FitSugar

Don't Drink Hand Sanitizers (Duh)

FitSugar — Tue, 06 Feb 2007 02:00:00 -0800

I am sure you all already know this...but it is such a bizarre story that I had to share. So I just read an article about a prison inmate being hospitalized for drinking hand sanitizer gel. Yes, it does contain alcohol, but not the same kind found in alcoholic beverages.

The other inmates reported that they saw the man drinking from a "gallon container of Purell hand sanitizer." When the man was questioned as to why he was drinking it, he pointed to the label which read "Active ingredient 63% isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol)." He explained that this percentage was higher that that in vodka.

But this kind of alcohol won't get you drunk. It only takes a small amount of isopropyl to kill someone, by depressing the heart and central nervous system.

The doctors involved with this man are suggesting that the makers of these hand gels change their labels. I'd have to agree because we don't want to walk into a store one day to see that you're getting carded for Purell.

Review: PowerBar Chocolate Gel

FitSugar — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 13:00:56 -0700

On long bike rides, when I pass the hour mark I need a little something to help to power up the next big hill and something I can quickly eat. There are a wide variety of sports gels out there, so I am in my experimental phase - trying them all out. Over the weekend, I placed a Chocolate PowerBar Gel in the back pocket of my biking jersey before I headed out the door. This particular flavor was labeled as having 1x caffeine and contained 25 milligrams caffeine, about one-third the amount found in a single shot of espresso. Since I was riding early in the morning, and hadn't finished my daily cup of joe, I was looking forward to putting a little more caffeine in my system. Just before the third serious climb of the day, I powered down my PowerBar gel.

To see how it tasted, and if it helped sustain my energy read more.

First off, the flavor was surprisingly palatable. It didn't taste metallic or yucky, more like brownie batter than sports gel. This might sound gross, but after 90 minutes of riding it was wonderful and really easy to eat. I think the bit of caffeine perked me up and improved my attitude so rather than being daunted by the hill ahead of me, I was ready to attack. The gel sustained me for at least an hour, and the carbs and electrolytes prevented me from bonking. Here's the nutritional information:

Serving size	41 grams (one packet)
Calories	120
Fat	1.5 g
Sodium	200 mg
Carb	28 g
Potassium	40 mg
Sugar	10 g
Chloride	70 mg
Protein	0 g

Ingredients: PowerBar C2 max carbohydrate blend (maltodextrin, fructose), filtered water, chocolate (contains milk), glycerin, PowerBar electrolyte blend (sodium chloride, sodium citrate, potassium chloride), phosphoric acid, natural flavor (contains soy lecithin), PowerBar booster blend (caffeine, ginseng, kola nut extract), sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate (to retard spoilage). contains milk and soy.

Do you have a favorite sports gel? Share your flavor and brand in the comments section below.

Sports Energy Products Explained: Gels and Chews

FitSugar — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 10:00:07 -0700

When you need energy for long workouts, there are many choices. Sport drinks, powders, and tablets offer fuel with hydration, but many just provide electrolytes to prevent dehydration. If you're working out for over an hour, you need to provide your muscles with some fuel, aka glycogen, and that's where gels and chew come into the mix. Conveniently packaged in single-serving packets, full of carbs and sometimes electrolytes, you can easily carry one in your pocket or pack. Gels like GU, Clif Shot, and Hammer Head contain sugars that provide super concentrated, fast-acting fuel. Just squirt a pack in your mouth every 30 to 40 minutes of intense exercise, down some water, and you're good to go. You can easily consume the entire serving while on the move, provided you have water to help wash it down.

Bite-sized energy chews such as GU Chomps, Clif Shot Blocks, and Luna Sport Moons offer the same quick energy, but they're less sticky and messy than gels. Since they are more like gummy candies, some folks find them more pleasing to eat, making them great for hikes and longer, slower runs or rides. They can also be easier to digest for some people (although that has not been my experience), but remember that you need to take them with water just like gels. Consume six chews per hour of running, and what's nice is you don't have to take them all at once. Both gels and chews are fairly inexpensive, about $1.30 per packet. Tell me which do you prefer - gels or chews?

Review: GU Espresso Love Energy Gel

FitSugar — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 03:00:39 -0700

I have been experimenting with different sports gels lately. My latest venture into the world of gooey non-food energy supplements was Espresso Love by GU and it felt like I was going back to the source, since I think of GU as the originator of these energy packets. I ate (or rather gummed and swallowed) this caffeinated GU 15 minutes prior to an early morning swim. If I eat before swimming, I tend to get a cramp, but feel I need some kind of fuel. Since I am a morning coffee drinker, the espresso flavor seemed a perfect fit.

