Starting School With a Peanut Allergy

If your peanut-allergic child is entering kindergarten or a new school next year, now is the time to start getting prepared. Having your meetings at the school before the current year ends, will help everyone get ready for your child's first day of school.

Schedule an appointment with your child's doctor to go over your child's allergy action plan. Request documentation of the peanut allergy, prescriptions, and any other materials you may need.

You will need to contact the school and should speak with both the principal and nurse. Schedule a meeting to discuss your child's needs and start developing safety procedures to help avoid exposure to the allergen.

The meeting may include the principal or administrative representative, nurse, food service director or staff member, classroom teachers and specialists, counselors, coaches and gym teacher, custodian, bus driver, attendants and aides. Anyone who will be in direct contact with the child should be encouraged to attend.

At the meeting, review the allergy action plan that was developed with your doctor. This will list the warning signs of an allergic reaction and steps to take in an emergency. Discuss how and where the medications will be stored and who will administer it in an emergency.

Parents will need to frequently communicate with the school nurse to make sure all the paperwork is in place before the first day of school. This will include providing forms from the child's doctor/allergist, along with any required medical forms from the school.

Make sure your child's medication is labeled, and keep a record of the expiration dates to know when it needs to be replaced. This may include the epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPen, etc), Benadryl, and any other medications prescribed by the doctor/allergist.

The school will always need to have a current contact number to reach you in an emergency. Having a cell phone that's always with you, is a must. List any other numbers where you can be contacted, along with the numbers of any other family members that can be notified.

If you feel comfortable, offer to help the school with any training or educational materials you may have on peanut allergies. Find out when and how they train their staff, and how often they train/educate throughout the year.

Some important topics staff members will need to learn about: Recognizing the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, the administration of an EpiPen, creating a safe environment, label reading, proper cleaning of peanut residue and cross-contamination, and bullying.

Discuss setting up a peanut free zone in the cafeteria and the possibility of a food ban in the classroom. If treats are allowed in the classroom, purchase peanut-free snacks that can be stored and offered to your child when needed.

Don't hesitate to ask the school any questions you may have before your child's first day of school, or any day after.

Stacey has a M.A. in Education and focuses on creating a safer environment at school for children with peanut allergies. For more tips, products and resources to help increase peanut allergy awareness for your child, visit us at http://www.peanutfreezone.com/

Original article

Gluten Sensitivity Symptoms - Hype Or Reality?

Is gluten a miscast villain in the diet world? Perhaps. A new study raises the question about gluten sensitivity symptoms and challenges the usefulness of following a gluten free diet plan for most people who have not been carefully and properly diagnosed with celiac disease.

Despite what you might see on the labels of all manner of foods in the grocery store, or hear from enthusiastic celebrity spokespeople, gluten free is not the right choice for everyone. An estimate has from 5% - 6% of us, some 18 million Americans, having some level of sensitivity to gluten.

Let's start with the basics; gluten is a protein that's a natural part of wheat, rye as well as barley, which are used to make beer, bread, pasta and lots of processed foods.

For roughly 1% of us eating glutens brings on a condition known as celiac disease that damages the wall of the small intestine so that the body is unable to absorb food nutrients. The disease is properly diagnosed by tests on blood and bowel, but there is no widely accepted test to diagnose gluten sensitivity.

Symptoms linked to gluten sensitivity symptoms include some of the same ones attributed to celiac disease - diarrhea, cramping of the abdomen, bloating, headache, fatigue and possibly ADHD. But until there's a test that identifies gluten sensitivity, diagnosing this condition will remain a challenge.

In a recent essay researchers who specialize in celiac disease, discussed what we know about gluten sensitivity and delivered common sense recommendations about the much hyped gluten free eating. They suggest that the discomforts that accompany eating foods with gluten happen because these foods are believed to cause a problem. This is known to science as the nocebo effect, if you presume the worst health wise, that's just what you'll get.

Many symptoms thought to related to gluten might really be sensitivity to other parts of wheat flour or another ingredient in foods made from wheat. And then, a gluten free diet is not bad for you, and will help even if you have other wheat allergies. That's what food makers are counting on, and why you see so much gluten bashing on labels.

Of course gluten free diets (and products) aren't going anywhere. The truth is, there are are large number of people who are suffering with terribly troubling symptoms that do improve when they follow this eating plan.

The danger of misdiagnosing gluten sensitivity symptoms is that going gluten-free when you don't need to deprives your body of fiber and gives it too much fat. Close monitoring of what you eat is important, as we know that for those who live with properly diagnosed celiac disease eating gluten-free eases the discomfort of symptoms and restores the digestive system to health.

FREE Bonus Secret Health Reports - For a limited time you can grab 5 FREE essential health reports from the Daily Health Bulletin. Click through now to discover more on recognizing gluten sensitivity symptoms and the steps you should take before removing gluten from your diet.

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What Is Candida?

Candida is a yeast that exists naturally in our bodies. There are over 150 species of Candida; the most common being Candida Albicans. Candida's function in the body is mainly to destroy all rotting food matter in your gut before any nasty bacteria can feed on it.

In a healthy person, Candida (controlled by the immune system and 'friendly' bacteria) is a non-invasive organism, however, when most people talk about Candida they are normally referring to a Candida Albicans overgrowth.

What causes Candida overgrowth?
A weakened immune system- allergies, excess sugar consumption, caffeine, stress and heavy metal toxicity all contribute towards a weakened immune system.
Poor diet- the modern western diet is seriously lacking in fibre and important vitamins, yet high in refined carbohydrates. Fibre is an important part of a healthy diet. It keeps everything moving through your gut nicely and produces fatty acids that hamper the growth of Candida. Vitamin C, zinc, magnesium and selenium are essential for a healthy immune system; of these, vitamin C is the most important to consume regularly as the body does not store it. B vitamins, in particular Biotin, are essential to controlling Candida overgrowth. A diet containing nuts, whole grains, high quality fish, shellfish and meat will contain all of these essential vitamins, whilst a diet high in foods such as refined carbohydrates, yeast, refined sugars, fruit sugars, vinegar and fermented foods will encourage your Candida to flourish.
Medication- so many medications affect the delicate balance of your body; medications such as antibiotics, steroids, birth control pills and hormones. Antibiotics are one of the worst culprits, because whilst they kill germs, they also kill the friendly bacteria in your gut - the same friendly bacteria that normally keeps your Candida under control.
Pregnancy- pregnancy will alter your body's hormonal balance, sugar production and pH.
Diabetes- a condition where the pancreas is not able to produce enough insulin in order to control the amount of glucose in the blood. If you have ever made bread or brewed alcohol, you'll know that for yeast to flourish it needs warmth and sugar; the same is true of the Candida yeast. Candida absolutely loves sugar and diabetics have lots of the stuff in their bloodstream - it's the perfect feeding ground for Candida.
Mould- exposure to mouldy environments can encourage Candida growth - mould spores, once inhaled, can travel throughout the body.

Why is Candida overgrowth a problem?

As the numbers of Candida increase, the Candida shifts from its yeast state to a fungal state. The fungus establishes itself in the gut and alters the digestive environment; the pH becomes more acidic meaning that the absorption of vitamins and minerals stops, the production of digestive enzymes slows, friendly bacteria struggle to survive and the fungus flourishes. The result being that as the fungus grows, your body weakens.

Once established in the gut, the Candida produces root-like structures called Rhizoids. Rhizoids penetrate the gut wall, creating microscopic holes, which allow undigested food particles, toxins, bacteria and yeast to enter the bloodstream. This stage is known as Leaky Gut Syndrome. The Candida spores can now create colonies outside the gut, in fact anywhere it can reach via the bloodstream. They first target low-oxygen areas, but can eventually settle in almost every organ in the body causing damage and bacterial infections.

If this wasn't bad enough, the Candida fungus itself releases, as waste, over 75 toxins; some of which are:
Acetaldehyde, a neurotoxin, said to damage brain structure and pathways
Ethanol which has a negative effect on the brain and interferes with your body's biochemical processes
Canditoxin which when injected into rats caused paralysis of the limbs and ultimately death
Formaldehyde which causes a number of malfunctions in your body

Conclusion

Candida is a yeast that exists naturally in a healthy person's gut. It can however, given the right circumstances, overgrow easily and once overgrown, weakens and pollutes your body.

Original article

Mattress Cleaning and Removing Dust Mites

When most people think about mattress cleaning it's to either get rid of unsightly marks on it like sweat stains, blood or urine or to clean it for removing dust mites and for general hygiene. However, this is a very specialist process and careful thought should be given to how this is done as a mattress is very different to a carpet for which there are established and effective methods of cleaning.

The problem is that a mattress doesn't dry well. Due to their composition and how thick they can be, moisture in a mattress does not dry out easily, as with a carpet for example. This means that traditional cleaning processes used on carpets and upholstery should be avoided at all costs. This will rule out hot water extraction and also steam cleaning, even dry steam cleaning which still requires drying time and as the mattress takes such a lengthy time to dry this could encourage the growth of mould which is potentially hazardous to your health.

Ok, so where does that leave you when it comes to mattress cleaning. Well most cleaning companies will agree that when it comes to stain removal for marks such as the ones mentioned above are almost impossible to remove, partly because it would mean making the mattress damp and partly because what works on a carpet does not necessarily work as well on a mattress and often when you try to remove a mark you will be left with ring when it dries.

