5-HTP and Serotonin

5-HTP is the precursor to serotonin. It improves mood, anxiety and is beneficial in weight loss. 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino acid that is the intermediate step between tryptophan and the important brain chemical serotonin. There is a massive amount of evidence that suggests that low serotonin levels are a common consequence of modern living. The lifestyle and dietary practices of many people living in this stress-filled era results in lowered levels of serotonin within the brain.

5-HTP and Carb Cravings

Researchers believe that inadequate serotonin levels are in part responsible for the desire to overeat. Not surprisingly, obese individuals who crave carbohydrates usually show abnormally low levels of serotonin. Taking a 5-HTP supplement half an hour before a meal can ” turn off” cravings and hunger pangs by feeding the brains carbohydrate satiety center. In this way 5-HTP can be a great asset as part of a weight-loss regime.

5-HTP and Addiction

The use of many addictive substances, such as tobacco, alcohol, caffeine and certain narcotics, elevates serotonin levels. When these substances are eliminated, serotonin levels drop drastically, causing anxiety and cravings. Taking 5-HTP can stabilize serotonin levels and help minimize the symptoms of withdrawal.

5-HTP and PMS

PMS sufferers report pain relief, as well as decreased irritability and mood swings from using 5-HTP. The supplement works by countering the hormone-induced decrease in serotonin levels that occur naturally during menstruation.

5-HTP and Sleep

Because of its calming effect, many rely on 5-HTP to alleviate stress-attacks, as well as to encourage restful sleep. Unlike sedative drugs, 5-HTP is not associated with unwanted side effects, such as disturbed sleep patterns or grogginess. It can be taken regularly one hour before retiring as a remedy for insomnia.

Side Effects

Very high intakes of 5-HTP have caused muscle jerks in guinea pigs and both muscle jerks and diarrhea in mice. Injected 5-HTP has also caused kidney damage in rats. To date, these problems have not been reported in humans. “Serotonin syndrome,” a serious but uncommon condition caused by excessive amounts of serotonin, has not been reported to result from supplementation with 5-HTP; in theory it could be triggered by the supplement. However, the level of intake at which this toxic effect might potentially occur remains unknown.

Warnings

5-HTP should not be taken with antidepressants, weight-control drugs, other serotonin-modifying agents, or substances known to cause liver damage, because in these cases 5-HTP may have excessive effects. People with liver disease may not be able to regulate 5-HTP adequately and those suffering from autoimmune diseases such as scleroderma may be more sensitive than others, to 5-HTP. These people should not take 5-HTP without consulting a knowledgeable healthcare professional. The safety of taking 5-HTP during pregnancy and breast-feeding is not known at this time.

Conditions with low serotonin levels helped by 5-HTP:

• Depression

• Obesity

• Carbohydrate craving

• Bulimia

• Insomnia

• Narcolepsy

• Sleep apnea

• Migraine headaches

• Tension headaches

• Chronic daily headaches

• Premenstrual syndrome

• Fibromyalgia

Does anyone know if there is a fruit or herb I can take to raise my seratonin levels?

*Note- I am pregnant, and no that is not why I am depressed or stressed, I am dealing with the loss of a family member dramatic changes in income, as well as a few other huge stressors. But due to the pregnancy there are somethings I can’t do- I am also on bed rest, no walking
I would get my OB’s approval before anything, including fruit and herbs.

I can’t excersize. I can’t even walk around. I’m on *STRICT* bed rest due to complications in my pregnancy.
I force myself to eat at least one proper meal a day, even if I don’t want to, my body isn’t my body any more, and I understand that. But the difficulty that eating is getting to is beginning to scare me.

I have tried everything and every way or eating, if anyone has any ideas of how I can feel all-together physically better I would greatly appreciate it.

I am not severely depressed except at random moments, but I am still stressed and constantly a little unhappy, and it’s starting to effect me physically.. I keep my spirits up by watching comedy on TV and spending some time online.. Reading funny books, ect., but even if I laugh and enjoy bits of my day I am still generally unhappy. I just don’t know what to do.. I have too many responsibilities to “Get away from it all”… I just don’t see a way to deal with this properly.

Here are some startling facts about C-section Risks to mom:

More likely to hemorrhage More likely to develop blood clots Higher risk of infection More likely to need a hysterectomy Greater risk of pulmonary embolism Unexplained stillbirth in subsequent pregnancies Increase risk of placental abnormalities in subsequent pregnancies More painful and longer recovery time Increased risk of postpartum depression Possible PTSD (post-traumatic stress syndrome) Abdominal scarring Greater risk of maternal death (5 to 7 times the risk of death as compared to vaginal birth) Greater risk of uterine rupture in subsequent pregnancies Respiratory complications due to general anesthesia Back pain or epidural headache Difficulty breastfeeding and/or bonding with baby.

Here are some startling facts about c-section risks to your baby (or babies):

High risk of low birth weight and prematurity More than 4 times greater risk of respiratory distress syndrome and other respiratory problems Lacerations Lower APGAR scores Increased risk of cow milk allergy in childhood Increased risk of cavities (dental caries) in childhood More than 5 times more likely to be admitted to intermediate or intensive care than babies who are born vaginally.

Alarming Statistics:

On March 18, 2009, The National Center for Health Statistics located in Redondo Beach, CA, reported that the C-section rate hit an all-time high in 2007, with a rate of 31.8 percent, up two percent from 2006. “Every pregnant woman in the U.S. should be alarmed by this rate,” said Pam Udy, president of the International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN). “Half or more of cesareans are avoidable and over-using major surgery on otherwise healthy women and babies is taking a toll.”

Important information for women after C-section:

“Cesareans can raise the risks of postpartum depression and some women develop PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and should seek further help from a therapist who is skilled in dealing with birth trauma. These therapists should not be dismissive of your needs or concerns and realize that there is more to birth than a “healthy baby” and that even the healthiest of babies can come through a traumatic event to the mother. You have the right to mourn your birth and your trauma while celebrating your child. These are two different events in your life, even if they are happening simultaneously.”

http://www.ican-online.org/recovery/home

To learn more about fit, healthy pregnancy–with or without multiples–visit www.twinpregnancyinfo.com

What happens if you get a yeast infection during your pregnancy?

