Natural treatments for stretch marks

Pregnant women or those who suddenly lose or gain weight are more likely to have stretch marks. So, we found 4 natural remedies for stretch marks.

Unfortunately, this problem although doesn’t affect our health, makes us anxious and frustrated because of skins bad appearance, especially when we struggle with all the power to remove them from our skin.

Although on the market are dozens treatments, each more expensive and more demanding than other, specially designed to remove stretch marks, you should not have high expectations. Any money you invest in these products, will not make stretch marks disappeared, the only method of complete removal is the surgical, laser or ultrasound way.

However, instead of using expensive creams, you can turn to natural treatments, much cheaper, and you might be surprised that they will work, even better than the luxury products.

Here are some of the best natural treatments:

Aloe Vera
On the market you can see a wide variety of creams and ointments that contain Aloe Vera. Acquire a cream and massage the areas affected by stretch marks daily, about three times a day. Also it would be great to have an aloe plant, you can massage the skin with the juice obtained from squeezing the plant.


Olive Oil
Olive oil is a powerful ally in fighting with stretch marks, especially if used regularly. Heat a little olive oil (as much as your skin supports), massage the skin, and wrap up with foil and wait for 20 minutes. After that, get in the shower to get rid of dead skin cells.




Balm with Swedish Bitter

Swedish balsam role is to heal wounds, but also to restore skin elasticity. Therefore it can be successfully used to significantly reduce stretch marks. Affected skin has to be massaged daily for at least a month, twice per day. In a short time, results will appear.

Marigold Cream

Although it is very oily, calendula cream helps reduce stretch marks. For visible results you can mix calendula cream, collagen and vitamin A. These ampules offer skin elasticity, treat stretch marks and prevent the emergence of new ones, are therefore they are especially recommended for massage during pregnancy.

VITAMIN D

Vitamin D helps the immune system to defend against viruses. It is a real natural health defender. Researchers at Oregon State University have published a major study showing that vitamin D has a crucial role for the immune system: stimulates immune function and destroys invading microorganisms (including viruses). Vitamin D prompts innate immune response by activating an antimicrobial protein.

This study shows that without sufficient vitamin D in their blood, viruses grow freely in your body. If you lack vitamin D, your immune system is weakened and does not work effectively. A simple example is: the people with lack of vitamin D get the flu more often in the winter.

Specific immune system genes are activated by vitamin D. Thus, it will protect the initial infection with the virus, in addition it will prevent the body to react in excess by swelling (bacterial pneumonia, an infection of the lungs). If your body maintains a sufficient level of vitamin D, the flu viruses are rapidly neutralized.

Sources of vitamin D

The main source of vitamin D is the skin. In the skin is found a fat, called pro-vitamin D. Under the influence of light, pro-vitamin turns into vitamin D which is then absorbed into the body through vessels located in the deep layer of skin.

What to do to protect our health?

Although you probably thought of supplementation with vitamins, it is much easier to follow a healthy diet and to have the correct alimentation.
High doses of vitamin D are found in natural pollen collected by bees, seeds, wheat (attention: not in germinated wheat), unrefined vegetable oils (sunflower, olive, rape, etc.. – the first extraction). Because this vitamin is very sensitive to heat, light, oxygen and acidic environments, fire-cooked food is very poor in vitamin D.

Although fish liver, fatty fish, egg yolks, whole milk and milk products are rich in vitamin D, by cooking them you diminish their amount of vitamin D (even pasteurized milk is the factory – at UHT is completely useless).

The recommendation is to eat foods rich in vitamin D – raw use, without heat treatment. This treatment (dietary) is absolutely safe, inexpensive, natural, and – most importantly – easy to follow.

In addition, it is very pleasant! Sufficient vitamin D in the blood will help your immune system to protect you against the swine flu, bird flu, human flu, and many other viruses. Vitamin D is a true support for the immune system, a guarantee of its well functioning and efficiency for a sustainable health.

have you gone bananas ?

it is ok to be a banana...

Never, put your banana in the refrigerator! !!
This is interesting.
After reading this, you'll never look at a banana in the same way again .

Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes.

But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit.