It would be far more sensible to leave the stains and clean the mattress a different way, to kill germs and remove any dust and allergens that have built up in the mattress. A mattress protector can always be put on the bed for aesthetic purposes after. So how do you go about removing dust mites and all the dust in there and hygienically clean it to kill germs without getting it damp?

The most effective way of mattress cleaning is to use a very good vacuum which has a HEPA system on it. There is a but though. Most household vacuums aren't really powerful enough to do it properly, especially if you are concerned about removing dust mites you need to get a specialist mattress cleaning company to do it for you. They will use machines that have much more power and suction than your own, so they will be able to remove a lot more dust and allergens then you could.

Their machines may also have a germicidal light on them too, which will have the added bonus of killing germs and viruses and denaturing allergens. Many will also finish the process by using a safe plant based spray which will be an anti allergen/sanitising spray. The end result will be a hygienically clean, allergen free and dust free mattress that's going to be dry and ready to use again within minutes.

The cleaning company should also clean both sides of the mattress for you and leave the mattress turned too. Mattress cleaning carried out every 6 to 12 months will drastically help people with dust mite allergies, such as eczema, asthma and rhinitis, even people who wake up sneezing or with blocked up noses will feel a drastic improvement and it could mean you could hang on to your mattress longer and save you money in the long run.

If you would like to find out more about Mattress cleaning and Silent Mites you can contact us here: http://www.silentmites.co.uk/

Original article

Are Allergies Controlling You? 5 Steps To Relief

If you are allergic to tree, grass or weed pollen, the beginning of spring, summer or fall can feel like the beginning of the end. But that doesn't have to be true. Here are 5 things you can do right now that will get you on the road to relief.

Close The Windows---This may seem contrary to what people usually say about letting in fresh air. But if you are allergic, letting in the air while pollination is happening can be disastrous.

Instead, close the windows in your home and your car, and circulate the air rather than exchanging it. Some spores will still get in on hair, packages, pets, and through doors as you come and go, but the amount will be far less than if you leave windows open.

Have The Ducts Cleaned---Heating and air conditioning ducts can collect all kinds of particles which can get blown into your home or office when you cut on the heat or air conditioning.

Not only can they be a collecting place for dust, and other particles, but with the right conditions mold can grow inside as well. Investing in having the ducts cleaned will be well worth the health problems that you may be able to avoid.

Vacuum With A HEPA---Vacuuming and cleaning surfaces with a damp cloth or mop are far better than sweeping. These methods minimize the amount of particles that go back into the air.

However, the best type of vacuum (HEPA) is one with a filter that can minimize the particles that get blown back into your air.

Encase Bedding With Dust Mite Covers---The protein in dust mite excrement is one of the most potent indoor allergens known. And unfortunately, mites are common to indoor spaces regardless of how clean you keep your home.

The best way to reduce their population is to prevent them from hiding in the dark, moist bedding and feeding on dead skin flakes in your bed.

These relatively inexpensive covers keep them out of mattresses and pillows. And since they are killed by sunlight, this is a very effective and natural way to control the problem.

Fewer mites can often make it easier for you to sleep. A good night's sleep gives your body a chance to rest and be ready to handle exposure to seasonal stuff more easily.

Filter The Air---The right air cleaner can be your ace in the home. Even after taking all of the precautions mentioned above, there are always going to be irritants in indoor air unless you take proactive steps to keep the levels low.

A high efficiency particle arresting (HEPA) air cleaner is one of the safest and most effective filters to have working for you. In order to be designated as such, it has to have shown that it can remove 99,997 out of every 10,000 airborne particulates that are .3 microns or greater in size.

Having a cleaner with this type of technology working for you around the clock can really make your indoor space a haven, and let you start enjoying life, regardless of what's blooming outside.

Take back control of your life despite your allergies by reducing your exposure to triggers. Filtering your air 24 hours a day with HEPA filtration can help you do just that. See the Allergy Machine Air Purifier from PurerAir.com now at http://purerair.com/allergy_machine.html

Original article

Pregnant And Allergies - Definitely No Fun

While having to deal with allergies for anyone is uncomfortable, having allergies while being pregnant can make you feel truly miserable. While many medications have been used with no harm to the baby, no medication should be considered completely safe from side effects and opting out while during the pregnancy is completely understandable. But having difficulty breathing and not getting a lot of sleep because of allergies, while not good for the mother isn't good for the baby either. So, how can a mom keep her baby safe while controlling the misery of allergies?

Any mom looking for options in managing allergies during pregnancy will be happy to discover there are plenty of choices in both avoidance and control.

Avoidance of Allergens - Whenever it's possible, avoiding to take medicines during pregnancy is preferred. In allergy maintenance, this is best done by avoiding triggers as much as possible. Take steps like these to help reduce your allergic reactions:

• Using barriers like dust mite covers on pillows, mattresses, and covers protect from one of the most common household allergens.
• Air purifiers using HEPA filters help manage indoor allergens.
• Water filters are effective in reducing the effects of chlorine, another very common allergen.
• Having HEPA or water based filters on the out ports of vacuum and steam cleaners are a good way to reduce the dust disturbance and removing it in a room during cleaning activities.
• Consult air quality reports before planning outdoor activities. Limit outdoor exposure during times when your triggers are at their highest.

Control of Allergies During Pregnancy - Unfortunately, it's virtually impossible to avoid all allergens so finding ways to manage the effects is a necessary alternative. Here are some great options in finding allergy relief:

• Check with your doctor to see what medications are safe to take while pregnant.
• Consider dietary changes. Eating vegetables high in vitamins C and E help the body fight the damage caused by free-radicals, Omega-3 helps reduce inflammation, and reducing your intake of dairy can reduce mucus.
• To increase blood flow and to thin mucus, eat more spicy foods.
• Eating raw local honey introduces your body to the area's pollen and may lessen the impact of airborne pollen.
• Natural remedies such as Stinging Nettles, Goldenseal Root, and White Pine treat different symptoms effectively.

Being pregnant and having allergies doesn't have to mean you'll have to be totally miserable this allergy season. Following a few simple tips in avoidance and managing symptoms effectively will make sure that there is nothing left to do but enjoy the pregnancy.

Felix Poppell's wife wanted to find natural allergy relief during pregnancy to help alleviate her symptoms. Get through this tough season with allergy relief from Pharmaca.

Original article

Gluten Allergy: Is Eating Gluten Make You Sick?

Gluten is a complex protein found in many grains, including wheat, barley, rye, and oats. Gluten is found in a large number of foods commonly found in grocery stores and restaurants. The rise in processed food over the past few decades has also meant an increase in gluten consumption, because most of prepackaged foods contain gluten.

Unfortunately for many people, gluten is difficult to digest, and the ingestion of gluten may trigger allergic reactions. It is unknown how many people are affected by gluten allergies, mainly because most people who suffer from gluten don't even know it.

To make matter worse, there is no one specific symptom that will help people know if they have gluten allergies. Some research has shown that there may be over 250 different symptoms caused by a gluten allergy! Some people might have just one symptom, and some might have several. And, even worse, people might be (and often are) misdiagnosed based on the symptoms, because the symptoms are usually similar to a wide variety of common ailments.

So, what are the symptoms? As was said above, there are many different effects from a gluten allergy, but there are some symptoms that are more common than others. These include:

HeadachesJoin painDepressionMiscarriagesConstipationDiarrheaAbdominal painFatiguePoor sleep habits

For some people with gluten allergy, the continued ingestion of gluten will lead to celiac disease. Celiac disease occurs when the body attacks gluten when it is in the small intestine. This is a dangerous disease because it damages, sometimes permanently, the small intestines. This damage leads to the inability to absorb nutrients, meaning that people with celiac disease can slowly starve to death, regardless of how much food they eat. While it is unlikely that celiac disease will actually lead to death, the body does literally become starved for nutrients.

There is hope for anyone with gluten allergies and/or celiac disease. The one and only way to prevent symptoms is to stop eating gluten. This can be done, though it will be challenging at first. It may be helpful for people going gluten-free to consult with a nutritionist, so they have an easier time eliminating gluten from their diets.

However, it is best for people to involve their doctors in the decision to stop eating gluten, since there may be other problems that crop up as a result of not eating gluten. Family doctors will be able to keep an eye on their patients as they eliminate gluten, and catch any problems early, or help their patients prevent them from happening.

If you have chronic physical problems that don't go away despite your, or your doctor's, actions, consider asking to be tested for gluten allergy. Be sure that you continue to eat gluten before the test, which will most likely be a blood test. If you stop eating gluten before being tested, your body will stop reacting to it, and this can result in a false negative.

Learn about gluten allergy symptoms by visiting the gluten allergy site now...

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Questions About Hay Fever? - 7 Answers That Can Help

Each year hay fever affects over 23 million people in the United States. And that number is based only on the people who check in with a health care professional. So it is pretty clear that this is a huge health issue.

Knowing the answers to these 7 frequently asked questions can help you manage allergic rhinitis more effectively.

Is there a difference between hay fever and allergic rhinitis? No, they are terms that are often used interchangeably for the same condition. Rhinitis being the more clinical name for hay fever is the swelling of the nasal tissues in some people that is caused by exposure to airborne irritants such as mold spores as well as tree, grass, and weed pollen.

What are the symptoms for hay fever and how do they differ from a cold? This is a frequently asked question and a great one because the symptoms for the two conditions are very similar.