The more systemic symptoms of yeast infections may be a little difficult to spot during pregnancy. It’s usual to feel more tired and irritable. Your fluctuating hormones will be causing nausea, lethargy, mood swings and cravings.

This hormonal fluctuation is one of the reasons why you are more prone to suffer from yeast infections during your pregnancy. An increased level of vaginal discharge is usual during this time, but if your discharge becomes thick, white, resembles cottage cheese and is accompanied by an itching and burning sensation then you have a Candida overgrowth.

Your doctor may wish for you to avoid using over the counter medication during your early pregnancy and this is especially true during the first three months. So this period is a good time to look at other safe and natural ways of dealing with the yeast infection.

Your diet plays a big part in controlling Candida. You should avoid foods high in sugar and simple carbohydrates as these feed the Candida and fuel its population surge. Instead you should stick to organic, fresh whole foods. Avoid processed food wherever possible to free yourself from additives and preservatives. Ensure that you drink plenty of clean, fresh, filtered water.

Avoiding stress also plays a large role in beating Candida. This is often easier said than done during a the period of change and hormonal imbalance that pregnancy brings. Try to make time for relaxing each day and help your body to fight back against the yeast overgrowth.

Probiotics can help to restore the balance of healthy bacteria in your body. This can have an enormous boost on your Candida killing efforts. You can take probiotic supplements to increase the levels of friendly bacteria and these then help to kill off the Candida.

Candida won’t seriously harm your baby, but you can pass it onto your newborn child at birth. If you can, you should try to clear up your yeast infections before you get to this point.

One thing that causes many women stress is pregnancy insomnia. This is a worry that we can do without on top of everything else a pregnant woman has to deal with!

Whilst insomnia is pretty common for pregnant women, it still doesn’t ease the pressure and the tension that not getting enough sleep can cause.

So, what causes pregnancy insomnia in expectant women?

It is reported that around 75% of pregnant women suffer from this sleep disorder and there are several main causes. I am sure you are all aware that your hormones are everywhere, I know most pregnant women walk around apologizing for their mood swings, but this can also have an effect on your sleeping pattern.

In addition to this, the fear and anxiety of actually having the child may play a significant role in sleep deprivation as well as all of those aches and pains that taunt us throughout the final trimester.

Most pregnant women try to take as little medication as possible, meaning that natural sleep aid remedies for insomnia are extremely important to pregnant women.

The starting point for handling your insomnia whilst pregnant is to try to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible once you have gone to bed, by doing this your body will know that it is time to sleep. Get ready for bed by taking a relaxing bath with aromatherapy oils like one scented with lavender which will allow you to relax.

If you find that you can’t sleep whilst in bed, try getting up. Laying there worrying that you aren’t sleeping will not help you drift off.

Busy yourself by reading, taking a walk or just potter about the house. This should take your mind off of the fact that you are struggling to sleep and will allow you to get a good night’s sleep when you do go back to bed.

As Helene Malmsio suggests, “Try to work out what your ‘window of opportunity” is in your sleep cycle, so that you can just slip in between the sheets just as your natural sleep cycle is coming around. They can be anything from 45 minutes to 2 hours apart, so timing is important for the optimum time to settle down for sleep.”

When you go back to bed, if your mind is still full of worry and this is preventing you from getting to sleep, try listening to something soothing. Many people find that white noise aids them to a restful night’s sleep, I personally prefer an audio book, but find something that allows your mind to wander and helps you to sleep.

If none of these natural sleep aid remedies are helping your pregnancy insomnia to reduce, you may wish to visit your local health store, on their shelves there are many different types of herbal remedies for insomnia, but be careful.

Although most of them will be fine, always consult your doctor first as some, although stating they are ‘safe for pregnant women’ may not always be suitable for you.

Remember that any concerns that you may have about your pregnancy, including that of pregnancy insomnia, your doctor is there to help reassure and solve any niggles or issues you will have.

Although you may be tempted to resort to medication to aid your sleeping, ensure that any medication is not going to have an adverse effect on you or your child. Usually, these tried and tested natural sleep aid insomnia cure remedies ease the pressure and allow you to re-establish your sleeping pattern.

One in four Americans suffers some type of pain for at least 24 hours. The use of pharmaceutical drugs to treat pain is up significantly. When these drugs are taken, side effects come right along with them.

A 1999 Institute of Medicine (IOM) report on medical errors, revealed a shocking truth. At least 44,000 and as many as 98,000 Americans die each year from preventable medical errors committed in hospitals. These errors result from properly prescribed pharmaceutical drugs.

After the number one and number two killers of Americans, namely heart disease and cancer respectively, guess what the number three killer of Americans is?

And it has held down third position for well over ten years. In other words, it has been a consistent killer.

The number three killer is the adverse reaction to properly prescribed pharmaceutical drugs. When all of the disparate categories are combined, a grand total of 225,000 deaths each year are accounted for.

This is what a few doctors say about pharmaceutical drugs and disease:

Every educated physician knows that most diseases are not appreciably helped by
medicine.

-Richard C. Cabot, M.D. (Mass. Gen. Hospital)

Medicine is only palliative, for back of disease lies the cause, and this cause no drug can reach.

– Wier Mitchel, M.D.

The person who takes medicine must recover twice, once from the disease and once from the medicine.

– William Osler, M.D.

You can safely bet that acne plays a role in this. To what extent, your guess is as good as mine. I am just presenting the acne scourge from another perspective.

When doctors have to prescribe drugs like Isotretinoin for acne, we can understand why deaths from adverse reaction can occur. The brand name for Isotretinoin is Accutane.

When all other acne drugs have failed, Isotretinoin is brought in. This is the bad boy of acne drug treatment. Before you even consider taking this heavyweight drug you are advised to speak with your doctor at length about all aspects of your acne condition.

Before taking this powerhouse drug you will be asked to sign a form indicating that you fully understand the serious side effects accompanying this super drug. Signing that form indicates your move into the big leagues.

Are you pregnant? Do not take this drug if you are. Isotretinoin causes severe birth defects in an unborn baby. It also can cause miscarriage, premature birth or baby death.