It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickest
ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and crisps. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.
Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a 'cooling' fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking & Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and ma gnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in 'The New England Journal of Medicine, 'eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, 'A banana a day keeps the doctor away!'

How & When to eat FRUIT

EATING FRUIT

We all think eating fruit means just buying fruit, cutting it up and popping it into our mouths. It's not that easy. It's important to know how and when to eat fruit.

What's the correct way to eat fruit?

IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUIT AFTER MEAL! FRUIT SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

Eating fruit like that plays a major role in detoxifying your system, supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities..

FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD.

Let's say you eat two slices of bread, then a slice of fruit. The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines, but it's prevented from doing so.

In the meantime, the whole meal rots and ferments, and turns to acid. The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach, and digestive juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil
Eat your fruit on an empty stomach, or before your meal! You've heard people complain: Every time I eat watermelon I burp, when I eat durian my stomach bloats, when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet, etc. This will not happen if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach. Fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas. Hence, you bloat!

Graying Hair

Balding

Nervous Outburst

Dark Circles under the Eyes

Graying hair, balding, nervous outburst, and dark circles under the eyes - all of these will NOT happen if you eat fruit on an empty stomach.

There's no such thing as some fruits, like orange and lemon are acidic, because all fruit becomes alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruit, you have the Secret of Beauty, Longevity, Health, Energy, Happiness and normal weight.
When you need to drink fruit juice drink only fresh fruit juice, NOT from the cans. Don't drink juice that has been heated. Don't eat cooked fruit; you don't get the nutrients at all. You get only the taste... Cooking destroys all of the vitamins

Eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice. If you should drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly, because you must let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it. You can go on a 3-day fruit-fast to cleanse your body. Eat fruit and drink fruit juice for just 3 days, and you will be surprised when your friends say how radiant you look!

KIWI:

Tiny but mighty, and a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E & fiber. Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange!

APPLE

An APPLE a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low vitamin C content, it has antioxidants & flavonoids which enhances the activity of vitamin C, thereby helping to lower the risk of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.

STRAWBERRY:

Protective Fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits & protect the body from cancer-causing, blood vessel-clogging free radicals.

ORANGES:

Eating 2-4 Oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones, and reduce the risk of colon cancer.

WATERMELON:

Coolest thirst quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione, which helps boost our immune system. Also a key source of lycopene, the cancer-fighting oxidant. Also found in watermelon: Vitamin C & Potassium..

GUAVA & PAPAYA:

Top awards for vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high vitamin C content. Guava is also rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation. Papaya is rich in carotene, good for your eyes..

Drinking Cold water after a meal = Cancer!

Can u believe this? For those who like to drink cold water, this applies to you. It's nice to have a cold drink after a meal, however, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you've just consumed, which slows digestion. Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer.. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

A serious note about heart attacks.

HEART ATTACK PROCEDURE

Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw. You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack. Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms. Sixty percent of people who have a heart attack while they're asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Be careful, and be aware. The more we know, the better our chance to survive.

Bipolar Disorder

What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is an illness involving one or more episodes of serious mania and depression. The illness causes a person’s mood to swing from excessively “high” and/or irritable to sad and hopeless, with periods of a normal mood in between. More than 2 million Americans suffer from bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood and continues throughout life. It is often not recognized as an illness and people who have it may suffer needlessly for years.

Bipolar disorder can be extremely distressing and disruptive for those who have this disease, their spouses, family members, friends and employers. Although there is no known cure, bipolar disorder is treatable, and recovery is possible. Individuals with bipolar disorder have successful relationships and meaningful jobs. The combination of medications and psychotherapy helps the vast majority of people return to productive, fulfilling lives.

“Bipolar disorder is treatable, and recovery is possible.”

What causes bipolar disorder?

Although a specific genetic link to bipolar disorder has not been found, studies show that 80 to 90 percent of those who suffer from bipolar disorder have relatives with some form of depression.

It is also possible that people may inherit a tendency to develop the illness, which can then be triggered by environmental factors such as distressing life events.

