Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (also known as AAA, pronounced "triple-a") is a localized dilatation of the abdominal aorta exceeding the normal diameter by more than 50 percent. It is caused by degeneration of the aortic wall, but the exact etiology remains unknown. Some 90 percent of abdominal aortic aneurysms occur infrarenally (below the kidneys), but they can also occur pararenally (at the level of the kidneys) or suprarenally (above the kidneys). Such aneurysms can extend to include one or both of the iliac arteries in the pelvis.
Abdominal aortic aneurysms occur most commonly in individuals between 65 and 75 years old and are more common among men and smokers. They tend to cause no symptoms, although occasionally they cause pain in the abdomen and back (due to pressure on surrounding tissues) or in the legs (due to disturbed blood flow). The major complication of abdominal aortic aneurysms is rupture, which can be life-threatening as large amounts of blood spill into the abdominal cavity, and can lead to death within minutes.
Symptomatic and large aneurysms (i.e., those greater than 5.5cm in diameter) are considered for repair by one of several surgical methods. There is moderate evidence to support screening in individuals with risk factors for abdominal aortic aneurysms.
There have been many calls for alternative approaches to rupture-risk assessment over the past number of years, with many believing that a biomechanics-based approach may be more suitable than the current diameter approach. Numerical modelling is a valuable tool to researchers allowing approximate wall stresses to be calculated, thus revealing the rupture potential of a particular aneurysm.
Experimental models are required to validate these numerical results, and provide a further insight into the biomechanical behaviour of the AAA. ''In vivo'', AAAs exhibit a varying range of material strengths from localised weak hypoxic regions to much stronger regions and areas of calcifications. Experimental models can now be manufactured using a novel technique involving the injection-moulding lost-wax manufacturing process to create patient-specific anatomically-correct AAA replicas.
Work has also focused on developing more realistic material analogues to those ''in vivo'', and recently a novel range of silicone-rubbers was created allowing the varying material properties of the AAA to be more accurately represented. These rubber models can also be used in a variety of experimental testing from stress analysis using the photoelastic method to deterimining whether the locations of rupture experimentally correlate with those predicted numerically.
With the recent advancements in AAA research, coupled with the increasing collaboration between clinicians and engineers, the future research into AAA rupture-prediction and treatment appears to be in a strong position to combat what is currently ranked as the 13th leading cause of death in the US and the 10th leading cause of death in men over the age of 55 years.
A recent animal study published in the journal ''Nature Medicine'' showed that removing a single protein prevents early damage in blood vessels from triggering a later-stage, frequently lethal complication of atherosclerosis. By eliminating the gene for a signaling protein called cyclophilin A (CypA) from a strain of mice, researchers were able to provide complete protection against abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).
New endovascular devices are being developed that are able to treat more complex and tortuous anatomies.

The BRATTY (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Tea, Toast, and Yogurt) diet

The BRATTY (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Tea, Toast, and Yogurt) diet is generally recommended as part of the prescribed treatment for patients suffering from gastrointestinal ailments. Common conditions such as gastroenteritis, dyspepsia, and diarrhea as well as more serious conditions such as Graft versus Host Disease can be effectively managed and treated with this diet. This diet helps to treat the root cause of diarrhea as well as the accompanying symptoms such as abdominal cramps, dehydration, fatigue, and lethargy. It is important to include all the foods in this diet for a speedy recovery.

Bananas

• Bananas are rich in soluble fibers which help to absorb excess intestinal fluids. A type of soluble fiber in bananas called inulin also helps to promote the growth of healthy gastrointestinal bacteria.
• Dehydration is one of the main concerns of diarrhea as it can cause a person to slip into a coma and can even be fatal. Bananas are rich in potassium, manganese, and magnesium which help to replace the lost electrolytes and prevent dehydration.
• Bananas also contain significant amounts of Vitamins A, B, C as well as calcium and selenium.

Rice

• Rice helps to soothe and regulate the digestive system and helps to regularize intestinal contractions. This reduces and even prevents painful spasms and stomach cramps which is a common symptom of gastrointestinal disorders.
• Rice is rich in soluble fiber which is not digested by the body but instead forms a thick gel. This gel acts as a bulking agent by absorbing excess liquids present in the intestines.
• Rice contains complex carbohydrates and is especially recommended for toddlers and children suffering from diarrhea. Brown rice would be a better option as it has superior nutritional values as compared to white rice.

Applesauce

• Apples are rich in pectin which helps to firm stools. However they also contain sorbitol which can aggravate diarrhea. Homemade applesauce retains the benefits of pectin but the sorbitol is destroyed during the cooking process. This makes applesauce ideal for patients suffering from diarrhea.
• Applesauce also contains significant amounts of Potassium, Manganese, and Vitamin C which prevent dehydration.
• Apple peels have a very high nutritional value but they are also high in insoluble fibers which can irritate the stomach lining and aggravate diarrhea. Make sure that you only use peeled apples when making applesauce.

Toast

• Toast is easy to digest and helps to neutralize strong stomach acids. This makes it ideal for people suffering from diarrhea.
• Toast is easy to digest while bread is not. This is because the heat converts the starch present in the bread into a light carbohydrate which is broken down easily and digested.
• Have toast made out of whole wheat bread as it is healthier than white bread. Whole wheat bread also contains several types of soluble fibers which help to treat diarrhea.

Tea

• Tea is very beneficial in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders as it helps to increase the number of healthy intestinal bacteria. This decreases the amount of harmful bacteria in the digestive system and speeds-up the recovery process.
• Tea also helps to increase the body’s immunity levels against various intestinal disorders.
• Green tea, Oolong tea and black tea are the healthiest options, and of these green tea is generally considered to be the best.

Yogurt

• Yogurt contains healthy bacteria which help to prevent and treat diarrhea.
• Yogurt has been rated as one of the world’s healthiest foods. It is a good source of vitamins and proteins and helps to strengthen the body and repair any damage to the intestines.
• Flavored yogurt contains several sugars that can aggravate diarrhea. A mixture of a few spoons of honey along with unflavored yogurt would appeal to both kids and adults alike.

