Bolivia's Historical Monuments

In the heart of South America lies Bolivia, the crossroads of the continent. Long the seat of pre-Columbian culture, Bolivia has a fascinating history stretching back over 2,000 years. From the mysterious culture of Tiwanaku to the colonial days of religious missionaries, Bolivia has a great many monuments to its varied past.

Tiwanaku

Tiwanaku is a pre-Columbian archaeological site located 45 miles from La Paz, Bolivia. Once the cradle of Andean civilization, Tiwanaku was abandoned before the arrival of the first Europeans in the 16th century. Although little is known about the culture that built Tiwanaku, there is evidence to suggest that they originated around 1000 BC and that they controlled the entire Titicaca Basin during the height of their power, as well as parts of Peru, Chile and parts of Argentina. Tens of thousands of people lived in Tiwanaku during its heyday, and nearly 150000 people lived in the countryside around the city. The disappearance of the Tiwanaku culture is thought to have been the result of an extended drought around 900 AD, leaving the area open for the rise of the later Inca empire. The site itself has many well-preserved structures, including the Akapana Pyramid, the Kalasasaya walled temple and the Gateway of the Sun, a large carved stone doorway.The ruins are now a national historic site and a popular destination for visitors.

El Fuerte de Samaipata

The El Fuerte de Samaipata ruins were once home to two civilizations dating back to the second century BC. The ruins are in two areas, the residential quarters and the hilltop stone carvings. The stone carvings are considered to be the ceremonial center of the culture that lived in the area and depict such power animals as snakes and jaguars, as well as geometric shapes and lines. Little is known about the first culture that existed at the site, although the later Inca presence is well documented and studied. The ruins are an important historic site and national monument in Bolivia, as well as being a World Heritage Site.

San Javier Jesuit Mission

San Javier Jesuit Mission is an important monument to the early Jesuit days of Bolivia.

Established in 1691, San Javier was the first of the Missions of Chiquitos to be established in eastern Bolivia. The missions are known for their distinctive blend of European and indigenous aesthetic elements in their design and decoration and San Javier is the best example of this. The missions are the last remnants of Jesuit influence in that part of the country and are a hugely important historical monument and World Heritage Site.

How to Improve Sleep With Ayurveda

Sleep is one of the most important aspects of life since it restores and renews the body. Without sleep, organs deteriorate at a rapid pace, and the mind loses its acuity. Unfortunately, many people struggle to achieve a truly restful sleep. If you're experiencing difficulty sleeping, consider following Ayurvedic principles known to improve sleep.

Instructions

1

Create an optimal sleeping environment in your bedroom by using room-darkening shades and dim lighting. Place lavender sachets in your room to encourage sleep. Alternatively, boil sleep-inducing Ayurvedic oils.

2

Schedule your dinner for early in the evening. A dinner between 6 and 7 p.m. is less likely to interfere with your sleep. Keep dinners light and free of strong spices.

3

Attempt to set a regular bedtime before 10 p.m. or about 3 hours after the sun sets. Wake about an hour before the sun rises.

4

Massage your feet, hands and neck before going to sleep. Brush or comb your hair to lightly stimulate your scalp.

5

Sleep in comfortable fabrics such as cotton.

6

Drink a cup of tea before going to sleep. Make your tea with sleep-inducing herbs such as chamomile and lemon balm.

7

Breath deeply through your nose. Hold your breath for a few seconds, and then exhale through your mouth. Focus on your breaths and visualize yourself in a relaxing place as you fall asleep.

Cabbage Soup Detox Diets

The cabbage soup diet is popular with many people as part of a healthy detox plan. This soup will help you lose weight and keep you healthy. Normally, a cabbage soup detox diet is part of a seven-day detoxification program. During this seven-day time frame, the dieter's entire meal plan focuses on the consumption of cabbage, most notably in the form of cabbage soup. While cabbage soup is effective, there are pros and cons to this diet, and these should be taken into consideration before starting the program.

Pros

One of the pros of using a cabbage soup diet detox program is that it is quite effective in delivering the promised weight loss. It also is quite a change from most people's usual unhealthy eating habits, which can be very beneficial. Vegetables like cabbage, along with broccoli and cauliflower, are helpful in fighting cancer. Many people also say that they enjoy eating this soup.

Cons

While there are many perceived benefits to being on the cabbage soup detox diet program, there are also negatives. Some people complain that cabbage soup is too bland and doesn't taste very good. Cabbage may also produce large amounts of gas in the body, causing uncomfortable side effects. The amount of will power required to stay on this diet for any length of time is considerable, and few people can maintain it for longer than a week. Also, daily nutritional requirements are not fulfilled by this diet. Another concern is salt content, because most cabbage soup is seasoned with large amounts of salt to make it palatable.

Cabbage Soup Recipe

To prepare the soup that is typical of most cabbage soup detox diet plans, use the following ingredients:

One can of beef broth or French onion soup
Three quarters of a head of cabbage, chopped
Two chopped white onions
One chopped green pepper
One half cup of chopped celery
Four cups of water
One large can of stewed tomatoes (28 oz.)
One garlic clove, chopped
One teaspoon of salt
Three tablespoons of brown sugar.
You may also add a dash of hot sauce, if desired, to punch up the flavor.

To prepare, combine all ingredients in a large pot, bring to boil, then turn the heat to low, and let simmer for about one and a half hours until vegetables are tender.

While the cabbage detox diet plan can help you achieve your weight loss goals and also cleanse your colon, it is not recommended for long term use, as it does not contain all the necessary vitamins and nutrients for a healthy diet.

Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss

Cabbage soup has grown in popularity due to a diet that guarantees weight loss. The cabbage soup diet claims to effortlessly take off extra weight as long as you stick to a food plan of mostly soup for seven days.

The Soup

There are different variations of how to make cabbage soup, but a generic recipe includes 6 green onions, 2 green peppers, 1 can of tomatoes, 3 carrots, 1 cup of mushrooms, 1 bunch of celery, 1/2 head of cabbage, 1 package of Lipton soup mix, 2 cubes of beef bouillon, 1 bottle of V8 and any spices to taste.

Weight Loss

According to the Healthy Weight Forum, the cabbage soup diet will result in weight loss, but the loss won't be permanent.

Other Foods

To lose weight by eating cabbage soup, you must also restrict your other food intake. Cabbage soup is high in fiber but very low in calories.

Nutrition

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the cabbage soup diet does not meet the USDA standards of a healthy eating style.

Reviews

If you want to try eating cabbage soup for weight loss there are several websites dedicated to the diet. One website to visit is cabbage-soup-diet.com. Another is 3fatchicks.com.

Hindu Beliefs About the Creation of the World

Hinduism has many creation stories. While some of these tales may seem to Western notions of linear time to contradict each other, it is important to remember that the Hindu concept of time is cyclical. Also, Hinduism allows for many different universes and planes of being. Hinduism further differs from Judeo-Islamic-Christian traditions in that it does not posit a dualistic universe in which a divine being creates a mundane world separate from himself. Instead, Hindus view the divine as immanent in the world.

Sound

One Hindu creation story tells of the god Vishnu asleep within the coils of a huge cobra afloat on a vast ocean of darkness and nothingness. From the depths, a humming sound arose, forming the primal syllable of Om. The darkness dispersed, the air vibrated with energy, the god awakened and a beautiful lotus flower grew from his navel. Brahma, Vishnu's servant, sat within that lotus, and Vishnu ordered him to create the world before Vishnu himself disappeared. Brahma divided the lotus flower in three, with one part becoming the heavens, another the earth and the third the sky. This story explains why the syllable Om is one of the syllables of the Hindu religion. The Upanishads say this word contains the past, present and future.

Rebirth and Cosmic Cycles

For Brahma, who created the universe, one day equals 2,160,000,000 human years. At the end of one of these cosmic cycles, called a Kalpa, Brahma sleeps and the god Shiva dances the destruction of the world. Later, Brahma awakes and again creates the world. According to Hindu sacred texts, each Kalpa is divided into four stages, or yugas. In the first, peace and tranquility rule, but in each succeeding age, the world devolves further as people behave out of ignorance and greed. The Surya Siddhanta, an ancient Hindu astronomy text, identifies the current age as the Kali Yuga, the fourth and final stage of disorder before destruction.

Paradox: Dismemberment and Connection

The Rig Veda tells of a primal being, Purusha, with a thousand eyes, feet and hands. This being encompasses all places and all life. Purusha became bored and split himself to create the world. From Purusha's dividing of himself came all of the elements, the gods, men and all the myriad forms of life. All the world is therefore a part of this original being.

Purusha divided himself in order to have a loving, playful relationship with the beings that resulted from his splitting. Hinduism sees the universe is a form of divine play, or "lila." Humans can live either participating in this playfulness and creativity, perceiving a sense of the infinite, or under the veil of illusion, or "maya," believing in the world as finite and divided.

Multiple Deities

The tenth book of the Rig Veda tells of the creation of the world by Prajapati. Prajapati (who may be a form of Brahma) hatched from a golden egg. With his first breath, he created Agni, the god of fire, Indra, the god of lightning, and Soma, the lord of plants. With his next breath, Prajapati made the darkness. The tears he wiped away became the air, while those that fell became the oceans and those that were flung upward became the sky. While some tales state that his first wounds led to the creation of the seasons and planets, some stories explain that his first words created them instead.

Mayo Clinic Heart Diet Before Surgery

The Mayo Clinic's Heart Healthy diet outlines 7 steps to prevent heart disease. However, a patient who already has heart disease and is going in for surgery will also benefit from making these specific dietary changes. Following these diet recommendations from The Mayo Clinic will help strengthen a patient's heart before surgery and promote improved heart health after their surgery has been completed.

Mayo Clinic Heart Diet Guidelines

A very important step to take in improving overall heart health is to limit the intake of unhealthy cholesterol from the diet. This includes trans fats and saturated fats which are found in butter, margarine and shortening. These types of fats cause a buildup of plaques in the arteries, which ultimately increases the risk of heart attack and stroke due to the brain or heart becoming deprived of adequate amounts of oxygen.

Heart-healthier fat options include olive oil, canola oil and trans-fat free margarine.

When buying prepackaged foods, be sure to check for hidden unhealthy fats by looking for the phrase, 'partially hydrogenated' in the list of ingredients. Avoid eating foods such as bacon, cold cuts, fried meats and whole fat milk.

Eating low-fat protein sources is also recommended by the Mayo Clinic. Some great examples include fish, poultry and lean meat. Eating certain types of fish such as salmon and mackerel are especially beneficial to the heart, as they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can actually lower cholesterol levels in the blood.

Eating beans, peas and lentils as well as adding soy protein to the diet is recommended. Drinking skim milk instead of low fat milk is also encouraged.

Low in calories and rich in fiber, fruits and vegetables should be included in abundance. The soluble fiber which they contain helps lower cholesterol and reduces the risk of heart disease. In addition, many fruits and vegetables also contain essential antioxidant vitamins which help prevent cardiovascular disease.

