust mites, pollen, moulds, pets and very occasionally food allergies. Some children have non-allergic triggers too, such as viral infections, exercise, certain drugs and exposure to fumes or tobacco.
Atopic eczema
According to the National Eczema Society (NES), atopic eczema affects one in five children in the UK; it generally develops in the first six to 12 months of life.
Symptoms
Eczema looks different in each child, but mild cases usually cause dry, scaly red and itchy patches of skin. The intense itching is particularly distressing for children, and young babies may rub their faces on their cot sheets or clothes. In severe cases the skin may weep, crust and bleed, leaving it prone to infection. According to the NES, atopic eczema usually starts on the face and scalp but often spreads to other areas, especially inside the elbows and behind the knees. In severe cases it can cover most of the body.
Common triggers
The main allergic triggers include house dust mites, pets or some food, especially egg. Eczema can also be triggered by other factors, such as stress, soaps, detergents and infections.
Urticaria
According to the British Association of Dermatologists, around one in five people in the UK will experience Urticaria, also called hives, nettle rash or welts, at some point in their lifetime
Symptoms:
Urticaria causes itchy red swellings (weal's) on the surface of the skin; acute symptoms can last up to six weeks, while chronic Urticaria can last for several months. Angioedema is a much more severe form causing large raised bumps, under the surface of the skin as well as puffiness around the eyes and lips
Common triggers: the cause is often never found, although food allergies, medicines, e.g. penicillin, and viral infections are possible triggers.
Oral allergy syndrome

According to Allergy UK, oral allergy syndrome is becoming increasingly common, with as many as one in 20 children affected, it's a form of cross reaction where people who are allergic to birch or hazel pollen or latex also react to some foods( e.g. fruit or nuts)http://www.allergy-zero.com/hypnosis-to-overcome-allergies/

Discover 2 Foods Most People Are Allergic to

The number of people suffering from allergic reactions is increasing every year. More people are suffering from severe allergic conditions such as asthma, hay fever and eczema. Many more people also suffer from less severe conditions such as a runny nose and skin rashes.
There is no clear proof that these conditions are caused by one single factor. It is more likely caused by a combination of various factors that include our lifestyle, the environment and the diet we eat.
There is growing evidence however, that links certain foods with increasing your risk to allergic reactions. The most common 2 food types are as follows:
Diary Products:
Cows milk in particular has been linked as the most common food that can cause allergic reactions in people. Cows milk is contained in a huge range of foods that include, butter, cheese, bread, cream and yoghurt. Cows milk is also used as an added ingredient in many processed foods. The main reason why milk is considered to have a high allergic reaction is because the proteins in the milk are very difficult for the body to digest. If you have an allergic reaction to cows milk, try and eliminate all cows milk from your diet for a month and see if it makes any difference to your condition. It is considered that goat's milk is easier for the body to digest. You can also try milk substitutes such as rice or soya milk.
Yeast:
This food substance is also found in a huge range of different foods and drinks. When people think of yeast they think of it being used in bread to make it rise. But there are forms of yeast that are also used in the production of beer which is better known as brewers yeast. Yeast can also be used in the production of wine but to a lesser extent.
People who have an intolerance to yeast usually have an adverse reaction when they drink alcohol especially, beer. If you have drunk beer and felt unwell you may have intolerance to brewers yeast. This does not mean you have to give up alcohol as not all alcohol uses brewers yeast. For example, vodka and champagne have less yeast in them.
Bread of course uses yeast and many people can become allergic by eating bread. However, bread also contains another allergic ingredient which is wheat. This could also be the culprit. To test if you are allergic to either yeast or wheat eat some bread and monitor your reaction. Then later on eat some pasta. If you feel bloated and tired after eating the bread but there was no reaction after eating the pasta this is a good indication that you are allergic to yeast.