Sneezing, coughing, congestion, post nasal drip are common to both conditions. However, it is the duration of the symptoms that gives the best indication.

Cold symptoms tend to run their course in 5 to 10 days. Allergy symptoms can last for months. And by consulting a physician about symptoms that last more than several weeks, they are often able to determine which you have by the condition of lining of the nasal cavity.

Which kind of pollen causes the most trouble, and when does that season start? Probably the most potent of all pollen is that of ragweed. This plant usually starts to pollinate in late summer and often continues until it is killed by frost in late November or early December (depending on the climate where you live).

Will a physical move to another part of the country help? The problem with moving to another part of country to escape is that the wind can take these light-weight allergens hundreds of miles from where they originate. So trying to run away from them is not likely to work.

When does pollen season end? It depends largely on where you live and the type of pollen. Tree pollen is usually the first to emerge and can do so as early as January in warmer regions.

Grass pollen follows and last from mid spring to late summer. And finally weed pollen goes airborne in late summer and can last until early December or frost, whichever comes first.

Is medication a short or long term solution? The answer to this question really depends on the type of medication. The first type is designed to control the symptoms and generally include antihistamines that are designed to dry up the additional mucous the body makes in an attempt to flush out the allergens.

The second type of medication is designed to reduce the body's initial reaction to the allergen, which if successful, reduces the need for the medicines that control symptoms.

Then there are allergy shots. This is a slow process that meets with mixed results for different people. The idea is to gradually inject increasing amounts of the allergen into the body. The hope is that the body will become desensitized and will be less likely to overreact with symptoms.

Can an air purifier really make a difference? An air purifier with HEPA or high efficiency particle arresting filtration is one of the most consistent recommendations in the allergy management plan.

Reducing exposure to the irritant is still the best way to manage allergies, and a HEPA can remove airborne particles that are as small as.3 microns in size. A cleaner with multiple sized filters, and variable filtration speeds is one of the most effective ways to stay on track despite hay fever.

Let the Hay Fever Air Purifier clear indoor air for you all year round. Equipped with HEPA filtration, it can remove seasonal pollen and other chronic indoor irritants 24 hours every day. See it now at http://purerair.com/hay_fever_air_purifier.html

Original article

Children's Allergies: From Fear-Filled to Healthy Immunity

Whether it is seasonal allergy and/or food allergy, these forms of hyper-sensitivities indicate an imbalance within your child's body. Common allergic reactions include hay fever, hives, eczema, aversion to food, asthma attacks and to a growing number of medications, such as antibiotics, penicillin, and aspirin.

On a physical level, an allergy is considered a disorder of the immune system and can be digestive and respiratory related. Your child experiences a hyper reaction to a foreign substance that is otherwise considered safe.

Allergies can be potentially dangerous, especially in children. It then becomes vital to address immediately with a safe and gentle protocol. Most allergies begin in-utero, so moms it is important to examine your own diet, emotional health and response to stress, especially if you are breastfeeding, as these potential factors may have contributed to your child's allergies.

Key areas to explore when implementing preventive measures and addressing your child's allergy symptoms include:
Refrain from introducing too much food too soon to your child. His or her body needs time to develop a relationship with each food; too much may be too taxing on the body.

Proper mastication of food - teach your child to chew food, until it is soft and mushy. This prevents her stomach from attempting to break down big pieces of food, which may lead to indigestion.

Choose organic produce that is free of pesticides. Prolonged exposure to pesticides can cause a build up of toxins in the body, which in turn slows down the body's ability to naturally process environmental and food elements.

Choose conscious eating - decrease and/or eliminate microwave, prepackaged, and high sugar food from your child's diet as they too can increase toxic load within the body. The body innately gravitates to fresh foods, any preparation outside of that requires your child's body to work extra hard to process. The food that is unprocessed or undigested stays in your child's body as waste. Read labels/ask for ingredients when purchasing store bought food as most contains sugar, dairy, and nuts, which children tend to be sensitive to.

Teach your child to respond with a peaceful and a calm attitude when facing his life experiences and to openly and appropriately express his emotions. On an emotional level, an allergy may indicate fearful thoughts your child is holding onto about life and the world and he overreacts or becomes hypersensitive when he perceives an attack, hence the definition of an allergy.

Most, if not all conventional medicine products for allergies come with a list of potential adverse effects that are counterproductive to addressing the issue long-term and often creating new health challenges. Consider natural and alternative wellness options to strengthen your child's immune and digestive system. The stomach rules every aspect of health and approximately 60% of the immune system is located within the stomach/gut. Incorporate the right digestive enzymes into your child's conscious eating lifestyle, along with immune-boosting essential oils, and the appropriate amount of distilled water everyday. If your child weighs 50 pounds, 25 ounces of water everyday is the best fit for his body.

As soon as you notice a food or environmental intolerance in your child, respond right away. Your early response is the key to preventing the onset of life-altering allergies.

I own and operate a complementary and alternative medicine practice that specializes in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, baby, and children health. A Certified Aromatherapist and Licensed Natural Health Care Practitioner and Educator, I provide Aromatherapy, consultations in a variety of natural health therapies, and proprietary health products to empower and optimize your health and life experiences. I am based in Northern New Jersey and also available to consult with you over the telephone. To inquire about my services and products, as well as to schedule appointments and order products, you may email me at NicoleATucker@aol.com or call my business mobile at (201) 926 - 9757. Learn more about me on my website - http://site.mawebcenters.com/wholecreations.

Original article

Gluten Free Foods And Diet

Gluten is a complex compound found in commonly used cereals like wheat, and barley. Some people are allergic to gluten, have a gluten intolerance, or have Celiac Disease. Its estimated that up to 10% of the U.S. population could have some form of gluten allergy.

Gluten consumption for gluten intolerant people is extremely bad and could lead to many complex medical conditions. And a large percentage of people, though not gluten intolerant, have difficulty in digesting gluten. Many people in the U.S. are gluten intolerant and don't even know it. And many medical doctors misdiagnose gluten intolerant people all the time, as the symptoms are varied and different from person to person.

Gluten consists of two main compounds, glutelin and gliadin. Its the substance which gives elasticity to dough and gives the sticky texture to the dough when kneaded. Gluten intolerance causes all kinds of symptoms including: headaches, migraines, exhaustion, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation/diarrhea, joint pain, and anemia, to name just a few. Any processed foods made from wheat, rye or barley should be strictly avoided.

Having ample servings of vegetables and fruits and cutting way back on carbs is a big step towards going gluten free. Minimizing processed foods containing complex carbohydrates can immediately help people clear up any symptoms they might be having. Processed foods like biscuits, cakes, cookies, and bread usually have a significant amount of gluten in them and will need to be cut from the diet.

Luckily for those who find themselves unable to eat gluten based foods, there are now many gluten free products on the market. Gluten free breads are available that are made of rice, millet, almonds, soy and other non-gluten grains.

Rice is a common grain which is known to be devoid of gluten. Rice can be substituted over gluten based foods. Substances like beer and whiskey which are brewed with fermented wheat, are definitely gluten foods and should be avoided. Wine could be an alternate to beer. And there are now some gluten free beer products on the market.

Maintaining good health by consuming gluten free foods is possible, provided some supplements are taken to prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies. These supplements may be unnecessary if ample fruits and green leafy vegetables are included as a part of the diet. But doctors and nutritionists recommend taking vitamin supplements no matter what your diet. Especially for women and older people.

Going gluten free could also bring in a lot of other health benefits. Avoiding processed foods brings a host of benefits such as reduced risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. A well planned diet based on gluten free foods will go a long way in your quest for good health.

But cutting gluten products out of your diet is easier said then done. Our society is based on gluten foods: burgers and sandwiches, pastas, cereals, pastries - those are all gluten foods and a huge staple of the American diet.

When first going gluten free, many people cannot keep themselves from cheating and eating the way they have eaten their whole lives. That's why it's so wonderful that there are now thousands of gluten free products on the market. Those with gluten intolerance and celiac disease can continue to eat sandwiches, pastas, and baked goods. You just need to know which gluten free products taste good and have a good texture to them.

To help you find out which ones are good and which one aren't, see the reviews of gluten free products at Glutenfree-Products.com. Click here to see lots of gluten free reviews: http://glutenfree-products.com/

Original article

Neti Pot for Allergy Relief

Utilizing neti pots for the purpose of nasal irrigation happens to be an ancient Hindu method known as Jala Neti; originating from cleansing rituals performed before Yoga in order to encourage strong breathing passages in addition to excellent health. Due to cleaning out the nasal passages of surplus mucus in addition to foreign contaminants, all the breathing techniques utilized during yoga ended up being clean as well as accurate.

Much like in the past, neti pots are widely-used for the purpose of opening breathing passages just before Yoga, but it has now turned into a wide-spread practice around the globe to help people deal with allergy symptoms - not to mention reduce the chances of nasal inflammation because of an infection.

How It Works

The neti pot is undoubtedly a simple structure that reminds one of just a typical tea pot. Typically in sizes which will hold any where from 30ml to 500ml, they're filled with a somewhat warmed up saline solution or other appropriate nasal irrigation mixture which cleanses the nasal airways while avoiding discomfort. The compact stout coming out of the neti pot should fit comfortably inside a single nostril to stop leaks and steer the saline solution towards the other nostril. Since the fluid travels from one side towards the other one, it flushes along with it the majority of the extra mucus along with other particles which might be trapped in the nasal cavity, preventing clear airways.