If you are sexually active while taking Isotretinoin you must protect yourself from getting pregnant. As a matter of fact this drug is so dangerous to an unborn child that you are advised to use two reliable forms of birth control at the same time.

In addition, pregnancy tests must be performed every month. If you do become pregnant you must inform your doctor immediately. That is crucial!

There are many more side effects that result from taking this drug. Two chilling ones are depression and suicide. Seeking a natural treatment for your acne is worth investigating. Speak with your doctor about the natural treatments that may be good options for you.

Hair growth is not a continuous process. Hair follicles have a growth phase (anagen) and a resting, non-growth phase (telogen). Depending on how we treat our hair there will invariably be a variation in the amount of hair loss too. The lost hair is often so quickly replaced that we almost never notice its departure. But If you start to notice an alarming amount of hair on the bathroom sink or on your brush, if your pillow is covered with scads of loose hair, if your part seems to be getting wider or you’re seeing more scalp, you’ve probably got a problem and its time to take some action before you are fated to join the million men and women suffering from hair thinning or pattern hair loss. Hair loss and thinning can lead to anxiety, depression, and lack of confidence and fear too.

Why on earth did it happen to me?

Hair loss begins when a certain enzyme converts the hormone testosterone into another hormone called DiHydrotestosterone (DHT). Androgenetic Alopecia, or hereditary hair loss is the most common cause of hair loss. Roughly put, the more Androgens or the hormones that affect hair loss you have the faster you will lose hair. Men generally lose their hair in a horse-shoe shaped pattern; i.e. they lose hair at the top of their head. Women on the other hand very rarely ‘go bald’. Here hair thinning takes place with the part getting wider and the hair receding from the frontal area behind the frontal hairline. Telogen effluvium or hair loss due to emotional stress is another major cause for hair loss. What happens here is that hair goes through a synchronized shift from the anagen phase to telogen, the resting phase? This occurs after severe physiologic stress, such as any major surgery, pregnancy, death, divorce, loss of job etc. Usually once the period of stress is over hair growth slowly returns to normal.

Other factors for hair loss include use of birth control pills (relating to the amount of the progestin hormone in the pill), or a reaction to certain medications or even some supplements. Hair loss is also a known reaction to chemotherapy drugs. Thyroid, syphilis and other illnesses will also lead your hair to fall out. Improper care too plays a role in hair loss. Pulling the hair by wearing a very tight pony tail, cosmetic changes like colouring the hair, rebonding too much blow drying , over zealously brushing your hair , can all cause hair to be pulled out prematurely.

Another important factor is diet. Improper diet, iron deficiency, dyes used incorrectly, losing too much weight too soon and menopause can also cause your hair to thin out.

So what can one do to slow down or reverse hair loss?

History tells us of how the Greek physician Hippocrates tried to alleviate his patients’ baldness with pigeon droppings. Aristotle tried goat’s urine to remedy his own baldness. Cleopatra prepared pastes for Julius Caesar made of ground horse teeth, deer marrow and charred mice mixed with bear grease. Its unlikely that any of these remedies bore fruit but the effort in that direction continues. One should however not lose hope as today, more than ever, there are many ways to slow down and even treat hair loss to a large degree.

First check if you are missing out on any of the following:

· Adequate intake of vitamins.

· Balanced diet rich in iron and protein.

· Intake of raw vegetables, fresh fruits, salads, green leafy vegetables regularly.

· Washing hair twice weekly with a light shampoo.

· Reduce anxiety, stress and sleeplessness.

· Check for infections of scalp.

If hair fall persists meet a dermatologist or a physician who deals with hair loss and ascertain the reason for the hair fall. No absolute cure for hair loss has been found so far, yet not all varieties of hair loss are untreatable. Drugs known to slow the onset of common baldness, minoxidil (Rogaine) and finasteride (Propecia) are available with prescription. These have gained wide popularity but few of its side effects are still coming to light.

Other Options

Surgical treatments are becoming quite popular as they give a very ‘natural’ look. Hair is transplanted from the back of the scalp from where it grows. This is a very expensive treatment and the can be quite invasive. Experts agree that a diet rich in whole foods and irons help promote hair growth. The food we eat shows in the quality of blood, and, therefore, the hair. For men, it has been suggested that a low fat diet may help decelerate the balding process. For women, hair loss could be a sign of a gastrointestinal problem, which needs to be checked. Lack of protein, or an excess or Vitamin A are a often stated cause of hair loss.

According to Chinese Medicine, hair loss is related to a kidney deficiency. The ancient texts caution that too much sweet or salt could cause hair to fall out. Natural remedies such as Aromatherapy, and natural supplements and herbs such as Saw palmetto oil, Folic acid,Silica biotin, and vitamin B5 are also said to help rejuvenate and maintain thickness of the hair. Ayurveda believes in a holistic approach to alleviate hair loss issues. It is based on the use of plant oils, herbs, as well as meditation, diet, exercise and massage to balance a person’s three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) that make up one’s “Prakruti” (mind-body type). According to this ancient science, oils such as brahmi and Bhrigaraj oil reduce Pitta dosha in the hair follicles thereby stimulating hair growth. Mixing either of these oils with some coconut oil and leaving it overnight is a popular solution.

Everyone’s hair loss is different, and with constant care and attention one can reduce hair loss and have a head full of beautiful tresses.

Constipation is a major irritable, sickening and debilitating condition, when one experiences insufficient evacuation of the bowel, and dry or painful passing of stool. It is extremely annoying and embarrassing.

Causes of Constipation

Constipation can be caused by a number of different factors. Few of them are as below:

• Lack of enough fiber in the diet – If you are not consuming enough fiber on a daily basis, you are more likely to suffer constipation problem. Foods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables and grains and these are essential for a proper functional diet.

• Lack of enough exercises on regular basis – Constipation seems to occur to people who lead inactive lives the most. You are at higher risk to constipation if you aren’t active or if you are older and unable to exercise frequently.

• Pregnancy – Women who are pregnant have a high risk of becoming constipated because of the hormonal changes that occur when pregnant. To cure this one should include more fiber in their diet then usual needs when she becomes pregnant and finds that constipation becomes a problem.