You can also include small amounts of steamed chicken, coconut juice, broth, soup, and boiled potatoes in the patient’s diet. A person suffering from diarrhea often feels fatigued and weary and so they often suffer a loss of appetite. Experiment with various combinations and make sure that they only have small servings throughout the day. While plain toast may not be very appetizing, the aroma from a slice of fresh toast with honey will definitely help to work up an appetite. In the same way, finely diced bananas with a few spoons of applesauce would be more appealing than having the bananas and applesauce as individual dishes. You can blend a few slices of steamed skinless chicken and add this to a bowl of freshly steamed rice with a small amount of mashed potatoes on the side. Keep in mind that spicy foods and foods with a high fat content should be completely avoided.

Natural laxatives

As a person gets older their metabolism tends to slow down. Something that goes along with that is constipation. Constipation can be a very uncomfortable even miserable feeling for the average person. Most people do not realize how much this can affect them until they have experienced it for themselves.

There are many things that people can do to alleviate constipation. Many foods can be considered natural laxatives. These foods can be added to the daily diet in order to get rid of constipation problems. This is one of the best solutions as most of these foods are nutritious as well and add many other health benefits in addition to relieving constipation issues.

The best natural laxatives are those foods that are full of fiber. Soluble fiber is much better than insoluble as it pulls water into itself and helps to soften up the stool in the intestines making it easier to pass later. Insoluble fiber is fiber that is not digestible fiber. It remains the same form and passes through the body unchanged.

One of the best known foods that works as a laxative are prunes and prune juice. Prunes are full of soluble fiber. They also have high levels of Vitamin A, iron and potassium. Eating a few prunes or drinking a glass of prune juice once a day usually will take care of any problems a person has with constipation.

Other vegetables and fruits that are considered natural laxatives include grapes, figs, apricots, turnips, endive, watercress, coconut, avocados, rhubarb and soybeans. In fact, rhubarb contains a natural chemical that has laxative qualities. Rhubarb is considered to be a very powerful laxative. It might be wise due to this to eat rhubarb in small amounts. Otherwise adding two servings of any of the foods above should alleviate any problems a person has with constipation. It is also recommended to eat vegetables and fruits raw when possible and to eat the peelings as well. They add to the roughage or fiber of the food item.

Whole grains are full of soluble fiber that will help to keep the digestive tact healthy and keep the stool soft. There are many cereals and other foods that are made with whole grains that fall into this category. Look for whole grains on the label. It is recommended to eat four to five servings of grains per day for a healthy diet and to keep the digestive tract moving along.

Other seeds that are considered natural laxatives include psyllium and flaxseed. Psyllium husks come from the seeds of the plantain. They contain a gel like substance called mucilage. This substance swells when it is mixed with water. It also pulls water into it. This helps to soften the stool as it passes through the intestinal tract. Linseed or flaxseed works on the same premise as psyllium husks. Licorice is another herb that contains mucilage. Please note that licorice should not be used long term as it can raise the blood pressure. Olive oil can also be used as a laxative.

A person being sedentary or not getting the right amount of exercise can lead to constipation. Increasing activity levels including taking regular walks or implementing an exercise routine can help to increase the digestive process and move food and nutrients more quickly through the digestive tract.

Keeping the body hydrated is another way to keep constipation away. The intestines need water to mix with the stool in order to keep it soft and pliable. If the body is dehydrated the stool will become hard and dry. It will make it much harder to pass. Drinking large amounts of water each day will keep constipation away.

HCG diet recipes

The HCG diet is a very strict dieting strategy that severely limits caloric intake. This is actually an understatement because the diet allows only 500 calories per day. This restriction, along with daily injections of a synthetically produced hormone, HCG, gives the diet its uniqueness. The original idea was that it would help men and women lose fat (and, therefore, weight) and keep it off after returning to a more normal dietary pattern.

How Does the Diet Work?
HCG, or Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, is a hormone naturally produced in large amounts by the placenta during pregnancy. The hormone essentially controls the woman’s metabolic functions during this time. It allows for the fetus to receive the nutrients it needs even if the mother is restricting or not eating enough. The baby can live off the mother’s fat stores, and so the idea developed to turn this hormone into a diet. If injected with the hormone, a person’s fat stores will basically be depleted. An injection is given every day, except for the last three, for the duration of the diet, which only lasts for about a month. When the injected hormones take effect, the dieter can more easily be satisfied with 500 calories per day because fat stores are released to provide the energy needed. The foods consumed, to maximize hunger with so little quantities, should be high in protein and low in carbohydrates, fats, and void of junk foods.

HCG Recipes
The problem with going on this diet is that your normal, everyday cookbooks temporarily become useless. However, there are recipes that can be adapted, and some that have been produced specifically for this diet. All of the following recipes are suitable because they are low in calories and fat.

Fruit Salad
Try this sweet mixture of fresh fruits for breakfast!

* 1 cup sliced bananas
* 1 cup sliced strawberries
* 1 cup cubed, fresh pineapple
* 1 cup blueberries

Mix all together and enjoy!

Lettuce wraps
The fiber in the lettuce and vegetables, and the protein in the meat give a lasting feeling of fullness.

* 1 pounds lean ground beef or ground turkey. Mix with
* Fajita seasoning, low fat & sugar free
* Vegetable mixture (bell peppers and onion)

Brown the ground beef or turkey. Sauté vegetables in a medium-sized pan coated in cooking spray. Wrap both the meat and vegetables in lettuce leaves.

Shish Kabobs
This is not a cut and dry recipe; there are many variations with which to experiment!

* Chunks of lean chicken or shrimp
* Onion, tomato chunks or cherry tomatoes
* Vegetables of choice

Put all on skewers. Season with herbs and lemon juice prior to grilling. Grill until cooked thoroughly.

Lively Citrus Basil Chicken
This dish is easy to throw together and is a perfect dinner for the rest of the family who isn’t even on the diet!