Getting into the habit of using herbs to season foods is a good idea. Salt substitute may also be used in the place of regular table salt, which should be avoided. Healthy adults should eat no more than 2,300 milligrams of salt per day, which only equals 1 teaspoon.

Practicing moderation is another important guideline set forth by The Mayo Clinic Heart Diet. A serving size of meat should be about the same size as a deck of cards. A serving of pasta should be about the same size of a scoop of ice cream. Save room on the plate for vegetables and whole grains. Various nutrients found in whole grains improve heart health and regulate blood pressure. Choose breads and pasta made with whole grains. High-fiber cereals are also helpful.

To ensure continued success for healthy heart eating, The Mayo Clinic recommends planning daily menus ahead of time. Be creative and try to include a wide variety of heart healthy food choices in menu planning and resist temptation to grab an unhealthy snack.
Beginning a heart-healthy eating plan before having surgery is a great way to get on the right track.

Instructions for the Day before Surgery

No food, including gum and mints, should be eaten after 12 midnight on the night before surgery. Drinking beverages also needs to stop at midnight. Avoid swallowing any water when brushing your teeth.

On the morning of surgery, dress in comfortable clothing. Women should not wear makeup or have painted fingernails on the day of surgery. Jewelry and valuables should be left safely at home or with the person who accompanies the patient to surgery. Be sure to bring along all necessary prescription medications to the hospital.

Herbal Healing Properties

Herbs from plants and plant extracts have been known for their healing properties since ancient times. Herbs are most commonly used to flavor meals. They can, however, also be used as medicine with profound healing properties. Herbs can be taken as medicine through food, capsules, oil extract, massage oil, tea infusions and steam wraps. Basil, oregano, rosemary and thyme are examples of common household herbs whose healing properties are often overlooked.

Basil

Basil is a green leafy plant that originates in Asia. Basil is a source of nutrients like magnesium, potassium, vitamin A, iron and calcium. According to The Natural Pharmacy, basil's essential oil has demonstrated "antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties." It has also been used to relieve gas, nausea, motion sickness, respiratory problems and indigestion. The high fiber content of basil leaves has been reported by The Natural Pharmacy to help alleviate some cases of diabetes. The seeds have also been discovered to ease constipation.

Oregano

The Natural Pharmacy states that oregano oil can fight against E. coli, pneumonia, Salmonella and more. Oregano oil also has anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. When commonly eaten as a seasoning on food, oregano has been used to treat infection, indigestion and ringworm. When oregano is applied on the skin, it can treat acne and athlete's foot.

Rosemary

Rosemary oil has strong antibacterial effects. It also has antioxidant properties. According to the Natural Pharmacy, "rosemary has been used in connection with atherosclerosis, indigestion and infection." The Natural Pharmacy also states that rosemary can be applied to the skin to treat rheumatoid arthritis pain. "It is even said to stimulate hair growth, boost mental activity and relieve respiratory problems."

Thyme

Thyme helps stop excessive muscle spasms. More commonly, this herb has been used to treat the common cough. Thyme has additionally been used in the treatment of halitosis, indigestion, bronchitis, infection and whooping cough.

Preparation

Herbs can be prepared as medicinal applications through capsules, oil extracts (to consume in small amounts or apply to the skin) and tea infusions. Herbs can also be applied on the skin as massage oil. Herbal steam wraps are often used in spas. The most common use of herbs as medicine, however, is in their traditional dry or fresh form as flavoring for food. There are many other herbs with specific healing properties. Consult with a professional for any herbal treatments you are interested in using.

Cabbage Soup Diet Instructions

The Cabbage Soup Diet is a very restrictive diet that helps dieters lose weight quickly. According to WebMD, dieters typically lose 10-15 pounds in one week. The diet involves eating unlimited amounts of cabbage soup along with other allowed foods, according to a specific pattern. EveryDiet.org warns that while the Cabbage Soup Diet is effective in the short term, it's not usually effective for long-term weight loss.

Weekly Eating Plan

The Cabbage Soup Diet is intended to be followed for seven days at a time, and it shouldn't be repeated consecutively. Rather, the dieter should wait a few weeks between dieting sessions. On day 1, dieters should eat unlimited cabbage soup and unlimited fruits (excluding bananas). On Day 2, dieters should eat unlimited cabbage soup and unlimited vegetables (excluding peas, corn and beans) and one baked potato. On Day 3, dieters should eat unlimited cabbage soup and any of the fruits and vegetables allowed on days 1 and 2. On Day 4, dieters should eat unlimited cabbage soup, 2 cups of skim milk and bananas (no more than eight). On Day 5, dieters should eat unlimited cabbage soup, 20 ounces of protein (beef, chicken or fish), and tomatoes (no more than 6). On Day 6, dieters should eat unlimited cabbage soup, unlimited vegetables and three steaks. On Day 7, dieters should eat unlimited cabbage soup, sugar-free fruit juices, unlimited vegetables and 2 cups of brown rice.

Cabbage Soup Recipe

Cabbage soup may contain cabbage, onion, tomatoes, onion soup mix, bouillon cubes and tomato juice. One recipe for cabbage soup is as follows: dry onion soup mix, two bouillon cubes, 1 cup celery, 3 carrots, 2 bell peppers, 1 yellow onion, 2 cans diced tomatoes, half of a cabbage head and seasonings such as salt, garlic and pepper.

Other Dieting Tips

Individuals on the Cabbage Soup Diet should drink plenty of water every day. Also, dieters should take a multivitamin to aid in nutrition. Experimenting with different spices in the soup or on the other allowed foods might help make the diet more appealing.

