When the Nose No Longer Knows

Smell and Taste Disorders in Elders 

There are certain things in this world that we ignore most especially when it comes to Men’s health. Men usually  loves to eat what ever they want, we cannot barely imagine what kind of appetite do they have , sometimes they eat a lot though they feel that they were full. But who would resist the savory taste of adobo (Philippines favorite). The spice and hotness of Bicol express (a special dish originated in Bicol region, Philippines). The delicate taste of Kare-Kare.  The mouth watering aroma of the hot pandisal at Graceland Bakers Plaza. Just a few words about the smell and taste of food can evoke pleasant images and stimulate appetites. But where does that leave people who have a disease or disorder, or are on a medication that interferes with these two vital senses? What about those who find that the physiological changes of aging leave that sweet apple pie tasting flat or even sour? They start pushing food away, losing weight, and putting themselves in jeopardy for further problems.

Olfactory (smell) and gustatory (taste) impairment can be caused by normal physiological changes associated with aging, but many chronic or acute disorders and some medications can be the culprits. People tend to add extra salt and sugar to counteract the tastelessness they perceive in their food, which can pose a particular health risk for those with chronic diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes.¹ Likewise, when it becomes critical for people to follow a therapeutic diet, such as a low-sodium diet, loss of smell and taste can quickly lead to non-compliance. Smell and taste are protective to all of us by detecting toxins, polluted air, gas leaks, smoke, and spoiled food. Losing these senses jeopardizes our basic safety.  A sudden loss of smell can even provoke depression in some people. Sometimes these deficits raise a warning flag for more serious underlying conditions, such as brain lesions and tumors.

An array of medical terms identifies the different types and degrees of olfactory and gustatory impairment. Anosmia is the complete loss of smell, while hyposmia describes a partial but diminished sensitivity or acuity of smell. Similarly, ageusia is a complete absence of taste, while hypogeusia is a diminished sensitivity or acuity of taste.

Olfactory and gustatory impairment can affect all ages, but it’s most common in elderly persons. Typically, sense of smell and taste starts to diminish after about age 50 and worsens progressively with time.

An estimated 50% of adults 60 or older are affected by some loss of smell; while taste is less affected, it also diminishes with age. Almost half of elders who experience a smell or taste disorder report a resulting decrease in appetite. As the elderly population continues to expand rapidly, these problems are expected to create a growing health challenge.

From Taste Buds to Nasal Receptors

The tongue’s taste buds recognize four basic properties — salty, bitter, sweet, and sour — independent of the sense of smell. In contrast, olfactory sensors in the nose can detect a much larger variety of aromas and odors. Together, tastes and aromas produce flavors; for a person to recognize most food flavors, smell and taste must work together. Approximately two-thirds of taste acuity depends on smell.

Taste and smell are chemosensory in nature, or known as the chemical senses, because they detect the chemicals or molecules from which aromas or flavors originate. For example, when your host greets you at the door, you know in an instant that a lamb roast is cooking in the oven and an apple pie is cooling on the kitchen counter. You can name the menu before you see it as millions of airborne molecules, or odorants, fill the air. Mucus traps these molecules when you inhale them and dissolves and distributes them to the appropriate olfactory sensors or receptors. These sensors are clustered in the olfactory epithelium located at the top of the nasal cavity. A moist nasal cavity aids in the stimulation of the olfactory neurons in the receptors. The neurons produce the electrical impulses that are carried along the olfactory nerve to the brain, where they are interpreted as odor or aroma.

Taste buds are onion-shaped structures of 50 to 100 taste cells, also known as gustatory cells. Each has fingerlike projections called microvilli that poke through an opening or pore at the top of the taste bud. The tongue contains most of the taste buds, although some are also scattered over the soft palate, pharynx, and larynx. Chemicals from food dissolve in saliva and contact the taste cell through the taste pore, where they communicate with certain proteins on the surfaces called taste receptors. These interactions trigger signals to the brain along three cranial nerves: the facial (VII), glossopharyngeal (IX), and vagus (X), depending on where the taste impulses arise.

The Roots of Smell and Taste Problems

Many factors can cause alterations or disturbances in olfactory and gustatory pathways that lead to impairment. These include physiological changes associated with aging, systemic diseases, oral disorders, some medications, malnutrition, and environmental agents.

Aging: Physiological changes associated with aging are a potential cause of reduced taste and smell sensitivity in elders. The numbers of taste cells and sensory receptors decline as people age. Taste buds detecting salty and sweet properties are most affected. Saliva production, which helps to dissolve chemicals in food or drink and transport them to the taste buds, diminishes in elders, causing mouth dryness. Similarly, elders experience a gradual atrophy of their olfactory system.

Diseases and disorders: Several medical conditions can further degrade the acuity of smell and taste in elders. For example, gingivitis and periodontitis release bad-tasting materials in the mouth that interfere with external smells. Tumors or lesions in the oral cavity or brain can damage the gustatory pathways, nerves, or relevant parts of the brain. Allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, or polyps can cause swelling of the nasal mucosa or create obstructions, preventing air from reaching the olfactory area.

Some upper respiratory infections, such as influenza, can destroy nasal receptors, often causing permanent anosmia. Systemic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease, can affect smell and/or taste in some cases because of olfactory or gustatory neural damage.

