Find LGBT Friendly Health Care Provider:
OR OR

Medical Professionals Dedicated to Serving You!

LGBTHealthCare.com is dedicated to providing members of our LGBT Community with assistance in finding a Gay, Lesbian or LGBT Friendly Health Care Provider;

Doctors, Dentists, Chiropractors, Nurses and Practitioners in every speciality!

We realize how important it is to work with a health care provider that stands in full support of you as a Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual or Transgendered person. Our service is Fast, Easy and Free!

To get started, please enter your search criteria in the "Find LGBT Friendly Health Care Provider" search box above.

Welcome!

*If you're a health care provider or member of the medical community and would like to be listed in our directory, please click on the blue "Learn More" tab to the right.


News and Notes

The Presidential Memorandum Regarding Hospital Visitation and Decision-Making

LGBT hospital rights

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

On April 15, 2010, President Obama signed a presidential memorandum [PDF] taking important steps to protect the visitation and healthcare decision-making rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people. Two main orders related to visitation and decision-making are included in this memo:

  • Hospitals that participate in Medicare or Medicaid must “respect the rights of patients to designate visitors” and they may not deny visitation access based on “race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.”
  • These hospitals must respect all patients’ advance directives.

Read HRC's Press Release on this Presidential Memorandum

Related Resources for Healthcare Admnistrators:

Related Resources for LGBT Individuals & Families:


The Secret to Vibrant Health and Fitness

What's the real key to more vibrant health and a fitter body?

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Though there's no 'once size fits all' approach, creating optimum health comes down to what you eat, how you breathe and—ahhhhhhh—taking time to properly stretch, says Brigitte Malaaya Britton, H.N., a holistic nutritionist, organic gourmet chef and author of The Mega Way.

Fotolia_7191995_XSBut there is no getting around it—what you eat is the cornerstone to more vibrant health, says Britton. "It's human nature to look for the quick fix, and unfortunately there's more emphasis in society on weight loss than health."

We asked Britton to elaborate on her unique approach to health and well-being. Here are some excerpts from that interview:

How do you really know if what you're eating is helping or hurting your health?

Food is supposed to energize you, not sedate you. If a meal sedates you, you're eating the wrong foods. If you're eating right you should feel great after a meal. Think of it this way: you put fuel in your car to keep it running, not to shut it down. Your body is the same.

What are five foods that we must include in our diets to stay fit, lean and feeling good?

First, let me mention two things that are essential for better health—fiber and water. Fiber helps your body achieve overall balance; it eliminates toxins and wastes in your body, helps eliminate cravings for bad foods and gives you more energy. It even helps your body burn fat! And without enough water, your body can't flush away toxins. Water is essential.

That said, the must-have foods include Ground Omega Golden Flax Seeds, which are a fantastic source of fiber. One shot of Wheat Grass each day is the equivalent of eating about two pounds of greens, which alkalize the body. Be sure to eat least five (6 ounce) servings of protein to support lean  muscle mass. Ginger root and garlic are essential to support immune system health. Goji berries (pictured above) are amazing anti-oxidants, and Fuji apples are the best for heart and cholesterol health.

What are five foods we should avoid at all costs?

Avoid refined sugar, as well as Aspartame (sugar subsitute) and a common food additive known as MSG. They're all poison for your body. Also avoid enriched foods like white bread, pasta, potatoes, and rice. Packaged deli meats are full of chemicals and gluten adversely affects digestion and causes bloating.

You said that proper breathing and stretching can actually improve your metabolism. How does this work?

Oxygen is key to rejuvenating the cells, therefore slow and deep breathing will speed up the metabolism because your body's cells are constantly being replenished. If you take even five minutes every day and just practice breathing, you will see an amazing difference in the quality of your daily life.

Remembering to stretch while breathing deeply gets us in touch with our magnificent bodies. Do you have any idea how many people have trouble just breathing and hardly ever bother to stretch? We can live without food for awhile, water for a shorter while but if we stop breathing for just a few minutes, we die. The now is where all healing takes place, where life is actually lived, not in the past or present. So take some time to breathe and reconnect with yourself.

Compliments: http://www.gayhealthblog.com/my-blog/2009/08/eat-breathe-stretch.html#more


How to Choose a Doctor

You will also need to decide what type of physician you are looking for.

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Choosing a new physician can be a difficult task, especially if you have moved and are living in a new community. Asking for recommendations from coworkers, neighbors, and friends is a good way to start, but ultimately you will have to decide which physician is best suited to your individual needs and situation.

Your insurance plan may restrict your choices to a group of plan-approved physicians or offer financial incentives to use plan-affiliated doctors. Always check the terms of your insurance coverage to find out whether your plan will cover visits to the physician you are considering. If he or she does not participate in your health plan, how much will you pay out-of-pocket for visits to this provider? If you have changed jobs and must decide among different health plans offered by your employer, you may want to make your choice of doctor first and then choose the health plan that covers visits to this physician.

You will also need to decide what type of physician you are looking for. Do you need a primary health care provider (a doctor who will manage your overall care and refer you to specialists when necessary)? Or do you need a specialist in a particular area?

Most practicing physicians in the U.S. both primary care physicians physicians (a doctor you would see for routine ailments such as a cold, the flu, and regular checkups) and specialists (doctors who focus on one area whom you would see, for example, for a colonoscopy, rheumatoid arthritis, IBS , multiple sclerosis, cancer, or other specific conditions) are board certified, meaning that they have completed residency training in a specific field following graduation from medical school and have passed a competency examination in that field. Primary care providers may be board certified in different areas such as, for instance, Family Medicine or Internal Medicine.  

It is also possible to find out whether a physician is in good standing with state licensing agencies through a Web site run by administrators of several state medical licensure boards. The Web site Administrators In Medicine can provide information about disciplinary actions taken or criminal charges filed against physicians in many states.

