Alcohol - Balancing Risks & Benefits

Humans have been drinking fermented beverages for over 10,000 years and yet, to this day, the debate about its merits and demerits still remains. Alcohol is both a tonic and a poison. There are many scientific studies showing the benefits of alcohol consumption, and at the same time, there are just as many that indicate its health hazards.

What Is Alcohol?

The active ingredient in alcoholic beverages is ethanol which affects the body in many different ways.

• It directly influences the stomach, brain, heart, gallbladder, and liver.
• It affects levels of cholesterol, triglycerides (fats), and insulin in the blood, as well as inflammation and blood clotting.
• It also alters mood, concentration, and coordination.

Whether alcohol is a tonic or a poison depends mostly on the dose. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend those who do drink alcoholic beverages do so in moderation. Moderation means no more than one drink per day for women and two for men. A standard drink is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits. The recommended amount is smaller for women than men because women are usually smaller in size and they have less of an enzyme that helps metabolize alcohol in the body.

Health Hazards Of Heavy Drinking

If all drinkers limit themselves to one drink a day, we probably would not need as many cardiologists, liver specialists, mental health professionals, and substance abuse counselors. However, not everyone who likes to drink can stop at just one. Heavy drinking is the major cause of preventable death in most countries. In the U.S., alcohol is implicated in about half of all fatal traffic accidents. It plays a role in one in three violent crime cases.

• It contributes to depression, violence, and relationship issues.
• It causes inflammation of the liver (alcoholic hepatitis) and leads to scarring of the liver (cirrhosis) which is potentially fatal.
• It increases blood pressure and damages heart muscle (cardiomyopathy).
• It is associated with various forms of cancer such as cancer of the mouth, throat, vocal cord, esophagus (tube that goes from mouth to stomach), breast, liver, colon, and rectum. The risk is multiplied for drinkers who also smoke tobacco.
• It causes fetal alcohol syndrome in an unborn child, including impaired growth and nervous system development.

Who Shouldn't Drink Alcohol?

People with the following conditions shouldn't drink any alcohol; even small amounts could cause problems:

• A history of hemorrhagic stroke
• Liver disease
• Pancreatic disease
• Evidence of precancerous changes in the mouth, throat, vocal cord, and esophagus.
• Family history of alcoholism
• Pregnant

Alcohol also interacts with many common prescription and over-the-counter medications:

• Antibiotics
• Anticoagulants (drugs that stop blood from clotting)
• Antidepressants
• Antihistamines
• Anti-seizure medications
• Beta blockers (drugs for managing irregular heart beats, heart attack, and high blood pressure)
• Diabetes medications
• Pain relievers
• Sleeping pills

Also, if you combine alcohol with aspirin, you face an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. If you use alcohol with acetaminophen, you increase your risk of liver damage.

Possible Benefits Of Moderation Drinking

We know for a fact that heavy drinking plays havoc on your health but many studies have shown that moderate alcohol consumption can in fact, reduce the risk of the following diseases:

• Heart attack (clot in coronary artery)
• Ischemic stroke (clot in artery leading to the brain)
• Peripheral vascular disease (narrowing of blood vessels outside the heart and brain)
• Sudden cardiac arrest (sudden loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness)
• Gallstones
• Type 2 diabetes

In addition, some studies have contributed the benefits of certain components in red wine such as reseveratrol in reducing heart disease risk. Resveratrol has shown to increase HDL("good") cholesterol, prevents blood clots, and relaxes blood vessel walls.

Risks of Moderate Drinking

In spite of the above benefits, moderate drinking also carries some risks:

• Alcohol is addictive, especially for people with a family history of alcoholism.
• There is convincing evidence that alcohol increases risk of developing breast cancer. However, studies also show that adequate intake of folate (a B vitamin), at least 600 mg a day, appears to mitigate this increased risk. Folate helps build DNA and is essential for accurate cell division. Alcohol blocks the absorption of folate and hence, increases the risk of breast, colon, and other cancers.
• Alcohol can disrupt sleep. Although alcohol has a sedative effect and help you fall asleep faster, it is metabolized rapidly in your body and it impairs your sleep during the second half of the night. You tend to have shallower sleep and awake more easily. Alcohol is also likely to worsen snoring and sleep apnea (a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep).

Should You Drink Or Shouldn't You Drink?