Medications and other causes: Medications are an important and frequently overlooked cause of olfactory and gustatory impairment, often an issue for elders who may take several. Numerous drugs are known to alter smell and taste by acting on peripheral receptors, the chemosensory neural pathway, and/or the brain. For example, antidepressants, antihistamines, and anticholinergics cause mouth dryness, thereby reducing taste acuity. Local decongestants, such as naphazoline, paralyze nasal cilia.

Selected Medications That Can Cause Taste/Smell Dysfunction 

• AIDS and HIV drugs: didanosine (Videx), zalcitabine (Hivid), zidovudine (Retrovir)
• Anti-inflammatory drugs: colchicine, dexamethasone (Decadron), gold (Myochrysine), hydrocortisone (Aeroseb-HC, Hydrocort)
• Anti-ulcer, anti-GERD: omeprazole (Prilosec)
• Anticonvulsants: phenytoin (Dilantin), carbamezapine (Tegretol)
• Antidepressants: amitriptyline (Elavil), imipramine (Tofranil), desipramine (Nopramin), doxepin (Sinequan)
• Antihistamines and decongestants: chlorpheniramine (Chlo-Amine), pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
• Antihypertensive and cardiac medications: captopril (Capoten), clonidine, diltiazem (Cardizem), enalapril (Vasotec), nifedipine (Procardia), nitroglycerin, propranolol (Inderal), furosemide (Lasix)
• Antimicrobial agents: ciprofloxacin (Cipro), tetracycline, clarithromycin (Biaxin), sulfasalazine, metronidazole (Flagyl)
• Antineoplastics: cisplatin (Platinol), vincristine (Oncovin)
• Antiparkinsonian drugs: levodopa (Larodopa; with carbidopa: Sinemet)
• Bronchodilators: albuterol sulfate (Proventil, Ventolin), cromolyn sodium
• Hyper- and hypoglycemic drugs: glipizide, diazoxide, phenformin and derivatives
• Hypnotics and sedatives: flurazepam (Dalmane), quazepam (Doral)
• Lipid-lowering agents: lovastatin (Mevacor)
• Muscle relaxants: baclofen (Lioresal), dantrolene sodium (Dantrium)
• Other: allopurinol, calcitonin, iron, nicotine, potassium iodide, vitamin D/Calcitriol
• Thyroid drugs: methimazole (Tapazole)

Cigarettes, alcohol, illicit drugs, hot liquids, or other environmental factors may also injure taste buds. On the palate, dentures may cover taste buds.  In addition, head or nose trauma can damage the olfactory bulbs, nerves, or brain lobes. Radiation therapy of the head and neck can cause mouth dryness and directly damage taste receptors. Malnutrition in the elderly could also further diminish the chemosensory perception.

Reference:

When the Nose No Longer Knows

Smell and Taste Disorders in Elders

By: Wiera Malozemoff, RN, MS, CS and Devin Sue Barriault, RN, MSN, CMSRN and Colleen Manning Osten, RD

www.nurse.com

What does your Color Means?

That's right!, have you asked your self what does your color means?  I mean, what your semen color means? Men usually ignored this, because they thought it is normal specially when there's no pain at all.. but not all of men are the same. Thanks to one of my reader who asked me this question... though at first I was skeptical of writing this blog because I even don't care what does my semen's color means..because there's nothing unusual. 

Semen color and consistency can vary based on several factors, such as age, diet and frequency of ejaculation, according to Dr. Todd B. Nipoldt. Semen is normally a whitish, cloudy fluid. It's usually quite thick just after ejaculation, but liquefies about 20 to 30 minutes later. However, yellowish-green semen may indicate a prostate infection. Changes in the appearance of semen are usually temporary and not a health concern. However, sometimes these changes can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires further evaluation. If these changes persist for longer than a week or two or if the color change is associated with other symptoms such as pain, fever, sexual dysfunction or blood in the urine, see your doctor for an evaluation. 

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Source:  http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/discolored-semen/AN00779

ACERN.Talk: Men's Health: Birth Control: OUTERCOURSE

ACERN.Talk: Men's Health: Birth Control: OUTERCOURSE: In search of continues way of how to control the rocketing number of population, church and state battle about using of the modern contra...

Birth Control: OUTERCOURSE

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ACERN.Talk: Men's Health: ACERN.Talk: Men's Health: Birth Control: OUTERCOURSE

ACERN.Talk: Men's Health: ACERN.Talk: Men's Health: Birth Control: OUTERCOURSE

WOMEN YOU SHOULD NEVER DATE

Gentlemen this article is one you should take a print out of and carry in your pocket at all times simply

because it will give you a very vivid picture of the kind of women you MUST NOT DATE. I am sure at some stage in your life you must have fallen for the wrong girl and then shed many-a-tear over her. In case you have been lucky and escaped such trauma, congratulations! But don’t get over-confident because s**t can hit the fan anytime.

You must keep the distance if and when you come across women with traits as described below.