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Dizziness and Other Symptoms of Sinus Infections

Sinusitis is a common problem that affects millions across the globe. It is caused when the sinuses become infected or inflamed. The most popular symptom of a sinus infection is a stuffy nose, however, other indications of this infection include coughing, headaches, sore throat, tenderness of the face and green or yellow nasal discharge.
One popular, yet underrated symptom associated with sinus infections, is dizziness, otherwise known as vertigo. This is a state of lightheadedness or a feeling that either yourself or your surroundings are spinning. Although this symptom does not always occur during an infection, when it does it can range from being harmless to deadly. Dizziness can be caused by different factors such as swollen tissues around the eyelids, which can trigger inflammation around the nose; another common cause is related to an ear infection.
During a sinus infection, the viruses are attached to the mucus coating of the sinuses which can spread to the Eustachian tube and cause blockage which then results in an ear infection. This high capacity of pressure on the eardrum alters the information that the brain interprets, causing nausea, vomiting and dizziness.
In unique cases, dizziness can be life threatening. This is because it is related to a loss of balance, which can occur in situations that can prove dangerous, such as driving a car or handling heavy equipment. Sinus infections are treatable usually with over-the-counter products or prescribed medication. However, prevention is better than cure.
Although most sinus infections are easily treated, many would be surprised to know that simple procedures can help to eliminate the chances of ever contracting this infection. Since bacteria can be a main cause of this problem, it is advisable to keep hands away from the face as much as possible and always ensure that the hands are kept clean at all times.
Sinus infections are also brought on when the immune system is weak. In order to strengthen the immune system, try to eat healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables, or take proper supplements and vitamin tablets to further enhance the system. These simple steps can help strengthen the body against infections that can not only be uncomfortable but sometimes detrimental to your health.

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Do You Have a Bed Bug Problem?

Do you have a bed bug problem? If so then the first sign could be a bed bug rash. Fortunately the rash doesn't pose a big threat to your health other than getting infected. Most of the times you should be able to take care of the bed bugs before they become a problem. Remember not to confuse bed bugs with bed mites. Bed mites feed on dead skin in bedding and normally don't bite humans, although some people are allergic to them and may suffer from a rash.
The rash stems from the saliva of the bedbug which it injects into our blood stream. Their saliva has toxins which makes our blood easier to drink by stopping the blood from clotting. Their saliva can cause an allergic reaction, however it is quite rare. If a person is bitten by multiple bugs then the resulting rash can be a lot worse.
If you are one of the unlucky persons which are affected by the bites then you will have to look out for bites that look very much like flea or mosquito bites. It can be quite hard to differentiate between these bites. If irritated mostly by means of scratching or rubbing, a rash can be the result. There are a few over the counter remedies available to you. Just ask your pharmacist for a product to handle these bites. They will be able to advise you with the best products.
Fortunately we have been able to study and learn from the bugs for a long time. This has enabled us to produce excellent products with which to kill and stop bed bug infestations. You can almost get these products over the counter from any home store. Most of these products will be in the form of a spray or powder which you can easily use. 100% Alcohol also works wonders on these bugs even destroying their eggs as well. Dabbing isopropyl alcohol can provide instant relief to bites or bed bug rash that have become itchy and sore. Polysporins and most Neosporin's provide relief in a cooling effect with the affected skin areas. There are even products which will protest your skin from future bites and help you handle current rashes.
Often the hands on method is the best way to deal with these bugs, especially if you don't have the money for bug sprays, insecticides or exterminators. You can stick double sided tape all around your bed. After the bed bug has fed it will return to its hiding place, which could be a crack or crevice in your room. The sticky tape will then catch them as they walk over it. The next morning you can then kill them with a simple squash or bug spray. This works well for new infestations. With this easy to do trick you can save yourself a lot of trouble. Just remember that if this method doesn't work you should immediately take more desperate measures.
Bed bugs can become a real problem if you ignore them. The sooner you deal with them the better. Try the DIY approach first. Get some bed bug spray from Wal-Mart or any other over the counter store or any other product known to kill these bugs. If you don't have any success then immediately contact a professional to come sort the problem. The longer you wait the harder it will become to solve the problem.