* 3 ½ oz 99% fat free chicken trimmed of visible fat
* 3 ½ oz chopped tomatoes
* 1 orange, peeled & cut into small pieces
* Juice from ½ lemon
* Basil (fresh or dried), as desired
* Salt and pepper, as needed

Place a medium-sized skillet onto stove top; coat with cooking spray. Add chicken and lightly coat with salt and pepper; drizzle with lemon juice and extra water, if needed. Cook 3-4 minutes. Add chopped tomatoes, chopped orange, and basil. Simmer on low, for desired amount of marinating time, turning halfway through. Serve chicken on lettuce leaves.

Foil Baked Fish
A simple and satisfying twist on fish.

* 3 ½ oz fish
* Juice of ½ of a lemon
* Salt, pepper, and dill to taste

Put fish in foil (large enough to wrap around and seal). Drizzle with lemon juice and zest some of the rind around the fish. Season with salt, pepper, and dill. Bake in oven at 350 degrees Centigrade until cooked through.

Italian Herbed Fish and Broccoli
This meal is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.

* 3 ½ oz white fish
* 3 ½ oz broccoli, chopped
* 1 tomato, peeled & cut into small pieces
* Basil, thyme, oregano (fresh or dried), as desired
* Salt and pepper, as desired
* 2 tablespoons water

Put all spices, salt and pepper into the bottom of a medium-sized skillet. Add fish and drizzle with the lemon. Add broccoli and tomato with a few tablespoons of water over low-medium heat until fish is cooked through. Pour juices over fish and serve with lemon wedges.

Sweet ‘n Sour Lemonade
Perfect for anytime of day!

* 1 quart water
* 1 lemon (juice only)
* 2 packets calorie free natural sweetener
* Ice cubes
* Lemon slices, for garnish

Place water in a pitcher. Add the lemon juice and sweetener; stir. Add desired amount of ice. Garnish with sliced lemons.

Warm Apple Dessert
Craving some apple pie? This is a perfect substitute!

* 1 medium apple, cut into wedges
* Cinnamon, as desired
* 1 packet no calorie sweetener

Dust apples with cinnamon and sweetener and combine in a microwaveable bowl. Heat the microwave for 2 minutes, or until apples are warm and to desired tenderness.

Lipotropic injections

Lipotropic injections are a unique weight loss method that should definitely be considered if you plan to use a product to assist you with a healthy weight loss. The product is a substance which assists in breaking down fat in your body so it is removed as waste. This is done as the injections will help stimulate lecithin creation within your liver and this will ultimately convert more cholesterol to liquid instead of it being in your bloodstream.

That is not all lipotropic injections do though as there are other processes that take place. If your liver is fatty then it will not complete its tasks as quick as it should be. This will lead to a slower metabolism. In order to speed up your liver you will need to minimize the mount of fat that is stored in your liver. This can be done with using lipotropic injections. There are also other health benefits from using lipotropic injections. By using this product you can help keep your kidneys protected, increase your immunity to various illnesses, treat illnesses, and there are various other health benefits as well.

Do Lipotropic Injections Really Work?
Ignoring all the claims, what really matters is if the product works or not. Most reviews and testimonials for this product have been positive and based on others experiences it has seemed to work for them. While it cannot be said whether lipotropic injections will work for you or not, the results have seemed to show that it is a very effective product for most. People have claimed to lose 2-3lbs per week just from using the lipotropic injections with their already healthy diet. Not only is it helping with an easy weight loss but it is also been a great energy source as well, which is ultimately helpful when needing regular exercise. By combining lipotropic injections with a healthy diet and regular exercise you will definitely see phenomenal results in a short period of time.

Lipotropic Injections for Spot Reduction
Exercise or dieting alone can help you lose extra fat all over your body but it is not possible to reduce fat in specific areas with just diet and exercise alone. In the past only surgery was capable of spot reduction but now lipotropic injections are a great alternative. Using lipotropic injections can help get rid of fat deposits in a certain targeted area of your body. For this to work you will be injecting the substance (a composition of amino acid compounds and Vitamin B12) into the area which you want lose fat from. By regularly using lipotropic injections you can easily see a successful spot reduction in a short period of time, and the main factor to thank for this is that your metabolism is being increased tremendously.

Why Lipotropic Injections Work
Lipotropic injections are great at helping you burn fat mostly because they work as a metabolism booster. The effects from the lipotropic injection will display immediately and your metabolism will be increased while using the injections. With an increased metabolism will also come more energy and an increased happiness. This will ultimately make you much more active and will help you burn more calories through the day, which leads to a healthy weight loss. Not only is your metabolism increased so that you will be exercising more regularly but your resting metabolism is increased as well. This means that whenever you are not doing anything much more than simple movements, you will be burning more calories than normal. This means that even someone with terrible metabolism can help shred off extra weight in certain sections of the body that they are having trouble with.

The Verdict – Are Lipotric Injections Worth It?
You are getting a boosted metabolism, increased energy, and an increased happiness by using this product. You can also see amazing weight loss results if you continue using lipotropic injections, so it is definitely worth investing in. In a way this is the magical solution to those facing weight problems and it may be the answer you were looking for. If you are having difficulties losing weight with other products or from basic dieting and exercise, you may want to consider using lipotropic injections.

Abdomina Exercise Machines

Abs are a huge deal! Have you noticed this lately? I was just watching a film entitled "The Covenant" with my wife, and couldn't help but notice the physiques. One character in this movie had ridiculous abdominal muscles. I'm talking ripped to shreds here. I couldn't help but laugh since no athlete I saw in high school had abs like this. Sure high school kids work out, but this guy looked like he was training for a fitness magazine. Oh, and not to mention that he looked about 25 years old. He must have invested in some major abdominal exercise machines. It's either that or some really cool genetics.