1. The Nagger 

Most men complain that all women nag. Firstly, not all women nag. Secondly, nagging to a certain extent is fine. It becomes a problem when it exceeds that certain limit. If she is constantly on your case and is not letting you be then you should decamp asap. She is your girlfriend and not your school teacher to nag you at every opportunity that presents itself. And if she can’t help but be that crazy teacher, you should at least help yourself by not being with her.

> Female nature
Most women nag because it is in their nature to do so. They grew up watching most of the women around them doing it and were taught that it was the best way to handle men and their occasional inability to function on a normal human level. This applies even more so to the women who are just coming of age, as they were brainwashed even more by television

Here are types of Naggers:  The Innocent, The Chatter Box, The Riddler, The T-Rex   http://www.askmen.com/dating/curtsmith_60/86b_dating_advice.html

2. The Possessive / Obsessive Stalker

She calls you every two hours? She messages you every half an hour? She gets upset the moment you look at another woman and throws a fit when you talk to another lady? She likes it when you wear her favourite colours but feels sad when you wear one that she doesn’t like?
If the answer to the above questions is a yes then you NEED to NOT see her ever again. Some women get possessive and obsessive to the point that they suffocate you and thus stunt your growth as a human being. You cannot and should not become her shadow or a person of her liking alone. Protect your identity and guard your self-respect by giving her the boot.

> When women call or text  you every now and that is sweet but to ring you every hour or send you text message every half an hour that's annoying but mind you there are some guys that are  possessive / obsessive stalker but still women out number the guys in this matter. So when the guy stop seeing you, you must think whether your suffocating them.  

3. The Attention Seeker

All women like to get as much attention as possible from their man. But some women make a nasty habit out of it. They will be on their best behaviour as long as they are the centre of attraction and will totally flip the moment the attention shifts. Let’s be practical. It is wrong of your girlfriend to want to be the centre of your life for an indefinite period of time. After all you have friends, family, work which deserve your attention as well. As soon as you realise she is asking way too much of your time and that she is crawling into your personal space ask her to back off. If the problem persists after repeated warnings it is advisable for you to back off.

> This is very common specially when the man women start dating, they told as if your spending more time with your friends than her, remember both of you should have personal space though seeing everyday is fine but family and friends are the getaway when both of you having a problem or even when you broke up... "Remember family and friends are priceless treasure you can kept for a lifetime" . 

4. The Emotional Wreck

While men love to be the hero in a girl’s life please avoid playing hero in the life of a damsel in distress. It is romantic to think that your love will bring her out of her misery and she will see the good you did for her and so be yours forever. Yes, your love will help her get emotionally better but that does not mean she is going to fall for you. Falling for an emotional wreck will drain you emotionally and you might not get much in return.

> Sometimes women thought men are insensitive, but to tell you we are not we simply manage our emotion because we do not want to act emotionally wrecked.
Here's how to test if your woman is emotional wreck (  http://www.lifescript.com/quizzes/personality/are_you_an_emotional_wreck.aspx )

5. The Material Girl

This one is pretty simple. If she is only after your money then she is no good. She will distance herself from you when she finds a more affluent man or when your pocket strength weakens. Building emotional ties with her is futile and so is expecting a steady stable relationship. (Dating, MensXP.com)

5 Grooming Mistakes Men Make

When it comes to being a “man’s man”, grooming plays such an important role, 

and it is surprising how so many men out there get even the most basic of grooming essentials wrong. Whether it’s about being the top cat at the office or being a hit with the ladies, you need to know how to play your cards right, or you will never win.

Here are five common grooming mistakes that you should ideally avoid.

1. Smelling too good can be bad!

This is one of the most common grooming bloopers observed with men. When it comes to cologne or deodorants there is a tendency to go overboard with the amount that is applied or sprayed. This will have a reverse effect causing people to run away from you. Remember that these fragrances are meant to enhance your natural scent, not overpower everybody’s nostrils. Subtle works best.

2.Locking away the razor

A lot of men are caught up with the macho look and start sporting stubble to get that look right. But the thing is, too much stubble just makes you look shabby and unkempt. The stubble look is not for everyone. If you have a face that can pull it off make sure you use a trimmer to keep it down to the bare minimum. If you work in an ultra-professional corporate environment, then it’s time to bring out the razor. A clean shaven look can never go wrong, but not keeping that stubble under check, certainly can.

3. Skin ill-treatment

Some men are under the false impression that skin care is a girly thing. It most certainly is not. Although men’s skin is tougher than women’s, it is still susceptible to aging, wrinkles and other skin ailments. So, make sure you get plenty of moisturizer wherever needed, use a face wash daily and drink lots of water to keep your skin hydrated and younger looking.

4. Hair or there?

Your mane is perhaps the best asset that you will possess so make sure you take good care of it. Depending on your hair type, take some time out to visit a salon and get some professional advice and styling done. At home, use products but don’t go overboard. Men have this tendency to slap on way too much gel making their hair look very gooey. Just a little bit worked well into damp hair with the fingers should do the trick. Also, be sure to use shampoo and conditioner.

5. Bad dental can make you look mental

Oral hygiene is supremely important, especially when you are in an environment where you need to work with many people. Too many men out there take this for granted and if you have ever wondered why people tend to make a run for it when they see you, now you know. Use mouthwash daily and equip yourself with a pack of mints when on the move. Avoid eating garlic and onions before walking in to a meeting or going on that special date.

