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Sunday, June 12, 2011

Treating Nail Problem with Supplements: Tips to Prevent Brittle Nails and Manage Hangnails at Home

Healthy and pink nails are considered as a sign of good health in Chinese and Indian medicine. Nails are also considered as a sign of beauty however nail problems like fungal infections and brittle nails result in unsightly nails which affects one in 25 people. Swiss researchers reported that an average intake of 2500mcg of biotin each day can help increase the thickness and texture of nails by almost 25%. Nutritional deficiencies are commonly responsible for nail problems, which can be effectively managed by using dietary supplements.

Nails are indicative of
health
Causes of Nail problems: Anatomy of a Nail
 Nails are made up of a protein referred to as ‘Keratin’ which is makes the nails one of the strongest tissues in the body. However nail problems like brittle nails, fungal infections or cracked nails are observed in several individuals and are commonly attributed to,
  • Nutritional deficiency primarily of Vitamin B complex and Vitamin C can result in nail problems including hangnails and brittle nails
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders like Asthma and Emphysema may also result in bluish discoloration of the nails and make them weak and brittle. Bluish Discoloration is also indicative of heart disorder
  • Recurrent exposure to harsh chemicals can also impact the nails making them dry and brittle
  • Fungal infections, especially in the toenails can result in athlete’s foot which may result in nail troubles. 
Supplements to Treat Nail Problems: Treating Brittle Nails Naturally
Various supplements help overcome the nutritional deficiencies and contribute to stronger nails in general. An eight week therapy regimen would help improve the nail condition and treat brittle nails,
    
    Biotin is essential for
    Healthy Nails
    
  • Biotin along with amino acid complex works in synergy and helps the building of keratin and other proteins that help in making the nails strong. 600 mcg of biotin twice a day helps strengthen the nails along with one pill of amino-acid complex twice a day.
  • Vitamin E helps in improving the texture of the nail tissue while Vitamin C enhances the effect of Vitamin E and biotin. 500 IU of Vitamin E with 1000 mg of Vitamin C thrice a day is beneficial
  • Calcium and Magnesium forms an integral part of the exoskeleton and improve the thickness of the nails. 600 mg calcium and 250 mg of magnesium once a day helps improve nail texture
  • Vitamin B complex comprising of 150 mcg of Vitamin B12 and 400 mcg of folic acid are essential in enhancing immunity and aid in the management of nail bed infections. 
Tips to Prevent Nail Problem: Managing Hangnails at Home
Here are some simple tips that would help in managing nail problem and manage hangnails and brittle nails,
  • Head to head study has shown that tea tree oil was equally potent as the most popular antifungal (clotrimazole) and is effective in more than 60% of cases of fungal infection.
  • Avoid trimming cuticles. Cuticles protect the nails from bacteria and fungal infection and also responsible for a shinny and healthy texture
  • Wear gloves while doing household chores like washing utensils. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals.
  • Apply petroleum jelly or Aloe Vera on the hands and nails, especially after your hand has been in water for long period of time.
  • Always keep your nail short, since long nails are at a greater risk of breaking easily. Always trim your nails after a bath or soak your nails prior to trimming to prevent splitting of the nails.

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Managing Seizures with Supplements Effectively: Importance of Vitamins and Minerals in Epilepsy

As per one of the theory attempting to explain the cause of seizures, epileptic attacks are attributed to the damage of fatty membranes that surround the nerve cells. Preliminary research studies have shown that Vitamin E, with its strong antioxidant properties, prevents the damage of the fatty membrane and thereby prevents the occurrence of seizures. Though there is no concrete proof of how supplements benefits of supplements in management of seizures and epilepsy, their role in managing epileptic attacks is undisputed.