The presence of bipolar disorder indicates a biochemical imbalance which alters a person’s moods. This imbalance is thought to be caused by irregular hormone production or to a problem with certain chemicals in the brain, called neurotransmitters, that act as messengers to our nerve cells.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is often difficult to recognize and diagnose. It causes a person to have a high level of energy, unrealistically expansive thoughts or ideas, and impulsive or reckless behavior. These symptoms may feel good to a person, which may lead to denial that there is a problem.

Another reason bipolar disorder is difficult to diagnose is that its symptoms may appear to be part of another illness or attributed to other problems such as substance abuse, poor school performance, or trouble in the workplace.

Symptoms of mania

The symptoms of mania, which can last up to three months if untreated, include:

• Excessive energy, activity, restlessness, racing thoughts and rapid talking
• Denial that anything is wrong
• Extreme “high” or euphoric feelings -- a person may feel “on top of the world” and nothing, including bad news or tragic events, can change this “happiness.”
• Easily irritated or distracted.
• Decreased need for sleep – an individual may last for days with little or no sleep without feeling tired.
• Unrealistic beliefs in one’s ability and powers -- a person may experience feelings of exaggerated confidence or unwarranted optimism. This can lead to over ambitious work plans and the belief that nothing can stop him or her from accomplishing any task.
• Uncharacteristically poor judgment -- a person may make poor decisions which may lead to unrealistic involvement in activities, meetings and deadlines, reckless driving, spending sprees and foolish business ventures.
• Sustained period of behavior that is different from usual-- a person may dress and/or act differently than he or she usually does, become a collector of various items, become indifferent to personal grooming, become obsessed with writing, or experience delusions.
• Unusual sexual drive
• Abuse of drugs, particularly cocaine, alcohol or sleeping medications
• Provocative, intrusive, or aggressive behavior -- a person may become enraged or paranoid if his or her grand ideas are stopped or excessive social plans are refused.

Symptoms of Depression

Some people experience periods of normal mood and behavior following a manic phase, however, the depressive phase will eventually appear. Symptoms of depression include:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or empty mood
• Sleeping too much or too little, middle-of-the-night or early morning waking
• Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased appetite and weight gain
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities, including sex
• Irritability or restlessness
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions.
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Persistent physical symptoms that don’t respond to treatment (such as chronic pain or digestive disorders)
• Thoughts of death or suicide, including suicide attempts
• Feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless

TREATMENT

Treatment is critical for recovery. A combination of medication, professional help and support from family, friends and peers help individuals with bipolar disorder stabilize their emotions and behavior.

Most people with bipolar disorder can be treated with medication. A common medication, Lithium, is effective in controlling mania in 60% of individuals with bipolar disorder. Olanzapine (Zyprexa), an antipsychotic, is a new treatment for bipolar disorder, Carbomazepine (Tegratol) and divalproex sodium (Depakote), which are mood-stabilizers and anticonvulsants, are some of the other medications used. In addition, benzodiazepines are sometimes prescribed for insomnia and thyroid medication can also be helpful.

It is suggested that those with bipolar disorder receive guidance, education and support from a mental health professional to help deal with personal relationships, maintain a healthy self-image and ensure compliance with his or her treatment.

Support and self-help groups are also an invaluable resource for learning coping skills, feeling acceptance and avoiding social isolation. Friends and family should join a support group to better understand the illness so that they can continue to offer encouragement and support to their loves ones.

Eating disorders (Anorexia Nervosa)

Eating disorders are a broad group of serious conditions in which you're so preoccupied with food and weight that you can often focus on little else. The main types of eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder, and there are also many subtypes.

Most people with eating disorders are females, but males also have eating disorders. The exception is binge-eating disorder, which appears to affect almost as many males as females.

Treatments for eating disorders usually involve psychotherapy, nutrition education, family counseling, medications and hospitalization.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of eating disorders vary with the particular type of eating disorder.

Anorexia nervosa
When you have anorexia nervosa (an-o-REK-se-uh nur-VOH-suh), you're obsessed with food and being thin, sometimes to the point of deadly self-starvation. You may exercise excessively or simply not eat enough calories.

