September 8-14, 2011 - Original Health Articles

If you want to live the best life you can with arthritis, you need to stand up for yourself and your condition. Whether you're the one with arthritis or are a caregiver for a spouse or child who has it, it's up to you to ask for the things you need. Fortunately, you don't need specific training or schooling to become an arthritis advocate.

Not that you need another reason to trim excess flab, but here it is: Scientists have linked extra pounds in midlife to an increased incidence of Alzheimer's disease later on. This finding comes on the heels of a previous study that found that modest weight gain during middle age, particularly around the middle, is linked to a higher rate of cardiovascular disease.

Although gastric cancer (also known as stomach cancer) is very uncommon in the U.S., it's very common in other parts of the world-especially Japan, Chile, and Iceland. Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of stomach cancer. It develops in the glandular cells that line the inside of the stomach, which secrete a protective layer of mucus to protect the lining of the stomach from the acidic digestive juices.

If your gray strands bother you or you simply long for a change, hair dye is your best bet. But before you take the plunge in a salon or at home, be sure you're armed with information to help prevent unwelcome surprises. DO start subtle and small. Particularly if this will be a DIY project, start with a minor hue adjustment and consider a temporary or demi-permanent color.

Asthma is a chronic medical condition that not only impacts your respiratory system, but can also affect your neurological health. There are three ways asthma can affect your brain: When coping with stress and anxiety When asthma management becomes too stressful to handle.

Unfortunately, no matter where you plan to travel, your food allergies will always be with you. So don't just plan your vacation itinerary, plan on ways you can stay safe on your trip, too. Whether you're heading to the beach, the countryside, or the mountains, be mindful that you could come on contact with your allergens.

Do you know what you're getting into when you sign up for a yoga class? Among the many popular styles offered in gyms and studios these days, one might make you break a sweat in a super-hot room, while another might be mellow and cool. The word yoga means to yoke or unify the mind, bod,y and spirit.

The most avoidable cause of death in the U.S., cigarette smoking, accounts for 400,000 deaths annually. It's a life-threatening habit for anyone, but for individuals with diabetes, smoking is even more lethal. Nicotine increases glucose levels in the red blood cells, according to a study that was reported in Diabetes Forecast.

Flaxseed is a grain that is rich in soluble fiber. It's also a plant source of phytochemicals called lignans and omega-3 fatty acids—a powerful antioxidant. Flaxseed has been commonly used as a laxative to improve constipation and promote digestive health.

Though trichomoniasis is the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD) of all, many people haven't ever heard of it. Caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, a microscopic parasite, it can cause no symptoms at all, or it can present with symptoms such as vaginal discharge, vaginal itching, and redness.

Everyone has life goals and dreams, but many people have no idea how to achieve them. That's where a life coach can help. Life coaches help you create the blueprint to become your best self.  What is a life coach? Life coaches are trained professionals who help clients realize their personal, professional, and physical goals.

How do you know if you're wearing the right bra? When your breasts feel comfortable, supported, and beautiful. When your bra straps don't dig, roll, or pinch and your band fits without leaving red marks, riding up, or chafing. When there's no "back fat" and your breasts fill the cups without "running over," bulging, or leaving gaps.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and fibromyalgia have a lot in common. Both conditions involve increased sensitivity to pain, can be debilitating and affect more women than men. What's more, research shows that as many as 60 percent of IBS patients also have fibromyalgia and as many as 70 percent of fibromyalgia patients have IBS.

Suffering from depression is emotionally frustrating. So is living with someone who suffers from depression. Unfortunately, this is more common than you may imagine. In a Reader's Digest survey, 42 percent of respondents said depression was a major challenge in their relationship.