You can take your pick from an abundance of abdominal exercise machines on the fitness market today. Who doesn't have a bright idea for some new and improved ab invention? It's kind of funny because I was just reading a piece on abdominal muscles last weekend. Personally I like to switch-up my workout regimes just to keep my muscles guessing. This typically promotes more growth. Anyway, the article said nothing promoting abdominal exercise machines. In fact, it didn't mention them at all. It named the three most effective abdominal exercises, which are all performed without the contemporary abdominal exercise machines. The first one was the bicycle motion. This is performed while lying on your back. You pretend like you're pedaling a bicycle and bring your elbows to your knees. The second ab exercise is crunches. These are highly recommended since they put very little stress on your back. And the third was also crunches, but crunches done with the aid of a chair to prop your legs on. I tried these and it's a great one. I found that it really started burning quickly. I love that!

In short, before you run out and purchase the latest abdominal exercise machines, I suggest that you do a little reading online first. This will help you better understand how the abs are properly worked and exhausted. The last thing you want is to adopt an ab exercise that damages your back over time. Furthermore, the recommended exercise routines are free; unlike modern-day abdominal exercise machines. You do the math. On the other hand, I do suggest that you try a few different exercises so that you can determine which one offers the best results.

Abdominal exercise

Many people are bothered by lower back pain. The pain can be the result of an injury, arthritis or poor posture. No matter why the pain is there it is often debilitating. The thing that people who are not in constant pain do not realize is how much energy is taken from the person that is suffering from the pain. The pain can cause sleep deprivation which leads to the inability to concentrate and the feeling of being tired. There are many things that can be done to help with back pain. One of the most effective is abdominal exercise.

Many people do not realize how much the abdominal muscles help to support the lower back. By keeping these muscles strong the back is supported more. Exercises that stretch and strengthen the abdominal area can greatly alleviate the pain. Abdominal exercise is usually done lying on your back. For some people with severe back pain getting off the floor from a laying position can be quite difficult. For these people they can begin to strengthen the stomach muscles by performing the abdominal exercise in bed. This is not as affective as doing them on the hard surface of the floor, but it can begin the strengthening process so that the person can get to the point of lying on the floor.

Another effective and joint friendly way to begin the process of strengthening the stomach muscles is through deep breathing exercises. These are exercises that can be done in any position and at anytime throughout the day. Simply sit or stand very erect and pull in the abdominal muscles as you take in deep breaths of air. Hold the breath and slowly exhale, keeping the stomach muscles held firm. Repeat this procedure several times throughout the day. The deep breathing will also help relax tense muscles that may contribute to the pain level.

A more advanced abdominal exercise is doing belly crunches. This involves lying flat on your back with your knees raised and you feet planted firmly on the ground. Place your hands behind your head and lift the head and shoulders a few inches off the ground. Hold that position for a few seconds and go back down. Repeat this for a number of times. The deep breathing can be added to the abdominal exercise by inhaling and exhaling as you rise and fall. There are many variations that can be done with this basic exercise, such as reaching your arms out in front of you between your knees as you rise. If you alternate one arm than the next over your stomach as if you are climbing a rope you will work the abdominal muscles that are higher. Repeating these simple moves in the morning and evening will help to warm your back muscles as you prepare for work or sleep. Warming the muscles through stretching also helps to alleviate the pain.

What's your BMI?

A good way to check if you're a healthy weight is to use the Body Mass Index (BMI). Use our healthy weight calculator to learn your BMI, and find helpful information and advice.

Check your BMI, or that of your child or other family members, using our Healthy weight calculator. This tool can be used for adults and children aged two or above. Once it has calculated the BMI, the tool will direct you to relevant content on this site

Your BMI is a measure of whether you're a healthy weight for your height.
It can indicate whether you're at raised risk of the serious health problems that are linked to being overweight, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.
Who can use BMI?
BMI is the best assessment of weight. It can be used by most people, however, it's not suitable for children under the age of two.
Having lots of muscle may put you in the unhealthy range, even if you have little body fat. For example, professional rugby players can have 'obese' BMIs despite having very little body fat. However, this will not apply to most people.

Lose weight

For adults of south Asian origin, a BMI of 23 or above can indicate increased risk of health problems. Getting your BMI to below 23 will improve your health

The BMI ranges for adults
People come in different shapes and sizes. For adults, a range of BMI scores indicate that you're a healthy weight.
A BMI above the ideal range indicates that you're heavier than is healthy for your height.
The ranges below only apply to adults. BMI results are interpreted differently for children.

• BMI below 18.5: a score this low means that you may be underweight. There are a number of possible reasons for this. Your GP can help you find out more, and achieve a healthy weight.You can learn more by reading Nutrition for underweight adults.
• BMI 18.5-24.9: this is a healthy range. It shows that you're a healthy weight for your height. However, it's still important to eat a healthy, balanced diet and include physical activity in your daily life if you want to maintain a healthy weight.
• BMI 25.0 or more: your BMI is above the ideal range. This means that you're heavier than is healthy for someone of your height. Excess weight can put you at increased risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. It’s time to take action. See the section below, and learn more by reading Lose weight. 

The next step
If your BMI shows that you're overweight it's time to take action. There’s lots of information, advice and support on NHS Choices that can help you.

• Lose weight has information and advice on achieving a healthy weight.
• Good food contains information and advice on healthy eating.
• Fitness gives you information and advice on physical activity.

You can also talk to your GP or practice nurse. They can offer advice on lifestyle changes, and may refer you to a weight loss group or discuss other treatments.
They may measure your waist circumference. This can provide further information on your risk of certain health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. You can learn more by reading Why body shape matters.
For children who are overweight, a GP or practice nurse can give advice and support on helping your child achieve a healthy weight as they grow.
Lose weight
For adults, losing even a little excess weight has health benefits. You’ll lower your risk of serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.
Weight loss can also improve back and joint pain. Most people feel better when they lose excess weight.
For adults and children, the key is to make small, long-lasting changes to your lifestyle. That means a healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity.
To start with, you can cut down on excess calories by swapping high-calorie meals and snacks for healthier alternatives. Read Healthy food swaps to learn more.
Physical activity is an important part of losing weight. Adults should get at least 30 minutes of physical activity, five days a week. For children, it’s 60 minutes, five days a week.
Sport is a great way to get active, but physical activity doesn’t have to mean spending hours on a treadmill. Instead, think about practical ways that you and your children can fit physical activity into your daily routine, such as walking to school or the shops.
For more ideas on how to get you and your family active, visit Change4Life.

source[http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/loseweight/Pages/BodyMassIndex.aspx]

Hypertension Medicines

The following is a list of the most common drugs and drug combinations used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). With so many approved drugs to choose from, settling on the "best" drug(s) for you will take careful collaboration between you and your doctor.