• Ignoring the urge to use the bathroom – This is also one of the major causes of constipation because refusing to use the bathroom when your body is urging you to throws off your bowel system and forces it to strain. This causes constipation because the body will eventually stop feeling the need to use the bathroom if the urge is ignored enough.

• Drinking milk on a regular basis- This can also cause constipation because it blocks the system. Most laxatives will easily fix this minor problem.

• Problems with intestinal function- When the intestines are not working properly or are obstructed, it may also lead to constipation and may cause serious damage to your entire stomach area.

• Dehydration – Drinking water ensures that the waste material is well lubricated, allowing for an easy passage along the colon. Becoming dehydrated has the opposite effect. Drinks with caffeine like coffee, tea, sodas worsen constipation as they aid dehydration.

• Some particular diseases – Diseases like neurological disorders and metabolic and endocrine disorders will cause constipation and reduce bowel movements. These conditions must be brought to a doctor’s attention to prevent severe damage from happening.

• Specific medications – Sometimes pain medications and anti-depressants can also lead to the development of constipation. These medicines can block the bowel movement from happening properly or can stop it entirely.

Symptoms of Constipation

Although the symptoms of constipation may vary with person but some common symptoms of constipation are:

• Hard and dry stools

• Straining too much to pass stools

• Painful bowel movement

• Feeling of bloated stomach

• Uneasiness and sluggishness

• Feeling of incomplete evacuation

Diet for Constipation

Eat fruits and vegetables rich in fiber and also include non-dehydrated fluids in your diet. You should drink 6 to 8 glasses of purified water each day to encourage a healthy bowel. Adding lots of water is always beneficial for constipation sufferers.

Home Remedies for Constipation

• Drink humid water mixed with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and half a lemon juice each morning on an empty stomach.

• Another useful home remedy for constipation is to drink lemon juice mixed with warm water 2-3 times a day.

• Immerse 10-12 big raisins in a cup of milk and bring to boil, first eat the raisins then drink the milk.

• Pears are also found valuable in the treatment of constipation. Patients suffering from chronic constipation must include this fruit or its juice for a few days, but in usual cases, a medium-sized pear taken after dinner or with breakfast will have the preferred effect.

• Guava is helpful in treating your constipation. When eaten with seeds, it offers roughage to the diet and helps in the usual evacuation of the bowels. So a person suffering from constipation must take 1-2 guavas every day.

• Mix 2 teaspoon husk seed (Isabgol) in 1/2 a cup of hot milk and drink instantly. This is an effective home remedy for constipation.

• Mix 1/4 teaspoon of Epsom salt to 1/2 a glass of water and drink. This helps you in relieving constipation.

• Mix 1/4 teaspoon dry ginger powder with a pinch of asafoetida and a bit of black salt in a little warm water and sip it. This is very simple but an effective home treatment for constipation.

• Regular exercises also help in relieving constipation. Walking is one of the best exercises for the prevention or cure of constipation.

Natural Cures for Constipation

Constipation treatment requires change in dietary habits, laxatives, fiber therapy, enemas, and rarely surgery. Person suffering from constipation must increase the intake of water and other fluids, and dietary fiber. Vegetables, bran and fruits are the chief source of dietary fibers.

• Increase your intake of potassium through eating foods like prunes, tomatoes, broccoli, cucumbers, kale, sesame seeds, wheat germ, brewers yeast, pineapple and cauliflower that are high in potassium. Potassium works wonders on the walls of the colon and helps to stimulate peristaltic action which makes your bowels move. It also helps to clean out layers of mucus and dried fecal matter that have built up along the colon walls.

• Aloe is an effective natural remedy for constipation. Aloe, buckthorn, frangula and senna have natural laxative chemicals and can be very powerful constipation cures.

• Triphala is also commonly used in the treatment of constipation. It is a composition of three herbs: Emblica officinalis (Amla), Terminalia chebula (Harada) and Terminalia belerica (Behada). It is regarded as one of the best colon cleansers and is highly recommended in constipation. It helps in detoxification of the body. It has gained the popularity as the mild laxative.

• Another commonly used natural cure for constipation is Psyllium. It has long been used to help relieve constipation as it is loaded with soluble fiber. Make sure you take psyllium with lots of water.

• Flax seed is also used in the treatment of constipation. You can buy the flaxseeds and crush them yourself. Take 1-2 tablespoons a day with lots of water. You will need to make sure you get at least 8 glasses of water a day when using flax.

Constipation and Yoga

Yoga is an ancient art that not only makes you fit and healthy but also helps in treating many common ailments. It is also useful for those suffering with constipation. When it comes to chronic constipation, the following Yoga Poses will be beneficial in alleviating constipation problems.

• The Bow Pose

• The Shoulder Stand

• The Peacock Pose

• The Abdominal Lifts

• The Breathing Exercises.

These poses specifically target the abdominal region of the body and help you in relieving constipation.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.

Copyright © Nick Mutt, All Rights Reserved. If you want to use this article on your website or in your ezine, make all the urls (links) active.

PCOS or polycystic ovarian syndrome is a kind of endocrine disorder. According to an estimate approximately 5% of all worlds’ women are suffering from this syndrome.

The causes of this syndrome are unknown; however obesity, diabetes, and insulin resistance are correlated with polycystic ovarian syndrome.

It is one of the most common hormonal disorders that occur among the females of reproductive age. PCOS and pregnancy are strongly correlated with each other and the syndrome is also one of the biggest reasons that cause female infertility.  Yeah it can be treat with Natural solutions.

Symptoms of PCOS

The symptoms of the syndrome vary from one woman to another. However, some of the common symptoms are listed below –

Irregularity in menstrual periods, which may cause Oligomenorrhea or Amenorrhoea Weight gain or Obesity, it is important to note that one out of two women with this syndrome are obese Oily skin, which lead to acne or seborrhea Infertility is another very common symptom of this syndrome, and is mainly because of chronic anovulation. Anovulation (lack of ovulation) can also results in irregular menstruation Another common symptom is increased and excessive body hair also called as Hirsutism. Hair loss can also be the symptom of PCOS Increase in the voice intensity Depression Pregnancy with PCOS – Natural PCOS remedies

As mentioned earlier, polycystic ovarian syndrome and pregnancy are deeply correlated with each other. And if you are having difficulty conceiving because of this syndrome, then you can either take conventional treatments such as IVF or you can opt for the natural PCOS treatments.