Anorexia symptoms may include:

• Thin appearance
• Abnormal blood counts
• Fatigue
• Dizziness or fainting
• Brittle nails
• Hair that thins, breaks or falls out
• Soft, downy hair covering the body
• Menstrual irregularities or loss of menstruation (amenorrhea)
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Frequently being cold
• Irregular heart rhythms
• Low blood pressure
• Dehydration
• Bone loss

Emotional and behavioral symptoms of anorexia may include:

• Refusal to eat
• Denial of hunger
• E xcessive exercise
• Flat mood or lack of emotion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Preoccupation with food

Red flags that family and friends may notice include:

• Skipping meals
• Making excuses for not eating
• Eating only a few certain "safe" foods, usually those low in fat and calories
• Adopting rigid meal or eating rituals, such as cutting food into tiny pieces or spitting food out after chewing
• Weighing food
• Cooking elaborate meals for others but refusing to eat them themselves
• Repeated weighing of themselves
• Frequent checking in the mirror for perceived flaws
• Wearing baggy or layered clothing
• C o mplaining about being fat

Bulimia nervosa

When you have bulimia, you have episodes of bingeing and purging. During these episodes, you typi

cally eat a large amount of food in a short amount of time and then try to rid yourself of the extra calories by vomiting or excessive exercise. In between these binge-purge episodes, you may eat very little or skip meals altogether. You may be a normal weight or even a bit overweigh

t.

Bulimia symptoms may include:

• Abnormal bowel functioning
• Damaged teeth and gums
• Swollen salivary glands in the cheeks
• Sores in the throat and mouth
• Bloating
• Dehydration
• Fatigu e
• Dry skin
• Irregular heartbeat
• Sores, scars or calluses on the knuckles or hands
• Menstrual irregularities or loss of menstruation (amenorrhea)

Emotional and behavioral symptoms of bulimia may include:

• Constant dieting
• Feeling that you can't control your eating behavior
• Eating until the point of discomfort or pain
• Self-induced vomiting
• Laxative use
• Excessive exercise
• Unhealthy focus on body shape and weight
• Having a distorted, excessively negative body image
• Going to the bathroom after eating or during meals
• Hoarding food
• Depression or anxiety

Binge-eating

When you have binge-eating disorder, you regularly eat excessive amounts of food (binge), sometimes for hours on end. You may eat when you're not hungry and continue eating even long after you're uncomfortably full. After a binge, you may try to diet or eat normal meals, triggering a new round of bingeing. You may be a normal weight, overweight or obese.

Emotional and behavioral symptoms of binge-eating disorder may include:

• Eating to the point of discomfort or pain
• Eating much more food during a binge episode than during a normal meal or snack
• Eating faster during binge episodes
• Feeling that your eating behavior is out of control
• Frequent dieting without weight loss
• Frequently eating alone
• Hoarding food
• Hiding empty food containers
• Feeling depressed, disgusted or upset over the amount eaten
• Depression or anxiety

In youngsters Eating disorders can affect people of any age. In children, it's sometimes hard to tell what's an eating disorder and what's simply a whim, a new fad, or experimentation with a vegetarian diet or other eating styles. In addition, many girls and sometimes boys go on diets to lose weight, but stop dieting after a short time. If you're a parent or guardian, be careful not to mistake occasional dieting with an eating disorder. On the other hand, be alert for eating patterns and beliefs that may signal unhealthy behavior, as well as peer pressure that may trigger eating disorders.

Causes

It's not known with certainty what causes eating disorders. As with other mental illnesses, the possible causes are complex and may result from an interaction of biological, psychological, family, genetic, environmental and social factors. Possible causes of eating disorders include:

• Biology. Some people may be genetically vulnerable to developing eating disorders. Some studies show that people with biological siblings or parents with an eating disorder may develop one too, suggesting a possible genetic link. In addition, there's some evidence that serotonin, a naturally occurring brain chemical, may influence eating behaviors because of its connection to the regulation of food intake.
• Psychological and emotional health. People with eating disorders may have psychological and emotional characteristics that contribute to the disorder. They may have low self-esteem, perfectionism, impulsive behavior, anger management difficulties, family conflicts and troubled relationships, for instance.
• Sociocultural issues. The modern Western cultural environment often cultivates and reinforces a desire for thinness. Success and worth are often equated with being thin. The media and entertainment industries often focus on appearance and body shape. Peer pressure may fuel this desire to be thin, particularly among young girls.