Getting your act right when it comes to grooming will not only make you a more socially acceptable and enjoyable person but you will also have a certain feel good factor about yourself. Self-confidence, charisma and personality are few of the positive side effects of good grooming habits.

Your toothbrush might be the nastiest thing you have to deal with every day.

Can your toothbrush make you sick?

According to scientists at England University of Manchester, there are more than one hundred million bacteria living in your uncovered toothbrush, including staphylococci which causes skin rashes and E. coli which causes diarrhea.
No need to panic, as your mouth is not free of micro-organisms after all. In fact there is hundreds of bacterial flora which lives normally in our oral cavity without causing any oral diseases. The problems start when the balance between bacterial floras is disturbed.
Actually, you are the source of bacteria on your toothbrush, as every time you use your toothbrush to remove plaque (full of bacteria) from your teeth, you are automatically reloading your toothbrush with more and more bacteria.
Now, the most important question: can your toothbrush cause your sickness?
NO. There is no clinical evidence that your toothbrush will cause you illness despite the huge number of bacteria living in it, thanks to your natural body immune system.
However, here are some nice tips to store your toothbrush:
1. Don’t store your toothbrush near your toilet “Don’t brush where you flush”.

Nowadays, most bathrooms are very narrow; actually, there is no much between your bathroom sink (where you normally keep your toothbrush open) and your toilet. Unfortunately, it is a proved fact that each toilet scatters bacteria in the surrounding media each time you flush. So believe me you don’t want to put your toothbrush anywhere near your toilet.
2. Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with clean tap water each time you finish using it.
3. Always store your toothbrush dry as bacteria love moisture, make sure your toothbrush cover is dry as well.

4. Store your toothbrush in an upright position instead of lying it down.
5. Make sure nobody else uses your toothbrush. Usually, toothbrush bristles (however soft they are) cause minute wounds to the gingiva, leaving minor traces of blood behind. It is really better to avoid storing your toothbrush in the same cup of other people toothbrushes’.
6. Toss your toothbrush regularly. The American Dental Association advises you to change your toothbrush every 3-4 months; this is the best way to eliminate bacteria.
But what about toothbrush sanitizers, do they really work?
Till now, there is no evidence that using these products can prevent bacterial growth on your toothbrush 100%. However, some of them can effectively kill pathogens. If you are really interested in using a toothbrush sanitizer, make sure it is proved by FDA.

 

 

11 Ways to Calm Down an Angry Woman

  1. Lower Your Thermostat

Whatever you do, don't get angry. Surprisingly enough, she won't consider it righteous; she'll just get more pissed off, and a little self-righteous besides. If you feel yourself heating up, just remember that "she can't make you angry," says Paul Hauck, Ph.D., an Illinois psychologist and author of How to Cope with People Who Drive You Crazy and Overcoming Frustration and Anger. "And you didn't make her feel angry. She did. You may be responsible for her problem, but not her emotional reaction."

  2. Don't Feed Her Data

"A man generally tries to win an argument by coming up with facts that are totally meaningless to her," says Michael Staver, the author of 21 Ways to Defuse Anger and Calm People Down. "She filters that as being disrespectful and not listening, which ticks her off all the more."

  3. Own Up . . . Maturely

"If you're wrong, just admit it," says Staver. "But don't do it in a condescending way."

  4. Tune In

"If she has a big problem," says Hauck, "you'd better listen." And don't wait till swords are drawn. Like an orgasm, anger follows a bell curve—at the top you're completely out of your mind. So if you're seeing signs of frustration (a sigh or roll of the eyes), you'd better start listening quick, for the apex is near and things are about to go downhill fast.

  5. Take a Step Back

"You don't have to agree," says Staver. "But acknowledge her perceptions as real. It shows that you respect her." Often, her anger is triggered because she believes something's 1) unfair, 2) out of her control, or   3) a personal attack. Address these concerns.

  6. Assert Your Eyes

If you can't make eye contact, it means you're becoming angry. But if you can, it shows you're listening. Psychologists have seen a classic pattern in marital fights: The wife gets mad, the husband shuts down, the wife goes nuts. You shut down because you want to avoid a battle, but she thinks you're avoiding (here comes that dreaded word) intimacy.

  7. Get Engaged

Ask questions. "It shows you're listening, and it implies you want to listen to her more," says Staver.

  8. Hit the Road—Together

Taking a walk may sound dumb, but it's actually a neat trick. Physically, you just got her to move with you, rather than against you. "Taking a walk is calming," says Susan Heitler, a Denver clinical psychologist and author of The Power of Two. If the argument reaches crisis mode, however, remove yourself from the situation until it's clear the ranting is over.

  9. Use Magic Phrases

Heitler suggests three: Yes, I agree. You're right. I'm sorry. Nothing disarms an attacker faster than taking her side. So find something, anything, to agree on. We're not suggesting you cave in, but find some small plot of common ground.

  10. Use Anger as a Meter

Heitler compares anger to a Geiger counter—it can alert you to a problem. "What it's not good for," she quickly adds, "is solving a problem."

  11. Set Limits

"You get the behavior you tolerate," says Hauck. If her rage is a little too melodramatic, a little too frequent, a little too abusive, you want to give her exactly two chances to change, he says.