Seizures are associated
with abnormal impulses
in the brain
How Supplements to help manage Epilepsy: Role of Supplements in managing Seizures
It should be noted that supplements can’t cure the condition and anticonvulsant drugs are mandatory for the treatment of epilepsy. Under no circumstances should supplements be considered as substitute to prescription drugs. However supplements do contribute positively in management of seizures,
  • Nutritional deficiencies are identified as one of the leading cause of epileptic seizures. Supplements help in correction of these nutritional deficiencies and prevent recurrence of seizures
  • At times supplements contribute effectively in aiding anti-convulsant drugs by enhancing their efficacy.
  • Prolonged use of anticonvulsant drugs is associated with unpleasant side-effects, which can also be effectively managed by supplements. 
Supplements for Epilepsy: Important Vitamins and Minerals to Manage Seizures
  • Vitamin B complex, especially Vitamin B6 and Folic Acid play a crucial role in management of epileptic attacks. Vitamin B6 is involved in the production of neurotransmitters (i.e. chemicals meant to send message from one neuron to another). However, since most of the B complex vitamins work in conjunction, it is best to take a Vitamin B complex supplement. Ideally 400 mcg of Folic Acid and 150 mcg of Vitamin B12 is ideal
  • Calcium and Magnesium deficiencies also have been associated with epileptic seizures. Ideally consume 250 mg about twice a day. However there are certain precautions for magnesium supplements.
  • Glutamine and Taurine are two amino acids whose deficiency is associated with seizures. Glutamine helps stabilize the blood sugar levels while Taurine regulates electrical impulses in the brain which may result in a tranquilizing and calming effect
  • Supplements enhance
    the effectiveness of
    Anti Convulsant drugs
  • Regular intake of 5000 IU of Vitamin E is presumed to improve the nerve sheath, which in turn is reported to improve electrical transmission of impulses and helps in preventing seizures.
Managing Epilepsy Effectively: Do’s and Don’ts for Seizures
There are certain things that need to be understood, especially while handling a person with seizures or epileptic attacks,
·      Don’t try to restrain a person having a seizure. This increases the risk of you either hurting yourself or the person.
·      Don’t try to insert a gag in the mouth of the person to prevent him from biting his tongue. You are actually putting the person at a greater risk of choking.
·      Cushion the persons fall and ensure that he/she doesn’t fall on a hard or a sharp object
·      After the seizure is over, turn the individual on to his/her side to prevent gagging or choking

A person who has had a previous episode of a seizure should refrain from the consumption of alcohol, as alcohol tends to interfere with the action of anticonvulsant drugs.                                    

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Magnesium for Health: Magnesium Deficiency Symptoms and Magnesium Supplements Precautions

An average human body contains only about twenty eight grams of Magnesium, but studies have indicated that it plays a crucial role in controlling over 300 different processes in the body. In a study conducted, on sixty hypertensive men and women, it was observed that magnesium helped reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Magnesium’s role in reducing the risk of heart attacks and stroke is also being explored.

Role of Magnesium: Common uses of Magnesium for Health
There are a wide range of functions that are performed by magnesium. These include
Magnesium benefits
the Gastro Intestinal
System
·      The trace mineral is responsible for the production of energy to perform various metabolic functions. Magnesium acts as a catalyst for various metabolic processes and aids in production of energy
·       Magnesium plays a crucial role in muscular relaxation and aids in management of cramps and spasms. It action on smooth muscle cells makes it effective supplement for the management of asthma  attacks caused due to obstruction of airway passages and lowering blood pressure, by causing relaxation of the arterial walls.
·      It also relieves the symptoms of fibromyalgia, due to its action on the nerve functions.
·      In association with calcium and potassium, magnesium is responsible to regularize heart rhythms and hence in used in the treatment of arrhythmia. 
·      Magnesium also acts as a mild diuretic and Epsom salts (Magnesium Sulphate) is used effectively to treat constipation.
·      Studies have shown that Magnesium helps enhance the production of Insulin and helps prevent the complications associated with diabetes.
As per various reports, Magnesium is also beneficial in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hypertensive Disorders, fibromyalgia, Premenstural syndrome, asthma and hay fever and multiple sclerosis. It is also considered beneficial in the treatment of diabetes, stones in the kidney and migraines.

Ideal Dose for Magnesium: Precautions while taking Magnesium Supplements
The Recommended Dietary Intake for Magnesium in Adults is 400 mg (Males) and about 300 mg (Females). The RDI increases during pregnancy and among adolescents. It increases gradually above the age of thirty years.
Magnesium should
be avoided in
Kidney Disorders
Some of the rich sources of Magnesium include whole grains, vegetables like green vegetables, squash and broccoli, seeds and nuts including almonds. Dairy products, chocolate and coffee are also good sources of magnesium. “Hard” water is also a good source as magnesium.  
Most magnesium supplements are manufactured in combination with calcium. They are available in the ratio of 2:1 or 3:1 which is considered ideal for the absorption of both these elements. However due to lack of research studies to support these evidence, the Food and Drug Administration of the United States is carefully reviewing these products. Magnesium supplements should be avoided by individuals with kidney disease.