How It Alleviates Allergies

For those who suffer from hay fever or other allergies because of dust, dander and various other contaminants floating around in the air, the main problem is breathing in the allergens. Right after entering the sinus pathways, the allergens affix themselves to the soft tissue, thus making breathing more difficult in addition to causing additional responses like watery eyes and sneezing. A neti pot is a superb instrument to relieve the severity of these kinds of allergy symptoms and even help minimize future allergic reactions. Through the use of sea salt or natural and chemical free salt for your saline solution, it will not only wash out the allergens within the sinuses, but also help hydrate the encompassing tissue for combating irritation and any possible microbial infections.

As good as it is for adults, neti pots can even be used for children who are affected by allergies. Given that nasal irrigation just uses clean and safe saline solutions, they're totally safe and sound for young children, having said that, one very important thing to not forget is to make sure to follow the process thoroughly as well as to make the procedure enjoyable so the kids view it as a good experience.

Not Just for Sinuses

While a good many individuals think that neti pots just aid the nose, it has been observed that, for a few, regular and proper jala neti practices can even assist with eye-sight by simply washing out the tear ducts as well as facilitating with proper ear secretions that can protect against infection. Making sure the neti pot is employed properly can help heal any facial discomfort triggered by pressure and also, since they are all linked, will keep a healthy working system between the ears, nose, and eyes.

If you want to help eliminate allergy symptoms that could surface and impact day-to-day life, using nasal irrigation with a neti pot a minimum of once weekly with a gentle saline solution won't just help that, but it will also increase the overall health of your nasal region.

Nasal irrigation can be a great way to relieve even the worst of allergy symptoms; however, be sure to inform yourself of possible neti pot danger so you can learn to correctly use the pot for nasal irrigation. Also, be sure to check out the web's #1 neti pot resource to learn even more about the health benefits of this ancient and effective tool.

Original article

Manage Your Bird Dust Allergy - 4 Effective Changes That Can Make A Difference

Finding out that you are allergic to a bird that you love can be devastating for both of you. Here are 4 things to do first. These changes can often mean the difference between being able to enjoy your bird or not.

Dress Your Home For Allergies - Dust, dander and other particles are more likely to accumulate in carpet, rugs, upholstery, draperies, and horizontal window treatments such as plantation shutters and mini blinds.

Choosing furnishing that can be easily wiped down and regularly clean can drastically reduce the number of particles in your home. Fewer particles are good news for humans because it is usually the protein in the microscopic dander that triggers allergic reactions in those who are sensitive.

Allergy-friendly furnishings would include linoleum, wood, tile, or stone floors with throw rugs rather than carpet; shades or vertical blind that can be cleaned frequently and thoroughly; and a minimum number of nick-knacks to cut down on places where particles can settle.

Limit The Number of Birds - The more avian friends you take in, the more potential problems you are likely to have. This doesn't do you any good if you've already gathered a flock that you love.

But when looking at long-term planning, one or two birds are probably the most you want to take in. And since all birds are not created equal when it comes to the dust they produce, it's important that you do your homework before you adopt.

There is a group of parrots known as powder-down birds. They include African Greys, Cockatoos, and Cockatiels. These birds are hands down some most incredibly beautiful and intelligent creatures alive.

But the white powder in addition to normal dander is the stuff allergy flare-ups are made of. The last thing you want to do is adopt a bird and have to find another home for it because the dust makes you sick. So think carefully before you make your decision.

Clean Regularly - A schedule of regular cleaning can be very helpful. It's one of the best ways to continually minimize the particles that are available to go airborne as you and your winged friends move about the house.

Damp cloths and mops are best because they will trap the most and send the least amount of particles back into the air. A vacuum with a special filter (HEPA) is also important so that it really does trap the particulates that it collects rather than sending them back into the air.

Clear The Air - Actively filtering the air with a high-efficiency particle (HEPA) arresting air purifier is one of the most important ways to keep your bird allergy in check. This type of technology is designed to take out 99,997 out of every 10,000 particles that are .3 microns or greater in size.

And not only will it remove bird-related particles, but more normal household pollutants such as dust, dust mites, mold and mildew spores, as well as airborne bacteria and viruses. The right cleaner will require very little of your time and will you at ease knowing that the air is being cleanse continually to make a healthy life for you and your avian friend.

Put the air purifier to work for you that has 4 particle filters to clear the air for you and your bird. See it now at http://purerair.com/bird_dust_air_purifier.html.

Original article

Allergy Testing By Skin Prick - Simple, Painless - Quick Results

Allergy testing has been progressing for over 100 years. Doctors and scientists have a difficult job looking to find the root causes of those symptoms such as running nose and streaming eyes, among several others. One third of Britons (around 19 million people) develop allergy symptoms, and are looking for effective answers through allergy testing.

Treatments and vaccines for hay fever, asthma and food allergies have failed to live up to expectation despite the huge amount of money we spend on them, and sufferers are left wondering where all the money pumped into research over decades has gone.

A high percentage of doctors and researchers are baffled at certain causes of allergies in many patients. Some people do react to certain events that trigger a group of reactions in their system, while the exact same events might not have any effect on others whatsoever. The difficulty in pinpointing the exact reason why someone is allergic to a particular food, insect or even house is a very complicated situation.

Many doctors advise that 'blood allergy testing' has to be employed to find out which allergy you suffer from, which takes longer than skin prick tests - but is extremely accurate. With the sheer amount of complex allergies in society today, it is a difficult and slow process finding out their source. Those who suffer allergies may have to wait a few decades for allergists to come up with answers.

There are several methods of allergy testing that are effective, quick, and cheap, but don't expect any miracle cure - as you will only be given advice on altering your lifestyle. These tests look for 'Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies' in the human system for allergens like pollen, common dust mites, indoor pollutants and pet dander. Variations of these tests like skin prick food intolerance testing are used to examine the complex subject of food allergies. Food allergy testing kits are said to be very accurate in their results, but it's surely better to seek advice from a doctor before you purchase one these kits.

Finding allergy testing centres in your area is straight forward. You can ask your own doctor or practice nurse if you are registered with a GP. A health visitor or school nurse can give you good advice about testing and effective Allergy Relief, or even your local family health service authority where you live. Failing that, just pop down to your local hospital reception or speak to a pharmacist.

Allergy testing kits are available to buy in chemists and on the web that will give you your results in a short period of time. Basic skin prick testing is painless and it's usually the first test advised by specialists when allergy symptoms are present. Taking antihistamines and various other medications like inhalers are prohibited for up to 1 week before the skin testing start day.

A very small droplet of allergen is placed on the skin inner forearm. Up to 30 allergens can be tested on the one arm, which is marked in various areas so the tester knows which allergen those results will come from. Using a specially designed very sharp lancet, the skin is lightly pierced at an angle of 90 degrees directly on top of the allergen drop. Simple, painless and quick diagnosis.

The main advantage of this type of testing is that results normally takes up to 25 minutes. A visible raised wheal and red flare activity on the skin means that the tester can effectively eliminate a realistic cause for allergic symptoms, or diagnose you as positive for an allergy.

Allergy Patch Testing
Another relatively easy way to test for allergies is 'patch testing', which is carried out to determine whether allergies are present through dermatitis (Eczema). Tiny droplets of allergen are spread in a 'Vaseline mixture' which is applied to small metallic discs. These discs are usually taped on the patients back area, and left there for a few days. The patient comes back to the specialist after 2 days for removal and inspection in case of swelling and redness.

After another 2 days, the back is thoroughly scanned for signs of skin reaction to the small amounts of allergens that were applied there earlier. 'Atopy Patch Tests' (APT) on the skin can also be implemented to find out if reactions to foods are present. They are usually used to identify other allergens such as metals, rubber/latex and certain beauty cosmetics. Please note there are several more allergy testing methods available today.

Your allergy solutions are only 1 click away. Helpful allergy information. You can directly benefit from my Allergy Relief E-Report. It's packed full of info on reducing allergy symptoms. The best health information is powerful, especially if you are looking for effective allergy relief.

Original article

Gluten-Free - Why It Should Be Part of Your Daily Diet

There are many reasons why different maladies and illnesses are coming out continually these days. The main contributing factors of health issues are the environment and the food people eat. The environment gives out toxins that can hurt the respiratory system. The factors that can ruin people's wellness as far as the environment is concerned are really obvious. Unfortunately, when it comes to food and nutrition, there may be apparently good foods that can cause damage to a person's health. This includes gluten. If you are struggling from irritable bowel syndrome, it can help to be on a gluten-free diet since the intake of gluten can make the condition worse.

Gluten is found in many types of grains. It is found in wheat and if you have an unregulated consumption of wheat, the digestive system can suffer. There are people who experience minor reactions of their person but the reactions are a result of gluten intolerance. Individuals who are suffering from celiac disease must always be on a gluten-free diet because gluten intake would adversely impact the small intestines. Particularly, the body's immune system will respond by attacking the small intestines, more particularly its lining. As a result, the villi, that is responsible for ensuring that the nutrients are distributed to the body, will be damaged severely.

If you are struggling from celiac disease, it is time to begin a gluten-free diet and be free from the problems of mood disorder, skin irritation and irritable bowel syndrome. If you are not certain if you are struggling from this illness but the signs or symptoms are clear, you should still proceed on the said program and observe the impacts inside a month. If there is an improvement, you know that your body may need a gluten-free diet.

