Health and Wellness on ActForLibraries.org

The circulatory system is made of the heart and blood vessels. Circulatory problems involves blood flow through the veins and arteries. When blood leaves the heart, it contains oxygen which it supplies to every part of the body through the…
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Alternative Exercises to Running

Contributor January 17, 2014 Senior Health

There are several cardiovascular exercises that can provide benefits comparable to running. Aquatic running, jumping rope and power walking are similar ways to get fit and improve your cardiovascular health. Aquatic running is a low-impact exercise because it elevates your…
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Family Things to Do in Downtown Los Angeles

Overview Health-conscious families often shy away from Los Angeles, regarding it as a city of crime and smog. Los Angeles has cleaned up its act in recent times and now offers a range of healthy options for family travelers engaged…
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The Effects of Flax Oil

Flaxseed oil, sometimes referred to as flax oil, is derived from the seeds of the flax plant. Flax oil contains the essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA. The National Institutes of Health says ALA is a biologic precursor to…
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Nutrition of Guacamole

Overview Guacamole means “avocado sauce” in Spanish and is primarily composed of avocado flesh blended into a thick paste. It also contains other ingredients like lime juice, tomatoes and spices. Guacamole is a standard condiment for Mexican dishes and is…
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3 Ways to Identify Poison Oak

1. Know What the Plant Looks Like Poison oak appears throughout the United States. In eastern locales it looks like a small shrub, while in Pacific coastal regions it grows on vines or in tall clumps. Its name comes from…
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The Effects of Acidophilus

Acidophilus, or scientifically known as Lactobacillus acidophilus, is naturally found in the vagina and small intestine. According to the Mayo Clinic acidophilus is generally considered to be safe because it produces vitamin K, lactase, and anti-microbial substances such as acidolin,…
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How to Treat Flu Mist Side Effects in Children

Overview Influenza, or the flu, is a respiratory infection that affects up to 20 percent of the population in the United States each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC also notes 36,000 people die…
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How a Back Massage Works

Overview Back massage is defined as “a hands-on treatment in which a therapist manipulates muscles and soft tissues to improve health and well-being” by the University of Maryland Medical Center. Massage can influence the activities of the musculoskeletal, circulatory, lymphatic…
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Top Ten Shoulder Exercises

Contributor January 17, 2014 Children's Health

Your shoulders are important for both aesthetics and function. Strong, well-developed shoulders are often the first physical characteristic people notice when you are wearing a sleeveless top. There are a wide variety of exercises you can choose from in your…
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What Causes Loose Teeth?

The teeth are made up of calcified tissue that surrounds the tooth pulp, made up of nerves, blood vessels and cells. Each tooth is surrounded by a periodontal ligaments and gums that help support the tooth, and each tooth is…
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Vitamins for Psoriasis & Eczema

Eczema and psoriasis are both chronic skin conditions that can be painful and uncomfortable. Psoriasis causes scaly, dry skin cells to build up in spots on the body, particularly on the joint areas, lower back and groin. Eczema also causes…
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Home Remedies for Ear Wax Removal

Ulovit January 17, 2014 Family

Ear wax helps keep foreign objects and substances, such as bacteria and dust, from damaging the sensitive parts of your inner ear. Nonetheless, occasionally, too much wax may accumulate in your ear canals, a condition known as cerumen impaction in…
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How to Discipline Stepchild Discipline Parent

As someone who is a stepchild and a stepparent, I understand both sides of the spectrum. The topic of discipline is one of the touchiest issues any blended family will face. It’s hard enough trying to discipline your own children,…
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Abdominal Cramping in Late Pregnancy

Priscilla Benfield January 17, 2014 Family

Overview Abdominal cramping is a common and usually harmless ailment that many women experience during the late stages of pregnancy. Third trimester cramping can be due to a variety of factors, only some of which are serious. Understanding the symptoms…
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Favoring your Child

When you have more than one child, inevitably one of your children will accuse you of favoring the other. This is normal and any of us who grew up with siblings feels that mom or dad favored one of the…
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How to Build Trust in a Blended Family

Dan Williams January 17, 2014 Family

A seven- year-old child climbed atop the kitchen table, as requested by his elderly grandfather. An alleged life lesson was about to be taught. As the child’s knees shook, there was a bit of anxiety which was clearly perceived in…
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Venting to your Child about the other Parent – No

Andi Jeanz January 17, 2014 Family

Have you ever been placed in an awkward situation among peers, coworkers, or family members? You know, those situations that have absolutely nothing to do with you, but you are a sounding board for the opposing ‘parties’ either due to…
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4 Ways to Manage Agoraphobia

Contributor January 17, 2014 Mental Health

1. Work on Relaxation Techniques Relaxation exercises can help reduce tension and stress, while allowing you to cope with an impending panic attack. Begin by breathing slowly and deeply from your abdomen rather than higher in your chest. Breathe through…
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Easy Exercises for Leg Strength and Running

Contributor January 17, 2014 Mental Health

For any runner, the legs are the foundation for performing well and providing forward propulsion. It is possible for nearly anyone with healthy legs to run, but to do it well, doing some easy and practical exercises for the legs…
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Drugs for Anxiety

People with generalized anxiety disorder may experience constant, obsessive worry, insomnia, nausea, increased heart rate and numerous other symptoms that can turn even the most basic tasks into challenging ordeals. Chronic anxiety disrupts a person’s career, social life and general…
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Facial Hair Removal Techniques

Removing facial hair is a little trickier than removing unwanted hair from other parts of the body because facial skin is generally thinner and more sensitive. The face is also a part of your body that everyone sees, so a…
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The Side Effects of Beta-Carotene

Contributor January 17, 2014 Get Healthy

Beta-carotene is a natural plant pigment that the body converts into vitamin A, which supports the eyes, immune system, skin and mucus membranes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although beta-carotene is generally very safe, the dangers and…
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4 Ways to Prevent Anisocoria

1. Avoid Inflaming the Iris Muscle Certain surgeries, such as cuts to extract cataracts, can greatly increase the likelihood of developing anisocoria in the future. Similarly, sports injuries, such as head traumas endured in hard contact sports (e.g. football and…
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Blended Families Favoring own Children

Harmony Wells January 17, 2014 Family

If we are to be honest, there is a natural human inclination to favor one’s own biological children. These children, after all, have bonded with us since their conception. We have made sacred pacts with ourselves and our world to…
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Devices to Help Save Water

Contributor January 17, 2014 Lifestyle

The average family in the United States spends $500 annually on water and sewer bills, according to the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA. By reducing the amount of water you use in your home, you can not only save money,…
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Ways to Do Push Ups

The pectoralis major and minor are the main muscles found in the chest. Free weight and machine exercises like bench presses, chest presses, flys and cable crossovers are often performed to build this area of the body. If you have…
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Heart Rate Variability During Sleep

Overview Sleep to get the rest you need every night, but rest assured, your heart does not sleep. It slows down, a state called bradycardia, for part of the night, but may speed up, too. Your heart stays on alert,…
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Exercises for My Stomach