FitSugar

Are You Drinking Enough Water?

FitSugar — Mon, 29 Jan 2007 16:05:00 -0800

How much water am I supposed to drink in a day? I've heard 8 glasses, 6 glasses, 10 glasses - but how do I know what's right for my own body?

Take the pee test. Sounds classy, I know. But it can be quite informative.

After you pee in the toilet, take a look. Really. I'm serious. What color do you see? Is it dark yellow, light yellow, or does it look clear?

The color of pee is caused by bile, the chemical your liver produces to break up fat. When our bodies break down bile, the pigment urochrome turns pee yellow. The lighter the color, the more it's watered down.

Here's the deal. If you are drinking enough water for your body, your urine will be as clear as water. If your pee is - then you passed the test.

Also, your water needs can change from day to day, so monitor it by checking your pee. If it's clear, you're all good. You can also check out Fit's Calculator to see how much water you should be drinking daily.

Gear Review: Clear2Go Water Bottle With Filter

FitSugar — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:00:56 -0800

I've been carrying a reusable water bottle with me for years now, filling up on tap water as needed. Well, portable water just got a little cleaner with the Clear2Go water bottle ($16). It's your standard water bottle with a squeeze top made for cycling, but it comes with its very own water filter. The filter adds a little weight to the bottle, but it filters out 99.9 percent of microbial cysts (cryptosporidium and giardia), reduces the chlorine taste of water, and reduces lead and mercury. Using trickle down technology developed originally by NASA, one filter lasts for 100 gallons, or 533 refills - keeping an estimated 757 plastic bottles out of landfills. Replacement filters are available in two packs and cost $13.

Lance Armstrong is a fan of these eco and health friendly reusable bottles, and if you become of fan of Clear2Go on Facebook you can enter to win a bike ride with the seven-time winner of the Tour de France. You can purchase your mobile filtration system directly from Clear2Go. They make great holiday gifts and would definitely get you well on your way to filling a loved one's stocking.

DrSugar Answers: When Will I Clear HPV?

FitSugar — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 10:00:00 -0700

DrSugar is in the house and he's answering your health questions.

Dear DrSugar,
I was exposed to HPV (human papillomavirus) in 2006. My test results were positive for HPV, but I had a normal pap smear in 2008. My doc said the first test was a baseline. I returned recently to test again and my results were the same, HPV positive, but a normal pap smear, and I am to be retested again in another six months. Here's my dilemma: it's going on three years since my exposure to HPV, so why hasn't it cleared my system? Also, should I be concerned with an HPV infection in my throat from oral sex?
- One Worried Woman

To see if DrSugar is able to ease this Sugar user's worries, read more.

HPV has received a lot of attention in the last few years and public awareness of the disease has skyrocketed. Recent strides in research have brought more information to light about HPV, and a new HPV vaccine has the potential to prevent 70 percent of cervical cancers. I want to make it clear to you and others that HPV is very common: over half of all sexually active people will contract HPV at some point in their lifetime. Luckily, the infection is not permanent. Recent data suggests that within one year of a positive test, 70 percent of women will clear HPV. Keep in mind that this is from the time of the first positive test, not from the time of exposure. Approximately 90 percent of HPV infections will be cleared in two years, and 95 percent in three years from the initial positive test. So there is a very good chance that your HPV will be cleared sometime in the next few years. In the meantime, it is important to follow up with your doctor every six months. When your body doesn't clear HPV, it means you have have a chronic HPV infection, which unfortunately puts you at higher risk for cervical cancer. If it clears, your risk drops markedly, but there is still some risk so make sure to continue to have an annual exam.

While the connection between HPV and cervical cancer is more established, there is increasing evidence suggesting a relationship between HPV and mouth/throat cancers. A Time article from 2007 gives an interesting review of the topic. Studies suggest that oral sex with multiple partners can lead to an increased risk of throat cancer due to certain strains of HPV. However, there are currently no guidelines or recommendations for doctors to screen for HPV infections of the throat or mouth. The best advice I can give is to always practice safe sex and see your doctor if you have more questions. For more HPV-related information, visit the CDC website.

Have a question for DrSugar? Send it by private messaging me here, and I will forward it to the good doctor.

DrSugar's posts are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Click here for more details.

FREE Sample Alert: Dove Ultimate Clear Deodorant

FitSugar — Mon, 09 Apr 2007 07:23:00 -0700

You know I love a FREE sample every once in a while, and I know you guys love them too!

This is why you should know that Dove is giving away free samples of their Ultimate Clear Deodorant on their website, Dove.com. All you have to do is go to the site, click on Free Sample link and fill out the information form along with a totally short survey (it literally takes about 30 secs) and voila, you're done.

You know why I especially love this? Samples of deodorant are fabulous to throw in your gym bag or keep in your desk drawer for emergencies.

Quiz: The Juicy Truth

FitSugar — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 04:30:52 -0800

With juice labels touting their healthy benefits, it's easy to believe we're doing our bodies good with a glass of fruit juice. But just this week, Dr. Jennifer Ashton caught my attention when she stopped by the CBS Early Show to clear up some juicy health myths. Take the quiz and see how juice stacks up to your other beverage choices.

Take the quiz

Healthy App: iPractice

FitSugar — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 07:00:24 -0800

I heart my iPhone because there are so many awesome apps to inspire healthy living, from iTreadmill to Slim Down Shopping List. Here's a new app from Yoga Journal called iPractice. It contains 15 yoga sequences all in the palm of your hand. The mini-classes are designed for different needs - some uplift your spirit, some calm your mind.