Some of the most effective natural solutions are –

There is a very popular Chinese herb named as Siberian Ginseng whose botanical name is Eleutherococcus Senticosis. It is commonly used by many different naturopaths for balancing the body hormones. This is the best natural solution for treating polycystic ovarian syndrome. You are also advised to take proper acupuncture treatments to clean your energy ports. Along with this, increasing the intake of folic acid will also help you. Some other natural treatment methods like taking proper diet, hypnosis, and some particular sex positions, can also help you to cure infertility and get pregnant quickly.

Natural solutions are better options as they are not expensive as IVF and also these solutions don’t involve any surgery or other harmful drugs. This is why these treatments are safer than the conventional methods as they don’t have any side effects on the patient’s body. You can view all natural solutions to get pregnant fast with pcos here www.getpregnantfastguide.info

Male infertility is the underlying reason for 40% of infertile couples using assisted reproduction technologies. Male infertility is caused by chronic prostatitis in 50-60% cases. Without effective treatment of this disease recovery of male fertility is unlikely.

Couples are generally advised to seek medical help if they are unable to achieve pregnancy after a year of unprotected intercourse. The doctor conducts a physical examination of both partners to determine their general state of health and to evaluate physical factors that may be causing infertility. Couples with antisperm antibodies should be referred to a reproductive endocrinologist for further evaluation and treatment.

Approximately 40% of reported cases of infertility are due to problems in the male; another 40% to problems in the female; the remaining 20% are of unknown cause or due to problems in both the male and female.

Sperm production is controlled by a series of hormones produced in a small gland called the pituitary. Most men have normal levels of these hormones but occasionally, the pituitary gland can malfunction and production of these hormones is affected. Spermatozoa ( sperm ) are relatively fragile cells and are easily damaged by a number of environmental and life style habits. Increased body temperature resulting from illness, prolonged periods of sitting in hot tubs, or tight clothing can affect sperm production and function.

Sperm require three months to develop and a semen analysis done today reflects conditions three months ago. One of the more common causes of male infertility is abnormal temperature increases in the testicles. Sperm count and motility are primarily bulk parameters, while newer measures address cell membrane integrity, sperm capacitation and ability to acrosome react as well as sperm-egg interaction. With the advent of in vitro fertilization, we can now directly assess sperm fertilizing ability. Sperm counts appear to differ by region. Temperature and climate may play some role in the differences seen from country to country and from year to year.

Zinc and folic acid are also great sperm builders. These additional nutrients to maca root and orange juice should all be taken in high-quality natural supplement form-as well as in diet form. Zinc deficiency can lead to reduced numbers of sperm and impotence in men, although the correlation between blood levels of zinc and sperm quality remains controversial. Reportedly, infertile men have lower levels of zinc in their semen, than men with normal fertility.

For those who are searching for natural ways to increase sperm and improve fertility, you may want to research and consider the following:

Lega-C was designed to increase fertility in men. While there can be more than one factor contributing to infertility, many of these factors can be successfully addressed with the use of herbs and vitamins. The herbs in the formula are used to increase the production, quality, and quantity in the areas of male fertility. The biggest successes have come from those who have combined herbs with the appropriate vitamin and mineral supplements. Many men seldom receive the essential vitamins and minerals that are pertinent to their reproductive health. Lega-C contains extracts of: Eleuthero Root, Tribulus Terrestris Fruit, Pygeum Bark, Horny Goat Weed Leaf and Astragalus Root.

Progentor IV is a natural solution to improve male responsiveness. It restores sustained ability and natural male performance. Those afflicted with cardiovascular disease, peptic ulcers, kidney malfunctions, or using tricyclic/anti-depressants should not use Yohimbe. Caution should be exercised when using anticoagulants such as Aspirin or Warfarin along with Ginkgo Biloba. Hypertension patients should not use large quantities of Ginseng as it can cause elevated blood pressure. Contains: Yohimbe Bark, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf, Horny Goat Weed, Ashwagandha Root, Eleuthero Root and Tribulus Terrestris Fruit.

SemenRX is an all natural supplement that increases not only the volume of the semen, but the way semen looks and is ejaculated from the penis. It promises more powerful orgasms and an increase in sexual desire and energy. Semen Trigonellae Foenum-Graecum or Fenugreek seed help reduce urinary glucose levels: Studies on diabetic animals have found fenugreek seed to help reduce urinary glucose levels. The seeds contain the alkaloid trogonelline, nicotinic acid and coumarin.

Semenax has been formulated with the exact blend and proportions to give the astonishing effects that you desired including an increase semen production. These astonishing effects include longer and more intense orgasms every time, bigger and more impressive loads of semen, superior ejaculation, whiter and more robust texture and appearance of semen, increased contraction strength, and overall improved sexual function and response. Semenax has consistently scored high points in comparison with the many male enhancement products available on the market.

Prostalex Plus is the natural solution for infertility due to prostitis. Prostalex Plus is an all-natural, non-prescription supplement that dramatically reduces an enlarged prostate and helps relieve uncomfortable, frequent and other related urination issues. The formula contains 11 hand-selected, high-quality ingredients that work together to restore proper prostate function and health. Prostalex Plus is a natural supplement that relieves discomfort from an enlarged prostate.

Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information contained within this site is intended solely for general educational purposes and is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice relative to your specific medical condition or question. Always seek the advice of your physician or other health provider for any questions you may have regarding your medical condition.

You can get apple cider vinegar for your acne, rosacea treatments from your local supermarket or health food store. Ideally you should purchase organic apple cider vinegar, as this has more of the vital nutrients contained within, but it will be slightly more expensive.

If you have blackheads on your skin, then you can use a range of natural treatments in order to help deal with them and prevent others from forming. One of the most common natural blackhead treatments is similar to a skin exfoliate that many women use for cosmetic purposes. These are great devices as they help the skin to shed the old skin cells that build up over some time. You should buy a few of these skin peels and try them for yourself.

Natural acne treatments are becoming more and more popular with the passing of each year, and for good reason; there is strong demand. But why is there a demand for alternative acne treatments? Because people have grown wary of the mainline acne treatments that list more chemicals as ingredients than you can find under your kitchen sink. This is where natural acne treatments come in.