Effectiveness

The Cabbage Soup Diet is very low in calories; this is what causes the extreme weight loss. The soup mix itself is not special, but it is filling, so that dieters can manage to keep their calories low. The weight loss typically consists of fluid loss, and pounds are quickly regained when the diet ends. However, if dieters immediately begin a healthier long-term diet following the Cabbage Soup Diet, the plan might serve to jump-start weight loss.

The History of Probiotics

Probiotics are microorganisms, usually bacteria, used in certain foods as dietary supplements. The word "probiotics" is of Greek origin, meaning "for life."

History

Russian physiologist Elie Metchnikoff (1845-1916) is credited with establishing the concept of probiotics as the first person in history to suggest that eating bacteria could be beneficial to health. Metchnikoff based his theory on the diet of Bulgarians who ate fermented dairy products like yogurt.

Research

In 1907, Metchnikoff theorized that bacteria in fermented dairy products could cleanse the large intestine and contribute to prolonging life. Decades after Metchnikoff, microbiological and clinical research have backed up his theories and studies.

Availability

Probiotics are either already present in foods or can be added to them. Foods that contain probiotics include yogurt, fermented and unfermented milk, and soy beverages.

Uses

Probiotics are mainly used to assist in strengthening the immune system. They do this by killing microorganisms that cause disease.

Significance

Although probiotics have been around for thousands of years, it was not until the 20th century that most people were aware of its benefits. According to the National Institutes of Health, spending on probiotic supplements in the United States nearly tripled from 1994 to 2003.

How to Check If Raw Shilajit Is Original or Not

Raw Shilajit is a humus, or organic matter, that resembles tar. The humus, which is used in Ayurvedic medicine, is found along the Himalayan mountain range that touches India, Nepal, Pakistan and Russia. Ancient Indian wisdom says that the substance possesses the highest properties of fulvic acids, dibenzo alpha pyrones, humic acids and trace minerals known to man. Because there are few government regulations on selling organic products, it is difficult to know if raw Shilajit is original or not. Testing the substance for particular ingredients is one way to know for sure if Shilajit is authentic.

Instructions

1

Start with research on the Internet for laboratories that specialize in Ayurveda testing. Ayurveda is the term that is used for the ancient form of traditional, natural Indian medicine.

2

Choose one or two common components found in Shilajit and contact two or three companies to determine if they are equipped for testing of these ingredients. Shilajit has many different minerals, acids, toxins, and polymeric quinone radicals in addition to therapeutic substances. The most experienced labs are those that provide testing and purification of Ayurveda products for resale.

3

Request an analysis of your sample, including a breakdown of ingredients by percentage. The percentage will show you the active amount of each mineral or vitamin present. A competent laboratory will be able to explain the chemical jargon to a layman without a scientific background.

4




Different sections of the Himalayas produce varying qualituies of Shilajit.

Ask for a comparison of regional qualities. Different areas of the Himalayas possess higher or lower qualities of the chemical makeup of Shilajit.

5

Purify your sample if it is found to be authentic Shilajit. If the laboratory does not perform this step they can recommend a laboratory that does. Pure Shilajit is filled with toxins and free radicals that can harm the human body and must be processed before consumed.

How to Use Flaxseed Oil for Weight Loss

Everybody seems to have a secret for losing weight. The truth is, in order to achieve and maintain a significant weight loss, you need to burn more calories than you consume. Flaxseed products may be able to help you. The oil is a powerful antioxidant that can help boost your metabolism. Whole or ground flaxseed provides you with dietary fiber that makes you feel fuller and omega-3 fatty acids that can possibly curb cravings for sweets.

Instructions

1

Start your journey to weight loss by making smart decisions about the foods you eat. Bake or broil lean meats instead of frying them. Eat a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Adding flaxseed to an already healthy diet will aid weight loss much more than simply using flaxseed and maintaining poor habits.

2

Add 1 to 2 tbsp. of flaxseed oil to a large glass of water and mix well. If you do not care for the nutty flavor of the oil, use low-calorie juice instead of water. Drink one glass of the mixture every day to benefit from the high levels of omega-3 fatty acids.

3

Drizzle a flaxseed oil dressing over your green salad. Use equal parts of olive and flaxseed oils, and add some lemon juice. The omega-3 in the dressing is a "good" fat and may reduce your body's craving for sweets and fatty foods.

4

Use ground flaxseed in your foods to add more fiber to your diet. Fiber makes us feel full on less food, so you may be less likely to overeat.

5

Find a store or farm stand that sells organic eggs laid by flax-fed chickens. Their eggs tend to have more omega-3 in them than regular eggs and provide you with protein. It is important when you are trying to lose weight to keep your strength up with a protein-rich diet.

How to Practice Devotion to Krishna

Lord Krishna takes center stage in the Hindu classic sacred text, The Bhagavad Gita. Krishna is the Lord of the Universe, and reveals his true self to the warrior, Arjuna. He reveals to Arjuna that the simplest and fastest path (yoga) to God is Bhakti Yoga, or divine love.

Instructions

Devotion to Krishna

1




Practice the higher form of Bhakti. The lower form of Bhakti is to worship God in the hope of receiving something in return. Krishna teaches that the highest form of devotion to God is Parabhakti, or supreme love. Bring God your heart and your love, and you are on the highest path to God.

2




Perform puja (ritual worship) to Krishna. Use a sacred image of Krishna. Some general practices apply: bathing the image; offering favorable items such as water, flowers, and perfume; and offering prasadam (food).

3




Perform the arti ceremony, a ritual greeting to gurus and other holy people. Several times a day, the worshipper offers a variety of auspicious items before an image of Krishna. The ceremony is accompanied by bhajan or kirtan (singing), during which the attendees stand.