11 Ways to Calm Down an Angry Woman

ACERN.Talk: Men's Health: Benefits of Parsley for Men

ACERN.Talk: Men's Health: Benefits of Parsley for Men: Parsley, or Petroselinum crispum , is the most popular culinary herb in the world. Also known as “rock celery”, it has a fleshy fragrant t...

Benefits of Parsley for Men

Parsley, or Petroselinum crispum, is the most popular culinary herb in the world. Also known as “rock celery”, it has a fleshy fragrant tap root and dark green leaves which propagate from its short stem. Parsley is a biennial herb that grows in any type of climate; thus, it is available throughout the year. This herb can be cultivated even in a small pot with moist, humus-rich soil and partial shade. 

Parsley was originally cultivated in the Mediterranean region of Southern Europe. For over 2000 years now, this herb has been used for different medicinal purposes. Ancient Greeks even consider this biennial plant as sacred. They used parsley as ornament for winners of athletic events as well as decoration on the tombs of their deceased. Funeral wreaths were made from this popular herb and sprinkled the herb on the dead body to conceal the smell of the decomposing body. 

Nowadays, parsley is used for flavoring soups, stews, and sauces as well as for garnishing salads and soups. It is a nourishing and tasty herb that gives a slightly bitter yet salty flavor to the food we eat. It can also be enjoyed in paste, tea, or juice. 

Benefits of parsley 

There are many health benefits that can be obtained from parsley, one of the herbs with high medicinal properties. It is rich in magnesium, calcium, manganese, and potassium. Similarly, parsley contains high levels of beta carotene, vitamin B12, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. The roots are found to be a good source of calcium, iron, and folate. 

Flavonoids in parsley help protect cells from aging and developing into cancer. Furthermore, the vitamin B12 found in this herb fights stress and anxiety. Meanwhile, the vitamin C obtained from parsley is a powerful antioxidant that enhances smooth skin. 

Parsley contains high natural diuretic properties that help when trying to lose weight. It also boasts of antifungal and antibacterial properties that can cure infections when applied as a paste. When drank as a tea, parsley can cure ear infections. Moreover, it controls the growth of free radicals while its oil prevents the formation of tumor. 

To remove gallstones, pour a quart of boiling water over a cup of firmly packed fresh parsley. Steep for 15 minutes, strain and refrigerate, Drink a pint of parsley tea daily. Additionally, when you chew parsley every day, you are sure to get fresh breath! 

This popular culinary herb also helps reduce cholesterol, purify blood, and relieve edema. It also aids in the cure digestive disorders, stones, and urine retention as well as congestion and inflammation of kidneys and bladder. 

Parsley and Men 

Men can also enjoy the many benefits that parsley gives. Since the ancient times of Greeks and Romans, men eat parsley to sweeten their breath and body fluids, such as sperm. 

Studies showed that male suffering from high cholesterol levels have higher risk of impotence or erectile dysfunction. Cholesterol sheets block the blood vessels on the penis; thus, reduces the blood pressure necessary to maintain erection. 

Men who would like to lower their cholesterol levels should eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grain products. When combined with garlic, parsley reduces the cholesterol level while increasing good cholesterol. Likewise, cilantro and parsley are also natural remedies for erectile dysfunction. Eat a tablespoon of chopped cilantro and parsley mixture during each meal. 

Parsley and its seeds are also used as an aphrodisiac. The seeds of parsley stimulates the sexual glands; thereby, increasing sexual desire and male virility. Moreover, parsley seeds arouse fertility and prevent alcohol dependency. 

The herb is filled with essential nutrients for optimal performance of the sexual organs. The plant is rich in Vitamin A, which is known to improve the circulatory system of the body that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the genitals. 

The small green herb is rich in apigenin, a kind of flavonoid that slows down the growth and spread of prostate cancer cells. Parsley root contains extremely high level of potassium that contributes to effectively cure prostate gland. Eating both juniper berries and parsley at the same time alleviates swollen prostate. Similarly, parsley juice helps treat prostate problems. 

Most people are surprised to learn that parsley has been proven to be an anti-fertility herb. Parsley contains vitamin C, a nutrient that is vital for male fertility. 

Precautions 

The best way to appreciate the health benefits of parsley is by drinking its juice. Regularly taking in one to two ounces each day will do wonders. But experts caution not to overdo it. Raw parsley juice is a very powerful remedy especially when combined with bigger quantity of vegetables, such as carrot, celery, lettuce, or spinach. Drinking parsley juice as often as possible is better than taking it on higher doses. Moreover, nursing mothers should not use parsley because it dries up the milk. 