Risks

Certain situations and events might increase the risk of developing an eating disorder. These risk factors may include:

• Gender. Teenage girls and young women are more likely than teenage boys and young men to have eating disorders.
• Age. Although eating disorders can occur across a broad age range — from preadolescents to older adults — they are much more common during the teens and early 20s.
• Family influences. People who feel less secure in their families, whose parents and siblings may be overly critical, or whose families tease them about their appearance are at higher risk of eating disorders.
• Emotional disorders. People with depression, anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder are more likely to have an eating disorder.
• Dieting. People who lose weight are often reinforced by positive comments from others and by their changing appearance. This dieting may be taken too far and lead to an eating disorder.
• Transitions. Whether it's heading off to college, moving, landing a new job or a relationship breakup, change can bring emotional distress. One way to cope, especially in situations that may be out of someone's control, is to latch on to something that they can control, such as their eating patterns, which can eventually lead to an eating disorder if taken to an extreme.
• Sports, work and artistic activities. Athletes, actors and television personalities, dancers, and models are at higher risk of eating disorders. Eating disorders are particularly common among ballerinas, gymnasts, runners and wrestlers. Coaches and parents may unwittingly contribute to eating disorders by encouraging young athletes to lose weight.
• Media and society. The media, such as television and fashion magazines, frequently focus on body shape and size. Exposure to these images may lead some people to believe that thinness equates to success and popularity.

Tests

Eating disorders are diagnosed based on signs, symptoms and eating habits. When doctors suspect someone has an eating disorder, they typically run a battery of tests and exams. These can help pinpoint a diagnosis and also check for related complications. You may see both a medical doctor and a mental health provider for a diagnosis.

Physical evaluations
These exams and tests generally include:

• Physical exam. This may include such things as measuring height and weight; assessing body mass index; checking vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure and temperature; checking the skin for dryness or other problems; listening to the heart and lungs; and examining your abdomen.
• Laboratory tests. These may include a complete blood count (CBC), as well as more specialized blood tests to check electrolytes and protein, as well as liver, kidney and thyroid function. A urinalysis also may be done.
• Other studies. X-rays may be taken to check for broken bones, pneumonia or heart problems. Electrocardiograms may be done to look for heart irregularities. You may also have a bone density test.

Psychological evaluations
In addition to a physical exam, you'll have a thorough psychological evaluation. Your doctor or mental health provider may ask you a number of questions about your eating habits, beliefs and behavior. The questions may focus on your history of dieting, bingeing, purging and exercise. You'll explore how you perceive your body image and how you think others perceive your body image. You may also fill out psychological self-assessments and questionnaires.

Diagnostic criteria
To be diagnosed with an eating disorder, you must meet criteria spelled out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) published by the American Psychiatric Association. Each eating disorder has its own set of diagnostic criteria. Your mental health provider will review your signs and symptoms to see if you meet the necessary diagnostic criteria for a particular eating disorder. Some people may not meet all of the criteria but still have an eating disorder and need professional help to overcome or manage it.

Complications

Eating disorders cause a wide variety of complications, some of them life-threatening. The more severe or long lasting the eating disorder, the more likely you are to experience serious complications. Complications may include:

• Death
• Heart disease
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior
• Absence of menstruation (amenorrhea)
• Bone loss
• Stunted growth
• Nerve damage
• Seizures
• Digestive problems
• Bowel irregularities
• Tooth decay
• Ruptured esophagus
• High blood pressure
• Type 2 diabetes
• Gallbladder disease

Prevention

Although there's no sure way to prevent eating disorders, some steps may help. Pediatricians may be in a good position to identify early indicators of an eating disorder and prevent the development of full-blown illness. They can ask children questions about their eating habits and satisfaction with their appearance during routine medical appointments, for instance. Make sure children attend well-child doctor visits. These visits should include checks of body mass index and weight percentiles. Those checks can provide an early warning about overeating or undereating.