Finally, you may have additional concerns when choosing a physician. These concerns should reflect your own needs and priorities The following questions can help you to define further what is most important for you:

  1. Where is the practice located? Will it be easy for you to get there? Is it accessible by public transportation? Is there ample parking?
  1. Which hospital(s) does the doctor use? Are you comfortable with the possibility of being treated at one of these institutions should the need arise?
  1. Where are routine x-rays and laboratory studies performed? Can these be done in-office, or will you have to go to an outside laboratory?
  1. How long must you wait for an appointment after you call? Can you be seen on the same day if you have an urgent need?
  1. Is the office staff friendly and courteous?
  1. If you call with a question about your care, does a doctor or nurse return your call promptly?
  1. Who covers for the physician when he/she is away? Whom should you call if you have a problem after-hours? If the doctor works in a group, are you comfortable with being seen by one of the practice partners?
  1. Does the physician frequently refer patients to specialists or does he/she prefer to manage the majority of your care themselves?
  1. Does the office process insurance claims, or must you pay up-front for services and file the claims yourself?

If you still aren't sure about your choice, ask if you can make an "interview" appointment to speak with the physician about your concerns. You may have to pay a co-payment or other fee for this service, but it can be a valuable way to gather information when making your decision.


How to Choose a Doctor

You will also need to decide what type of physician you are looking for.

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Choosing a new physician can be a difficult task, especially if you have moved and are living in a new community. Asking for recommendations from coworkers, neighbors, and friends is a good way to start, but ultimately you will have to decide which physician is best suited to your individual needs and situation.

Your insurance plan may restrict your choices to a group of plan-approved physicians or offer financial incentives to use plan-affiliated doctors. Always check the terms of your insurance coverage to find out whether your plan will cover visits to the physician you are considering. If he or she does not participate in your health plan, how much will you pay out-of-pocket for visits to this provider? If you have changed jobs and must decide among different health plans offered by your employer, you may want to make your choice of doctor first and then choose the health plan that covers visits to this physician.

You will also need to decide what type of physician you are looking for. Do you need a primary health care provider (a doctor who will manage your overall care and refer you to specialists when necessary)? Or do you need a specialist in a particular area?

Most practicing physicians in the U.S. both primary care physicians physicians (a doctor you would see for routine ailments such as a cold, the flu, and regular checkups) and specialists (doctors who focus on one area whom you would see, for example, for a colonoscopy, rheumatoid arthritis, IBS , multiple sclerosis, cancer, or other specific conditions) are board certified, meaning that they have completed residency training in a specific field following graduation from medical school and have passed a competency examination in that field. Primary care providers may be board certified in different areas such as, for instance, Family Medicine or Internal Medicine.  

It is also possible to find out whether a physician is in good standing with state licensing agencies through a Web site run by administrators of several state medical licensure boards. The Web site Administrators In Medicine can provide information about disciplinary actions taken or criminal charges filed against physicians in many states.

Finally, you may have additional concerns when choosing a physician. These concerns should reflect your own needs and priorities The following questions can help you to define further what is most important for you:

  1. Where is the practice located? Will it be easy for you to get there? Is it accessible by public transportation? Is there ample parking?
  1. Which hospital(s) does the doctor use? Are you comfortable with the possibility of being treated at one of these institutions should the need arise?
  1. Where are routine x-rays and laboratory studies performed? Can these be done in-office, or will you have to go to an outside laboratory?
  1. How long must you wait for an appointment after you call? Can you be seen on the same day if you have an urgent need?
  1. Is the office staff friendly and courteous?
  1. If you call with a question about your care, does a doctor or nurse return your call promptly?
  1. Who covers for the physician when he/she is away? Whom should you call if you have a problem after-hours? If the doctor works in a group, are you comfortable with being seen by one of the practice partners?
  1. Does the physician frequently refer patients to specialists or does he/she prefer to manage the majority of your care themselves?
  1. Does the office process insurance claims, or must you pay up-front for services and file the claims yourself?

If you still aren't sure about your choice, ask if you can make an "interview" appointment to speak with the physician about your concerns. You may have to pay a co-payment or other fee for this service, but it can be a valuable way to gather information when making your decision.


Combat Heartburn With Home Remedies

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Guest Author: Jenny Clark

When stomach acid is refluxed back from the stomach to the esophagus it causes a severe pain in the chest giving rise to heartburn. Stomach discomfort, chest pain, throat pain, sensing an acidic taste in the mouth and reflux are all symptoms of heart burn. Over the counter medications usually work for heartburns, especially antacids are very effective. However, it is not recommended to continue medication for over two months and as such home remedies can be used to combat heartburn on a long term basis.

Gingerroot can be very helpful when it comes to curing heartburn. It can absorb the acid and calms the nerves. It can be consumed in both natural as well as capsule form or can be added to the food and consumed. A section of herbs known as bitters which include gentian root, wormwood, and goldenseal can reduce the risks of heartburn. They can be taken either in capsule form or as a liquid extract. Aromatic herbs such as catnip and fennel are also known to cure heartburn. Herbs such as Irish moss, plantain, and slippery elm are also said to be able to cure heartburn.

The most common recipe for heartburn is to mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in half a glass of water and keep sipping it during meals. It can definitely help to cure heartburn. Consuming enzymes that can help speed up the digestion process is also a much recommended option. Papaya enzymes can be taken in a chewable capsule or as a fruit form after meals with a glass of water. Aloe Vera juice is also a good option when it comes to preventing heartburn as it can heal the intestinal tract.

Making a juice out of potatoes and mixing it with some other fruit juice and consuming it is also a recommended option to prevent and fight heartburn. Almonds are also supposed to be highly effective in treating heartburn and chewing a few almonds when having heartburn is advised in order to lessen the impact of the heartburn. Fruits such as apple, watermelon and banana re very good to cure heartburn and people who run the risk of facing heartburn should consume them on a regular basis.