Whenever there are digestion concerns that need to be dealt with, we hear tips of including probiotics in your dietary regimen. Probiotics and the villi are in command of ensuring that your digestive system is healthy and clean. However, with gluten entering your body, you can even suffer from malnutrition because of the missing nutrients that must be absorbed by the person. In effect, you will face weakness, mood swings and rashes apart from the frustrating feeling when you visit your comfort room. These problems can all be dealt with if you now move to a gluten-free diet. Check on the ingredients of the food that you will eat. All things that contains wheat should be removed and customized.

Currently there are many varieties of nutritious food without having to include gluten on your plate. However, you just have to make sure that there is no hidden gluten ingredient in what you will prepare. The following are some foods that contain gluten: wafers, meat loaf, meat balls, soy sauce, meat substitutes, MSG (monosodium glutamate), breading, malt, marinades, croutons, wheat, thickeners, barley, crab cakes, pastas, and numerous more. If you just stop prepping dishes that contain the said ingredients, you will do your small intestines a favour for making your digestive system healthy. This is a sufficient reason for beginning your gluten-free diet.

By R. Lombardi. Brought to you by gluten-free diet listings via Glutenfreelisting.com

Original article

Test Your Allergic Reaction

An allergy is actually a disease that most people have that manifests only at certain times when their body interacts with allergens. There are several times when you would be surprised that you react negatively to what seemed to be a simple occurrence or an object that has been around you for a while already.

Medical experts agree that allergies can actually be managed well if you are informed of what causes it. You may be able to undergo different tests to check which of the objects around you would create an allergic reaction from your body. There are three main tests you could go through: skin testing, blood testing, and elimination testing.

Skin testing is also called as prick or puncture testing. It involves the skin on your arms or the back, where most allergic reactions are very visible. When you undergo this test, the health personnel would look for possible allergens and puncture the skin with it. Sometimes, and especially when the test is done with the skin on your back, there would be like tables with grids. If the object is an allergen, your skin would exhibit reddish spots or swollen bites.

Blood testing, meanwhile, looks for antibodies called immunoglobulin and how its presence would affect your reaction to specific objects. In general, when the amount of the antibodies is very high, there is a greater probability that your body would exhibit allergic reactions. This is more of a predictive type of test because while an allergen may not cause reactions at the time you are tested, the amount of antibodies measured may indicate the likelihood of the same allergen doing so in the future.

Lastly, you may also undergo a more extensive test that is elimination. In this type of test, your diet is at the most of concern. You will be asked to consume foods that are probable allergens and then slowly removing these in time. The aim is to re-introduce the foods eliminated to check if they indeed cause the allergic reaction.

All of these tests are highly suggested to be done with the aid of medical professionals (nurses, doctors, etc.) to ensure that the results your body has posed are interpreted correctly and that the procedures are of course carried out with the appropriate tools. In the end, your cooperation is a great key for the success of these tests. If you have any general questions about allergic reactions or how to manage your general health, it's recommended that you consult your general practitioner, a trusted osteopath or nutritionist.

Hi. I'm Rachel Berret, a big advocate seeing an osteopath for your health complaints. I have a great osteopath Melbourne that helps me overcome my own aches and pains such as back pain, neck pains and headaches.

Original article

Mold Allergies - What You Can Do To Stop This Pesky Condition

Nearly everyone experiences some form of allergy including mold allergies. An allergy is simply an intolerance to a certain environmental or ingested product, such as pollen, dogs, peanuts or lotions. Allergies can cause many symptoms. These range from minor irritation of the affected area up to anaphylactic shock that can lead to death. Most often people with what they term "seasonal" allergies experience their symptoms during particular parts of the year, such as the spring or fall. If you experience the symptoms of allergies throughout the year, and they get worse when in certain indoor environments, you may not have seasonal allergies at all. Rather, you may be experiencing mold allergies.

What are Mold Allergies? Most people are exposed to mold throughout the day, every day. Tiny spores released by the fungus can be in the air you breathe, or you may accidentally eat food that has mold on it. For the most part, such small exposures will have no negative effect. For people with mold allergies, however, being exposed to too much mold, whether through breathing it or ingesting it, can cause unpleasant, and even dangerous, symptoms. An allergy to mold is like any other allergy, and should be recognized and dealt with as quickly as possible to prevent miserable symptoms and damage to health.

What are the Symptoms?

Mold allergy symptoms are similar to reactions to other allergens. They include itchy eyes, sneezing, a rash, difficulty breathing and headaches. If these symptoms are chronic, or get progressively worse when you are in particular environments, it is likely that your home, or another location that you frequent, has high levels of unseen mold. This mold may be in the walls or air circulation system. During certain times of the year, particularly warm months, there tends to be an abundance of mold spores in the air. This can cause you to experience your allergy symptoms with the same frequency as those who are allergic to pollen or grass.

How Can Mold Allergies be Prevented and Treated? Preventing the growth of mold in your home, or treating growth that has already occurred, is critical to the management of your allergy symptoms. One way to do this is to monitor and control the humidity level in your home. Using moisture-absorbers and dehumidifiers help to keep the air dry and cool which will inhibit mold growth. If mold is already growing, air purifiers can help remove the spores from the air, and cleaning products can help to kill the mold and remove it. Some types of mold are extremely dangerous and grow deep in walls or other areas that you cannot easily reach. When this happens you should consult professional cleaners to protect your home and your health.

How Can Mold Allergies be Treated?

Mold allergies can be very unpleasant. If you find that you have a mold allergy, there are measures you can take to limit your exposure and ease your symptoms.

Keep your home, particularly your basement, bathroom and laundry areas, as cool and dry as possible.Do not keep perishable food for more than 2 days after they are opened.Refrigerate opened food promptly.Do not smell foods that you think may be bad. This can cause you to inhale the spores.Use over-the-counter allergy medications to ease your symptoms

As you can see, while mold allergies are a serious problem, there are common sense steps you can take to combat them today!

Read more about Mold Allergies at Mildew vs. Mold blog. E.M. August is a vigilant enemy of mold and mildew everywhere.

Original article

Are Customers Getting Actual Benefits From the Advanced Technology in Vornado AQS?

When it comes to utilizing the web as an advertising tool, the successful Vornado Air company from Kansas doesn't do much that sets itself apart. Based on my knowledge, I'd even say Vornado likely does less.

What Vornado does which is the same as pretty much everyone, is Vornado lists features and benefits which it thinks will encourage you to buy the product. Yet, that's what company does. (Except for the companies that make things up. Another topic for another time.)

As Vornado made the commitment to being a serious presence in home air purifiers, it based it's strategy on one large thing it would do better than competitors. The intended outcome would be to instantly giving the company a leg up in the emerging air purifier market.

What was this one concept that Vornado wanted to use to compete with it's Vornado AQS? Basically Vornado always approached value to mean that you give the highest quality and best performing product you could in one single model. The strategy was to hold nothing back on pushing through the best technology available. Then you take that technology and make it work to attack the nagging issues customers had with the old air purifiers you'd perhaps see at the homes of older relatives who smoked.

Vornado AQS was designed to run quieter using advanced three-speed technology. (One user recalled that it sounded like a home computer on idle in the lowest speed.)

Vornado also meant to grab a larger area using advanced electrostatic technology and circulation methods. The result in Vornado AQS is an effective room reach of about 325 square feet.

In doing these two things, Vornado wanted to take the most common customer complaints about air purifiers: that they are really loud and that they really don't work, and overcome those complaints.

So how does the AQS perform? What are the customers saying in their assessments? Keep in mind that Vornado places great importance in word of mouth to both develop and then sell it's products. The Reviews not only matter. The Reviews are everything.

Well, performance ratings are overwhelmingly positive on a statistical basis. Performance in this case refers to the Vornado AQS creating a room environment you can really feel. An environment where the result you have is greater comfort and easier breathing.

One customer in his 60's from Delaware got his Vornado purifier from Home Depot. He had a prior history with the company and had appreciated the experiences he had with his space heaters and fans. He noted a cleaner and fresher breathing environment in his targeted room from day 1. He said the AQS would be especially valuable in the winter time, or if you have pets.

On the other side of the net, an Amazon customer made an interesting point about the air circulation methods of the AQS. He felt that since the air purifier doesn't force like the older air purifiers, that odor removal was compromised.

In fact, Vornado does use a different approach to air gathering more is based more on what the company calls "advanced vortex technology" coupled with electrostatic pull. Together, these two forces grab and filter the air. It is hard to conclude an observation like the one from this customer is totally without merit.

Cheryl Boswell is a writer and researcher on products for the home such as the Vornado AQS 500. You can save time and money by getting FREE in-depth news, features, and reviews on this air purifier and the home purifier market generally including discounts and best prices at http://airpurifiertalk.com/

Original article

Alen A350 Air Purifier Benefits For Your Health

If you are like the millions of people suffering from seasonal allergies, then you will benefit greatly by employing an air purifier like the Alen A350 air cleaner. If you are expecting a bad allergy attack like last year, you should take preventative measures this year and purchase this air purifier right away. What makes the purchase of this air cleaner worth its money is the fact that you will save a great deal on doctor's cost and medication expenses by cutting the allergens down in your home. This proves the fact that purchasing an air purifier will save you money rather than popping pills and using nasal sprays.