There are also many people that admit to not understanding the underlying causes of acne. This creates a problem when trying to find a cure. Most physicians know about the symptoms and how to treat them, but they still don’t understand what’s going on internally to cause acne to be there.

People with acne tend to be more depressed and unhappy. People can be cruel calling you names and teasing you for having those red spots on your face. It greatly affects self-esteem and to some people especially teenagers, acne can affect their love life and social life. Finding a natural treatment for your acne will definitely boost your self confidence and will bring a lot of changes in your life.

Homeopathy is a natural mode of medical practice that makes use of natural substances like herbs, minerals and even venomous materials to formulate remedies for various types of diseases. Acne, in both adults and teenagers, can be effectively overcome by the employment of the homeopathic mode of treatment.

Mix almond powder with rose water to create a paste. Apply this paste to the skin and gently massage the paste with your fingertips. Leave the paste for 30 minutes before you wash it off with cold water. This solution is very good to get rid of blackheads.

The transition to motherhood is a profound step in a woman’s life. Becoming a mother is a life-changing experience and motherhood is a lifelong role. Although motherhood is universal in many aspects, the transition into it is very individualized. Our past childhood relationships with our mothers, our fathers and the overall connection we experienced in our parents’ marriages form the backdrop for our emotional readiness for motherhood. Therefore, individualized preparation and care is far more effective when it deals with a woman’s specific “birth inventory,” which is a profile of her significant fears and concerns about upcoming motherhood and childbirth.

If you are a new mom who is struggling with the life changes of new motherhood, trying to take care of your new baby, feeling sleep deprived, and overwhelmed with your new responsibilities, your patience and tolerance will be stretched thin. Many women do not seek treatment because of the shame or guilt they feel about not enjoying motherhood at a time when there is tremendous societal and familial pressure to be a “perfect mother.

Although a natural and healthy part of human life, becoming a mother is hard work and it takes every nook, cranny and crevice of a woman’s being. We now know how both physical and psychological health are profoundly impacted by everything from stress to being in love, from positive and negative attitudes, from fear to gratitude.

Pregnancy is a time of many questions about pregnancy symptoms, weight gain, what’s safe to eat while pregnant, prenatal tests, labor and delivery, and more. With increasing rates of obesity in the United States, postpartum weight retention is an important factor to consider when assessing maternal health and pregnancy outcome. Mothers may suffer “maternal depletion syndrome,” which refers to the combination of depression, low libido, excess weight and fatigue that can accompany motherhood. Don’t be surprised if it takes nine months to a year to regain your pre-pregnancy weight.

Women who have healthy babies gain varying amounts of weight during pregnancy. If you are at a desirable weight for your body size before you become pregnant, a weight gain of 24 to 27 pounds is recommended. If you are approximately 20 pounds or more above your desirable weight before pregnancy, a weight gain of 24 pounds is recommended. The average weight gain during pregnancy is between 25 to 35 pounds. The weight that you gain is a rough indication of how much nutrition is available to the fetus for growth. If a woman has 10 extra pounds, then taking two months to lose that weight is absolutely normal.

Believing that after giving birth the pre-pregnancy shape and weight will return immediately is a sure way to become frustrated. Most women will gain weight appropriately during pregnancy if they follow a healthy eating pattern according to Canada’s Food Guide to Healthy Eating, maintain an active lifestyle and allow their appetite to guide their energy intake. But various medical conditions during pregnancy such as gestational diabetes and hypertension can add an additional 10 to 15 pounds to a pregnancy weight leaving more postpartum weight for Mom to lose. Many women mourn their inability to lose the weight, but the reasons behind these unsuccessful attempts are sometimes no fault of the women. Women whose gestational gain exceeds the recommended range are more likely to retain weight at one year postpartum than are women with gains within the recommended range.

New Mothers vote Proactol the 1# choice for natural weight loss

Have you just had a baby and are wondering how to lose those extra lbs? Becoming a mother and watching your baby’s first smile is an amazing experience for all of us. But finding the time to eat properly and lose your post pregnancy weight can often be a struggle.

Visitors to our website seeking a natural solution to their post pregnancy weight have tried and tested a clinically proven product that can naturally supplement your weight loss and allow you to spend the time you deserve with your baby. Find out more about Proactol Fat – Binder

If you are a new mom who is struggling with the life changes of new motherhood, trying to take care of your new baby, feeling sleep deprived, and overwhelmed with your new responsibilities, your patience and tolerance will be stretched thin. Many women do not seek treatment because of the shame or guilt they feel about not enjoying motherhood at a time when there is tremendous societal and familial pressure to be a “perfect mother.

Although a natural and healthy part of human life, becoming a mother is hard work and it takes every nook, cranny and crevice of a woman’s being. We now know how both physical and psychological health are profoundly impacted by everything from stress to being in love, from positive and negative attitudes, from fear to gratitude.

Pregnancy is a time of many questions about pregnancy symptoms, weight gain, what’s safe to eat while pregnant, prenatal tests, labor and delivery, and more. With increasing rates of obesity in the United States, postpartum weight retention is an important factor to consider when assessing maternal health and pregnancy outcome. Mothers may suffer “maternal depletion syndrome,” which refers to the combination of depression, low libido, excess weight and fatigue that can accompany motherhood. Don’t be surprised if it takes nine months to a year to regain your pre-pregnancy weight.

Women who have healthy babies gain varying amounts of weight during pregnancy. If you are at a desirable weight for your body size before you become pregnant, a weight gain of 24 to 27 pounds is recommended. If you are approximately 20 pounds or more above your desirable weight before pregnancy, a weight gain of 24 pounds is recommended. The average weight gain during pregnancy is between 25 to 35 pounds. The weight that you gain is a rough indication of how much nutrition is available to the fetus for growth. If a woman has 10 extra pounds, then taking two months to lose that weight is absolutely normal.