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For further reading:

> Benefit of Parsley(http:/ /www.benefitsofparsley.info/)

> Benefit of Parsley for Woman (http://www.benefitsofparsley.info/)

> Parsley for Weight Loss ( http://www.benefitsofparsley.info/)

Experts Call Male Menopause a Myth

Not All Men Will Need Testosterone Replacement Therapy


Dec. 2, 2011 (New York City) -- It may be called "men"-opause, but it's a time of life that only belongs to women. Male menopause, well, that may be a myth, according to some experts.
While many men and men's health experts argue that male menopause (andropause) occurs when a man's supply of the male sex hormone testosterone dwindles with advancing age, there really is no such thing, says Bradley Anawalt, MD, an endocrinologist at the University of Washington in Seattle. Anawalt spoke at a meeting sponsored by the Endocrine Society in New York City.
"When we use the term menopause with women, it refers to a precipitous fall in levels of the [female sex hormone] estrogen in three to five years as their ovaries stop functioning properly," he says.
It's a different situation with men. "There is a decline on average of 1% of testosterone per year starting at age 30," he says. "It is not a seminal event and doesn't occur in all men. Some men who are very healthy and virile do maintain their testosterone levels for longer periods of time."

 

 

To Treat Low Testosterone or Not to Treat It?

This is not to say that certain men with declining levels of testosterone can't benefit from testosterone replacement therapy. Who should be treated for low testosterone, and who should not is more of an art than a science, Anawalt says.
 
"Testosterone replacement therapy is viewed as the fountain of youth in men," he says. "Testosterone is not a [cure-all] for everything for everybody. There is clearly a segment of older men who will benefit from testosterone treatment, but this is not a universal truth and not all men should be on it."
"We have to look at 50- to 60-year-old men and say, 'Do they have symptoms and signs that suggest low testosterone?' And then we need to confirm with blood tests," he says.
Symptoms of low testosterone may include:

• Low libido
• Decreased sexual desire
• Decreased rigidity of an erection
• Reduced energy
• Decreased sense of well-being
• Brittle bones
• General weakness

Part of the problem is that it can be hard to accurately measure testosterone levels in the blood, Anawalt says.
Some men may have low levels of total testosterone but normal levels of so-called free testosterone, which is the hormonally active form. "We think these men are normal," he says.

 

Testosterone Risks

Buyer beware, Anawalt says. "It's easy to get testosterone off the Internet or from people who have low standards for prescribing it. Many men are started for questionable reasons, and their dose keeps getting ratcheted up," he says.
Some doctors are also prescribing human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) to stimulate testosterone production. HCG is sometimes used to treat women's fertility problems and is at the center of the controversial HCG diet.
"HCG should not be used for testosterone replacement," Anawalt says. "This raises a lot of red flags."
"The best thing men can do is not start testosterone therapy unless they have been fully evaluated by an endocrinologist or knowledgeable internist," he says.
Henry Anhalt, DO, an endocrinologist in Hackensack, N.J., agrees that the indiscriminate use of testosterone supplements is risky business.
"There is a role for testosterone replacement therapy in those who are evaluated by an endocrinologist and who understand the issues around lab testing," he says. "The abuse of testosterone in both older people and younger people is rampant. It could be very very dangerous.'
Risks may include:

• Shrinkage of testes
• Decrease in HDL "good" cholesterol levels
• Acne
• Prostate gland enlargement

Second Opinion

Jed Diamond, PhD, contends that male menopause isn't a myth. "In my opinion, it is very real," he says. Diamond is the director of MenAlive, a male health program in Willits, Calif. He's also the author of Male Menopause and Surviving Male Menopause.
"The term itself is not literally accurate," he says. "Men don't have a menstrual cycle so they don't stop having one. Hormonal, physical, and psychological changes do occur in men at midlife."
"Testosterone is not something we do for every man," Diamond says. "Not all men need it or would benefit from it."
Other treatments including counseling may also help men cope with the symptoms of this time of life.
SOURCES: The Endocrine Society, Science Writers Conference, New York City, Dec. 2, 2011.Jed Diamond, PhD, director, MenAlive, Willits.Bradley Anawalt, MD, endocrinologist, University of Washington, Seattle.Henry Anhalt, DO, endocrinologist, Hackensack, N.J.
_______________________________________________________________________

By Denise Mann
WebMD Health News
Reviewed by Laura J. Martin, MD
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=152229

18 Secrets Men Want You to Know

Was your guy raised as a traditional, stoic, man's man? If so, let's  walk you through 18 relationship secrets, gathered from psychologists who study gender roles.

1: It may be easier for your man to talk about feelings indirectly. Ask what he'd do during a romantic weekend. Or what he thought the first time he met you. His answers will reveal how he feels and bring you closer.

2. Men Say "I Love You" With Actions. Some men prefer to express their feelings through actions rather than words. Your guy may say "I love you" by fixing things around the house, tidying up the yard, or even taking out the trash -- anything that makes your world a better place.

3. Men Take Commitment Seriously. Men have a reputation for being afraid to commit. But the evidence suggests men take marriage seriously. They may take longer to commit because they want to make sure they are on board for good. In a survey of currently married men, 90% say they would marry the same woman again.

4. He Really Is Listening. When you're listening to someone talk, you probably pipe in with a "yes" or "I see" every now and then. It's your way of saying, "I'm listening." But some guys don't do this. Just because a man isn't saying anything doesn't mean he's not listening. He may prefer to listen quietly and think about what you're saying.

5. Shared Activities Form Bonds. Men strengthen their relationships primarily through shared activities more than by sharing thoughts or feelings. For many men, activities like sports and sex make them feel closer to their partner.