Family dining habits may also influence the relationships children develop with food. Try to eat at least some meals together as a family. Teach children about the pitfalls of dieting, and encourage healthy eating. If your child has symptoms of anxiety, depression or other mood disorders, seek medical care.

Parents and other adults also can cultivate and reinforce a healthy body image in children of any shape or size. Talk to children about their self-image and offer reassurance that body shapes can vary. Don't allow children to be teased about their appearance. And encourage your own children or family members to refrain from joking about other children or adults who are overweight or have a large body frame. These messages of acceptance and respect can help build healthy self-esteem and resilience that will carry children through the rocky periods of adolescence.

In addition, if you notice a family member or friend with low self-esteem, severe dieting, frequent overeating, hoarding of food or dissatisfaction with appearance, consider talking to him or her about these issues. Although you may not be able to prevent an eating disorder from developing, reaching out with compassion may encourage him or her to seek treatment.

Home remedies

When you have an eating disorder, taking care of your health needs often isn't one of your priorities. But proper self-care can help you feel better during and after treatment and help maintain your overall health.

Try to make these steps a part of your routine. But don't beat yourself up if you aren't able to do so every day:

• Stick to your treatment plan. Don't skip therapy sessions and try not to stray from meal plans.
• Talk to your doctor about appropriate vitamin and mineral supplements to make sure you're getting all the essential nutrients.
• Don't isolate yourself from caring family members and friends who want to see you get healthy and have your best interests at heart.
• Talk to your health care providers about what kind of exercise, if any, is appropriate for you.
• Read self-help books that offer sound, practical advice. Consider discussing the books with your health care providers.
• Resist urges to weigh yourself or check yourself in the mirror frequently. Otherwise, you may simply fuel your drive to maintain unhealthy habits.

Allergy

What Is an Allergy?

Allergies are an abnormal response of the immune system. People who have allergies have an immune system that reacts to a usually harmless substance in the environment. This substance (pollen, mold, animal dander, etc.) is called an allergen.

Allergies are a very common problem, affecting at least two out of every 10 Americans.
What Happens During an Allergic Reaction?

First, a person is exposed to an allergen by inhaling it, swallowing it, or getting it on or under their skin. After a person is exposed to the allergen, a series of events create the allergic reaction:

1. The body starts to produce a specific type of antibody, called IgE, to bind the allergen.
2. The antibodies attach to a form of blood cell called a mast cell. Mast cells can be found in the airways, in the intestines, and elsewhere. The presence of mast cells in the airways and GI tract makes these areas more susceptible to allergen exposure.
3. The allergens bind to the IgE, which is attached to the mast cell. This causes the mast cells to release a variety of chemicals into the blood. Histamine, the main chemical, causes most of the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

What Are the Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction?

Common symptoms of an allergic reaction to inhaled or skin allergens include:

• Itchy, watery eyes

• Sneezing

• Itchy, runny nose

• Rashes

• Feeling tired or ill

• Hives (a rash with raised red patches)

Other exposures can cause different allergic reactions:

• Food allergies. An allergic reaction to food allergens can also cause stomach cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea.

• Insect stings. The allergic reaction to a sting from a bee or other insect causes local swelling, redness, and pain.

The severity of an allergic reaction’s symptoms can vary widely:

• Mild symptoms may be almost unnoticeable, just making you feel a little “off.”

• Moderate symptoms can make you feel ill, as if you’ve got a cold or even the flu.

• Severe allergic reactions are extremely uncomfortable, even incapacitating.

Most symptoms of an allergic reaction go away shortly after the exposure stops.

The most severe allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis. In anaphylaxis, allergens cause a whole-body allergic reaction that can include:

• Hives and itching all over (not just in the exposed area)



• Wheezing or shortness of breath





• Hoarseness or tightness in the throat

• Tingling in the hands, feet, lips, or scalp

Anaphylaxis is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms can progress rapidly, so head for the emergency room if there’s any suspicion of anaphylaxis.
Does Everyone Have Allergies?

No, not everyone has allergies. People inherit a tendency to be allergic, although not to any specific allergen. When one parent is allergic, their child has a 50% chance of having allergies. That risk jumps to 75% if both parents have allergies.