In order to avoid any heartburn in the future, foods rich in fiber nutrients should be consumed on a regular basis. They can be taken in either pills or beverage form. Tea is also supposed to be good to alleviate heartburns. Green and herbal teas containing Irish moss, plantain, and slippery elm help in the digestion process and can soothe the stomach tissue. Lots of water also has to be consumed on a daily basis, with a minimum of 8 glasses of water consumption everyday which can help soothe the stomach's tissue and cleanse out all the toxins from the body and lessens the pain associated with heartburn. Thus, these are a few home remedies which if followed can definitely help in curing and eliminating heartburn.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/combat-heartburn-with-home-remedies-1224902.html

About the Author: You can find more information on heartburn home remedies and much more great information on heartburn at TreatHeartburn.org .


Anti-Aging Nutritional Supplements

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Guest Author: Tim Mielke

The explorer Ponce De Leon was made famous by his continuous quest for the legendary Fountain of Youth. While the Fountain of Youth may be just a myth, that doesn't stop people today from exploring various avenues to defy the ravages of time. We desire to keep our skin from wrinkling, fend off illness, and maintain the energy levels we had during the prime of our youth. Although the Fountain of Youth may not be real, there are many very real anti-aging supplements that we can use to keep our youthful appearance and energy.

At about the age of 30, our natural hormone production begins to decline. Decreased levels of testosterone (the dominant male hormone), estrogen (the dominant female hormone), and Human Growth Hormone (more commonly referred to as HGH) can lead to:

· Slower metabolism

· Less energy throughout the day

 · Body fat is gained more easily

· Loss of muscle mass

· Fluctuations of body temperature

· Cholesterol buildup in the arteries

· Weaker immune system

Human Growth Hormone replacement therapy is one of the most popular methods used today to combat the effects of aging. On the down side, HGH replacement can be very expensive and time consuming. There are however, some very convenient, inexpensive and natural HGH supplements to keep you vibrant and youthful.

Skin care is essential to keeping our youthful appearance. One of the most common and visibly noticeable side effects of aging is the change in our skin health. Your face especially, will tell others an unspoken tale of how well you take care of your skin. Some of the more common symptoms are:

· Crow's feet

· Loss of skin elasticity

· Dark circles under the eyes

· Frown lines

Sooner or later, we all will begin to notice some form of these unwanted symptoms of aging. Everyone from Hollywood's A-list stars to the housewife next door is looking for a way to keep their youthful appearance. You could go through the expensive route of collagen injections, Botox or even a facelift, but those may leave you with unwanted side effects. For those of us who don't want to go that route (or can't afford it), skin care has come a long way.

There are now many effective and inexpensive treatments we can do ourselves in the convenience of our own home. To combat those unwanted lines and wrinkles, Anti-Aging 3 Collagen by Dr. Vanessa will help your body to stimulate its own production of natural collagen, keeping your skin firm and healthy. The skin around your eyes is delicate and needs to be treated with care. Derma E Age Defying Eye Cream is formulated especially for these sensitive areas and will help to reduce lines and wrinkles for smoother, younger looking skin.

As we age, it becomes more difficult to fend of illnesses. Keeping a healthy immune system will also help to fend off the effects of Father Time. This can be as easy as taking a simple antioxidant blend. Antioxidants help to fight off germs from the common cold to the flu, as well as free radicals, which damage your body on a cellular level.

It has never been easier to look younger and feel better than it is today. Although there is nothing we can do to completely stop the aging process, we can continue to take special care of ourselves so as to slow the process down. It's time to stop getting older, and start getting better!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/antiaging-nutritional-supplements-1110581.html

About the Author: Tim Mielke Competitive Bodybuilder and Author http://www.i-supplements.com Tim Mielke has been involved in the supplement industry for over 15 years. As a former competitive body builder and personal trainer, Tim has extensive first-hand knowledge of the benefits and pitfalls of fitness supplementation. Knowledge so extensive, in fact, that his book, "The Book of Supplement Secrets: A Beginners Guide to Nutritional Supplements," was recently published and is currently available through http://Amazon.com . Tim brings this supplement and bodybuilding know-how to http://www.i-supplements.com as a contributing author and researcher.


Alternative Remedy Alternative Remedy for Insomnia

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Guest Author: Cecilia Valenzuela

Can't sleep? Are sleepless nights intervening with your daily life? If so, maybe you are one of the approximately 30 million Americans who suffer from unceasing insomnia.  Sleep is very essential to our health as a human being, and it is just as important as diet and exercise. Even if an individual needs change, adults commonly need between 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night. 

When sleeping difficulties hit you hard, you will have to find a way to relieve yourself. Many people would elect using conventional sleeping pills and other prescription drugs. Some, however, prefer the more natural way for a change. Some people see homeopathic sleep aids as the better alternative to a source of anxiety and irritation. These remedies bring advantages without the inauspicious side effects in your body and are seen as not merely quick fixes, but as long-term cures. 

What is insomnia and what are the symptoms of insomnia? Simply put, it means not getting an adequate amount or a good night sleep for a prolonged time. It not only makes you feel tired all the time but it can cause a lot of health problems. 

Insomnia causes are often associated by too little or poor quality sleep as a result of other factors such as stress, or perhaps a result of your sleeping pattern due to a change in your hours at work. You may know too well about the symptoms of falling asleep, waking up in the middle of the night and then struggling to fall back to sleep, only to find yourself dragging the next day at work because you could not sleep.  Insomnia is something that troubles many people and has a number of different causes. The most common is stress, anxiety, or too much caffeine. Insomnia can cause a lot of dangers to your health and getting too little sleep can have serious affects on your daily life including your job performance. 