6. Men Need Time for Themselves. While shared activities are important, men also need time for themselves. Whether your guy enjoys golf, gardening, or working out at the gym, encourage him to pursue his hobbies, while you make time for your own. When both partners have space to nurture their individuality, they have more to give to each other."
 

7. Men Learn From Their Fathers. If you want to know how a man will act in a relationship, get to know his dad. Some say men learn about their relationship role by watching and listening to their fathers. How they are with each other and how the father relates to the mother can predict how a man will relate to his wife.

8. Men Let Go Faster Than Women. Women tend to remember negative experiences longer and may have lingering feelings of stress, anxiety, or sadness. In contrast, men are less likely to dwell on unpleasant events and tend to move on more quickly. So while you may still want to talk about last night's argument, your guy may have already forgotten about it.

9. Men Don't Pick Up on Subtle Cues. Men are more likely to miss subtle signals like tone of voice or facial expressions. And they are especially likely to miss sadness on a woman's face. If you want to make sure your guy gets the message, be direct.

10. Men Respond to AppreciationShowing appreciation for your guy can make a big difference in the way he acts. Take parenting. Studies show that fathers are more involved in care-giving when their wives value their involvement and see them as competent.
 

11. Men Think About Sex ... A LotOK, so maybe this one is no secret. The majority of men under age 60 think about sex at least once a day, compared with only a quarter of women. And that's not all. Men fantasize about sex nearly twice as often as women do, and their fantasies are much more varied. They also think more about casual sex than women do. But thinking is not the same as doing.
 

12. Men Find Sex Significant. It's a myth that most men think sex is just sex. For many, sex is a very important act between two committed people. And just like most women, men find sexual intimacy to be most satisfying in the context of a committed relationship. One reason is that long-term partners know how to please one another better than strangers do.
 

13. He Likes It When You Initiate Sex. Most guys feel as though they're the ones who always initiate sex. But they also like to be pursued and wish their partner would take the lead more often. Don't be shy about letting your guy know you're in the mood. Initiating sex some of the time may lead to a higher level of satisfaction for both of you.
 

14. Guys Aren't Always Up for Sex. Men, much to many women's surprise, aren't always in the mood for sex. Just like women, men are often stressed by the demands of work, family, and paying the bills. And stress is a big libido crusher. When a guy says, "not tonight," it doesn't mean he's lost interest in you. He just means he doesn't want to have sex right then.

15. Men Like Pleasing Their Partner. Your pleasure is important to your man. But he won't know what you want unless you tell him. Too many women feel uncomfortable talking about what they like and don't like. If you can tell him clearly in a way that doesn't bruise his ego, he'll listen. Because he knows he'll feel good if you feel good.
 

16. Guys Get Performance Anxiety. Most men get performance anxiety on occasion, especially as they age. Your guy may worry about his physique, technique, and stamina. If you can help him learn to relax and stay focused on the pleasures of the moment, sex will become less stressful.
 

17. Men May Stray When Needs Aren't Met . If a man doesn't feel loved and appreciated in his relationship, he may turn elsewhere for satisfaction. For one man, that may mean burying himself in work. Another may develop a fixation on sports or video games. And some men cheat. To avoid this, partners need to work together to meet each other's needs.  

18. He's Vested in You. Most men realize there's a lot to lose if a long-term relationship goes sour – not just each other's company, but the entire life you've built together. If you're willing to work to strengthen your marriage, chances are your man will be, too.

Reference
http://www.medicinenet.com/18_secrets_men_want_you_to_know_pictures_slideshow/article.htm

Eat According to Your Blood Type

In my recent work of  browsing the internet I haven't found document or site  telling me what is the common blood type for men, nevertheless what matters most we should know what is our   blood type [Acernt.Talk]

What your blood type says about your diet,                             your workout and you.

You feel like you’re doing everything right, health-wise. You eat salmon and quinoa, you exercise regularly, you even take the stairs. But if you're still plagued by midday lethargy, digestion issues or just can't lose weight, you might want to take something unorthodox into consideration—your blood type

According to Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo, author of Eat Right 4 Your Type, whether you’re an A, B, AB or O, your blood type reveals eye-opening things about your personality and your body's needs. Here's what Dr. D'Adamo says about what foods and workouts will help you reach your blood type's fitness goals.

TYPE O
3 Character Traits: Focused, leader, energetic
Your Diet: Type Os (considered the original blood type) are descendants from hunter-gatherers who relied mainly on animal protein to survive their strenuous lifestyles.
Your Personality: You’re known for your leadership skills, extroversion, energy and focus. You consider yourself responsible, decisive, organized, objective, rule-conscious and practical. (Probably because you are.) But if you ever cheat on your diet, stop exercising or slip into a negative mindset (even boredom), watch out. You become angry, hyperactive or even manic.
What to Eat: Eat lean beef, lamb, turkey, chicken or fish (like bass, cod, halibut, sole and rainbow trout), kelp, seafood and (in moderation) salt, which lowers your levels of iodine, giving you optimal thyroid function.
What to Avoid: You might have difficulty digesting dairy, eggs and gluten, and should avoid wheat germ and wheat products like bread. Beans and legumes should also be avoided when possible, since they mess with your digestion and can wear you out or make you retain fluids. Cruciferous veggies like cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and mustard greens should be nixed because they inhibit thyroid function.
Dinner Tonight: Lamb and asparagus stew, steamed broccoli and sweet potato, and mixed fruit like blueberries, kiwi, grapes and peaches.
Your Workout: It’s especially important for you to work out regularly to stay fit, and exercising will help regulate stomach problems and ulcers you may experience because of your O-ness. Which is fine, since your blood type thrives on physical exercise anyway. Get sweating with the treadmill, swimming, running, cycling and weight training.