4




Worship in your home. Create a shrine with the image of Krishna. Offer all of your food to Krishna. The presence of the deity in the home makes it a sacred space. Many worshippers will avoid unclean habits, such as drinking alcohol. Members of the house remove their shoes at the door. It is customary to bathe daily before worship.

5




Chant Hare Krishna. Chanting the name of the Lord Krishna spiritualizes any offerings, and is a form of pure devotion.

6




Perform dharma, or religious duties. Sanatana-dharma refers to specific spiritual issues. Varnashrama-dharma denotes the individual's duties at different stages of life. Sadharana-dharma usually deals with what is recommended and what is prohibited in the religion.

Diet Rules

Dieting is big business. Americans spend more than $35 billion annually on products designed to help them lose weight. Despite their efforts, long-term weight loss is largely unsuccessful, with two-thirds of individuals regaining weight within one year and the majority regaining lost weight by the end of five years. How do the 5 to 20% of individuals who successfully keep weight off do it?

Successful Behaviors

The National Weight Control Registry identified the following five behaviors to weight loss success: eating breakfast, monitoring weight, limiting television, exercising daily and having a strong support network. They found that individuals were able to achieve and maintain weight loss goals by shifting the focus from restrictive eating to positive habits that can last a lifetime.

Daily Breakfast

Seventy-eight percent of successful weight loss participants eat breakfast daily, according to the National Weight Control Registry. Those who eat breakfast are less apt to snack on calorie-dense, nutritionally weak foods and beverages throughout the morning hours. This good start seems to have a halo effect as their diets tend to be lower in cholesterol and fat (saturated and total fat), and higher in vitamins and minerals when compared to those who skip breakfast.

Monitoring Weight

Seventy-five percent of successful weight loss participants weigh themselves at least once a week, according to the National Weight Control Registry. Individuals who want to lose weight need to set a goal that is measurable and realistic. Careful monitoring, on a regular basis, provides feedback on whether changes in behavior cause weight gain or loss. Progress toward the goal provides incentive to continue behaviors that promote weight loss.

Limiting Television

Sixty-two percent of successful weight loss participants watch less than 10 hours of television a week, according to the National Weight Control Registry. Watching television and using computers and handheld electronics are all activities that require zero calorie output. Mindless snacking--consuming calories without regard to level of hunger--is also increased and may even be encouraged by viewing commercials. Transitioning these sedentary hours to more active behaviors burns more calories.

Daily Exercise

Ninety percent of successful weight loss participants average one hour of exercise daily, according to the National Weight Control Registry. Exercise raises metabolism in two key ways: Muscles require energy to perform work, and muscles grow when exercise is done consistently. As a body gains muscle mass, it burns more energy, another positive incentive to make the behavior change a permanent habit.

Strong Support Network

A strong social support network that helps motivate individuals toward weight loss goals is important. Family, friends and colleagues can help prevent sabotaging behaviors that prevent you from reaching your goals and celebrate successes that help you stay on track.

Interesting Information About Cats

The cat has replaced the dog as America's favorite pet, with 66,000 pet cats in the U.S. compared to about 58,000 dogs. It has been said that it takes intelligence and understanding to win the affection of a cat. Here are some interesting facts about the fabulous feline to increase your understanding and perhaps bring you closer to your own furry companion.

History

Most people know that cats were sacred in ancient Egypt. In fact, killing a cat was punishable by death. In 2004, the skeleton of a human was found buried with the skeleton of a cat in Cyprus, Greece, in a grave dating back approximately 9,500 years. Previously, scientists thought cats had been domesticated only about 6,000 years ago.

Similarity to Humans

Cats and humans have some common physiological traits. For instance, a cat's brain is more similar to a human brain than a dog's; the regions of the brain responsible for emotion are identical in both humans and cats; and cats have AB blood types, just like people. A cat's memory is 200 times more retentive than a dog's, and the cat's memory lasts longer than that of monkeys and orangutans.

Vocalization

Cats have about 100 different vocalization sounds, while dogs have about 10. Purring is part of that social communication repertoire. Cats purr at the same frequency as an idling diesel engine -- approximately 26 cycles per second -- and they purr while both inhaling and exhaling. Most often, purring is a sign of contentment, but it can also be used by severely ill or anxious cats as a form of self-comfort and even healing. Mother cats use it to summon their kittens, and the kittens purr as they suckle milk from their mother. Kittens knead their mothers' abdomens to stimulate the flow of milk, and adult cats will often mimic this kneading motion while purring.

Tail Language

The cat's tail can be used as a barometer of his emotions. Common examples are: 1. Held up straight while walking or bent forward over the head, the tail signifies a confident, contented cat. 2. Tucked under, the cat is fearful or anxious. 3. Twitching sharply side to side means, "You'd better quit bugging me, or you'll be sorry." Other "statements" made by the tail include: waving gently from side to side means contentment; several quick flicks upward is meant as a greeting -- to humans as well as other cats.

Carnivores

Unlike humans, cats cannot survive without eating meat. Cats need more protein than most other animals -- five times more than dogs -- and they must have fat in their diets, as they cannot produce it on their own. They have short digestive tracts and teeth
designed for shearing and tearing meat. Most important, however, is the fact that cats need taurine. Humans can get this protein from vegetable sources, but cats cannot. Cats who have a taurine deficiency can develop feline central retinal
degeneration, which leads to blindness, or even worse, dilated cardiomyopathy, a fatal heart disease.