• If you don't drink, there is no need to start. For a pregnant woman and her unborn child, a recovering alcoholic, a person with liver disease, and people taking medication that interact with alcohol, drinking offers little benefits and substantial risks. There are other risk-free ways to boost your heart health and lower your risk of diabetes, such as becoming more active, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating healthy fats and a variety of vegetables and fruits.
• If you do drink, drink in moderation. There are no conclusive studies that indicate whether wine, beer, or spirits has more health benefits. So choose whatever you like. Moderation is the key - limit to no more than one drink per day for women and two for men. However, bear in mind that having 7 drinks on a Saturday night and then not drinking for the rest of the week is not the same as having one drink a day. Also, make sure you get at least 600 mg of folate a day.
• If you are a woman, it is trickier to balance the benefit and risk. Every year 10 times more women die from heart disease (460,000) than breast cancer (41,000). Therefore, if you are a woman at risk for heart disease, it is possibly beneficial to have a daily drink in spite of the small increase in breast cancer risk. However, studies show that women are far more afraid of developing breast cancer than heart disease, something that must be taken into consideration.

Carol Chuang is a Certified Nutrition Specialist and a Metabolic Typing Advisor. She has a Masters degree in Nutrition and is the founder of CC Health Counseling, LLC. Her passion in life is to stay healthy and to help others become healthy. She believes that a key ingredient to optimal health is to eat a diet that is right for one's specific body type. Eating organic or eating healthy is not enough to guarantee good health. The truth is that there is no one diet that is right for everyone. Our metabolisms are different, so should our diets. Carol specializes in Metabolic Typing, helping her clients find the right diet for their Metabolic Type. To learn more about Metabolic Typing, her nutrition counseling practice, and how to get a complimentary phone consultation, please go to http://cchealthcounseling.com/

Living with an alcoholic is very taxing on the non-drinker because it is so all-consuming and stressful, and wears tremendously on your self esteem. Visit http://www.livingwithanalcoholic.org for some dos and don'ts

Stop Smoking With Hypnosis Before It’s Too Late

Considered to be one of the primary causes of lung cancer, smoking is a bad habit that should be stopped at once. Smoking can also cause diseases like myocardial infarction, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema. Even second-hand smoke is known to be hazardous to a person’s health. Because of the addictive nicotine content found in most cigarettes, smokers have a hard time quitting. If you are a smoker and really serious in stopping, here are some methods that you can explore.

Substitutes

Smokers claim that they experience withdrawal symptoms when they decide to stop smoking. To relieve them of these symptoms, they could use substitutes which contain nicotine such as nicotine gums or lozenges. This method is called nicotine replacement therapy and is very effective for people who want to stop smoking permanently.

Nicotine Patches

The most popular method of smoking cessation is the use of nicotine patches. As the term suggests, they are patches that contain nicotine and placed on the person’s body. The nicotine is supposed to be absorbed by the skin. Compared to gums and lozenges, nicotine patches last longer and is more effective in stopping the urge to smoke.

Medication

Some smokers prefer to remove nicotine from their body entirely. But instead of simply stopping, they use medications such as Zyban , Chantix or Wellbutrin. These drugs do not contain nicotine and acts by reducing cravings for nicotine as well as relieving withdrawal symptoms.

Support Groups

Aside from patches, gums or prescription drugs, people who are trying to quit smoking should join a support group. This could help them manage their withdrawal symptoms better and seek assistance when their cravings become too much to handle. In the United Kingdom, there are telephone “quit lines” which provide assistance and support.

Self-Help Books

There are also many available self-help books that smokers can read to help them stop smoking. These books are usually authored by individuals who have experienced quitting and were successful in doing so.

It is important to remember that you can stop smoking if you just make a conscious decision to do so. Although it may be tough especially if you have been a smoker for a long time, it would ultimately benefit your health as well as the health of the people around you. If you are serious in your goal to stop smoking, then make sure you stick to your smoking cessation program.

Stop Smoking With Hypnosis
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Business Directories - Online Marketing

Most businesses would like to have some sort of online presence to promote their products and service offerings, but although there is no shortage of website developers out there, business owners stay reluctant to fork out large sums of money for online advertising. Everyone knows that there are millions of internet users, who in turn, can become potential customers. So why is it that business owner turn away from internet exposure?

When I spent time pitching online marketing, most people seems to respond the same way - they prefer to advertise in something they can see, smell and feel. They seem to think of online advertising as so called 'pay-and-pray' marketing. They can buy the newspaper and see their advert contained therein. The know that the printed media will reach their targeted audience. In contrast they need to believe their advert on the internet is visible and attracting the correct audience.

Of course, there are many online business directories that can target specific users or industries, but the question remains: how do these Business Directories promote themselves? Isn't it true that most internet users make use of larger search engines (like Google, Yahoo and MSN) to find company information, instead of jumping directly to a local business directory? This is a fair question, and with it they believe the only way to be listed on the search engines is to have an expensive website. Nothing could be further from the truth.

SEO Business Directories

Most business directories depend on users to make use of their own search engines, but Web 2.0 directories and Social Media websites create search engine friendly 'mini websites' for each and every business listed on the website. The advantage of this technique is that users don't have to know much about the business directory or even its existence, but when users Google a business, product or service, the relevant businesses [listed on the business directory] will be displayed as a result on the search engine - linking to the Mini Website on Business Finder's website. This gives businesses advertisements and exposure in the large search engine, without actually having a website at all.