Causes of Magnesium Deficiency
Invariably 75% of the population suffers from magnesium deficiency. Magnesium deficiency presents when the intake is less than 85 mg intake of magnesium per day. The high risk population for development of magnesium deficiency includes,
  • Alcoholics tend to have a poor diet and often magnesium deficiency is most common symptom
  • Diabetes is associated with magnesium deficiency as magnesium tends to be excreted in urine
  • Excessive vomiting and diarrhea is associated with excessive loss of magnesium which in turn results in magnesium deficiency. Taking diuretics can also result in magnesium deficiency.
Symptoms associated with Magnesium Deficiency

Symptoms associated with magnesium deficiency include fatigue and muscle weakness, hyper excitability, low levels of serum potassium and serum calcium which result in muscle twitching, tremors and muscle spasms.
Generalized symptoms include nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Often personality changes are also observed in individuals with magnesium deficiency.
Ensure that your diet is rich in magnesium and limit the intake of magnesium supplements.

Monday, June 6, 2011

Health Benefits of Lecithin: Improves Concentration, Memory, Heart and Liver Detox

Lecithin supplements are being prescribed by numerous nutritionists and health care experts. Lecithin exerts remarkable health benefits and is particularly important for the liver and nerves.

What is Lecithin?: Lecithin Benefits

Lecithin is a fatty substance found in animal and plant based foods, such as: eggs, liver, soy, wheat germ and peanuts. Our body manufactures lecithin as well. Certain processed food products like ice cream, chocolate, margarine, make use of lecithin too etc.

Lecithin is an excellent source of choline (vitamin B), in the form of phosphatidylcholine. In the body, phosphatidylcholine breaks down in to choline.

The health benefits of lecithin are:
Soybean Lecithin or Soya Lecithin

Soybean is a wonderful source of plant based lecithin. When you take soy lecithin, your body obtains choline from it. Lecithin and choline play a vital role in governing the functioning of every cell in your body. Soybean, tofu, soy milk, soy curd, miso, etc., will provide you lecithin in abundance.

Lecithin and Cholesterol : Lecithin for the Heart

Lecithin found in most plant sources help lower serum cholesterol levels appreciably. Lecithin decreases LDL (low density lipoprotein) and VLDL (very low density lipoprotein) and maintains normal levels of HDL (high density lipoprotein). Thus, lecithin supplementation can ward off cardiovascular disorders successfully.

How to Improve Memory? Enhance Memory with Lecithin Supplements

Lecithin is a powerful nerve building nutrient that greatly improves memory. Lecithin is used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, managing twitches and jerks and preventing neural tube defects.
 Lecithin rich foods, consumed on a regular basis, keep your mind agile and active, enhance memory considerably, boost concentration levels and stave off degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Lecithin improves Liver
and Digestive Functions
Liver Detoxification with Lecithin: Improving Liver Function

Lecithin is particularly useful I treating gall bladder and liver disorders. Lecithin is a key component of bile; and low levels of lecithin trigger gall stone formation. Taking lecithin supplements can prevent and treat gall stone successfully.

Lecithin is often called a liver strengthening nutrient. It prevents build up of fats within the liver, improves flow of fats and cholesterol through the liver and gall bladder and helps the liver in the process of detoxification. Hepatitis, cirrhosis and gall stones are effectively treated with lecithin supplementation.

Lecithin Granules and Lecithin Dosage: Lecithin Side Effects

  • Lecithin is available in the form of granules, which need to be taken with meals to enhance absorption. The dose is 1 teaspoon of the granules, twice daily. The nutrient is also available in the form of capsules (2 capsules to be taken daily), or tablets or liquid.
  • Granular lecithin has a nutty taste and can be sprinkles over food or added to drinks.
  • High doses cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating and sweating.

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Uses of Iodine and Natural Sources: RDI and Symptoms of Iodine Deficiency

Iodine is a vital mineral, which is crucial for ensuring normal functioning of the thyroid gland. As per a study conducted by UNICEF researchers, it was observed that the average IQ of children deficient in Iodine is about 13 points below the average IO of children with adequate supply of dietary iodine. Iodine deficiency is a relatively rare phenomenon in the developed world; estimates suggest that approximately 1.6 billion people suffer from some from of iodine deficiency, especially in the developing countries. The soil in the coastal areas is rich in iodine which is absorbed by the vegetables and fruits grown in the soil and hence most of the times, iodine deficiency is observed in hilly terrains.