* Here are the things you and your doctor should consider when choosing the "best" treatment for your hypertension.

* Read about the basics of hypertension.

In this list, the (G) indicates that a generic form of the drug is available.

Diuretics

Diuretics ("water pills") increase the amount of sodium and water excreted into the urine by the kidneys. It is thought that they lower blood pressure mainly by reducing the volume of fluid in the blood vessels.

Diuretics commonly used for hypertension:

* Acetazolamide (G) - Diamox
* Chlorthalidone (G) - Thalitone
* Hydrochlorothiazide (G) - HydroDiuril, also sold as Microzide and Esidrix
* Indapamide (G) - Lozol
* Metolazone (G) - Zaroxolyn, also sold as Mykrox

Diuretics less commonly used for hypertension:

* Amiloride hydrochloride (G) - Midamor
* Bumetanide (G) - Bumex
* Ethacrynic acid - Edecrin
* Furosemide (G) - Lasix
* Spironolactone (G) - Aldactone
* Torsemide (G) - Demadex
* Triamterene (G) - Dyrenium

Beta-blockers

Beta blockers block the effect of adrenaline on the cardiovascular system, slow the heart rate, and reduce stress on the heart and the arteries.

* Acebutolol (G) - Sectral
* Atenolol (G) - Tenormin
* Betaxolol (G) - Kerlone
* Bisoprolol (G) - Zebeta, also sold as Ziac
* Carteolol (G) - Cartrol
* Carvedilol (G) - Coreg
* Labetalol (G)- Normodyne, also sold as Trandate
* Metoprolol (G)- Lopressor, also sold as Toprol
* Nadolol (G) - Corgard
* Penbutolol - Levatol
* Propranolol (G) - Inderal, Inderal LA
* Timolol (G) - Blocadren

Calcium Channel Blockers

Calcium channel blockers can reduce blood pressure by dilating the arteries and, in some cases, reducing the force of the heart's contractions.

* Amlodipine (G) - Norvasc, also sold as Caduet and Lotrel
* Diltiazem (G) - Cardizem, also sold as Dilacor and Tiazac
* Felodipine (G) - Plendil
* Isradipine (G) - DynaCirc
* Nicardipine (G) - Cardene
* Nifedipine (G) - Procardia XL, also sold as Adalat
* Nisoldipine - Sular
* Verapamil hydrochloride - Isoptin, also sold as Calan, Verelan, and Covera

Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors

The angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (the "ACE inhibitors") can lower blood pressure by dilating the arteries.

* Benazepril (G) - Lotensin
* Captopril (G) - Capoten
* Enalapril (G) - Vasotec, also sold as Vaseretic
* Fosinopril (G) - Monopril
* Lisinopril (G) - Prinivil, also sold as Zestril
* Moexipril (G) - Univasc
* Quinapril (G) - Accupril
* Ramipril (G) - Altace
* Trandolapril (G) - Mavik

Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers

The angiotensin II receptor blockers (the "ARBs") also reduce blood pressure by dilating the arteries.

* Candesartan - Atacand
* Irbesartan - Avapro
* Losartan - Cozaar
* Telmisartan - Micardis
* Valsartan - Diovan

Other, Less Commonly Used Hypertension Drugs

* Clonidine (G) - Catapres
* Doxazosin (G) - Cardura
* Guanabenz (G) - Wytensin
* Guanfacine (G) - Tenex
* Hydralazine hydrochloride (G) - Apresoline
* Methyldopa (G) - Aldomet
* Prazosin (G) - Minipress
* Reserpine (G) - Serpasil
* Terazosin (G) - Hytrin

Combination Drugs For Hypertension

* Amiloride and hydrochlorothiazide - Moduretic
* Amlodipine and benazepril - Lotrel
* Atenolol and chlorthalidone - Tenoretic
* Benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide - Lotensin HCT
* Bisoprolol and hydrochlorothiazide - Ziac
* Captopril and hydrochlorothiazide - Capozide
* Enalapril and hydrochlorothiazide - Vaseretic
* Felodipine and enalapril - Lexxel
* Hydralazine and hydrochlorothiazide - Apresazide
* Lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide - Prinzide, also sold as Zestoretic
* Losartan and hydrochlorothiazide - Hyzaar
* Methyldopa and hydrochlorothiazide - Aldoril
* Metoprolol and hydrochlorothiazide - Lopressor HCT
* Nadolol and bendroflumethiazide - Corzide
* Propranolol and hydrochlorothiazide - Inderide
* Spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide - Aldactazide
* Triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide - Dyazide, also sold as Maxide
* Verapamil extended release) and trandolapril - Tarka

What Beats Cardio in Fat Loss?

Remember days when your thigh slimming workout meant sweating in aerobics class, running on a treadmill or clocking up miles on a stepper, while weight lifting area was reserved strictly for ‘boys’? In those days you trainer would tell you that if you truly want to attack fat in you thigh and butt area you need to do at least 30-40 min of moderately-paced exercise on stepper, treadmill or other cardio machine at least 3-5 times per week, but more is of course better.

If you are ‘workout rusted’ and haven’t been following fitness trends in recent years, this article will show (or remind) you why weight lifting workout routine is so much more efficient in burning fat from your thighs then cardio.

While cardio exercise has many benefits, there’s more efficient way to burn fat faster and achieve long lasting health and fitness results. Got you interested?

The key to fast fat loss is adding lean muscle to your body. This will rev up your metabolism, speed up calorie burn and turn your body into fat burning machine. How come?