Insomnia can lead to excessive sleepiness, fatigue, trouble in concentration or difficulty staying focused, feelings of depression, or irritability. It also increases the dangers of having an accident or making a sober mistake. It is essential that you have enough sleep every night.  Most people would agree that they need a good seven to eight hours of sleep but there are those who may require much less or even more. And others may only need 5 hours of sleep, while others need at least 9 in order to feel well-rested and rejuvenated the following day. 

There are many insomnia treatment alternatives that exist such as herbal teas that are known to calm ones nerves and induce a state of relaxation. Alternative remedies relax mild tension and increase drowsiness, balance the hormones involved in sleep patterns, restore rejuvenation through restful sleep, maintain routine balance of cell salts in the body as long as it is taken in moderation. 

Looking for a remedy for insomnia? There are many alternative treatments that are effective for many in treating both the symptoms of insomnia and its underlying causes. And many people with insomnia choose herbal remedies for treating their insomnia. Many of the natural remedies have been proven effective to treat insomnia in the most natural and fastest way.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/alternative-remedy-for-insomnia-1009871.html

About the Author:
If you would like to learn more about an alternative remedy for insomnia and also learn how to improve your own personal health in other areas, log onto   http://www.GoldCanyonNaturals.com


Male Permanent Hair Removal for Men

Permanent hair removal for men is becoming more and more popular these days...

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Guest Author: Alex C Johnson

Permanent hair removal for men is becoming more and more popular these days. Many men like to remove their unwanted body hair once and for all.  

The great things about male permanent hair removal is you easily do it once, and then you save so much time on shaving every day for the rest of your life. So you can always have a clean, fabulous looking body.   

Which Permanent Hair Removal Method Is Best for Men?    

You may already know there are many hair removal methods that give permanent results. But the question is, which one is the best for men?  

Because you know how many hair removal guides and websites are out there, but most of them just share advice about women and female hair removal methods. But times have changed. Men are getting more and more interested in this area and yet the resources for us to find helpful information is so rare.  

So is there an easy ways for men to remove their unwanted hair permanently?  

The good news is, yes, and it's called laser hair removal for men .  

Laser is the most effective and proven way to remove your unwanted hair permanently. It's easy and totally pain free. It targets your hair cells so they won't reproduce and grow again.  

The results is a very smooth, clean, and shiny skin that will amaze everyone who touches or sees it. 

Millions of men and women have used this powerful methods to go hair-free easily and fast - including many top, famous celebrities and models. You know, it's not by accident that their bodies look so clean and shining all the time.  

There are also a few other possible ways for men to remove body hair permanently. Even though none of them are as easy and effective as laser hair removal is, but it's still worth finding out more about them. So you can really choose the best one for you at the end.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/men's-health-articles/male-permanent-hair-removal-for-men-952779.html

About the Author:
Looking for  easy  permanent hair removal  methods for men ? Find out proven ways to remove facial or body hair  as easy as 1, 2, 3 . Also check out this helpful guide on    laser hair removal for men   to  discover how to permanently get rid of your unwanted hair easily and fast .


Healthy Liver Function - The Secrets To A Life Long Healthy Liver

Most liver problems, diseases, and damage are self inflicted. The number 1 cause for liver damage is lack of nutrition due to excessive alcohol intake...

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Guest Author: Greg Podsakoff

Most liver problems, diseases, and damage are self inflicted. The number 1 cause for liver damage is lack of nutrition due to excessive alcohol intake. Drinking alcohol is not only extremely hard on the liver, but it can remove all nutrients from the body in the process. However, this is not the only way to damage a liver. There are several other liver specific diseases and ways to prevent catching them...


Male Pattern Baldness Treatments and Tips

Male baldness is more common than most of us think – even men who are lucky enough to have a full head of hair lose between 50 and 150 individual hairs every day.

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Guest Author: Emeka Ezidiegwu

Male baldness is more common than most of us think – even men who are lucky enough to have a full head of hair lose between 50 and 150 individual hairs every day. For many men, this isn’t a big problem as the hair is simply regenerated and new hair replaces it; however an estimated 60% of men are affected by hair loss at some point during their lives.    Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenic alopecia, is hereditary and is the main cause of hair loss in an estimated 95% of men. The condition often begins with a receding hairline and causes loss of hair on top of the head, but leaves the back and sides mostly unaffected. There isn’t really a known cure, although organic baldness treatment can help to control the loss of hair.  

One of the disadvantages of conventional medicines that are designed to treat male pattern baldness is that they can have adverse side effects. Some of these can include a loss of interest in sex, headaches and an increased heart rate. Most treatment products don’t really have any side effects, although they should not be used without medical advice by women who may become pregnant. 


Stronger And Healthy Bones Are Just A Spray Away

If you're looking for a nutritional super-hero, look no further than health-promoting vitamin D - already recognized as essential for promoting your bone health, recent discoveries show every cell in your body needs vitamin D for your optimal well-being.

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Guest Author: Dr. J Mercola

Vitamin D is something that you should have for your body because it supports your body’s health system in so many ways. Getting enough Vitamin D will prevent you from illnesses and diseases such as cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes and a lot more. Vitamin D, calciferol, is a fat-soluble vitamin. It is found in food, but also can be made in your body after exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun.  

The major biologic function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. It promotes bone mineralization in concert with a number of other vitamins, minerals, and hormones. 

Without vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle, soft, or misshapen. Vitamin D prevents rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, which are skeletal diseases that result in defects that weaken bones. 

That’s why you always have to make sure you’re getting enough vitamin D in your body. Dr. Joseph Mercola of www.mercola.com introduces Vitamin D Spray -- the latest breakthrough in easy-to-use vitamin D3 supplementation. Each pre-metered dose delivers 1000 IU of crucial vitamin D3 to boost support for your:  

• Overall heart health

• Immune system health

• Balanced moods and feelings of well-being

• Strong and healthy bones 

• Improved muscle strength 

• Proper digestion and food absorption 

• Ideal weight maintenance 

Learn more about the complete benefits by visiting   http://products.mercola.com/vitamin-d-spray 

Vitamin D Spray is completely stimulant-free, contains only natural ingredients, and tastes great, too. Put vitamin D's super-hero powers to work for you right away -- order today to enjoy FREE Shipping and Handling. Promo runs until March 3, 2009

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/stronger-and-healthy-bones-are-just-a-spray-away-799884.html

About the Author:
Dr. Joseph Mercola is the founder of the number 1  Natural Health  website and  Natural Health Products .