Believing that after giving birth the pre-pregnancy shape and weight will return immediately is a sure way to become frustrated. Most women will gain weight appropriately during pregnancy if they follow a healthy eating pattern according to Canada’s Food Guide to Healthy Eating, maintain an active lifestyle and allow their appetite to guide their energy intake. But various medical conditions during pregnancy such as gestational diabetes and hypertension can add an additional 10 to 15 pounds to a pregnancy weight leaving more postpartum weight for Mom to lose. Many women mourn their inability to lose the weight, but the reasons behind these unsuccessful attempts are sometimes no fault of the women. Women whose gestational gain exceeds the recommended range are more likely to retain weight at one year postpartum than are women with gains within the recommended range.

Proactol – Clinically Proven and Tested Fat Binder.

Fat binders are chemicals, usually made from natural sources that enter the body and act like magnets for those molecules of fat. Benefits of fat binders are evident – we can eat normally while consuming less fat – that leads to pretty fast and safe weight loss. And this is precisely why fat binders are becoming very popular as they offer the opportunity to drastically reduce your fat intake with out major changes in your diet.

Proactol, is a clinically proven method to lose weight, and that is the reason it is probably the best selling fat binder program on the market. Proactol claims to bind about 28% of your dietry fat, and the good news with this is not only is it going to help with your weight management, but it should also help with the bigger picture of your health for things like cholestrol and blood pressure levels. Proactol is based on a patented fiber complex, that rather than just preventingfat from being broken down, pulling in fat molecules and binding them into aviscous solution in the stomach. NeOpuntia is the active ingredient in Proactol and the ingredient has undergone numerous clinical trials and studies. Well the good news is with Proactol once you have reached the target you set for yourself you can then adjust your dosage and this will then become a weight maintenance program for you.

New Mothers vote Proactol the 1# choice for natural weight loss

Have you just had a baby and are wondering how to lose those extra lbs? Becoming a mother and watching your baby’s first smile is an amazing experience for all of us. But finding the time to eat properly and lose your post pregnancy weight can often be a struggle.

Visitors to our website seeking a natural solution to their post pregnancy weight have tried and tested a clinically proven product that can naturally supplement your weight loss and allow you to spend the time you deserve with your baby.

Aromatherapy oils can help to lessen the uncomfortable problems during pregnancy, such as morning sickness, swollen hands and feet, general aches and pains and fatigue. They can also help you relax and look after your body as it slowly goes through changes.

Fatigue

Try to relax prior to going to bed. Either try a relaxing aromatherapy bath or burn one of the following blends of oil in the room you are in before going off to bed, then take the burner/vaporizer into your bedroom.

1. Camomile and lavender
2. Sandalwood
3. Neroli and ylang-ylang

Morning sickness or nausea

If you are feeling nauseous but not actually vomiting, mix up a blend of two drops each of fennel, lavender and sandalwood oils with 4 fl oz (100 ml) of carrier oil. Massage it into your abdomen at regular intervals during the day and try a little dabbed under your nose so you can inhale it. Inhaling peppermint oil can also relieve morning sickness but I would not advise you to massage with it during pregnancy.

Vomiting

If you are vomiting mix up a blend of two drops each of lemon, fennel and rose oil with 4 fl oz (100 ml) of carrier oil. Gently massage it into your upper and lower abdomen and also inhale it – if you can bear it.

Constipation

Try to relieve your constipation naturally by watching your diet (eat more unrefined food) and increasing your liquid intake. A helpful aromatherapy mixture is three drops of black pepper and three drops of fennel oil in 4 fl oz (100 ml) of carrier oil. Gently massage it along your lower abdomen, starting just inside your right hip bone, work up then across past your navel and back down towards your left hip bone. Be gentle and repeat several times daily.

Difficulty sleeping

Ask your partner to gentle massage your lower back, shoulders and neck with an aromatherapy blend made from three drops of vetivert and three drops of lavender oil in 4 fl oz (100 ml) of a carrier oil. This is a sedative, being claming and relaxing and it has certainly helped me through some sleepless nights.

You can also try drinking camomile tea before going to bed and put a little of the above blend on your pillow.

Fluid retention

Mix two drops of eucalyptus oil, two drops of geranium oil and two drops of lavender oil with 4 fl oz (100 ml) of a light carrier oil. Rub it gently into your lower legs and hands. Massage with firm upward strokes – on your legs from ankle to knee on your arms from hand to elbow. You can also try using the blend in a cool bath.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.

Looking for some Home remedies for morning sickness? Check out the biggest Home remedies website and find some effective Home remedies for stretch marks with home based medicines.

Passion flower and lemon balm have been clinically proven as safe and effective herbs for anxiety relief. When used in combination passion flower and lemon balm are even more effective for anxiety relief. There is a synergy or interaction relationship between these two herbs that enhances effectiveness and the natural healing process. Although natural healing herbs like passion flower and lemon balm are still used more prevalently in the United Kingdom and Europe, they are gaining momentum and increased popularity in the United States.

Passion Flower has been widely used as a natural healing herb for anxiety relief for centuries. Passion flower is currently used world wide as a mild sedative or nervine for anxiety relief and sleep inducement. A nervine is defined as having the quality of acting upon or affecting the nerves; quieting nervous excitement. Passion Flower can be used for nervousness, anxiousness, hyperactivity and insomnia.

GABA and Serotonin are the two main inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain. The role of the inhibitory neurotransmitter is to promote a calming effect and slow things down preventing too much excitement. Scientific studies suggest that the flavonoids (plant pigments) in passion flower promote a calming effect and encourage anxiety relief. Serotonin is the feel good chemical that regulates mood swing. Clinical studies have also suggested that passion flower is as effective for treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as the anxiety drug Oxazepam.

Lemon balm is another natural healing herb often combined with other herbs, like passion flower, for maximum effectiveness for anxiety relief. In the case of insomnia lemon balm is often combined with valerian to promote a restful sleep. Other valuable medicinal usages for Lemon Balm include:

” Heart and digestive system tonic

” Antispasmodic (relieve or prevent spasms)

” Eases menstrual cycle cramps

” Antidepressant

” Treatment for insomnia

” Thyroid regulating properties for treatment of hypothyroidism

Passion flower and lemon balm are both considered to be safe when used responsibly and in prescribed dosages. General medical consensus indicates that passion flower should not be used during pregnancy. It is thought that usage of passion flower combined with anxiety drugs may cause increased sedation. The use of herbs or anxiety drugs should never be combined with alcohol. Before starting any herbal regiment you should first consult with your health care practitioner, especially if you are pregnant or taking prescription drugs. It is always advisable to check product labels when purchasing any supplements.