Muscles are the highest consumer of energy in your body. The more muscle you have the higher is consumption of calories. So, when you start adding lean muscles through proper resistance training, you will need to feed the new muscle. By eating the right amount of calories to maintain your current bodyweight and by increasing the biggest consumer of energy, you will create calorie deficit in your body.

In addition to calorie burn during the resistance training, the calories burned at rest will also increase, not to even mention calories used in the recovery phase. The muscle is metabolically speaking the hardest tissue in the body. It requires the highest amount of energy to keep active, and that is why our bodies devours it first in times of starvation, and why it burns more calories at rest.

This calorie deficit combined with repair and growth process will call upon your stored body fat for energy.

65% of muscles of your body are in your lower body with the biggest group being leg muscles. By focusing on your lower body exercises, particularly thighs, you will not only get toned and well shaped thighs; but also speed up fat loss process for your whole body. Adding lean muscle to the biggest muscle group will increase the need for energy, and the constant need for energy burns your supply, making fat loss a breeze.

workout from Home

You Could Work From Home

It's funny, but many people head off to their 9-5 jobs day-in and day-out, never truly enjoying what it is they do for a living. This sounds ridiculous, but yet it is reality for many. Why would you work five days a week and even long hours doing something you simply don't enjoy? It really doesn't make sense if you think about it. Have you ever considered the notion that you could work from home and do something you actually like to earn a steady income? People all over the world do this every day; therefore there's no reason why you can't enjoy the same lifestyle.

Often if you ask someone why they continue to work at a job they dislike, they will pass you the same tired spiel; "I have to earn a living." Well that's all fine and good. However, no said you had to slave away for some company you don't even respect. There are work from home opportunities now more than there ever were before. Take a gander at all the folks who're publishing their work online and earning a passive income from it. Not to mention the countless individuals that chose to start their own business working from home, doing what they love and setting their own hours. You can even work solely through the Internet doing this. Imagine the potential consumer basis at your fingertips. It's insane! So, are you ready to begin earning a living by working from home?

Okay, so maybe you need a few tips before you go tell of your boss and flat out quit your job. Think about a work from home opportunity that would truly suit you and your family. This is an excellent place to start. Not everyone is meant to do the exact same thing. If you're good at something, you can likely make money at it. Whether it's services or products, there are customers just waiting on teh other side of that computer screen. Take a peek at helpful website such as worldwideworkathome.com, top-ten-work-at-home-jobs.com and work-at-home.org. This way you can learn a little more about real work from home job opportunities and what's out there for you. It's high time you enjoyed your work and started setting your own schedule.

Work Out Program

For me, one of the most difficult things is making things easy for myself. I always have to feel like I'm working hard, facing challenges that other people don't face. I never take the shortcut. I never even take the road when I can ramble off through the bushes. Sometimes this provides for interesting challenges, but more often it just forces me to go through all kinds of frustrating complications.
  This really got in my way when I started doing exercise workout programs. You see, I used to be in shape but that was before I discovered the joys of writing. Now I sit at my computer eight hours every day. Needless to say, I have grown some padding to make the sitting more comfortable. I thought a good workout program was just what I needed. The way I proceeded to go about it, however, made things more difficult.

You see, the easiest way to do workout routines is to take a class. I had several friends who have been doing workout programs for years. They would take martial arts, yoga, Pilates, or aerobics. Some of them would even go dancing. All of these are valid workout programs, but I thought I should go it alone. I didn't want to hire a trainer or take a class. I just wanted to design my own custom workout programs.

Not only did I decide to go it alone when I could've gotten help, but I didn't allow myself to start slowly either. On the contrary, I got right in there. The first day, I almost collapsed. My workout programs goals were outrageous. I was supposed to be running 5 miles a day by the third day. The thing is, I was stubborn enough to try to do it. I knew it was better than any of the other workout programs that my friends used. I knew I would be in good shape within a month.

What I didn't count on was getting hurt. If I had done one of the easier workout programs, this wouldn't have been an issue. It is hard to get hurt doing aerobics, or using a stationary bike. I was doing some serious off-road running, however, as wells mountain biking. The way I was going about my workout programs, it was only a matter of time before I ended up in the hospital. Fitness workout programs that end in broken bones are not the key to good health. Next time I will take it easier.

Work Out Routine 2

There are some things that ever person must have in life. One is a confidence. After all, where can you go, and what can you really accomplish without believing in yourself? Another thing is motivation. Hey, if you're not motivated, then you may not go far regarding career goals and lifestyle expectations. If you want to get to a certain level, you have to be determined. And finally there is the infamous workout routine. Yeah, yeah, I know what you're thinking. YUCK! It's never much of a popular concept, but it's still crucial to our health and image. If you're currently lacking a fitness regimen, then it's time to take that first step.

There are many aspects to fitness, working out and staying in shape. One workout routine I would like to address is the muscle building process. This is such a debatable subject. I have read countless bodybuilding and weight lifting websites, and often they encourage different routines and practices. One thing I can say about most of them is if you're looking to bulk up, free weights are preferred over machines. This is basically due to the fact that they force your body to work more. When you resort to a machine, it stabilizes the exercise for you. This way you only have to lift, press or curl the weight. Now with a free weight workout routine it's different. Let's say you're doing the bench press. This is a wonderful compound exercise that's ideal for building the chest, triceps and shoulders. When you lift the bar, you also have to stabilize it, and make sure it stays level. This ensures that both arms are doing equal amounts of work. Furthermore, the free weights are forcing your body to use other muscles as well, while the machines do not.

So what about that great muscle building workout routine? I believe the key is not going overboard. Far too many weight lifters jump in the game and pack on too many plates. They may be able to do 165 one time, but they should start smaller. A good workout routine that actually produces results requires more reps and sets. You should be able to do at least eight reps. If you're trying to build mass, then exhaust the muscles with six to eight sets. Also remember to trade off exercises. Your muscles will get used to the same old routine. It's wise to switch it around.