To see how the GU tasted and the nutritional information, read more.

I actually liked the way the Espresso GU tasted because it reminded me of Coffee Nips candy. If you like the taste of coffee, you'll also like this GU. Once in the pool, I felt awake and ready to swim. I had a good 50-minute workout and didn't feel draggy at the end.

Serving size	32 grams (one packet)
Calories	100
Fat	0 g
Sodium	50 mg
Carb	25 g
Potassium	40 mg
Sugar	5 g
Protein	0 g
Vitamin C	130 %
Vitamin E	100%
Caffeine	40 mg

Ingredients: MALTODEXTRIN (GLUCOSE POLYMERS), FILTERED WATER, FRUCTOSE, GU AMINO ACID BLEND (LEUCINE, VALINE, ISOLEUCINE, HISTIDINE), POTASSIUM AND SODIUM CITRATE, GU ANTIOXIDANT BLEND (NATURAL VITAMIN E AND VITAMIN C), NATURAL COFFEE FLAVOR, CITRIC ACID, SEA SALT, GU HERBAL BLEND [CHAMOMILE, COLA NUT (HAS CAFFEINE), GINGER], CALCIUM CARBONATE, SODIUM BENZOATE, POTASSIUM SORBATE, PECTIN

My only complaint about this GU was that I had to go online to find out how much caffeine it contained. The packaging only reads "2X caffeine." Many of their flavors contain 20 milligrams of caffeine, so the Espresso Love contains two times that. I thought, "Why not just conveniently list the amount of caffeine in the nutritional info?"

Do you use energy gels? If so tell me your favorite flavor, so I can expand my taste horizons.

Quit Smoking With a Hand Gel

FitSugar — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 03:00:00 -0800

A new hand gel is starting to appear on drugstore shelves promising to satisfy users' tobacco cravings for up to four hours.

Walgreens is now stocking its more than 5,500 stores with packets of Nicogel ($5.99 for a box of 10 doses) which is a quick-evaporating gel made with tobacco extracts. Each serving of Nicogel contains about a tenth of the tobacco you'll find in a typical cigarette.

This is great for people trying to quit smoking but I wonder if it will lead to a world of newly addicted hand gel users?

Get in Gear: Asics GEL-Treadmill Shoe

FitSugar — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 02:30:00 -0700

The shoes you wear can really make or break your workout. To help prevent aches and pains, it is important that you wear the correct shoes for the activity you're going to be doing. So what if your exercise of choice is running on the treadmill?

The Asics GEL-Treadmill sneaker ($100.00) is designed specifically with treadmill running in mind. The shoe is made to enhance your treadmill training experience as the sole vents increase air circulation and the ASICS I.G.S. encourages a natural gait on the treadmill. In other words, it is supposed to help improve that zig-zag, unsteady feeling we sometimes get while running on the treadmill in our efforts to stay in the center of the running belt. Pretty cool eh? Buy a pair directly from AsicsAmerica.com.

Coal tar (On the skin)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:13:19 -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

Coal Tar (kole tar)

Relieves drying, itching, flaking, scaling, or irritation of the skin caused by psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis.

Brand Name(s)

Neutrogena T/Gel, Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength, Fototar, DHS Tar, DHS Targel, Tera Gel, Doak Tar Shampoo, Reme-T, Ionil-T, MG 217 Medicated Tar, Duplex T, Betatar Gel, Ionil-T Plus, Polytar, Polytar Soap

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 coal tar.

How to Use This Medicine

Cream, Liquid, Shampoo, Soap

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.You should not use this medicine in or around the rectum (rear end) or in the genital or groin area.
This medicine is not for long-term use.
When bathing, you may pour 1 to 3 capfuls of Doak® Tar oil into warm bath water. You may apply Doak® Tar oil directly onto wet skin if used after taking a shower.
To use Doak® Tar shampoo, wet hair and scalp thoroughly with water. Work the Doak® Tar shampoo into a lather and gently massage it over your whole scalp for about 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing. Repeat this process one time and rinse thoroughly.

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

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a skin problem that involves a large area of your body. Tell your doctor if you are using other medicines or treatment for psoriasis, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
The cream and soap forms of this medicine contain a chemical that may cause cancer.
Do not use this medicine for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
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.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Burning, itching, swelling, or redness in the treated skin area.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

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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_5570

How Do You Re-Fuel When Long-Distance Running?

FitSugar — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 03:00:04 -0800

FitSugar reader AZDaisy posted this question in the RunningSugar community group.