Famous Cat Lovers

Abraham Lincoln, Mark Twain, Winston Churchill, Charles Dickens, Florence Nightingale, and Leonardo DaVinci were all cat lovers. Ernest Hemingway loved cats as well, and his Key West estate continues to be home to many polydactyl cats, believed to be descendants of a six-toed tomcat presented to Hemingway by a sea captain. The cats have multiplied and can be found throughout the island.

Miscellany

Cats' noses are like human fingerprints -- each one is different. Most cats are either left- or right-pawed; only 40 percent of all cats are ambidextrous. Domestic cats can reach speeds of up to 31 miles per hour, though they cannot maintain that speed for more than a minute. Cats' whiskers are used to help the cat determine whether it can fit through an opening. Cats prefer their food at the temperature of freshly killed prey, and they like it cut into bite-sized chunks. About 60 percent of all cats like cold tomato juice, but they do not care for V8.

The Job Description of an Ayurvedic Researcher

Ayurveda is a medical system that originated in India about 3,500 years ago. It focuses on balancing the systems of the body, mind, and spirit through proper diet, hygiene, cleansing, exercise, and medical treatments from massage to surgery and pharmaceuticals. The eight disciplines within Ayurveda are internal medicine, surgery, eye/ear/nose/throat medicine, toxicology, disease prevention and rejuvenation, pediatrics, sexual and prenatal medicine, and psychiatry. In India, Ayurveda is the most popular form of medicine and provides primary care for most people. In the United States, Ayurveda is considered a form of complementary or alternative medicine and is not considered a replacement for standard Western medicine.

What is an Ayurvedic Researcher?

Ayurvedic surgeons were performing successful cataract removal and rhinoplasty as long as 2,000 years ago.

An Ayurvedic researcher conducts research into the effectiveness, new applications, and potential toxicity of traditional Ayurvedic compounds and treatments. Ayurvedic researchers are either professional practitioners of Ayurveda, or Western medical professionals engaged in Ayurvedic research. Researchers may also be students working toward a degree in Ayurvedic medicine, Western medicine, or another branch of complementary or alternative medicine.

Where Ayurvedic Research is Conducted

Ayurvedic researchers work in many types of facilities.

Ayurvedic research is conducted in Ayurvedic colleges, universities, and health care facilities; in Western medical colleges, universities, and health care facilities; at facilities specializing in other complementary, alternative, and traditional forms of medicine; at pharmaceutical companies; and at government facilities. In India, the government's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's Department of Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy regulates Ayurveda. AYUSH runs the Central Council of Indian Medicine, which accredits schools and conducts research. Other bodies that conduct Ayurvedic research include the World Health Organization, The European Federation for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, The European Ayurveda Association, the Institute of Indigenous Medicine at the University of Colombo in Sri Lanka, Ayurveda Lanka Hospital in Sri Lanka, Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute at the University of Kelaniya in Sri Lanka, the U.S.'s National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the National Ayurvedic Medical Association in the U.S., and the National Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine in the U.S.

Effectiveness

Many traditional Ayurvedic treatments are studied for effectiveness.

Ayurvedic researchers study the effectiveness of traditional Ayurvedic treatments. These include physical treatments, such as yoga and massage, nutritional therapies and traditional Ayurvedic diets, and pharmaceutical treatments, which traditionally include herbs and minerals.

New Applications

Researchers find new applications for traditional pharmaceutical herbs.

Ayurvedic researchers study the application of Ayurvedic treatments to new conditions, such as newly emerging infectious diseases, or to typical Western "diseases of lifestyle". They apply Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals, cleansing regimens, exercises, and nutritional philosophy to conditions like heart disease, hypertension, obesity, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, Alzheimer's, and strokes. Researchers also study Ayurvedic herbs and pharmaceuticals to develop new Western pharmaceutical treatments.

Toxicity

Traditional compounds must be prepared according to traditional methods to render harmful materials non-toxic.

Ayurvedic researchers determine the potential dangers and side effects of using Ayurvedic pharmaceutical compounds. This is necessary because many of these compounds contain minerals, which, in their raw forms, have known toxic effects. Many mass-produced compounds marketed in the West were determined to contain toxic levels of these minerals. Research revealed that traditional preparation methods render these minerals non-toxic, but unregulated and "sped up" methods of preparing the pharmaceuticals may leave the compounds in toxic forms.

How to Make Vegetable Soup , home made old fashion

There is nothing more comforting than a bowl of Vegetable Soup on a cold day to warm you up & fill you up.
Here is a quick & easy recipe I use. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1

Using the skillet .
Put in the 3 tablespoons of butter & heat till the pan is hot & the butter is melted
Toss in the
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/2 cup chopped carrots
* 1/2 cup chopped celery
* 1 1/2 cups diced potatoes
& Brown them lightly

If you want to make your soup a little more hearty ,cut some beef steak into little 1/2 inch chucks. Cook it in a skillet till it is almost done , then toss in the butter & vegetable , let it all brown up nice together.

2

Take your soup pot & put in
4 cups meat stock
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Start to heat on a medium heat to a low boil

3

Add the browned vegetable ( & beef if you decided to us it) from the skillet into the beef stock & let it lightly boil for a aprox 30 minutes or till the vegetable are fully cooked & soft.

Salt & Pepper to taste
Serve hot with crackers or fresh bread

How to Treat Weak Nails

Healthy and strong nails can be achieved. Eating a proper diet is essential; lack of protein in your diet can make your nails brittle and dull. Keeping them well-moisturized is also important. Massaging the cuticle area will increase the circulation and encourage new nail growth. Always wear gloves when working with cleaning chemicals. All of these things take minutes to do and the effects are long-lasting. If you give yourself a manicure once a week, you can maintain healthy hands and nails. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Remove all traces of nail polish by using a nail polish remover and cotton.