Iodized Salt is best source
of Iodine
Functions of Iodine: Iodine Uses
Iodine is known for its effect on the ensuring proper functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is the principal gland of the body and controls a wide range of functions include metabolism of carbohydrates and fats and also controls and regulates the functions of other endocrinal glands in the body. Though iodine is primarily known for its effect on the thyroid gland, it also performs other functions.
  1. It plays a crucial role in management of cyclic breast disorder or cyclic mastalgia, a condition characterized by lumpy and tender breasts associated with sensation of heaviness and pain, which is mostly observed just prior to menses/periods
  2. Iodine is also famous for its use as a tropical anti-septic and is very beneficial in management of superficial cuts, bruises and burns. Local application of iodine prevents secondary infection and also hastens healing. 
Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) for Iodine: Symptoms of Iodine Deficiency
Recommended dietary intake for iodine is about 150 mcg daily for adult men and 120 mcg daily for adult females. One table spoon of iodized salt (salt fortified with iodine) is adequate to meet the body’s iodine requirement. Some of the symptoms associated with Iodine deficiency include,
Primarily, iodine deficiency results in the enlargement of the thyroid gland and may result in formation of goiter, which is seen as a lump in the neck, just above the Adam’s apple.
  1. Fatigue, tiredness  and generalized weakness
  2. Sluggishness with delayed reflexes
  3. Constipation
  4. Dry and cracked skin
  • Hoarseness of voice
  • Elevated levels of triglycerides in the blood
  • Goiter is observed Hypothyroid
    and Hyperthyroid
  • Some degree of reduced mental functions and impairment. 
  • Excess of Iodine Risk: Important Natural Food sources of Dietary Iodine
    The human body contains about 20-50 grams of iodine and almost about 75% of it is stored in the thyroid gland.  Iodine excess is rare and there is very little risk of iodine overdose even if the intake level is twenty times higher than RDI. However at extremely high levels (i.e. above 30 times the RDI), there is a risk of experiences certain iodine toxicity symptoms which include,
    1. Mouth sores and mouth ulcers, with swelling of the salivary glands and Metallic taste in the mouth
    2. Gastro intestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea
    3. Breathlessness or difficulty in breathing easily
    4. Acne
    5. Mild to Moderate Headaches
    Ironically, excess levels of iodine are also associated with enlargement of the thyroid gland and mimic the presentation of a goiter. Iodized salt is the best source of iron, since the salt is specifically fortified to provide essential supplies of iodine to the body. The other sources of iodine include sea food and fish. The richest natural source of iodine is kelp and wakame, both of which are seaweeds and have relatively low levels of contamination.

    Friday, June 3, 2011

    Iron for Health: Treating Anemia with Supplements and Natural Sources of Iron

    Surprisingly, Iron deficiency is not that uncommon even in developed countries. As per an estimate about nine percent of adolescent girls and eleven percent of females over the age of fifty years in Australia and New Zealand suffer from iron deficiency. The incidence of iron deficiency in developing countries in the Asian and African continent is as high as 40%among females in the reproductive age group.  Iron plays a crucial role in physical endurance and overall health.

    Iron for Good Health: Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia

    Iron is an integral part of hemoglobin, a component of red blood corpuscles, which determines the oxygen carrying ability of the blood. Iron is also a part of myoglobin, which is responsible for supplying oxygen to the muscles.  
    Fatigue is more
    often associated
    with Iron deficiency
    Food is the primary source of iron for human body and poor nutrition, excessive internal bleeding due to cancer or stomach ulcer or due to some type of cancer may result in iron deficiency. Though the initial symptoms associated with the condition are fairly limited, prolonged inadequacy of iron may result in the following symptoms,
    • Weakness and Fatigue which may result in decreased ability to perform strenuous or even routine activities. Constant feeling of tiredness is a critical symptom of iron deficiency anemia 
    • Breathlessness and shortness of breath on the slightest excretion
    • Palpitations or increased consciousness of one’s heart beat along with profuse perspiration is also indicative of iron deficiency
    •  Increased susceptibility to infections can make the individual prone to develop secondary infections like toenail fungus or hangnails
    • Menstrual irregularities are observed among females. Severe iron deficiency is associated with amenorrhea or complete lack of menses.
    Paleness, pallor and white coating on the tongue are some of the signs which are indicative of anemia and iron deficiency.

    Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) for Iron: Iron Toxicity and Guidelines for using of Supplements

    The Recommended Dietary Allowance of Iron is about 12-16 mg per day in women during their reproductive age and falls to 5-7 mg per day after menopause. The RDI for adult men is 7 mg per day. The RDI for pregnant and lactating women is slightly higher than the regular recommended requirement due to increased demand of the growing child.
    However it is always recommended to consult your physician before taking iron supplements as excess of iron can be detrimental to health. Studies have linked excess of iron and iron toxicity with increased risk of developing chronic disease including heart disease and colon cancer.
    It is advised that extra iron is not required unless a person suffers from iron deficiency.
    • Iron is best absorbed on empty stomach; however iron supplements on empty stomach may result in gastric upset and increase the risk of gastro-esophageal reflux disease.
    • Iron tends to interfere with the action of antibiotics and certain other medications. Always inform your doctor about the supplements that you take.
    • Never take iron supplements for more than six months without getting your blood hemoglobin evaluated. Six months are adequate to replenish the deficiency of iron.
    • Red Wine improves
      Iron Absorption
    • Never take iron supplements without doctor’s advice. Some individuals suffer from a disease called hemochromatosis, which is an inherited disorder in which an individuals body absorbs too much of iron
    Natural Sources of Iron: Iron Supplements for Anemia

    Non Vegetarian diet and animal sources of iron including liver, beef and lamb are best sources of iron. Unfortunately Vegetarian diet has limited sources of iron and is absorbed less actively. However, including 500 mg of Vitamin C in your diet can double the absorption of iron from vegetarian sources. Some of the vegetarian sources of Iron include,
    ·         Vegetables like eggplant and cabbage, beans and peas
    ·         Dried fruits like apricots and raisins
    ·         Kelp, blackstrap molasses and Wheat bran are also good sources of iron
    ·         Pumpkin seeds, squash seeds and sunflower seeds are also some of the natural sources of iron
    ·         Brewer’s Yeast and Red wine are also other sources that allow easy absorption of iron

    Thursday, June 2, 2011

    Health Benefits of Aloe Vera for Skin and Hair: Aloe Vera Lotion Side Effects

    Aloe Vera is widely used as an ornamental Plant. However it has been used since centuries, to mange skin ailments and to treat gastro-intestinal tract upsets and derangements, effectively and naturally. Native to the Sub Saharan Africa, it is now found in arid climates across the globe.

    Aloe Vera Plant has
    several benefits
    What is Aloe Vera?: Pure Aloe Vera from Aloe Vera Plants

    The Aloe Vera plant belongs to the lily family. It is a succulent plant having thick fleshy leaves which exudes a viscid transparent gel that exerts several beneficial effects on our body.
    Pure Aloe vera gel can be easily expressed at home. Wash a fleshy, gel filled leaf of the plant. Then, slit the center of the leaf using a knife. Collect the gel in a bowl and use as required. This is the pure form of the gel.

    Aloe Vera Juice Health Benefits: Uses of Aloe Vera
    The health benefits of aloe Vera juice are profound. Taken internally, the juice helps your gastro-intestinal tract to function optimally. It prevents acidity, heart burn and stomach pains; treats ulcers successfully and wards off a host of abdominal derangements.
    The recommended dosage is half a cup of the juice twice everyday.
    The gel extracted from the leafy is packed with a host of vital agents. The gel contains anti inflammatory agents that reduce inflammation, swelling and pain quickly; thus making it useful in painful conditions such as: gastritis, stomach ulcers, piles / hemorrhoids, mouth ulcers, inflammatory conditions of the skin, etc.
    Aloe Vera also contains a powerful compound that fights itchiness, thus making it very useful for allergic reactions.
    Aloe Vera is a potent anti septic too and speeds up the process of healing considerably.
    Common uses of aloe Vera are:
    • Topical application of the gel to treat minor burns, sun burns, abrasions, cuts, rashes, stings, ulcers and frost bites.
    • It is known to effectively clear up warts and acne
    • Taken internally, aloe Vera soothes inflamed GI tract and relives gastric complaints.

    Aloe manages most
    of the hair problems
    Aloe Vera Hair Gel: Aloe Vera Gel For Hair

    Applying aloe Vera gel to your hair and scalp has been recommended by most hair care experts. Aloe Vera nourishes the scalp, stimulates hair follicles and promotes hair growth.Scalp treatment and massaging with Aloe Vera is very beneficial. 

    It fights dandruff and other inflammatory conditions of the scalp effectively. When applied to the hair shaft, it makes the hair shiny and glossy, giving the hair a healthy sheen.