Symptoms & Types

Sneezing, difficulty breathing, cramps, and vomiting–all are allergy symptoms. Learn the types of allergies, specific allergy symptoms, and emergency warning signs.

Symptoms

What Are Typical Allergy Symptoms?

Learn the difference between mild and severe allergy symptoms.

Related Web Site: Severe Allergy Symptoms - Know What to Watch For

The reaction will depend on the body part involved and the severity of the reaction. Here’s what to look for.

Types

Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis)

Alllergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is an allergic response to pollen or other microscopic substances.

Hives (Urticaria)

Find out what causes hives and how to treat them.

Poison Ivy & Plant Allergies

Many people think poison ivy is contagious. Find out if that’s true and the best way to prevent poison ivy and other plant allergies.

Bee Sting Allergy

A normal reaction to a bee sting is different from a bee sting allergy. Do you know the difference?

Pet Allergies: What You Can Do

An allergy specialist shares her tips on dealing with pet allergies. And she should know. She has a cat, a dog, and many family members who have dog and cat allergies.

Latex Allergy

Learn about latex allergy symptoms and what to do in case of a severe reaction.

Mold Allergy

Mold is present in most indoor and outdoor spaces, and in many foods. Find out more about mold allergy symptoms and common food sources of mold.

Cosmetic Allergies

Drug Allergies

How do you tell the difference between a normal side effect a drug allergy? Find out here.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

This itchy skin rash, common in children and infants, affects some people all their lives. Find out more about eczema treatment and symptoms in WebMD's Eczema Health Center.

Eye Allergies (Allergic Conjunctivitis)

How can you tell the difference between pink eye and eye allergies?

Get started here.

Understanding Food Allergies

Do you get a reaction when you eat nuts, shellfish, or other foods? Learn what’s causing those food allergy symptoms.

Milk Allergy

Many unsuspecting products contain milk or milk products. Check our list.

Egg Allergy

If you have an egg allergy, check this food list for potential problems.

Nut Allergy
A nut allergy can become very serious, even fatal, rapidly. This food list will help you identify potential problems.

Fish Allergy

Some unexpected foods contain fish. If you’ve got a fish allergy, these tips will help keep you safe.

Shellfish Allergy

For most people with shellfish allergies, all shellfish must be avoided. Check out this list to learn which foods to avoid.

Soy Allergy

This allergy is most common among infants. By age two, the majority of children outgrow it. Find out more about the symptoms and how to avoid soy products.

Sun Allergy

Learn more about photosensitivity – an allergic response to sunlight.

Wheat Allergy

Knowing which ingredients to look for is key to avoiding a wheat allergy. Check this list for unsuspected products that contain wheat.

Aspirin Allergy (Salicylate Allergy)

Sulfite Allergy

About 1% of people have a sulfite allergy. This article has a list of foods that may contain sulfites.

Fall Allergies

Learn more about what triggers allergies in the fall season.

Warning Signs

Severe Allergies

A severe allergic reaction can be life-threatening. Learn more about the reaction called anaphylaxis so you can be prepared.

Complications

Allergies & Asthma

Allergies are a main trigger for asthma attacks. See what an asthma attack looks like in the lungs and learn the early warning signs.

Related Guide: Children, Allergies & Asthma

How can you tell if your child’s allergies are causing asthma? Find out how to spot the symptoms and learn how asthma is treated in children.

Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)

Hay fever allergies can cause sinus blockage and infection. Learn how to spot sinus infection symptoms and how to treat the problem.

Assess Your Allergy Symptoms

How bad are your allergy problems? Find out with WebMD's Allergy and Sinus Health Check.

Diagnosis & Tests

To pinpoint the allergy problem -- and determine the treatment – your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and habits. You’ll also need various tests.

Diagnosis

Allergy Testing: The Physical Exam

Diagnosing allergies starts with a doctor’s exam. Learn which questions your doctor may ask so you can be prepared.

Food Allergy Testing

Proper testing can make it much easier to live with a food allergy. See a list of the most common food allergies and learn how testing can make your life easier.