2

Soak your nails and fingertips in warm, soapy water for at least five minutes. This softens the cuticles and rinses off all nail polish remover.

3

Apply cuticle cream to the base of your nails. Massage the cream into the cuticles. Gently push back your cuticles with a cotton-tipped stick. Never cut your cuticles.

4

File the nails into rounded ovals. Make sure all nails are the same length.

5

Massage your entire hand with a rich hand cream. Wrap your hands in plastic wrap and leave on at least 30 minutes.

6

Rub some light vegetable oil into them and buff with a nail buffer for a natural shine. Buffing also helps increase the circulation and results in healthier nails.

7

Finish with a clear nail hardener to keep nails strong and help with nail growth.

How to Lose 15 Pounds in 5 Days Diet Plan

If you are looking to loose 15 pounds in 5 days then there are some facts that you need to know. Loosing weight can sometimes be a difficult thing but most people who have been successful have focused on what they eat at all times. It is important to know that loosing this much weight in a short period of time is so super easy but it can be done.

Instructions

1

What you will want to do is to change your eating habits and eliminate carbs from your diet for the 5 day period. You will want to eat only lean meats and vegetables because this will allow your body to detox and clean anything that is impure out of it. Next you will want to increase your water intake because this also will increase your weight loss as well as clean your body.

2

When you are eating your meals you will want to split them up into smaller meals and eat them more often during the day. This will help to increase your metabolism and this will help to burn fat cells. It is important that along with a increase in water and to alter your food habits you need to add some aerobic workout to your daily routine. You might want to add a 45 min walk twice a day.

3

It is very important that the during the 5 day period that you stick with the diet and after about 2 days your body will start to get more used to the way you are eating. As always when trying a new diet you must find something that fits your lifestyle and that you feel comfortable that you can stick with.

How Diet Affects Coronary Heart Disease

Introduction

According to the Centers for Disease Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. According to the American Heart Association, the number one type of heart disease affecting Americans today is coronary heart disease. Coronary heart disease can be prevented by recognizing certain risk factors that contribute to the formation of the disease. One of the fastest ways to avoid these risk factors is through a change of diet.

Cholesterol

According to the American Heart Association, one of the leading risk factors for coronary heart disease is having a high cholesterol level. By aiming for a diet low in cholesterol, you can quickly reduce your chances of developing heart disease, including coronary heart disease. A healthy total blood cholesterol level should be 200 mg/dL or less.

Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is another risk factor for coronary heart disease that diet can help manage. Eating foods high in fat and sugar can quickly raise your blood pressure to unhealthy levels. Focusing on foods such as lean meats, fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help you lower your blood pressure reading to a healthy level. According to the National Institute of Health, you can also lower your blood pressure by increasing the amount of potassium you consume in your diet.

Weight

Your diet can also affect coronary heart disease by how it affects your weight. Obesity is a serious risk factor for developing heart disease. Keeping your diet to the minimal caloric needs that your body has to have to operate will help keep your weight at a healthy level. According to the American Heart Association, losing as little as 10 pounds can dramatically decrease your chances of developing heart disease.

Blood Sugar

Your diet also affects your chances of developing coronary heart disease by controlling your blood sugar levels. Eating an unhealthy diet can pack on extra layers of fatty tissue. According to the Mayo Clinic, having high levels of fatty tissue can increase the body's resistance to insulin. This insulin resistance can lead to diabetes. According to the American Heart Association, an estimated three-quarters of those who die with diabetes will die from some form of coronary issue such as heart disease.

Homemade Diet Food

Portion control is an important component in many diet plans and prepared diet meals are manufactured with this in mind. While they may be convenient, they can be quite expensive and generally are not the most tasty things to eat. Have the best of both worlds by creating your own homemade diet food. You'll have the convenience of a frozen meal when you're short on time and you can enjoy food that tastes good for less money. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1

Chop your favorite vegetables into similarly sized pieces. Most vegetables have very few calories, so add a large amount of your favorites to bulk up your meal. You will be able to eat more food for less calories, allowing you to feel full while still losing weight.

2

Place all of the vegetable pieces into a steamer insert and put the insert into a pot of water. Heat the water on the stove until the water is boiling, then steam the vegetables just until they are barely tender. Remove the steamer insert and rinse the vegetables with cold water to stop the cooking process.

3

Cook brown rice and whole wheat pasta separately until they are al dente. Do not cook them completely, as they will have additional cooking time when you heat the finished meals.

4

Dice the chicken breasts if you wish or leave them whole. Cook them in the microwave until they are no longer pink. Cook the chunks of lean beef in the same way. Watch the food carefully, checking after every minute of cooking, so that you don't overcook the meat.

5

Arrange the food onto freezer-safe portioned plates. Place a layer of rice or pasta at the bottom of the plate. Center the meat on top of it and surround the meat with a large portion of two or more vegetables. Cover the entire combination with one measured serving of marinara sauce or fat-free gravy.

6

Cover the plates with their lids. Place a piece of freezer tape on the lid and mark it with today's date. This will help you to keep track of how long your meals have been in the freezer. Place the meals in the bottom of the freezer in a single layer until they are frozen solid, then stack them in a convenient manner.

Metis Soup

The word "Metis" derives from a French term meaning "half-breed" or of "metif blood." It is used to describe people from Canada and some parts of the northern United States who are descendants of mixed Indo-European and North American Indian bloodline. Add this to my Recipe Box.

History

Traditionally the Metis people lived a communal lifestyle and always had a pot of soup cooking gently on the stove for family or visitors dropping by. Sharing and borrowing food was common practice in the Metis community and the introduction of modern appliances, such as freezers and electricity, changed the way the Metis community lived dramatically.