Web 2.0 Business Directories is free

It gets even better, as some of these business directories are absolutely free. To accommodate the Mini Website, each business listed will be provided with access to a back-office where they can customize and update their Mini Websites, as well as upload pictures, promote specials, etc.

Although Web 2.0's presence isn't anything new, it hasn't really been fully used in business directories. What this means for your business is a search engine friendly presence on all the major search engines, cost free. Business owners have nothing to lose, and everything to gain by registering on Web 2.0 directories.

Leon van Zyl is the owner of Business Finder and assists businesses in their website marketing ventures.

Fort Worth Business Directory

The Difference in Purchasing a Remy Lace Front Wig Over a Regular Wig

After you look at the positives and the negatives of sporting a constant wig compared to Remy lace front wigs you will learn that the lace wig will outweigh the traditional wig that you just have in mind.

Let's take a look. A normal wig is generally made out of synthetic hair with an uncomfortable cap which not only does not appear natural, but is simply not as versatile as the Remy Lace front wigs. The perfect Remy lace front wigs are created completely by hand plus it generally takes a couple of months to make. The front lace wigs are therefore created in a timely manner in order for them to make you look as if you are wearing your own hair. The lace cap can be made in different colors depending on your skin tone to present you a more natural effect.

Advantages of Remy Lace Front Wigs:

• The natural appear that it will provide you compared to the regular wigs which are noticeable miles and miles away.

• Choosing a Remy front lace wig allows you to modify the color, style, plus the length at your own convenience since it's 100% human hair.

• The designs that you are able achieve with a Remy Lace front wig are endless as you are able to wash and style it just like you would to your standard hair.

Though numerous women have hesitation with the cost of front lace wigs, you've got to be realistic and calculate how much you really spend on your hair now. For those folks who are used to going to the salon a minimum of once a month and spending a good amount of cash in addition to spending nearly lots of time each day to attain that appearance that we want, it doesn't compare to having a Remy lace front wigs. While the cash paid at once may appear like a ton, it'll absolutely be worthwhile in the long run.

Want to Find out More?

For more information on Remy front lace wigs be sure to visit us at http://www.bestfrontlacewigs.com where you will find exhaustive details on caring for your Lace front wig.

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Accept Credit Card In Your Business

Should you accept credit card in your business transactions? Many small companies or home-based businesses avoid doing so because of their concern over fees and expenses that may drain away potential profits. Yet the actual cost of implementing credit card payment processing equipment, along with associated monthly and annual fees, may cost less than you think. The application process is easy, many banks are willing to work with small business owners, and exciting profits are possible, so what are you waiting for?

Learning how to accept credit card in your business processing is simple. First you will need to apply for a merchant services account. You can do this by browsing the Internet to find a bank, credit union, or other reputable lender show is willing to help you set up a credit card processing account. Then you will need to decide which equipment plan to go with. You can start small and work your way through increasingly complex layers of sophisticated technology as additional sales bring in extra profit for reinvestment. However, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind as you implement credit card processing strategies for your business.

To accept credit card in your business customers, you should first find a merchant services account provider, often a bank or other financial institution that can help you by underwriting the associated expenses for this type of project. Many lenders will let you apply over the Internet for a merchant services account, and you may receive a response within a day or two. Decide what type of processing will work best with your business. For on-site companies or home-based businesses, you could set up a credit card processor for basic credit payments when a person comes by to purchase your products or services. But if you travel to your customers to deliver goods, you may want to invest in a wireless credit processor that can go with you. Typically these items cost several hundred dollars, or you can lease them for a set monthly fee. Depending on your personal business needs, you may want to get a pager, an e-check and debit processor, or Website credit processing as your business expands into the e-commerce arena.

The next most important way to accept credit card in your business transactions is to set up a Website as an Internet marketing tool. Your merchant account will help you to do this at a pace that will match your company budget. The Website can provide information about your goods and services, price lists, FAQs, industry tips, and a host of other information that will attract customers from around the world. Providing credit card processing service at your site can increase your sales volume and impress customers who are looking for convenient shopping methods without the hassle of waiting for a store to open or a sales associate to offer assistance.

Move your business to the next level of sophistication by applying for a merchant services account so you can accept credit card in your business payments.


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Security For Your Home: Exterior Lighting

We all wish to keep our homes and businesses safe and well protected.This will be accomplished in an exceedingly large variety of ways and costs. One, rather simple, methodology for assisting in this goal is typically overlooked by the multitudes but is one of the most effective measures that may be taken so as to shield not solely the property from intruders however additionally to safeguard those on the property from unnecessary injury thanks to an inability to determine what is happening in the exterior after hours.