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Dust Mite Allergies

With more then 10% of Americans and 80% of the population of the world allergic to dust mites, these small creatures cause a lot of trouble. Mites are also the cause of most asthma and breathing problems...making them especially troublesome to the elderly and the young. Did you know a high concentration of mites in your home can cause you to develop a mite allergy?
What are they?
Dust mites are microscopic bugs that live by eating the dead skin and dander every living being sheds regularly. While the mite itself is harmless, his excrement and dead skin are not. Many people experience an allergic reaction when they inhale a protein found in the feces of these tiny insects. The reactions to a dust mite allergy can range from itchy eyes to a sever asthma attack.
Where do they live?
Dust mites can live anywhere but are especially fond of your bed. Did you know that mites in pillows that are over 2 years old comprise up to 10% percent of the weight of the pillow? With that many pillow mites it is no wonder you can't sleep. There are over 10 million mattress dust mites in your bed also.
Eeeww! Makes you want to rush out and buy a new bed, doesn't it!?
Before you do, you need to know you also have carpet mites. This means every time you walk across the floor, millions of them (and more importantly their feces) are launched into the air...triggering your allergies.
They also live in the drapes, in the couch, on your pets, and on any fabric surfaces in your home. They are everywhere!
How to kill them
While you CAN kill dust mites...it is not an easy task. Here are some tips to get you started on the road to eliminating them:
Use a mite proof mattress cover. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to thoroughly vacuum the mattress and the floor. Then spray the mattress with a dust mite spray to kill them. Once that is done, put a dust mite proof mattress cover on the bed to keep them out.
1) Wash
Wash all of the bedding (including the pillows) in very hot water. Hot water(130F) and freezing kill dust mites. Bedding should be cleaned at least every two weeks, and a mite spray can be used between washings. You also should get pillow covers for all of your pillows to eliminate pillow mites.
2) Use an air purifier
There are many great air purifiers on the market that will help to eliminate mites in your home. Using one will help mite allergy sufferers a great deal.
3) Freeze toys
Place children's stuffed toys and anything else that can not be washed into the freezer for 24 hours. Mites can not tolerate extreme temperatures...so freezing will kill them.
4) Use dust mite cleaner
Wipe all surfaces (including the floors) with a mite cleaner. These cleaners kill the mites as well as keep them from getting into the air like simple dusting can do.
5) A/C filters
You will need to use a HEPA A/C filter and spray it regularly with a mite spray to help eliminate them in the A/C system. You can also remove any vents for your central a/c unit and spray a mite spray inside as far as you can.

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Egg Allergy - Ingredients to Avoid

Eggs are normally a healthy food, but when you're allergic to them, it's another story. A person who is allergic to eggs will have a reaction to the proteins found in either the egg whites or egg yolks - or both. In an allergic reaction, the body's immune system sees these proteins as harmful invaders and responds by creating specific antibodies to attack and destroy those proteins. This can cause many allergic reactions such as nausea, diarrhea, headache, hives, wheezing and, if the allergy is acute, anaphylactic shock.
Eggs can be found in many foods and have many different names. It's easy to spot "eggs" on an ingredient list. There are other names for "eggs" that may be on an ingredient list that you need to be aware of. It may take a little more time to read the ingredient list for each food you plan to purchase, but the benefits of taking a few extra minutes outweighs the the risk of an allergic reaction.
If you or your child has an egg allergy or intolerance please avoid the following:
Albumen
Albumin
Apovitellenin
Egg Lysozyme
Egg Whites
Egg Yolks
Globulin
Livetins
Lysozyme
Ovalbumin
Ovamucin
Ovamucoid
Ovoglobulin
Ovotransferrin
Ovovitellin
Ohosvitin
Simplesse
Vitellin
Ingredients that may include eggs, that don't specifically state eggs can be:
Binders
Coagulants
Emulsifiers
EGG SUBSTITUTES (these may include egg whites - should state this on the ingredient list)
Flavorings
Seasonings
White wine (can be washed with egg egg whites)
Root beer (can be washed with egg whites)
Processed meat
Sauces
VACCINATIONS (many vaccinations either contain eggs or are grown in an egg base)
Also read labels for "may be processed on equipment that also processes eggs". You have the possibility of cross-contamination, rather than actual egg ingredients.
Joyce Nielsen has over 30 years of experience researching and cooking for food allergies and special diets. She has experience with diets for Celiac disease, ADHD, Autism, Rheumatoid Arthritis, hyperactivity, lactose intolerance and casein allergy. She believes in a holistic approach to health that deals with the whole person rather than just treating symptoms. She is inspired to write for others with food allergies in order to share her experiences and offer insight

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