Metis Soup

A basic recipe for Metis soup includes onions, meat (ground or chunks), potatoes, carrots and celery. This is cooked, then water added along with a can of macaroni and tomatoes. Add salt and pepper to season and then simmer for about half an hour.

Metis Soup Measurements

Metis soup itself was made up of any fresh ingredients (both meat and vegetables) that were available. Therefore, there is not a set recipe for the soup as such and ingredients were used in the quantity that was in the house. Metis Soup was usually served with "Bannock" which is a type of Metis bread.

Diets for Heart Patients to Lose Weight Fast

Heart patients have a good reason to lose weight. A majority of men and women who suffer from heart disease are also overweight. Most physicians, preoperation and postoperation, suggest to their patients a weight loss and diet regimen. A lot of patients wish to lose the weight fast, and turn to fad diets to accomplish this feat, even against physicians' orders. Knowing the risks of fad diets, and learning the best way to control your diet, can help you lose weight and keep it off for life.

Fad Diets

There are several diets out there that promise quick weight loss for those who want to take off a few extra pounds before or after a surgery. Popular diets include the low carb diet, where all high carbohydrate foods are cut out of daily consumption, and the Cabbage Soup Diet, where cabbage soup is the focus of every meal due to its supposed fat-burning qualities, along with other fruits and vegetables. Variations of these diets, as well as supplements and pills designed to cut weight fast are available on the internet and in 'health food' stores.

Fad Diet Issues

Fad diets may take the weight off fast--many people have had temporary success with the low protein diet, for example--but keeping the weight off after the diet can be a difficult task. Once you have finished your rapid weight loss regime, unless you have a strong will, it is likely that you will return to previous eating habits. If you were overweight before, you may just put the weight back on.

In studies performed at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, a study promoted by the National Academy of Sciences, low protein diets were shown to be inherently dangerous, as excess protein in the blood can create plaque build up in the arteries. If you are a heart patient, that is the last thing you need. Other fad diets may not have these inherent dangers, but they do not promote healthy living.
Most fad diets suggest the cutting out of certain foods altogether, instead of moderation. The lack of exercise promotion in most fad diets is also a cause of worry among most reputable physicians.

Losing Weight

The best way to lose wight before or after heart surgery is by eating a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Cutting out high fat food, and those high in sugar content is the best weight to lose weight. If you drink around five regular sodas a day, you are adding an extra 600 to 700 calories to your diet. Cutting down on soda consumption can save you from excess fat. Adding a bit of regular exercise to your daily healthy habit can take weight off as well. Three days of cardiovascular exercise a week has been proven to lower weight in both men and women. Creating a healthy, sustainable lifestyle is key to losing weight and keeping it off.

Cholesterol & Sodium Restricted Diet

A cholesterol- and sodium-restricted diet is like any other healthy, well-balanced diet in that it highlights eating a variety of heart-healthy foods that will help you lower your fat and cholesterol blood levels. It is as important to know what foods to eat or limit as it is to know how to prepare them in a healthy manner.

Foods to Eat

Eat heart-healthy foods low in salt and cholesterol and high in fiber and antioxidants. Fiber-rich foods include whole grains such as barley, oats and oat bran, brown rice, whole wheat and triticale; legumes including kidney beans and lentils; almonds, pistachios, walnuts and hazelnuts; flax seeds and sunflower seeds; plus fruits and vegetables. It is recommended you eat 10g of soluble fiber daily to decrease your "bad" (LDL) cholesterol.

Get your soluble fiber. Soluble fiber lowers your LDL ("bad") cholesterol, according to the USDA and the Mayo Clinic. Kidney beans, pears, prunes, psyllium, barley, oats and apples are most notably for high levels of soluble fiber. It is recommended you eat 10g of soluble fiber daily to decrease your "bad" (LDL) cholesterol.

Eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids also reduce your LDL level and contain many antioxidants. Salmon, herring, mackerel, lake trout, albacore tuna (canned in water), sardines, avocados, flax seeds, walnuts and avocados all contain notable amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Take a fish oil supplement if you do not like fish. The USDA recommends eating two servings of fish weekly.

Enjoy oatmeal. One and a half cups of cooked oatmeal contain 6g of soluble fiber, according to the Mayo Clinic. Add fresh apple or banana for another 4g.

Use natural seasonings. Substitute a variety of fresh herbs and spices for your salt shaker. According to the American Heart Association, this will lower your blood pressure and chances for heart disease. Use a salt-free seasoning. Squeeze a fresh lemon or orange on your fish instead of salt.

Eat plant sterols. According to the American Dietetic Association, these can lower LDL while providing needed nutrients. Plant sterols occur naturally in soy foods, walnuts, avocados, vegetable oils, canola oil, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables.

Select unsalted nuts or seeds, dried beans, peas and lentils. Select unsalted varieties of canned foods. Aim to eat less than 2,300mg of salt per day. According to the American Heart Association, this amount will vary individually.

Foods to Avoid or Limit

Avoid foods high in salt. According to the USDA and the American Heart Association, these include numerous sodium preservatives, baking soda, baking powder, tamari, soy sauce, meat tenderizer, steak sauce, Worcestershire sauce and MSG.

Avoid, or limit, foods containing saturated and/or trans fats. These include red meat, whole-fat dairy foods, processed foods, baked goods, pickles, many canned foods and snack foods.

Meal Preparation

Use heart-healthy cooking methods. The Mayo Clinic, USDA and the American Heart Association recommend steaming, poaching, grilling and baking (without added oils). Using an unhealthy cooking method can raise your cholesterol.