Hey everyone! So I've been running off and on for years now, but I just started getting serious, and I'm running my first half marathon this February! The longest I've run before was 7 miles . . . so replenishing my energy mid-run has never been an issue thus far. But I've read that for every hour you work out, you need to eat something, and that's where the gels, gummies, and bars come in. However, I've also read that you need to drink water when you eat these things, and where I run there's typically no water source, nor do I like the idea of carrying a water bottle with me on my long runs. I'm just curious . . . what do you long distance runners do when it's time to boost your energy mid-run?

If you love chatting about running or have a question, then post your thoughts to the RunningSugar community group. Not a runner? Then take a look at our other community groups - there's something for everyone. If you want to see your health or fitness post featured on FitSugar, then private message me here to pitch your ideas.

Cavity preventive (For the teeth or gums)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:10:01 -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

Helps develop healthy teeth and prevents cavities.

Brand Name(s)

Ethedent, SF 5000 Plus, Prevident, Prevident 5000 Booster, Prevident 5000 Plus, SF 1.1% Gel, Denta 5000 Plus, Phos-Flur, Gel-Kam, StanGard Perio Rinse, Perio Med, Aquafresh Whitening, Neutracare, Dentagel, Neutragard Advanced

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 fluoride. Do not use on a child under 6 years old unless your doctor tells you to.

How to Use This Medicine

Liquid, Gel/Jelly, Paste, Cream, Lozenge

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.
Do not swallow this medicine. It is for topical use on your teeth only.
Different forms of this medicine are used in different ways. Make sure you follow your health caregivers instructions. Ask your pharmacist if you have any questions about how to use this medicine.
To use the gel: Brush your teeth with toothpaste and rinse as usual. Apply a thin layer of gel to your teeth with a toothbrush or mouth tray once a day for at least 1 minute. Spit out the gel. For best results, apply at bedtime and do not eat, drink, or rinse your mouth for 30 minutes.
To use the cream: Use this medicine instead of your regular toothpaste once a day. Apply a thin layer of cream to your toothbrush and brush for 2 minutes. Spit out the cream. For best results, apply at bedtime and do not eat, drink, or rinse your mouth for 30 minutes.
Some liquid brands of this medicine must be diluted with water before using. Follow the directions on the package.

If a dose is missed:

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

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store at room temperature in the original container, away from heat, direct light, and moisture. Do not freeze.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
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. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any foods, preservatives, or dyes.
Too much fluoride can cause white patches or stains on your teeth. If this happens, stop using the medicine and call your doctor.
If this medicine is being used by a child, an adult should watch the child and make sure they do not swallow the medicine. If they swallow too much of the medicine, it can cause fluoride toxicity. Ask your health caregiver if you have questions or concerns about this.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

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

Burning in your mouth, sore tongue.
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Vomiting blood.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Drooling or more saliva than usual.
Stomach cramps.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5329

Antipruritic (On the skin)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:09:47 -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

Treats itchy skin caused by psoriasis, seborrhea, dandruff, or other conditions. Some forms of this medicine treat scaling and dry skin, which may cause itching.

Brand Name(s)

Lac-Lotion, Lac-Hydrin, Amlactin, Neutrogena T/Gel, Amlactin AP, Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength, Benadryl Itch Stopping, Dermamycin, Benadryl Extra Strength, Amlactin Distribution Pack, LAC Cream, Fototar, Good Sense Itch Relief, Anti-Itch, Benadryl

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 any of the ingredients.

How to Use This Medicine

Oil, Spray, Shampoo, Soap, Liquid, Gel/Jelly, Ointment, Cream, 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.
If you are using this medicine with a prescription, the medicine might come with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
This medicine is for use on your skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away. Some forms of this medicine should not be used on your face, genitals, or rectum. If you are not sure what body areas you can use this medicine on, ask your pharmacist.
For the cream, soap, oil, liquid, lotion, ointment, or gel: Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently. You might need to shake the liquid medicine before you use it.
To use the shampoo: Wet your hair and scalp thoroughly with water. Work the shampoo into a lather and gently massage it over your whole scalp for 3 to 5 minutes. Rinse your hair thoroughly. Wash your hair again and leave the shampoo on your scalp for another 3 to 5 minutes. Use at least twice a week for best results, or as directed by your doctor.
Do not use the spray near heat or open flame, or while smoking.

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. Do not freeze.
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.
Ask your doctor before you start taking any oral medicine while you are using this topical medicine. This includes non-prescription (over-the-counter) medicines.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you are allergic to preservatives or dyes.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor. Let your doctor know if your symptoms go away but come back again within a few days.
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
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.
Stinging or burning on your skin.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Rash.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5313