    Use the gel twice per week; massage in to the scalp and leave on for an hour. It works as a wonderful conditioner as well. Aloe vera is effective in treating hairloss problem.

    Benefits of Aloe Vera on Skin: Aloe Vera Gel Benefits

    Aloe for a beautiful
    skin
    Aloe Vera is used for diseased conditions of the skin as well as for cosmetic purposes. It is particularly helpful when applied to damaged skin. It relives pain and itching almost instantaneously.

    Aloe Vera speeds the process of cell regeneration, enhances blood circulation and effectually fights secondary bacterial / fungal infections. The gel manages burns, sun burns, frost bites, ulcers, warts and shingles.

    Another potential use of the aloe Vera is treatment of psoriasis. It soothes the skin and prevents flare ups.

    Aloe Vera Capsules and Aloe Vera Lotion: Side Effects of Aloe Vera

    Aloe Vera is available in the form of juice, capsules, cream and gel. Aloe Vera also makes s soothing bath lotion. Add 1 cup of aloe Vera juice to a bath tub of warm water.

    In rare cases, one may complain of mild allergic skin reaction. Some people may experience stomach cramps and / or diarrhea. Do not take aloe Vera if pregnant or breast feeding.

    Wednesday, June 1, 2011

    Supplements, Vitamins and Minerals for Weight Loss: Essential Tips to Treat Obesity Naturally

    In a recent study conducted on evaluating the effects of chromium picolinate on weight loss, it was observed that individuals who consumed 400 mcg of the supplement for three months, showed an average weight loss of six kilograms, as against the control group. All the weight was lost in the form of body fat. This study reiterates the role of supplements and nutrients in management of obesity. Purchasing supplements from reliable sources plays a crucial role in enhancing health.

     
    Dietary Supplements in Weight Loss: Treating Obesity with Minerals and Vitamins

    Though supplements don’t provide magical solution to the problem of weight gain, some supplements play an effective role in suppressing appetite and regulating metabolic activities.
    • Chromium works towards stimulating the body to use its fat reserves to generate energy and also aids in the process of muscle development. A dosage of 200 mcg twice a day is recommended just prior to exercising.
    • St.John's Wart manages
      Depression
    • Chitosan, is a linear polysaccharide which is synthetically prepared from the exoskeleton of crabs, shrimps and certain type of fungi. Recent scientific studies have pointed out the the regular consumption of Chitosan supplements, can help reduce weight as it slows down the process of absorption of fats by the intestine.
    • St John’s Wart (Hypericum) has been shown to have beneficial effect on improving the serotonin level which in turn helps fight depression. Depression is often linked with obesity and use of this supplement is considered to be beneficial. 300 mg per day is considered beneficial.
  • Fad diets are rarely beneficial. However, inappropriate dieting techniques tend to increase the risk of developing deficiencies of essential nutrients and vitamins namely iron, calcium and vitamin B 12. This may manifest in the form of muscular pain, osteoporosis and brittle bones and neuropathies. Including these supplements in your diet, especially when you make a conscious effort to lose weight is always beneficial.

  • Supplements can
    assist in Weight loss
    Precautions while Using dietary supplements to Treat Obesity

    While there are several dietary supplements that can help in the management of obesity, there are certain precautionary measures that are important,
    • Chitosan interferes with absorption of fat soluble vitamins and essential fatty acids and hence supplements containing these vitamins and fatty acids need to be taken separately at different time during the day.
    • Chitosan should be avoided if the individual is allergic to shell fish or sea food in general.
    • Use of St. John’s Wart is only on the advice of doctors, as it is associated with increased risk of glaucoma, heart disease. It may also result in escalation of anxiety attacks and insomnia.
    Lose Weight Naturally: Essential Tips for treating Obesity

    It should always be remembered that supplements can only assist in the process of weight loss and dietary restraint and regular exercise regimen are indispensible in treating obesity. Here are some simple tips to remember,
    • Avoid watching Television for more than half an hour a day. Studies have shown a strong positive correlation between time spend in watching television and Obesity. Instead spend time on doing something that you like.
    • Increase the intake of fresh fruits, fresh Vegetables, low fat diary products, whole grains and legumes. Avoiding meat and poultry can have beneficial effect and aid in weight loss.
    • Regular exercise for about half an hour a day, five days a week, protects your body from common disease and also controls your weight
    • Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly. Chewing food helps improve digestion while eating slowly gives your brain enough time to send signals when the stomach is full.