There is more than meets the eye as far as the Alen A350 air purifier is concerned. Asthmatic children can enjoy clean air at home with the use of this system. If you are a snorer and have obstructive sleep apnoea induced by nasal allergies, then you will see a huge difference in your sleep quality once you start using the purifier. You will have a better, more energetic day at work by using the A350 as it gives better sleep quality at night. Sleep apnoea sufferers are also prone to have higher risks to heart disease and diabetes, etc. Naturally, these risks can be cut down with a better night's sleep by using a good air cleaner like the Alen A350. Not just adults, but small children and babies who are more susceptible to polluted air can also enjoy better health with the Alen 350. You can also solve your mold, dust, pet dander, and dust mite problems by regularly using this unit.

Apart from the above mentioned health benefits, you can enjoy the features like easy-to-use operation, cheap filter replacement and attractive looks of the Alen A350 air purifier. Customer reviews of the Alen 350 have also been very positive with some claiming there is less dust on their furniture since they started using the purifier. Upgraded air filters are also available to tackle even the most stubborn odor or smoke issues you may have in your home. The only disadvantage, a minor one, is the low humming sound at higher speeds of operation that might irritate you. You will ignore this drawback once you start reaping the several health benefits of this purifier. If you are a smoker or own a pet, definitely consider this air cleaning system for your health.

Original article

Dust Mite Allergy Solutions - Effective Home Eco-Cleaning Guide

Dust mite allergy problems are rising steadily. Unwelcome mites just love our warmth and hospitality because we feed them and keep them nice and warm in our beds and pillows at night. This is not the most appetising of conversations to bring up before dinner, but it's one that needs to be addressed quickly and effectively, because the common dust mite is becoming much more of a problem in every home than ever before. This is no fun for the millions that endure dust mite allergy symptoms like sneezing, a running nose, nasal congestion, streaming eyes, skin rash and breathing difficulties.

Nearly 33% of the population in the UK have some type of allergy, and there is no sight of this trend slowing down. Dust mites are microscopic critters that originate from the 'arachnid' or spider family of insects, and they are responsible for over half of all household allergies in the UK. Allergy UK maintain that over 20 million UK residents have some form of allergy.

There is no doubt about it - we must banish these unhealthy and unwelcome visitors from our home. They love to take up residence in our carpets, pillows, mattresses, sofa, and especially everywhere around the bedding area - oh yes! and in it too. Removing dust mites and harmful allergens in your bedroom dramatically reduces allergy symptoms and improves your health.

So how do we get rid of those '0.02mm' micro sized mites from our home? You will never completely get rid of them all from your home, but you can reduce their numbers to such an extent that you will find that your breathing at home becomes much easier, and those with allergies will find a marked reduction in the severity of allergy symptoms that they normally endure on a daily basis.

Avoid Chemicals For Dust Mites
Dust mite allergy symptoms can be difficult to cope with, but never find yourself tempted to use any chemical based cleaning solutions in your home, as this will simply add or multiply the amount of allergens and chemicals that are potentially inhaled by members of your family.

Carpeting in your home is the best place to start, because dust mites like to bury themselves in the warm, humid pile. If your home is wall to wall carpeting throughout, then there will be billions upon billions of them breeding in the carpet fabric. Many of those with allergies prefer rugs scattered around on wooden floors, because you can take them out to the garden and use a carpet beater to get all of the dust and debris out quickly and effectively. House dust mites prevention is also important. Tiled or wood flooring is an option worth consideration if your symptoms do not improve with cleaning.

Effective Dust Mite Vacuums
Start dusting your room from top to bottom so that it all falls on the carpet. Wipe off dust from tables, furnishings etc. Next you will need a competent HEPA vacuum cleaner to give the carpet a thorough clean. This should trap a high proportion of dust and their mites/faeces in the filter. Do not buy a HEPA vacuum if it does not have 'EN1822' authentication.

Many unscrupulous vacuum manufacturers will not divulge this information, and try to pass off an inferior HEPA vacuum as a 'true HEPA' cleaner. To be very honest about vacuums now, there is no point in buying a cheap vacuum cleaner, because they are more likely to emit more of the debris and dust that they pick up back into your home atmosphere - which defeats the whole purpose of dust particle retention.

I could ramble on all day about the importance of purchasing a high quality vacuum cleaner for your home. My opinion is that if you suffer from dust mite related allergies, you must have one of the better micro filtration or S-Class filter vacuum cleaners for your home. They are very effective in trapping the tiniest particles from your carpets and your home atmosphere. 'British Allergy Foundation' seal of approval vacuum cleaners are worth your consideration too as they have been tested for their filtration qualities, and how well sealed the unit casing is for minimal leak back of unhealthy particles.

Yes, Sebo and Miele vacuums are more expensive than others, but they are quality machines that you can rely on for years and years. Even if you do not suffer from dust mite allergies - it's still wise to buy a vacuum cleaner that traps over 99.98% of all dust, pollen, smoke particles, tiny hairs and those invisible pollutants that float into every home. Vacuums with a high filtration technique literally clean the surrounding air in your room as you vacuum your carpet. Invisible dust and chemical particles are filtered through the machine, ensuring that you do not inhale dusty, stale or used air.

Some people buy 3 cheap vacuum cleaners in 1 year because they break down after a short time, and they usually come with no warranty to fall back on. A premium vacuum manufacturer will supply you with a high quality cleaner and a long guarantee at the same time. Therefore you will always be in possession of a competent vacuum that gets fixed immediately if something goes wrong.

You really can't afford to buy cheap, especially when you or your family's health is in question. We spend most of our time at home, and we really should be sitting in a clean, fresh, hygienic atmosphere breathing in nothing but pure fresh air, rather than enduring nasty dust mite allergy symptoms.

Steam Clean Dust Mites
After you have dusted and vacuumed your entire home - it's time to get out the steam cleaner. There really is no better way to clean your home than with the natural power of pure, hot, dry steam without any caustic cleaning solutions that are on sale in the supermarket. There are some fantastic steam cleaners on the market that efficiently manage carpets, upholstery and hard flooring. Steam cleaning in your home is environment friendly, safe, and yields effective dust mite allergy relief. It effectively kills dust mites and eliminates allergens and chemicals, leaving very high indoor air quality. Many modern steamers come with every accessory that you need to clean your home from top to bottom.

Look for those with the 12 - 15 piece accessory set which enables you to steam the following - Windows, mirrors and glass, clean grout in between tiles, porcelain sinks, chrome objects, shower doors, plastic glass fittings, curtains, lamp shades, mattresses, bedding, all round the bed area, vinyl fabrics, synthetics materials, cotton and leather upholstery, window blinds, kids cuddly toys, cooker surfaces, oven interiors, garden furniture, jewellery, straighten out wrinkles on your favourite clothing, vegetation, clean algae on decking and exterior wooden surfaces.

Always use as little water or moisture as possible when applying to any surface, especially the carpet as this will take longest to dry naturally. Let dry naturally and ventilate your rooms for as long as you can. Most good steam cleaners come with a full set of instructions guiding you best on how to clean practically anything you desire in your home.

After you have vacuumed the entire house and finished steam cleaning curtains, carpets, soft furnishings etc - and everything has dried sufficiently, you will have a much fresher, cleaner, more hygienic home to enjoy with all the benefits that comes with living in a healthy atmosphere, free of dust mite allergy problems, stale air and allergens.

Dust mite allergy solutions are only a click away. With helpful information on how you can directly benefit from good advice - please feel free to have a good look at my Allergy Relief Report. It's packed full of info on reducing those nasty allergy symptoms. The best information is a powerful medium, especially if you are looking for effective allergy relief.

Original article

What Is An Allergic Reaction?

Have you experienced having rashes after eating a round of shrimps? And, if things get even worse, you may even experience symptoms of asthma, such as shortness of breath or even coughing. If this happens to you again, visit your physician right away. These reactions or symptoms may actually be linked to an allergic reaction to an external stimulant. But, what exactly is an allergic reaction.

By definition, an allergic reaction is actually a condition involving the hypersensitivity of your body's immune system to a certain substance, called allergens. Allergic reactions mostly occur when you are exposed to an object or a substance that you deem normal. For example, eating eggs would not cause an allergic reaction to your sister, but it would to you. This means that your immune system reacts differently and defensively against the eggs in a way your sister does not. As medical experts say, this is only natural.

The common symptoms of an allergic reaction are reddish eyes, itchy skin, coughing, difficulty in breathing, and runny nose. You might find your body giving out different reactions to various allergens, or the things that cause the allergic reaction.

There are different categories of allergens. One of them is food. With a variety of foods available in the market such as meat, poultry, fish, fruits, and vegetables along with processed foods and preserved products, it is quite understandable that your body would find something it does not agree with.

When it comes to treating allergic reactions, prevention is still better than cure. It is always better to just stay away from things or substances causing the allergy rather than to search for what could cure the reactions of your immune system. As the reactions are similar to flu, it entails that the virus and the allergens are difficult to eliminate. Thus, it would take long before you are finally cured.

The best way to prevent allergic reactions is to know what causes them. Particularly, you should know what types of allergens you are allergic to. There are different tests to determine if your body would still react negatively to the allergens. The two common tests are skin and blood tests. With skin tests, small portions of the allergens are introduced into the skin to check if the body would react. Blood tests, on the other hand, are implemented to check the internal make up of your body to determine how you would react to different allergens.