7 Diet Tips to Strenthen Your Immune System

Stop getting sick and protect yourself with this diet to strengthen your immune system.

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Guest Author: Cindy Papp

A diet to strengthen your immune system should be done all the time if you want to stop getting sick. Your body is an incredible machine that kills virus, bacteria and other pathogens. But it can't do this without your help so - here are some tips to help you strengthen your immunity.
 
Tip Number 1: Start your day right. Vitamin C is one of the best nutrients for your immune system. It increases your body's production of antibodies and white blood cells that fight infection. It increases the level of natural interferon, which is the antibody that coats cells and stops virus from entering. It raises your good cholesterol and helps prevent plaque build-up in the arteries. But waiting until you get sick isn't enough. This is a vitamin you should be getting plenty of in order to prevent a flu or cold from even starting. It takes time for your body to get these effects.
 
To get enough in your diet on a regular basis, start your day with an orange or grapefruit. Be sure to eat berries and other fruits and vegetables throughout the day. If you absolutely need to supplement, 200 milligrams a day should be enough. This would be equivalent to about six servings of fruit and vegetables a day.
 
Tip Number 2: Eat steel-cut oats, or oatmeal, for breakfast. The type of fiber found in this cereal contains beta-glucans which activates your killer cells. The steel-cut oats take more time to cook than the quick-cook kind, but it has twice the amount of this nutrient.
 
Tip Number 3: Top your lunch salad or sandwich with plenty of tomatoes. Besides being high in vitamin C, they are an antioxidant with tremendous cancer fighting powers. In studies, people who ate a diet rich in tomatoes compared to a diet with no tomatoes had less free-radical damage to their infection-fighting white blood cells.
 
Tip Number 4: Add five cups of chamomile tea a day to your diet. Recent studies show drinking this much tea for two whole weeks had more polyphenols in their blood. These plant compounds are phytonutrients, which increases your body's bacteria-fighting ability. In addition, this tea is well known to be a sedative and nerve relaxant. This is beneficial since your body does most of its healing and repairing while you are asleep.
 
Tip Number 5: Eat proteins that contain plenty of zinc. These foods include dark meat turkey, beans, beef and even crab. Zinc increases your body's T-cell count, which are a type of cell that fights infections. It helps all your white cells, or immune cells, to release more antibodies and increases the production of many more. It also causes them to work more aggressively. However, don't rely on zinc supplements. Overdoing it on zinc can suppress your immune system. Instead, eat the foods that contain natural zinc.
 
Tip Number 6: Use fresh garlic in as many dishes as you can. Add it to soups, sauces, or even fresh vegetable juice if you make it. It stimulates production of your natural killer cells and increases antibody production. It is a well-known antioxidant that is a powerful cancer fighter. It protects your heart by stopping platelets from sticking together which can clog blood vessels. This is helpful in the prevention of heart attacks.
 
Tip Number 7
: Spice it up. Use lots of chili peppers, onions, radishes, cayenne pepper and garlic in your daily dishes. These contain "mucolytics," which actually thin mucus, making it easier to clear from your sinuses and chest. This is a natural expectorant without the side effects of medications.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/7-diet-tips-to-strenthen-your-immune-system-758892.html

About the Author:
Cindy is a Certified Nutritional Counselor.  Get more information on  immune building  and learn how a  diet to strengthen immunity  might work for you.


Where to Get Cheap Health Insurance?

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Guest Author: Alice Campbell

Everything in this life is about money. The more money you have, the better people will look at you. If you don’t have a lot of money and tight budgets run your life, the lower the costs you pay for the same services, the better you feel about yourself. 

This statement is true in any domain. No matter if it is business or pleasure, you always seek to pay less for the same services. However, because of the tight budgets, people overlook some of things they think aren’t necessary at a certain point. 


Depression Treating Introduction

Before you can treat depression you have to know exactly what you are dealing with.

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Guest Author: Chokyi Ooi

You have to understand depression before you can treat it. Depression troubles 15 million Americans every year, it's not a joke. The most troubling aspect is that only about 1/3 of those people seek help. Too many Americans are still tarnished by the age-old stereotype associated with any mental illness. Their character is so important that they don't want a label like “crazy” to tarnish it. In order to treat depression it must be diagnosed. Diagnosis can't happen until the afflicted seek help. It is a circle that continues to affect all the players involved. 


Consumer Information About Porcelain Veneers

For many people, whiter teeth are incredibly desirable and they will do almost anything to attain them.

0 Comments Link | Authored by: Jeff Adoph

Guest Author: Robert

For many people, whiter teeth are incredibly desirable and they will do almost anything to attain them. However people with sensitive teeth cannot get the results they want with traditional bleaching techniques. These people should definately consider porcelain veneers as one of their options.   

Porcelain Veneers are one of the most acceptable in current use and is the one cosmetic dentistry procedure that people are talking about the most.  


Even Men Can Succumb to Eating Disorders, What Now?

Figures show that over one million boys and men also suffer from eating problems. Many experts believe that the numbers are much higher because men are more afraid to seek help or discuss their eating problems with other people...

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Guest Author: Janet Martin

A female model strutting on the catwalk like a waif is probably the first image that comes when you hear the word eating disorder. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that, in the United States alone, five to ten million women and young girls are affected by common eating disorders, such as bulimia, binge eating disorder and anorexia nervosa. But even if the majority of those who suffer from eating disorders are women, men are not altogether spared from having this condition.