It makes sense to consider natural healing herbs for anxiety treatment before resorting to anxiety drugs. James A. Duke, Ph.D., in his article, The Evidence for Lemon Balm, says that “In fact herbs kill fewer than 100 Americans a year, with most apparently not following dosage recommendations, while pharmaceuticals kill more than 100,000 who take these substances as prescribed.”

References:

James A. (Jim) Duke, Ph.D.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Duke’s Herbal Vineyard, Inc., Fulton, Maryland.

James A. Duke, Ph.D. from article The Evidence of Lemon Balm; http://tinyurl.com/yr74a6

National Institutes of Health – http://tinyurl.com/25rtea

The body’s own Progesterone is produced mainly by the ovaries and by the adrenal glands. It is a precursor to dhea, testosterone and estrogen, as well as to cortisol, the stress hormone. The word “progesterone” is the natural form found in the body, as opposed to the word “progestin” which is the synthetic form usually found in the contraceptive pill. It is important to make this distinction as these words, unfortunately, tend to be used interchangeably when they shouldn’t be at all, they are two completely different substances.

Natural Progesterone Supplement

When we discuss “Natural Progesterone” we are generally referring to the use of a supplement, most commonly delivered to the body by way of a transdermal cream. Transdermal basically means “through the skin”.

Natural Progesterone is bio-identical (biologically the same) to the hormone that your own body produces. Manufacturing is carried out by extracting diosgenin from wild yams, or sometimes soybeans, and converting them to actual progesterone in a laboratory. Synthetic progesterone (progestins) drugs are also made from diosgenin but the molecular structure is altered from what is found naturally. Synthetic progestin drugs may cause many known side effects.

Professor Russell Marker originally isolated the compound diosgenin in the 1940′s from the Mexican wild yam which was also the source for the original birth-control pill. Diosgenin is a precursor to progesterone and unlike the synthetic hormones available by prescription, natural progesterone is chemically identical to what is found in the human body. It is noteworthy however, that many products may list wild yam extract on the label containing diosgenin but actually contain no progesterone. When purchasing, it is best to obtain a pharmaceutically standardised product which means there is a standard amount of active ingredient (progesterone) in each container from batch to batch. For example in the USA a standardised cream would have the words USP on the label signifying the manufacturer is adhering to the standards of the United States Pharmacopeia. In the United Kingdom they adhere to the BP British Pharmacopeia.

Female sufferers of PMS (pre menstrual syndrome) migraines often find the situation may be corrected by the use of a natural progesterone cream. In its natural form, it acts as a diuretic, which means women using these supplements may have to go to the bathroom more frequently, however on the upside they are spared the fluid retention and weight gain experienced by women on synthetic progestins.

Natural Progesterone Delivery Systems

Natural progesterone is packaged as capsules, tinctures or transdermal creams, with the creams being the most prevalent form for use.

Unfortunately delivery via capsule or pill form is not usually successful as the pill disintegrates in the stomach and gastrointestinal tract and never enters the system.

Synthetic Progestins/Progestogens

The synthetic progestin can produce severe side effects including increased risk of cancer, abnormal menstrual flow, fluid retention, nausea, and depression. Other serious side-effects may include facial hair growth, depression, cardiovascular disease, liver disorders as well as a vast array of other negative symptoms.

Estrogen Dominance

With a decline of Progesterone in the body, a condition called Estrogen Dominance usually develops. Estrogen dominance is said to be responsible for a number of reproductive health issues, including infertility, irregular menstruation, and various cancers. It refers to an excess of estrogen relative to not enough progesterone. In other words, you can have normal or low estrogen levels, but if you have low progesterone you will have estrogen dominance.

Since women tend to suffer from estrogen dominance more than men, it may be advisable to consult a healthcare professional such as a Gynaecologist who can provide additional information and treatment recommendations.

Why Use Natural Progesterone

The effects of high levels of Estrogen include the following: stimulates breasts cysts, increases body fat storage, salt and fluid retention, depression and headaches, interferes with thyroid hormone, increases blood clotting and risk of stroke, decreases libido (sex drive), impairs blood sugar control, loss of zinc and retention of copper, reduced oxygen levels in all cells, increased risk of endometrial cancer, increased risk of breast cancer.

The effects of Progesterone: protects against breast cysts, helps use fat for energy and keep it off hips, natural diuretic, natural anti-depressant, facilitates thyroid hormone action, normalises blood clotting, increases libido, normalises blood sugar levels, normalises zinc and copper levels, restores proper cell oxygen levels, prevents endometrial cancer, helps prevent breast cancer, increases bone building.

When Natural Progesterone is used the body re-adjusts the estrogen dominance back to normal. Another benefit of using this natural therapy is its effect in combating PMS premenstrual syndrome. Progestogens do not diminish PMS, in fact they usually worsen the symptoms.

It has strongly been suggested that it may be highly beneficial for those who suffer from monthly follicular ovarian cysts. As the natural hormone is produced during the latter half of the menstrual cycle and all throughout pregnancy (“pro” means “for” and gesterone means “gestation”), natural progesterone indirectly signals the ovaries to stop producing eggs, hence the cessation of cyst growth.

I am in need of help. I am pregnant in my 2nd Trimester and have felt considerable depression during my pregnancy. Symptoms include: Lethargic, unable to get out of bed, no desire to socialize or participate in family activities, loss of desire to complete daily tasks. I have two other children ages 7 and 2yrs old and my depression is becoming burdensome and a distracting me from caring for my other children. I am experiencing intense sadness and loss of interest in daily endeavors. These symptoms are very different than normal pregnancy hormone related symptoms as they are more intense and dark in nature. I have discussed with my doctor but I do not want to take prescription medications and would like to consider all natural antidepressants.I have heard that Sam-E is supposedly good, however I want to make sure that any natural antidepressants I may take will not have harmful side effects on the baby while I am pregnant.

Question:
Are there any SAFE all natural Antidepressant remedies available to take during pregnancy?

Thank you for your help.