Work Out Routine

People are often too ambitious with their fitness workout routines. They will join a gym and immediately come up with grandiose plans about getting in shape. They will decide that, within a week or two, they will be in the best shape of their life. For the first day or two the workout routine will go well, but soon they will burn you out. These unrealistic expectations are the biggest obstacle that anyone taking up a fitness routine has to face. Remember, it is important to push yourself, but it is also important to encourage yourself along the way. If you have unrealistic expectations, you'll never get there.

Unless you are an experienced athlete or have a fitness personal trainer looking after you, your workout routine should start off simple and easy. Easy workout routines get results. The best way to start is with 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise three times a week. This will get your heart pumping, get your fat burning, and most importantly, get you to the gym. You will not dive into your workout routine too deeply, and as a result you will not burn out early. Then, after a few weeks of this, you can start to upgrade things. You can add some strength training, increase your cardiovascular exercises, or vary them. There are all kinds of things that you can do with your workout routine, but you need to get some momentum behind you. First you should build momentum, then you can build the perfect workout routine.

Honestly, people shouldn't worry about having the perfect workout routine. The thing is, it doesn't really matter that much. If you're training to be a tiptop athlete, you have to be scientific about how you workout. For the rest of us, a basic fitness workout routine works. It doesn't matter if you swim, cycle, jog, run, or do aerobics. All of it will work to keep you in shape. The important thing is that you do something, and that you do it regularly. If you exercise you will live longer. Having the perfect workout routine, however, has no clear benefit over having one that is only so-so. Whether you work out three times a week or four, it will still have the same beneficial effect on your heart. Therefore, the most important thing is to get started. Once you have learned that fitness can actually be enjoyable, it will be much easier to keep going!

Yoga Class

Finding the right yoga class for you can be quite a struggle. I speak from experience. I have been going to yoga classes for 10 years now, but it has only been within the last couple that I found a yoga center that works for me. I've tried every style, and every school of yoga that there is – at least every school of yoga that I know about. I have tried Bikram yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, kundalini, Iyengar – basically every type that is taught in this country, but there have been no yoga teachers that I've met who have jibed with me. Now don't get me wrong, I have loved some of my yoga teachers quite dearly, as well as many of my yoga classes, but none of them took an approach that really met all of my needs.

Taking a yoga class is a deeply personal experience. For some people, the right yoga Center is easy to find. All they need in a yoga class is a place to go exercise, and so they do not have to look very hard to find one. For others, however, especially those of us who want to go deeply into the practice of yoga, finding the perfect yoga class is much more difficult. What makes a good yoga teacher for one person does not necessarily make a good yoga teacher for another. Some people prefer a teacher with a very hands-off approach, while others like one who is very actively involved. Some people like a yoga class with lot of personal attention, while others like one where they are free to delve into the practice almost alone. Some people like an upbeat yoga class with lots of energy, while others like a slower more sedate one. It all depends on you, and the only way to find out is through trial and error.

A yoga class may not be right for you at all. I have actually loved yoga for a good long time, and I am even thinking about taking yoga teacher training, but for some people the martial arts are more their style. Some people just do not do well with the long, sustained poses that a yoga class requires. If you do not have the attention span for this, something more active like a martial art may be much better for you than a yoga class can. There is no right way or wrong way. It all comes down to personal choice.

Yoga Clothes

America is fat. Fat, fat, fat. Are we doing anything about it? Well yes, we are. We are doing a lot. It is just not enough. Even with the multitude of diets and exercise routines out there we, as a nation, are still fat and something needs to change.

I think that a big part of the reason why Americans can’t lose weight and keep it off has to do with stress. We are overworked and tired. We are stressed out beyond our limits and something has to give. I believe that if more Americans did a better job of handling their stress we would be healthier, happier, and, of course, skinnier.

One of the most enjoyable ways to get a handle on stress is to practice yoga. All you need is a yoga mat and yoga clothes and you are ready to go. Anyone can practice yoga regardless of age, shape, or weight. If you are out of shape and doubt that you could keep up with yoga, think again. There are may different forms of yoga and you can surely find one that suits you and your needs.

First things first – get your stuff together. As I said, all you need is a yoga mat and yoga clothes. Mats are everywhere and so are the yoga clothes! You can find an entire outfit perfect for practicing yoga at Target these days. You may even be able to find something at Wal-Mart. All you need to look for when shopping for good yoga clothes is comfort.

Yoga clothes have to be comfortable. They need to be stretchy so that they move with your body as you go through the different moves. Look for pants that fit loosely, not tightly. This is not a nightclub or a fashion show. Keep the shape of your thighs to yourself and buy a decent pair of pants.

My favorite yoga clothes are also my favorite lounging clothes. Great yoga clothes can easily be worn as pajamas because they are so comfy. I look for shirts and pants that have long, sleek lines. I also try to get a pant that has a bit of a flair. I cannot say that it helps me practice yoga at all, just chalk it up to personal style. The most important thing is that you are comfortable. Yoga is meant to strengthen the body as well as the mind so get yourself into as peaceful as a place as is possible. You may be amazed at how much a little stress-relieving activity can do for your whole self.

Yoga Mats

America is the fattest country in the world and that reputation has started to get to us. Now more than ever Americans are trying to lose weight and get into shape. There is an endless supply of diets and exercise routines, so why are we still so fat? I think that a big part of the equation has to do with our mental health.

I think that it has a lot do to with stress. Stress causes all kinds of health problems and I believe it makes some people gain weight or hold on to the weight that they already have and are trying to get rid of. If we are truly going to become a healthier country, I believe that we need to focus more on the importance of stress relief.

One of the best and most popular ways to relieve stress is yoga. Yoga has become wildly popular in this country and the world over. Many people get great results by doing simple yoga exercises regularly and these people also report that a great deal of stress relief comes with the exercise.

Before you get started there is one very important thing you need to get your hands on – some yoga mats. Yoga mats can be found everywhere now, even at your local K-Mart. They can be very inexpensive so there is no reason not to have an extra one. I keep one in my house for home exercise and one in my car for when I go to the gym. Having two yoga mats just makes it easier on me because I won’t be able to forget to bring one with me or take it back inside the house.