TYPE A

3 Character Traits: Hardworking, responsible, calm
Your Diet: When hunter-gatherer Os started thinning out, our ancestors started relying on agriculture and expanding their diet to include a semi-vegetarian approach. Type As have the digestive enzymes and bacteria it takes to digest grains and plants that other blood types might have a rough time breaking down.
Your Personality: When everyone else is panicking, you keep it cool. You’re responsible, hardworking, detail oriented and extremely organized. But you also have a classic “type A” personality—stressed and conscientious, craving success and perfection. You're the most artistic of the blood types (and even a bit sensitive).
What to Eat: Fill your plate with fruits like berries, figs, plums, apples, avocados, pears and peaches. Choose veggies like broccoli, artichokes, carrots, greens and garlic. Fish and poultry should be limited since type As produce fewer meat-digesting enzymes, which is why they have such a hard time digesting red meat. To get protein, rely on plant protein from nuts (like nut butters), seeds, beans and soy. Since your body can easily break down and get optimal nutrition from grains, carbs and proteins, cereal, breads and pastas should be staples of your diet.
What to Avoid: To balance cortisol levels (you may have high levels, which can lead to OCD, disrupted sleep, muscle loss, fat gain and insulin resistance) limit sugar, caffeine and alcohol and don’t skip meals, especially breakfast. Stressful elements like extreme weather conditions, loud noise, overwork and violent TV and movies should also be avoided.
Dinner Tonight: Tofu-pesto lasagna, broccoli and frozen yogurt.
Your Workout: Since you stress easily, try something calming like yoga.

TYPE B

3 Character Traits: Individualistic, relaxed, unconventional
Your Diet: Type Bs emerged when type Os moved to the Himalayas as nomads, domesticating animals and living on meat and dairy. Modern Bs should rely on lean red meat (like lamb, venison and beef) and fish, and choose turkey over chicken. Because of a sugar present in milk, Bs should work dairy like yogurt, cheese and milk into their diet each day.
Your Personality: You throw yourself into projects you love, always sticking to your goal, even when it’s against the odds. Since you follow your own rules, you’re not the most cooperative of the blood types. And because you pay attention to your thoughts more than your feelings, you can sometimes come off as cold.
What to Eat: Fill up on leafy greens and vegetables, and fruits like bananas, grapes, plums and pineapple.
What to Avoid: Take it easy on grains and avoid corn, buckwheat, rye and wheat since they can alter your ability to metabolize. (Same goes for nuts and seeds, so avoid peanuts, sunflower seeds and sesame seeds.)
Dinner Tonight: Broiled fish with roasted yams and rosemary, steamed vegetables and mixed fresh fruit.
Your Workout: Maintaining the mind/body balance is essential, so go for exercises that challenges both, like tennis, martial arts, cycling, hiking or golf.

TYPE AB

3 Character Traits: Difficult to read, trustworthy, volatile
Your Diet: Type AB is the newest blood type and is the rarest, found in less than 5% of the population. Since ABers share traits with As and Bs, they’re able to digest a wide range of foods. However, they have type B’s adaption to meats, but A’s low stomach acid, which means meat often gets stored as fat. An AB's staples should be veggies, seafood and turkey. Red meat should be eaten sparingly. ABs, like Bs, thrive on dairy and can process eggs particularly efficiently.
Your Personality: You have traits from both ends of the spectrum, making you hard to pigeonhole. You are passionate in your convictions, but you also want to be liked by others and this can create conflicts. You don't mind doing favors or helping out, as long as its on your own conditions. You may have a special interest in art and metaphysics.
What to Eat: Weak immune system? Try a vegetable-rich diet with a variety of carbohydrates. Snack on fresh fruits like cherries, grapes, watermelon and figs. (But thanks to your alkaline stomach, you might have a hard time digesting acidic foods like oranges.) Certain kinds of seafood, like mahi-mahi, red snapper, salmon, sardines and tuna, are optimal.
What to Avoid: Enjoy carbs in moderation, but bypass corn and buckwheat, which are difficult for ABs to digest. Avoid all smoked and cured meats as well as chicken, veal, beef, pork or shellfish. Steer clear of caffeine and alcohol, especially when you’re stressed.
Dinner Tonight: Tofu omelet with stir-fried vegetables and mixed fruit salad.
Your Work Out: Since you pull from both sides of the spectrum, you need to keep balance in your workout regimen, which means a combo of calming activities (like yoga or tai chi) and more intense physical exercise (like running or biking.) Visualization and carving out time alone are important, too. If you’re going to be sitting a lot (say, at work all day), break it up with some exercise. It will keep you energized for the haul.

Lauren Passell
http://www.mensfitness.com/nutrition/eat-according-to-your-blood-type