Allergy Symptom Diary

If you have a food allergy, you may need to keep a food diary – and remove certain foods from your diet – to determine exactly what you’re allergic to.

Tests

Allergy Skin Test

An allergy skin test is used to identify the substances that are causing your allergy reactions. Learn more about allergy skin tests, including what happens during the test.

Blood Test for Allergies

See how blood tests are used to diagnose allergies and learn what can interfere with the test.

Treatment & Care

There are lots of allergy treatment options. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can ease annoying symptoms. Allergy shots also help.

Treatment

Allergy Medications: An Overview

Learn all about the different over-the-counter and prescription medicines that can help ease annoying symptoms.

Natural Allergy Relief

Mother Nature may be able to provide natural allergy relief. Find out what may help – and what may cause harm.

Antihistamines

Find out how antihistamines work, who should not take them, and which foods or drugs may interact with them.

Decongestants

Learn how decongestants work – and who should not use them.

Anticholinergic Nasal Allergy Sprays

Atrovent nasal spray can help with certain allergy symptoms. Find out if it’s right for you.

Steroid Nasal Sprays

Steroid nasal sprays are one of the strongest allergy medications. Find out how they work and how to use them.

Allergy Eye Drops

Find out when allergy eye drops can help and who should not use them.

Leukotriene Inhibitors

These medications are fairly new to the allergy world. Find out if they’re right for you.

Mast Cell Inhibitors

This type of medication can help but it’s all in the timing. Find out how to use it for best results.

Allergy Shots

For some people, allergy shots can mean the end to allergy medication. Find out all you need to know.

Skin Allergies

Advanced Reading: This article, written for doctors, provides in-depth information on skin allergy treatments.

Understanding Hay Fever - Treatment

Get the basics on hay fever treatment.

Food Allergy Treatments

Advanced Reading: This article, written for doctors, provides in-depth information on food allergy treatments.

Latex Allergy Treatments

Advanced Reading: For in-depth information on latex allergies, read this article written for doctors.

Care

Natural Allergy Relief

These tips will help you reduce exposure to allergens – at home, work, in the car, outdoors.

Should I Take Allergy Shots?

These discussion points will help you decide if you’re ready for allergy shots.

EpiPen: It Could Save Your Child’s Life

If your child has severe allergies, an EpiPen could save his/her life. Learn what you need to know.

Giving an Adult an Epinephrine Injection

If you’ve had a severe allergic reaction in the past, you need to carry an EpiPen. Learn how to use it. It could save your life.

Home Treatment

For tips to help relieve symptoms of an allergic reaction, see home treatment for:

• A severe allergic reaction. If you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, call911or other emergency services immediately.
• Itching or hives. Avoid further contact with whatever you think is causing the hives.
• A sore throat caused by postnasal drip. Gargle with warm salt water to help ease throat soreness.
• Hay fever symptoms. Take an antihistamine to reduce symptoms of itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; or a runny, itchy nose. Be sure to read and follow any warnings on the label. Don't give antihistamines to your child unless you've checked with the doctor first.
• Allergies that are worse in damp weather. Mold may be the cause of allergies that get worse in damp weather. Mold produces spores that move, like pollen, in outdoor air during warmer months. During winter months, indoor molds can also be a problem.
• Indoor allergies. Newer, energy-saving homes that are built with double- or triple-paned windows and more insulation keep heat as well as allergens indoors.
• Allergies to a pet or other animal. When allergies are worse around pets, symptoms may be caused by your pet's dead skin (dander), urine, dried saliva, or hair.
• Seasonal allergies. These are often caused by exposure to pollen.

For tips on how to treat dry and irritated skin, see the topic Dry Skin and Itching.

For information on how to treat an insect bite or sting, see the topic Insect Bites and Stings and Spider Bites.

Symptoms to Watch For During Home Treatment

Use the Check Your Symptoms section to evaluate your symptoms if any of the following occur during home treatment:

• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or tightness in the chest develops.
• Swelling of the throat, tongue, lips or face develops.
• Hives develop or get worse.
• Swelling gets worse.
• A skin infection develops.
• Symptoms have not improved after 1 to 2 weeks of home treatment.
• Symptoms become more severe or more frequent.