Seriously, poor lighting will create a home or business a a lot of a lot of attractive target than the house adjacent that has adequate exterior lighting. Home intruders might on occasion not be the sharpest tools within the shed but those that are successful in this line of labor are only successful as a result of they do understand the laws of opportunity. A dark shady space that is concealed from the view of others presents a far additional attractive target to would be intruders than a well-lit and revealing access purpose into a home.

When designing the protection plan for your home and business you really need to attempt and suppose sort of a criminal. If you were going to break into your home or business where would you are trying to realize entry? Those are the areas that need to be well lit and offer very little within the means of concealment opportunities for people who would attempt to form an uninvited entrance. Do not build storage sheds close to windows and doors. Instead, keep them removed from these areas. Storage units give concealment and shadow in areas where this could not be desired.

Not all security is merely from invasion. You ought to additionally be concerned about the health and welfare of people who live and work in your home or business. Having the realm surrounding your home and business will not only reveal intruders however additionally obstacles, holes, and etc. that could pose risks of injury additionally to potential intruders. You ought to conjointly bear in mind that not all intruders have only possessions in mind once they create their grand entrance. Creating your home or business uninviting as a 'pit stop' for these criminal parts also makes it safer for your family, friends, coworkers, and employees.

You are doing not would like to light-weight up your home or business sort of a military installation so as to attain the very security you seek. Motion sensor lights that only light up the area in which motion is detected will prove basic enough protection in several cases without inviting the neighbors to complain concerning the unending daylight you manage to create.

Rope lights give low level and ornamental lights but they conjointly invite passersby to require a look at your property. This in itself makes your property unattractive to intruders if there's any kind of regular traffic in your neighborhood or an energetic variety of neighbors that walk dogs, star gaze, or have interaction in any alternative nocturnal activities.

If rope lights aren't appealing, many homes make judicious use of solar powered ornamental lights, as part of their landscaping additionally to a hopeful deterrent to would be intruders. Combining two or additional of the varieties of exterior lighting mentioned above may web even bigger results. Prevention is usually the simplest plan when it involves things like home or business security also because the protection of those that live and work in your home or business from potential harm thanks to inadequate exterior lighting.

These are all things that should be considered when making a security set up for your home or business. Lighting is vital for several reasons. Despite the actual fact that many people have top of the road security equipment and can't notice their manner across their lawns when lights are out far too few folks bother to require the necessity for adequate exterior lighting seriously. It is our hope that the readers of this text will have a replacement understanding of how abundant proper lighting will do to protect your home.

Motion Sensor Outdoor Lighting makes a lot of sense. But not all Outdoor Motion Lights are built the same. Truth is that many lights get a mixed review. Visit us to get more inform ation on various outdoor sensor lights.

A Guide To Silk Palm Trees

The best way to create a truly magical, tropical, and exotic setting is by adding beautiful palm trees to it. Unique in their beauty, palm trees can transform any place, multiplying its beauty and exoticness within seconds. However, to plant tropical palm trees and take care of them can be cumbersome. Hence, life-looking, exact replicas of palms are available in silk which can be bought, assembled, and kept indefinitely without any hassles or pain.

Research shows that silk palm trees are among the most popular silk trees. As such, they come in plenty of sizes, shapes, and types. Multitudes of companies exist that are dedicated to producing silk bamboo trees.

Some companies that produce excellent-quality, beautiful silk palm trees include Silk Tree House, Inc, Indoor Tropical Foliage, Silk Trees, Silk Plants Plus, Silk Plant Design Center, Kinkade Studios, Earthflora, Valentine Floral Creations, Autumn Foliages, Brands on Sale, Andreas, Inc, Your Silk Garden, Silk Worx by Lori, Silk Reflections, Silk Plant Jungle, Seasonal Impact, Oasis Illusions, Hillcrest Mill, BotanicusEtc, Amazon Foliages, and Northwest Supply, among others. Shipping normally includes an additional fee, but companies such as BotanicusEtc, among others, ship their trees for free.

Different silk palms like areca palm, cycus palm, parlor silk palm, bamboo silk palm, kentia palm, real wood date palm, phoenix palm, Buddha palm, and many, many more are all available at the aforementioned companies, ranging in size from small to giant.

Northwest Supply, Office Scapes Direct, Amazon Foliages, Seasonal Impact, Brands on Sale, Kinkade Studios, and Save on Crafts are some companies that provide discounts and hence, offer quality trees with huge savings.

All trees come in non-decorative baskets or containers, but some even include a decorative container or pot without charging any extra fee.

Companies usually provide a hundred percent guarantee, but some like Hillcrest Mill, BotanicusEtc, and Office Scapes Direct offer a full refund if trees fail to match up to the expectations and returned within a specified time period.

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Grand Prairie Landscaping