An allergic reaction can be quite difficult to treat and manage. Hence, it is important that you keep away from anything that can cause your body to react negatively. This way, your discomfort is minimized as much as possible. If you are unsure about your general health, it is advised that you consult your general practitioner, a trusted osteopath or nutritionist.

Hi. I'm Rachel Berret, a big advocate seeing an osteopath for your health complaints. I have a great osteopath melbourne that helps me overcome my own aches and pains such as back pain, neck pains and headaches.

Original article

How Do You Test For An Allergic Reaction?

There are various kinds of tests that can be done to test people for allergic reactions on certain medications, materials, or food. Three of the common methods of testing for an allergic reaction are: skin tests, blood tests, provocation, and elimination-type tests.

Skin tests

Skin tests are probably the most common procedures done to test skin reactions of people to various stimulants such as food, substances that cause rhinitis and asthma such as pollen, mold, animal fur, and the likes; penicillin, venom, and allergic contact dermatitis.

There are various methods of doing skin tests. One specific method is referred to as prick test. This involves applying an allergen, specifically a suspected allergen which can cause allergy to the patient, on the skin, particularly on the forearm or back. The skin with the allergen will then be pricked so that the allergen will enter the body. After 15 minutes or so, the skin will swell and will turn red once the person is allergic to the substance applied.

Another method of skin testing is called intradermal skin test. This method is done by directly injecting the allergen into the skin and will wait for a few minutes for the signs of an allergic reaction. This method is used in determining if you have allergic reactions with something more specific like venoms or stings.

Blood tests

Blood tests on the other hand, is done when skin tests are not appropriate or if it does not show results. Blood tests measure the amount of antibodies your blood has to specific allergens. Blood tests have two other types: the absolute eosinophil count and the total lgE level.

Elimination test

Elimination tests, on the other hand are done to test allergies in food. This method is done through eliminating food that are suspected to be the cause of allergic reactions of a person. After not allowing the person to consume this type of food for two weeks or so, the food will be re-introduced to see if the body will have any allergic reactions to it.

Provocation test

Lastly, the provocation method is a method that can cause serious allergic reactions and should only be done by a doctor. This method involves exposing the person to allergens that the doctor or the person suspects as the reason for the allergic reaction. Examples of this method is exposing you to specific types of food that may cause allergies and sniffing into pollen or fur.

If you have any general questions about allergic reactions, consult your general practitioner, a trusted osteopath or nutritionist.

Hi. I'm Rachel Berret, a big advocate seeing an osteopath for your health complaints. I have a great osteopath Melbourne that helps me overcome my own aches and pains such as back pain, neck pains and headaches.

Original article

Allergies Making You Miserable? Seek Help From an Allergist

Allergic reactions are not limited to pollen from outdoors or pet dander indoors. Many people suffer from allergies to foods, medications, and other aspects of their environments. You should seek help from an allergist if you know or suspect that you have an allergy and are unable to control the reactions or obtain relief. An allergist is a special type of doctor that has the training and experience to diagnose and treat allergy related illnesses. There are several types of tests that he can perform to help gain information about your body and how it reacts to allergens.

If you suffer from allergic reactions but are unable to pinpoint the source, your doctor may perform a skin test to help with a diagnosis. During a skin test, your skin is pricked by a very small needle containing possible allergens (one allergen per needle). If your skin reacts with a welt, then there is a good chance that you are allergic to that allergen. For instance, your doctor may prick your skin with allergens such as dust mites, milk, peanuts and eggs. If you react to any of these, your skin will show it by swelling slightly (about the size of a mosquito bite) and itching. This allows the allergist to better assist you in coming up with a plan to avoid the allergen and treat reactions.

Some allergies affect lung (pulmonary) function and breathing. You may have asthma or asthma-like symptoms that are triggered by allergens. Tests are available that will allow your allergist to create a plan to alleviate your symptoms and get you on a path to better health.

One thing to remember about allergies is that often the best plan of attack is the process of elimination. If tests are not definitive, you may need to keep trying until you find the culprit. While not the most streamlined method of diagnosis, it is likely the only way to find out what plagues your body. It is important to explicitly follow the instructions of your allergist to get the best results possible. He will work to help you as much as possible, but you have to be a willing and active participant in the process.

In some cases, it can be a bit difficult to get an appointment with this type of doctor. Since all insurance plans vary, you need to find out whether or not you need a referral. Once you can schedule the appointment, be sure to let the receptionist know how acute your symptoms are. Patients that are in acute distress are sometimes given a priority appointment to alleviate their symptoms. It never hurts to call and see if there is anything available sooner rather than later.

Working with an allergy specialist takes time and patience, but most patients agree that the results are worth it. If you suffer from allergies, this may be your best course of action as it certainly beats continuous suffering.

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The Best Laundry Detergent Is No Laundry Detergent! But How Can You Wash Without Detergent?

Every day more and more people are turning to hypoallergenic laundry detergent because of an allergic skin reaction to detergent and other laundry products such as fabric softeners, bleach and dryer sheets. Perhaps you yourself suffer from skin allergies, chemical allergies, or fragrance allergies.

Have you been forced to turn to sensitive skin soap and non-toxic products in order to avoid allergic reactions?

Unfortunately, not only are these products costly but they probably aren't completely effective. If you have a soap allergy you will probably find that nothing you try, even a natural laundry detergent, will provide complete relief.

The answer? - Get rid of all laundry detergents and, as a result, say goodbye to your laundry detergent allergy.

If only it was that simple right? Everybody knows that you can't get your clothes clean without laundry soap; can you? Well, you can and I am here to tell you how.

So... If you use laundry detergent, bleach, hot water or fabric softener when you wash your clothes read on because this is going to get interesting.

A couple years back I discovered something that saves me money, does an incredible job of cleaning my clothes and helps the environment at the same time. I read about a device that you attach to your washing machine to eliminate the need for detergent, hot water, bleach and fabric softeners.

How does it work?

Water from your cold water tap enters the machine and is infused with natural gases like oxygen and hydro-peroxides. The same natural gases are created outside by the sun and lightning and are in the air we breathe everyday. The treated water then flows into your washing machine where it does its magic on your laundry. The gasses bubble up through the fabric removing dirt and sanitizing the material. Your clothes come out clean, fresh and sanitized.

I was intrigued but did not know anyone that had any experience with this technology.

With a leap of faith (how is this possible without using detergent?) I sent in my order and anxiously awaited the delivery of this new "miracle machine". When it finally arrived I was pleasantly surprised at how easily it attached to my washing machine and how simple it was to operate. The directions said to run 2- 3 washes without any laundry in order to "clean" the washing machine and set up the device for its first load.

I started my washing machine and Wow! - The water smelled like a thunderstorm had just passed delivering a fresh country rain. I was starting to feel pretty good about my purchase, but...

Could it actually clean my clothes?

My question was answered in short order. After a couple washes I found that our clothes not only smelled fresh but they were just as clean as they would have been if I had used my regular laundry detergent.

Then came the surprise! If all this device did was to eliminate the need for detergent and hot water, I would have been satisfied, but to my delight, it did much, much more. One of my faded shirts came out a bit brighter than expected. Was I imagining it? How could this device add color to my shirt? Not possible, but...

After each wash my shirt and other clothes kept getting brighter and brighter until they looked almost new again. What was happening?

Apparently detergent remains in our clothes after each wash and eventually weighs down and fades the material. The laundry unit was removing this residual detergent and bringing "life" back to the fabric. Our towels became brighter and more fluffy with every wash. Now the shelf that easily held all of our towels was almost too small and I had to force the last few towels in.

I was sold. This device was worth its cost and more. Even better, I was saving money. I figure I recovered my cost within the first year and a half of usage. (U.S. statistics claim a savings of about $400/year for a family of 4)

Imagine saving about $1.20 every time you wash a load of clothes. - The average family can get a 40%-100% annual return on their investment.

I have now owned my miracle laundry machine for over 2 years and I am thrilled with the results I am getting. Our clothes last longer, smell like they were hung outside to dry and the colors are brighter than ever.

BONUS:The mold smells I had in my front load washer disappeared within 2 washes.

And the bottom line?....

Using this device to wash your clothes is healthier for you, the planet and your pocketbook. Your clothes last longer, smell nicer and the colors stay brighter.

What is the Down Side?

By now you are probably wondering (as I did) what if this machine is a piece of junk that doesn't do what it promises or breaks down after a few months when the warranty has expired?

You will be happy to hear that the manufacturer offers a 30 day satisfaction or your money back guarantee AND they have a full 3 year parts and labor warranty. What appliance manufacturer do you know that offers that kind of piece of mind when you buy their product?

If you want more information I will be happy to answer any questions you may have including where you can get your hands on one.

Contact me through EzineArticles.com or my website below.

"Give me 10 minutes and I will show you how this New System for Washing your Clothes can Improve your Health, your Pocketbook and the Environment."

Who wants to be next? Now you can invest in this wonderful detergent free laundry system that will save you money year after year while providing the cleanest, freshest laundry you have ever experienced, guaranteed.

Its a Win / Win / Win solution you can implement now. Ask me how.