Once you pick the sequence, you can look at each individual pose on its own, or play the sequence in a slideshow format. A nice feature is that you can choose to have audio instruction walk you through the sequence, so you feel like you're in a class. There's also music to go along with the sequence, but I thought the dreamy tunes made it hard to hear the person talking. If you just want to hear the relaxing melodies, you can also turn the audio instruction off, and since there's text underneath each pose, you can follow along on your own. The photos of the poses were clear and colorful, and the sequences included a mix of both simple and challenging poses.

If you're interested in checking it out, download the free version here which offers two sequences, or the full version here for $4.99, which offers all 15 sequences.

View 9 Photos ›

Get your yoga on by getting iPractice on your iPhone.

Tetrahydrozoline (Into the eye)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:08:55 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Tetrahydrozoline (tet-ra-hye-DROZ-a-leen)

Treats redness of your eyes caused by certain allergies.

Brand Name(s)

Visine, Vision Eye, Optigene 3, Opti-Clear, The Medicine Shoppe Eye Drops, Altazine, Steri-Optics Redness Reliever, Vision Clear, Geneye

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to tetrahydrozoline.

How to Use This Medicine

Liquid, Drop

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
Shake the eye drops well just before each use.
Lie down or tilt your head back. With your index finger, pull down the lower lid of your eye to form a pocket.
To use the eye drops: Hold the dropper close to your eye with the other hand. Drop the correct number of drops into the pocket made between your lower lid and eyeball. Gently close your eyes. Place your index finger over the inner corner of your eye for 1 minute. Do not rinse or wipe the dropper or allow it to touch anything, including your eye. Put the cap on the bottle right away. Keep the bottle upright when you are not using it.
Do not use the eye drops if the solution has turned cloudy or changed color.

If a dose is missed:

This medicine is to be taken as needed. Follow the directions on the package.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have glaucoma.
You should not wear contact lenses while using this medicine.
You should not use this medicine for your child under 6 years of age without a doctor's approval.
This medicine may make your pupils large temporarily.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Changes in your vision.
Pain, redness, or irritation in your eyes.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

A.D.A.M. Copyright

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5249

Pramoxine/zinc acetate (On the skin)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:08:38 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Pramoxine (pra-MOX-een), Zinc Acetate (zink AS-e-tate)

Relieves itching and pain caused by insect bites or contact with poisonous plants.

Brand Name(s)

Caladryl Clear, Callergy Clear, Good Neighbor Caldyphen

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to pramoxine or zinc acetate.

How to Use This Medicine

Lotion

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Do not use this medicine for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5229

Bone Health Requires Some Specific Exercise

FitSugar — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:00:36 -0800

Turns out if you want to keep your bones healthy, you'd better start young and be specific about which exercise you choose. The New York Times reveals the findings of a new study which indicates that, contrary to popular belief, "any and all activity" may not benefit your bones.

In fact, as researchers investigate the effect of exercise on bone health, it has become increasingly clear that various kinds of exercise produces varying results on bone conditioning. Until recently, researchers believed that the impact of running, or any similar high-impact exercise, would transform the bone, "deforming" it just slightly. As a result of running, the bone would give slightly to the force of the physical activity, and the bone cells would stretch in response and adapt to the repeated exercise by adding cells and becoming denser. But this is not the case. In actuality, researchers have now found that the bone cells don't stretch; instead, when the bone bends, it "squeezes bone fluid" from one part of the bone "matrix" to another, and it's this extra fluid that causes the cells to add denser bone in response.

The key is that only certain types of exercise produce this kind of bone-bending, and the subsequent response to add dense bone-building. Says Alexander G. Robling, an assistant professor in the department of anatomy and cell biology at Indiana University School of Medicine, "large forces released in a relatively big burst” are crucial to building healthy bones, which is why activities like weight lifting won't help bone-bend or produce stronger, denser bones. But the exercises that will? Running, brisk walking at a fast pace, and surprisingly, repeated jumping.

Tips For Cleaning the Yard Without Breaking Your Back

FitSugar — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:30:53 -0800

The cool temps of Fall mean yard work for me. How about you? There are piles of fallen leaves to rake, and I also like to plant colorful flowers to brighten up the upcoming rainy Winter.

I'm sure many of you are knee-deep in yard work as well, and while it's a great way to burn some calories, you want to do it safely so you don't end up injuring your bod. Here are some tips.

Purchase a lightweight rake made out of plastic instead of metal. The plastic glides more easily on the grass compared to the metal, making less effort needed on your part.
When raking, keep your core stable and upright, and use your arms to pull the leaves toward you instead of hunching over. It'll tone your upper body and prevent pain in your back and neck.
If you have woods on your property, rake leaves into small piles that you carry away on a tarp. Don't try to pull too much at once, as that's a good way to strain a muscle. If you have to bag your leaves, bend your knees out to the sides and squat down to pick up piles instead of bending at your waist. This will work your booty and also prevent lower back pain.
If you have heavy things like tree stumps and rocks to clear off your lawn, use a wheelbarrow instead of carrying them yourself.
Bring a bottle of water outside and drink often. Even though you may not be at your gym, it's still a good workout.
Take breaks often. No need to do all three hours of lawn work at once. Do 20 minutes and then stretch for five. Also know when to call it a day. You can always do more yard work tomorrow.