Having your own yoga mats is crucial when it comes to doing yoga. If you do to a yoga class without one you will quickly find that you are the only without one. As I said, you can find very affordable ones all over the place now so you will never have to be without one.

I suppose that I ought to say that you really do need to use yoga mats while doing the exercises. There is a reason that people use them and you should follow their lead. Yoga mats cling to the floor and make it easier for you to hold those crazy positions without shifting or sliding around. I have, on more than one occasion, had to learn this lesson the hard way and I do not recommend it.

yoga postures

Yoga, the Indian tradition that focuses on both the spiritual and physical awareness of the body, uses specific exercises and postures to help the individual achieve quietude and harmony. There are many different types of yoga postures, and many different types of yoga - including bhakti, jnana, karma, kundalini, laya, raja and hatha yoga, which is very popular in the West. Yoga is very self-contained, in the sense that it does not rely on expensive equipment to be able to do – a mat and some comfortable clothing will usually be adequate for all types of yoga postures.

Yoga exercises requires that the person places themselves in various postures, or asanas, to strengthen and align the spinal column, thought to be the location of the chakras, or the body’s centers of energy. Different yoga postures are thought to tap in and release certain energy points in the body if done correctly. It is always advisable for the beginners that they do not strain their bodies to do too much at first; for the aim of yoga is not to be able to do all the postures, but to learn how to do the one’s you can, correctly.

All yoga instructors teach how to ally the breathing to the physical movements, but some will spend more time than others on breathing exercises, rather than the yoga postures themselves. Many yoga instructors include some form of simple meditation in their lessons, and some will spend some of their time discussion the philosophy behind the discipline.

There are a few different yoga postures that are popular amongst the asanas, and include the eagle posture position, the seated spinal twist, and the tree posture. All of these exercises are fairly basic and require little strain on the body.

The eagle posture position relaxes the neck and shoulders while opening up the chest. The spinal twist helps to alleviate pressure in the mid and lower back, promoting relaxation and allowing the creative energy to flow. The tree posture focuses on achieving stability, strength and balance. All of the yoga postures require use of the breath to complement the stretches.

Aside from the benefits of a mentally and physically integrated approach to wellness, yoga is particularly effective because its fundamental teachings can be applied to all aspects of life. So, unlike setting aside an hour, separate and different, from the rest of the day to exercise, practicing the different yoga postures and techniques can become a way of life – an integral part of a more holistic, balanced life.

Yoga Studio

I am a pretty straightforward guy. I am, have always been, and always will be an atheist, and I do not ascribe to anyone's superstitions. I do not care if they are Christian, Buddhist, Jewish, Muslim, or a member of one of the many New Age cults that seem to be taking over the entire West Coast nowadays. No matter what, it all seems like nonsense to me. None of it is worth my time.

Because of this, it is a tremendous challenge finding a good yoga studio. Now, with the popularity of yoga classes nowadays among practical, upwardly mobile business types, you would expect there to be more places where you can study the art deeply without being subject to a barrage of superstitious nonsense. Perhaps it is just where I live – Berkeley California is not known to be a haven for the practically minded. Whatever the reason, however, every time I try one of the newest yoga studios I hear about, it is hard to make it through class without laughing.

Honestly, I would have never gone to a yoga studio in the first place if it were not for health problems. Sitting at a computer all day can do terrible things to your back. I never really paid much attention to it until it was too late. Although physical therapy helped, what I really needed was classes at a yoga studio to help me get back in shape. I was taking yoga classes at a local fitness center, and was unhappy with them. They just did not seem to go deeply enough into the practice of yoga. But honestly, the yoga studio was so much worse.

It seems that all of the yoga instructors that I've met have one thing in common. They think that we are there to hear a sermon, and that their status as yoga teachers qualifies them as spiritual leaders. I don't want to hear about letting go of past anger. I don't want to hear about taking more time to relax. I get all that from my life coach. If it makes you feel happy to believe all of that hokum, more power to you. What I want is a yoga studio that will show me the breathing, the postures, and the theory behind them without all of the religious superstition. Until I can find something like that, I'll have to put up with all of the silly spiritual talk.

Yoga Teacher Training

Every day folks are questioning their careers. They wonder if they're in the right profession or not. I'm not going to lie; I do this as well. More importantly, my wife does it all the time. I'm talking daily. From where I'm standing, that's not a good thing. This is why I encourage her to pursue other career options. What she needs is a change of scenery. Maybe it's time to go back to college and acquire that teaching degree, become a marine biologist, or just attain some yoga teacher training. Anything but what she doing now. Personally, I'm all for the yoga thing. This way she could teach me at home.

I received my very first yoga experience a few months back. It was at our local YMCA. Hey, before you diss our YMCA, you should know that it's the largest one in the country. Now I have to admit that I used to pick on and joke about the YMCA. I always considered it a cheesy family workout center. Well, it actually is, but the YMCA we have is phenomenal. It certainly changed my viewpoint. The place has 8 swimming pools. It's really quite awesome. Anyway, I decided to sit in on a yoga class. You know, to see what it's all about. I must admit I liked it. The class had me wondering what it would take to acquire some yoga teacher training. Maybe I should teach yoga for a living. They can't be doing too awful bad. I saw the teacher pull out of the parking lot in a 2006 Lexus SUV. That's reassuring. But seriously, imagine that you received yoga teacher training, and began teaching a class such as this. How hard could your day possibly be? You go into the YMCA or where ever it is you're teaching, you guide a group of people through a standard yoga routine for about an hour and then what? Maybe you have 3 or 4 classes each day. That's easy! What is that compared to the standard 8 hour a day work-week? The more I ponder this option, the more ideal it sounds.

So, are you getting tired of your hectic career and cramped cubicle? Hey, join the club. My wife can definitely relate to this burden. I've got to get her some yoga teacher training and fast. Once she's in there and teaching, maybe I can then get a free membership to the YMCA.