Stephen Calver
http://www.your-water-treatment-world.com/washing-machine-water.html

Original article

Allergy Air Cleaners - 5 Mistakes Not To Make When Choosing An Allergy Air Purifier

Suffering with allergies isn't fair, or fun, but you can improve your quality of life with the right air purifier. Here are the 5 biggest mistakes to avoid when choosing features in your cleaner.

Buying The Wrong Size - The technical specifications online or a hard copy of the product manual will let you know how many square feet the unit is designed to clean. It is important to accurately measure your home so that you can match the unit's capacity to the space you have. Choosing a cleaner that cannot clean the amount of less space that you have is a recipe for disaster.

Instead match the size of the space that you have with a cleaner that can clean that amount of space or even more square footage than you have. Oversizing rather than under sizing will give you a better chance of reducing the level of pollutants. And a lower level of irritants can mean a decrease in the number and severity of allergy flare ups.

Cheap Cleaner - You know the old saying "you get what you pay for", well it's true. A low cost cleaner usually means that there is no filter or only one filter. And the fewer filters a cleaner has the less effective it will be. A cheaper cleaner can also have a motor that is not able to provide continuous filtration. Pollutants don't take a break and neither should cleaner.

Instead choose a cleaner with multiple filters. The more filters the longer it will be before a filter change is needed. Fewer filter changes mean it will ultimately cost less to filter your air.

High Maintenance - Often you don't have a choice about high maintenance people in your life, but paying money for a cleaner that needs constant attention doesn't seem like a smart move. Many times maintenance can mean interruption in filtration which allows pollutants to build to a level that can cause symptoms that range from annoying to debilitating.

To avoid frequent interruptions in filtration, look for a filter that requires little maintenance and one that does not require you to go inside the unit or turn off while performing maintenance. The best units at most may require an occasional vacuuming on the outside and usually have filters that can last for 5 years or more.

No Warranty - This should be a huge red flag. If the manufacturer won't stand behind the unit it shouldn't come as a surprise when it doesn't last. 6 month and one year warranties are better than nothing, but just barely.

Look for a purifier that not only has a warranty on the purifier, but pro-rated filter warranty as well. This kind of backing from the maker is a clear vote of confidence in the quality and longevity. Chances are you'll never need to cash in on either one.

Limited Operation - If you're not very careful; you could wind up with a cleaner that can only be run for a certain number of hours a day. Sometimes this is because running it continuously would cause a safety issue like overheating.

A split capacitor motor is essential if a cleaner is to be effective at consistently keeping allergen levels low. This type of motor can run 24 hours a day every day without taking a break. This feature can help insure that airborne irritants stay low and your quality of life remains high every day.

See the air purifier that can drastically improve air quality and your quality of life by taking out airborne allergens 24 hours a day at http://purerair.com/allergy_machine.html

Original article

Celiac Condition Necessitates a Gluten-Free Diet Plan

CELIAC DISEASE

The actual only condition which necessitates a gluten-free diet, a celiac condition is an extreme manifestation of gluten intolerance or simply gluten sensitivity. Gluten actually is truly the bad boy for individuals alongside this particular disease.

Celiac condition is in fact a well-known hereditary disorder affecting 1 throughout 133 people in the United States. A autoimmune disorder characterized by some sort of irregular response with gluten, it causes serious damage in order to the particular mucosa that lines the actual small intestine. The disease commonly develops within early childhood, it is sometimes caused by events including surgery, pregnancy, childbirth, viral infection, and / or extreme emotional stress.

When a person with celiac condition ingests gluten, the actual villi throughout the tiny intestinal tract happen to be damaged and / or ruined. Usually the outcome is a substantial reduction within the surface area of the intestinal mucosa which usually the intake related to nutrients occurs. In addition, the secretion related to intestinal enzymes which aids throughout digestion turns out to be impaired. Without healthy villi plus adequate digestive enzymes, a person turns out to be malnourished.

Symptoms of celiac condition fluctuate between people. Within childhood, celiac disease manifests itself generally alongside digestive signs or symptoms which include chronic diarrhea; vomiting; constipation; abdominal bloating and pain; pale, foul-smelling stools; plus weight loss.

Due with nutrient malabsorption, an infant or child can currently have some other difficulties like delayed growth, short stature, delayed puberty. Irritability is additionally a well-known symptom within children.

Celiac Signs or symptoms

If perhaps celiac condition develops within adulthood, it really is less likely to result digestive symptoms. More commonly, adults can develop signs or symptoms particularly exhaustion, unexplained iron-deficiency anemia, and not to mention joint problems, depression or perhaps anxiety, canker sores within the mouth, infertility or skin rash known as dermatitis herpetiformis.

It's completely possible for a person with celiac condition to have no symptoms at all.

Celiac condition has long been under-diagnosed and / or misdiagnosed. As noted with regard to a 2011 research, the particular prevalence related to undiagnosed celiac condition seems with have improved dramatically within the United States in the course of the past 50 years. As more actually learned about the type of symptoms that individuals experience plus because better blood tests are developed, more individuals happen to be being diagnosed. In the event that blood tests or an intestinal biopsy which is truly the best way to confirm the diagnosis.

Celiac Treatment

Gluten-free eating is the actual diet that might eliminate the symptoms, aid to heal damaged regions of the intestinal tract, and in addition avoid further damage. A person alongside celiac disease need to stay focused on the eating plan for the particular eliminate gluten from their lives.

Eating gluten-free signifies excluding many products.

By R. Lombardi. More one celiac disease can be found at Glutenfreelisting.com.

Original article

Is It Possible to Prevent Allergies?

Prevent Different Allergies Using Different Methods

Know simple methods to prevent various types of allergies

Allergies are a malfunction of the immune system where innocuous pollen, mold, food or dust is treated as a threat. Allergic reactions involve the antibody called IgE, which has the ability to communicate through cells found in the lining of the intestines, skin, nose and stomach to induce reactions. The reactions are induced by the release of chemicals, including histamines.

This is one reason why allergy medications typically contain antihistamines. Unfortunately, some medications have unwelcome side-effects like drowsiness, while others fail to work at all. Such medications also tend to target hay fever, while food allergies are a different matter.

The best strategy for preventing allergic reactions is to avoid the allergen. This is simpler to imagine when dealing with foods allergies, where once the troublesome ingredient has been identified a person can try not to eat it. A comprehensive knowledge of what is in food helps greatly, which is part of the thrust behind accurate ingredient listing for processed foods.

Other allergens pose different problems. Pets, pollen, mold and dust mites are four reaction causers that are complicated to avoid.

Though not having pets in your home is the best avoidance strategy, this may not be possible for various reasons. There are ways to minimize the allergens that accumulate and the likelihood of a reaction.

1. Keeping pets in areas that are not carpeted or upholstered, and out of bedrooms.

2. Wearing gloves and a dust mask if you expect to be near a rodent or small animal.

3. Washing your hands and cleaning your clothes after handling animals.

4. Avoiding soiled litter boxes or cages.

5. Frequent dusting.

Pollen is impossible to avoid at certain times of year, but there are ways to minimize exposure.

1. Do not venture outdoors between 5-10 AM. The best time, early or late, is after a heavy rain as pollen levels will be lower.

2. Keep home and car windows closed. Avoid the use of attic fans for cooling purposes, if possible. Air conditioners are fine.

3. Use a dryer for drying clothes instead of hanging them outside, or hang them inside if there is a suitable space to do so.

4. If allergic to grass, have someone else cut it or wear a mask while cutting it. In either case, keep grass short. It may also work to use ground covers that produce little pollen such as dichondra.

5. If allergic to some types of trees, the trees most suitable to be planted on your property (least likely to be allergenic) are dogwood, crape myrtle, fig, palm, fir, redwood, redbud, pear and plum. Maple, elm, cottonwood and ash are some trees which are suitable if they are female cultivars.

Molds can be more difficult to avoid because they grow indoors and outdoors, but there are ways to reduce the amount of it in your home or yard.

1. Keeping inside temperatures cool and relative humidity below 50%. A dehumidifier can help to reduce moisture. Venting bathrooms and clothes dryers to the outside can also help keep moisture low.

2. Leaving windows open in the home or car when first activating an air conditioning system, to let mold spores disperse.

3. Checking ductwork, faucets and pipes for leaks.

4. Clearing the yard of decaying leaves or other organic debris. If you must do this yourself, wear a mask and gloves and avoid doing this on a hot or humid day.

Dust mites, microscopic things that feed on flakes of dead skin from humans or pets, will always be present in a home. The following suggestions can help you reduce the number of mites, somewhat alleviating dust mite allergies.

1. Encasing your pillows and mattress in special dust-proof covers.

2. Washing all bedding once a week in hot water to kill mites, or freezing bedding if it is not supposed to be washed.

3. Using synthetic materials for bedding.

4. Removing carpets in favor of bare floors, or using a special HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner to trap allergens removed from the carpet. A mask is recommended while vacuuming.

5. Dusting with a damp rag. A dry rag would only stir up allergens.

The humidity tips listed for mold work equally well for dust mites.

One way currently used to decrease allergic problems is immunotherapy. Patients are injected with progressively larger doses of allergens to gradually reduce allergies. This vaccination method is the closest thing to a cure for allergies, and has been proven through studies to work. It requires a long-term commitment.

Alternative treatments exist. They include homeopathy, naturopathy, herbal medicine, applied kinesiology and traditional Chinese medicine. Hundreds of rigorous studies by the Mayo clinic failed to show any beneficial effect to these methods, compared to a placebo.

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