Why Teeth Stain - Teeth Whitening Options

There’s nothing worse than stained teeth – always covering up your mouth in photos and feeling really self-conscious when you smile. Discolouration has two main causes and there are a number of teeth whitening soultions.

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Guest Author: Dr. Bhavin Bhatt

There’s nothing worse than stained teeth – always covering up your mouth in photos and feeling really self-conscious when you smile. Discolouration has two main causes - staining and ageing. There are several ways you can reduce staining - go easy on the coffee and red wine to start with. Smoking, though, is the worst culprit – if you smoke, it’ll show on your teeth. Proper teeth cleaning (don’t forget to floss!) will keep the worst staining at bay and protect your tooth enamel, but if you add a whitening toothpaste and mouthwash, too, you’ll freshen up and brighten your teeth pretty fast.


A Healthy Lifestyle is Man's Best Choice

Building a healthy lifestyle is a cornerstone to living a full life. A healthy lifestyle is one based on maintaining physical, social and spiritual well being...

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Guest Author: Paul Rodgers

 
Building a healthy lifestyle is a cornerstone to living a full life. Living a healthy lifestyle is more than just cutting calories to lose weight or taking the stairs. A healthy lifestyle is one based on maintaining physical, social and spiritual well being. Remember, a healthy lifestyle is about balance, calculated choices and motivation. A key component to living a healthy lifestyle is exercising on a regular basis. 


The Gay Ghetto Top 10 for 2008

GLBT towns, cities, villages, ghettos, enclaves, districts, quarters, and neighborhoods are referred to with various descriptive words. But they all represent blossoming pride, celebration, and reliable real estate value.

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Each year we choose our Gay Ghetto Top 10 by cross-analyzing demographics against real estate sales data to discover those especially prized metropolitan areas throughout the USA that are most in vogue with the diverse GLBT community. When the number crunching is over, we usually have 10 distinct winners, individually ranked by virtue of their popularity. But for 2008 we have some unique and special surprises – including three 2-way ties and a 3-way tie. Our top 10 are so outstanding, in other words, that they rate higher than ever.
 
Here are our selections – ranked 1-6 to accommodate 10 championship GLBT communities:
 
#1 & #2 - Atlanta, GA & Portland, OR (2-Way Tie)
 
Atlanta
 
“Peach City” reigns as the South’s GLBT capital and continues to attract record numbers of GLBT newcomers each year. Combine Southern charm and hospitality with the exciting urban sophistication and thriving economic base of a world-class cosmopolitan city and you the unique Hot ‘Lanta cocktail. The midtown hosts a well-established gay enclave, but at least half a dozen other districts are up-and-coming GLBT ghetto centers.
 
Portland Oregon
 
The “Rose City” boasts a thriving arts scene that ranks among America’s best; and its Hawthorne Districtis home to one of the most concentrated lesbian communities on the continent. Portland’s Burnside Triangle is a triangular district that underwent a complete renaissance and is now thoroughly established as a GLBT enclave stretching over several energetic city blocks. The influence of Burnside spreads into nearby neighborhoods including the Pearl District (a former industrial section of old Portland that now booms with art and commerce) and the rather upscale and upbeat Northwest neighborhood.
 
#3 - Charlotte, NC
 
Charlotte
 
Charlotte is one of the largest banking centers in the world, and is second only to NYC in that respect. But the “Queen City” also benefits from a powerfully funded arts community and offers wonderful museums, entertainment venues, and an eclectic mix of 19th century neighborhoods and sleek urban downtown architecture. Neighborhoods like South End and NODA (North Davidson Street) enjoy a thriving GLBT presence and the city has other desirable and affordable enclaves including tree-lined Windsor Park.
 
 
#4 & #5 - Raleigh, NC & Tampa/St. Pete Metro Area, FL or (2-Way Tie)
 
Raleigh
 
Raleigh is North Carolina’s capital city and occupies one section of the Piedmont region’s Research Triangle. It benefits from an expanding arts and entertainment scene and an overabundance of renowned universities and high-tech industries. Raleigh is also fast becoming a capital city for GLBT communities. Housing is affordable; upside economic and population growth potential is strong, and it is centrally located between the pristine Outer Banks coastal region and the wildly popular Blue Ridge Mountains.
 
Tampa/St. Pete Metro
 
If 300 days of sunshine each year along some 40 miles of beachfront appeal to you, that might explain why Tampa and St. Pete have experienced a steady influx of like-minded GLBT residents and business owners during the past decade. Downtown’s Central Avenue underwent a complete revitalization and the city hosts Florida’s biggest GLBT festival. Art enthusiasts appreciate the fact that while this metro area is a great place to buy a permanent or vacation home for equity appreciation; it also serves as the proud home to the most extensive collection of Salvador Dali paintings outside of Spain.
 
#6 & #7 - Dallas/Fort Worth, TX & Short Hills/Metuchen/Surrounding, NJ or (2-Way Tie)

Dallas/Fort Worth
 
Dallas has a relatively young population, a steady economy, a low cost of living, and one of the biggest commercial fashion and furniture districts in the USA. The “Big D” is also big in terms of GLBT communities that can be found throughout the sprawling city with a high concentration along Greenville Ave., Cedar Springs Road, and Oak Lawn Avenue. The Dallas gay Mecca converges in the gorgeous historic Turtle Creek area – home to the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Dallas Theater Center. Neighboring Fort Worth is a smaller city with big city GLBT amenities including its own gay film festival and rodeo.
 
Short Hills/Metuchen/Surrounding Areas
 
Natural and historical beauty, vibrant downtown venues that retain quaint charms but exceptionally innovative restaurants and shops, the nationally recognized Paper Mill Playhouse, a first-class school system, and easy commutes into the Big Apple all conspire to make this area a uniquely awesome place to live. These valuable features have not been lost on the GLBT community that thrives in this Victorian-era central New Jersey enclave of restored antique homes and outstanding real estate investment opportunities.
 
#8, #9 & #10 - Palm Springs, CA & Chicago Metro Area, IL & Austin, TX or (3-Way Tie)
 
Austin
 
Austin has a long reputation for gay-friendliness, and what was long ago a large gay underground is now a tremendously creative GLBT synergy that permeates the whole city in full view of everyone. Austin is the state capital, an important academic center, and the music industry’s newest crown jewel. Plus the city has a high-tech industry presence only rivaled by Silicon Valley. Austin offers a wide range of GLBT enclaves that are literally all over the map, and Texas is famous for low taxes and high growth.
 
Chicago
 
“Chi-town” surprises many newcomers who do not expect so much abundant and accessible green space – including many miles of public lakefront parks – in such a large American city. Better-known assets include the entire range of big city perks and activities – from major sports teams and museums to world famous restaurants and a sizzling music scene. The local GLBT celebration attracts half a million people for its annual parade, and scores of them stay each year to become fulltime residents of the numerous architecture-rich neighborhoods found in the wonderful Windy City.
 
Palm Springs
 
Ideally situated two hours from Los Angeles and San Diego, Palm Springs combines sunny days, breathtaking mountain views, exotic nightlife, an historic downtown village, and an array of galleries, gardens, museums, shops, and restaurants. These days it also offers rare affordability, as California’s housing prices have fallen from their high perch to become much more accessible. In 2008 the town offers rare opportunities for upward equity appreciation. Plus same-sex marriage is now legal. No wonder Palm Springs has emerged as one of the most dynamic and fast-growing GLBT destinations in the USA.
 
Trace the social migration of America’s GLBT population through history. What emerges is a virtual blueprint for success in terms of smart growth, savvy investment, vibrant arts and culture, robust economics, low crime, high property value, superior schools, and model communities.
 
Pick your “Gayborhood” and rest assured that the future is bright for a diversified return on investment highlighted by synergistic appreciation of assets that are both tangible and intangible.


Men's Libido and Age - Why it Declines and How to Rejuvenate Libido Naturally

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Guest Author: Kelly Price

Men's libido declines with age however you can fight back against the aging process and rejuvenate and enhance your libido naturally. Let's look at some common causes of low libido and how to rekindle your sex drive.   If you have no serious medical conditions then common causes of low libido are   - Fatigue and Energy Levels  A curse of modern times and huge passion killer, when we become tired stressed and fatigued energy is diverted to other areas the body considers more important.


Top 9 Vitamins for Healthy and Strong Hair

One of the most important things for healthy hair is good nutritions, just as it is vital for overall stable health.

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Guest Author: Tsvetan Vetskov

Nowadays , vitamin regimes are becoming more and more popular. For such a regime specially built for your hair it takes from 2 to 3 months in order to see obvious results in your hair's condition. You can guess that consistancy and patience are very important. Another really important thing is to consult with your doctor before starting a vitamin program , especially if you have healt issues.


Sperm Taste - Improve Your Semen Taste and Your Health

Sperm taste is directly influenced by what you eat and what you put into your body will influence how your semen tastes. You can make sperm taste better and this involves a few diet changes that are easy enough to do...

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Guest Author: Monica Hendrix

Sperm taste is directly influenced by what you eat and what you put into your body will influence how your semen tastes. You can make sperm taste better and this involves a few diet changes that are easy enough to do. So for better tasting sperm follow these simple diet tips.

ALL secretions from the body reflect what you put into it... 

 


The 2 Worst Mistakes People Do When Training for Six Pack Abs

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Guest Author: Victor Lorentzo

Abdominal exercises are among the most popular, and still, most controversial themes in the fitness and exercise industry. A huge number of ab devices, gimmicks, and exercise machines have flooded the market for man and woman looking for sexier and flatter abs... that ideal 6-pack abs look that we all are looking for...


Prostate Milking - The Facts About Milking The Prostate Gland

Prostate milking is becoming a natural alternative for men looking to maintain prostate health. More and more medical practitioners recognize that regular prostate milking can help to avoid or lessen prostate problems later in life.

0 Comments Link | Authored by:


By Guest Author: Jonas Sterling [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jonas_Sterling]

Prostate milking is a medical based procedure and can be used to benefit men in several ways.

The most important reason for prostate milking is to relieve men from excess seminal fluid and can be very beneficial for men suffering from chronic prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia or BHP. Men who suffer from acute prostatitis should avoid milking the prostate gland as the prostate infection can spread elsewhere in the body, thus making this procedure a highly dangerous one for those individuals.


Nutrition Nutrients - Building Blocks of Life

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Guest Author: Matthew Hick

You hear it all of the time: cut back on those carbs, fats and proteins. Your body isn't meant to eat dairy or animals. While the makers of a variety of fad diets may want you to think that your body doesn't need these important nutrients, they're wrong.
 
Everything we eat breaks down into nutrients our body uses for energy. The basic building blocks of these nutrients are: carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Eaten in the right amounts every day they can help you become stronger, healthier and happier.


You Think Only Women Have Menopause? You're Wrong!

Male menopause may sound awkward for most people and that is because the medical profession does not recognize the existence of this syndrome. But in truth, the gradual decrease of testosterone in a man's body causes male menopause.

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

When you overhear two guys in their fifties discussing about symptoms such as dropping energy levels, sluggish brain functioning, weight gain, muscle pains, and depressed sex drive, you immediately surmise that those men are talking about their menopausal wives. Well, you may be right, except that those men could also be talking about themselves. You would think that women have the monopoly when it comes to the term menopausal stage. But the truth is that the gradual decrease in the levels of testosterone in a man's body brings about male menopause. 


Tips to Lower your Prescription Drug Costs

Every year for the last five years, the prices of the 50 drugs most used by older Americans have increased faster than the rate of inflation, according to Families USA, a nonprofit organization in favor of affordable health care.

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Guest Author: Silvester Thompson

Americans pay more for prescription drugs than anywhere else in the world. Many people on low or fixed incomes are desperate for relief from the high prices of the medications they need.

Because of the escalating prices, many Americans are forced to go without the medications or give up other basic necessities in order to afford their prescriptions.

However, there are some things you can do to help control your prescription drug expenses. Here are a few tips from PolarMeds Pharmacy...


How Vitamin D May Help in the Battle Against Cancer

In addition to its well known role in maintaining healthy bones,vitamin D is also vital for the health of the nervous and immune systems and may help protect against cancer.

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Vitamin D's importance in maintaining strong, healthy bones through its interaction with the essential mineral, calcium, is well known.  But the vitamin is also vital for the health of the nervous and immune systems, in regulating insulin levels and blood pressure, and even as a possible protector against certain common cancers.

The best known and most serious disease associated with vitamin D deficiency is rickets, which arises when the deficiency causes blood calcium levels to fall too low, and the body to respond by stripping the bones of calcium leading to loss of bone  density and malformation.


How to Recognize a Sign of Prostate Cancer

Quick Action May Save Your Life!

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Many men don't realize how important prostate health is until it is too late.  Most men don't even want to admit they have a prostate, let alone have a regular prostate exam.  This is so important because prostate cancer is a risk that you don't want to take and when you see your doctor regularly for prostate exams, you are ensuring that if you should contract prostate cancer you will be treated at the earliest possible stages.

In the earliest stages, most men will not see a sign of prostate cancer.  It is not until treatment options become limited that most men find out they have the disease.  There are things that men should watch out for that can signal that there might be a sign of prostate cancer...


Gay Doctors in Orlando are Rare

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Orlando is a city that has a rather profound gay population and yet when it comes to finding a gay doctor here it seems they are few and far between.

Jordan a 39 year-old real estate agent discovered this for himself after moving from South Carolina. 'I just wanted a gay doctor for obvious reasons. It's easier if the doctor is like you.'

However, Jordan was unable to locate one gay doctor in the Orlando area and his friends were unable to recommend anyone either. Upon delving further Jordan discovered that many of his friends were visiting straight doctors and hiding their sexuality from them; a move that Jordan views as un-healthy.

Jordan eventually tracked down a practitioner advertising in the Watermark, a local newspaper only because he refused to give up.

 


Summer exercise: How to keep cool in hot weather

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

In the excitement of a pickup basketball game or the relaxation of a friendly round of golf, you might not notice the temperature rising — but your body will. If you exercise outdoors in the heat, use caution and common sense to prevent heat-related illnesses.

How hot weather affects your body

Exercising in hot weather puts extra stress on your heart and lungs. Both the exercise itself and the air temperature increase your body temperature. To dissipate heat, more blood circulates through your skin. This leaves less blood for your muscles, which increases your heart rate. If the humidity is high, your body faces added stress because sweat doesn't readily evaporate from your skin — which only pushes your body temperature higher.

Under normal conditions, your skin, blood vessels and perspiration level adjust to the heat. But these natural cooling systems may fail if you're exposed to high temperatures and humidity for too long. The result may be a heat-related illness, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heatstroke.


How and Why to be Out to your Doctor

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

If you live in a large, gay-friendly city like San Francisco or New York, you're likely to run into and be out to "family" wherever you go, including doctors, dentists and health care providers.

But in the rest of the world - from suburbs to small towns, from people working in unfriendly jobs to people living in oppressive countries - gay men and women around the world don't reveal their sexual orientation to their doctors. A 2006 AOL poll puts the number at a whopping 47 percent.

Many gay people, especially those in smaller, less accepting cities, worry that coming out will subject them to discrimination or inadequate care by doctors who are either homophobic or inexperienced in treating the unique health concerns of the gay community.


Erectile dysfunction

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects the lives of many middle-aged men and their partners to one degree or another. The term erectile dysfunction covers a range of disorders, but usually refers to the inability to obtain an adequate erection for satisfactory sexual activity.

Although erectile dysfunction, formerly called impotence, is more common in men older than 65, it can occur at any age. An occasional episode of erectile dysfunction happens to most men and is normal. As men age, it's also normal to experience changes in erectile function. Erections may take longer to develop, may not be as rigid or may require more direct stimulation to be achieved. Men may also notice that orgasms are less intense, the volume of ejaculate is reduced and recovery time increases between erections.

When erectile dysfunction proves to be a pattern or a persistent problem, it can interfere with a man's self-image as well as his and his partner's sexual life. Erectile dysfunction may also be a sign of a physical or emotional problem that requires treatment.

Erectile dysfunction was once a taboo subject, but more men are seeking help. Doctors are gaining a better understanding of what causes erectile dysfunction and are finding new and better treatments.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/erectile-dysfunction/DS00162


30% of LGBT Adults Lack Health Care

0 Comments Link | Authored by:

According to a survey released jointly by Witeck-Combs Communications and Harris Interactive(r) only 70% of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) adults said they had health insurance coverage, compared to 86% of non-gay adults. The gap in insurance for LGBT employees exist because most employers in the U.S. do not offer health insurance for LGBT partners (domestic partner benefits).
Even when employers offer domestic partner benefits, many LGBT employees do not apply for them because revealing their sexual orientation puts them at risk of anti-gay bias. Another potential cause for the gap may be because many LGBT people are un- or underemployed because of discrimination in the workplace. "In every survey of Americans of employment age, the number one access point for health insurance is through employee benefits for workers employed full-time. For LGBT Americans, obtaining that benefit is often problematic," said Kathleen DeBold, Executive Director of the Mautner Project. "Discrimination against LGBT Americans only increases the already horrific numbers of the uninsured."