Take Charge of Your Health Care - March 23, 2008

take charge of your health care - March 23, 2008

Welcome to the March 23, 2008 edition of take charge of your health care. As you gather with your family this weekend, may I wish all of my readers a happy and healthy holiday. Spring is the season of renewal and hopefully these health tips will help your family stay fit and healthy and also save money on your healthcare.

We get some excellent, high quality submissions to this carnival. I do accept about 80 to 85% of all submissions. If you submitted more than 2 posts, I have chosen your 2 best or most relevant posts. I have also eliminated any posts that are duplicates from the last edition or that are not relevant to healthcare. Please feel free to resubmit any posts that were not included to the next issue of Take Charge of Your Healthcare Carnival.

health insurance

Helene Zemel presents Affordable Dental Plans posted at Affordable Dental Plans, saying, "Good dental care is so important to your family’s good health and well-being. Who can underestimate the importance of a pleasant and attractive smile and the good health benefits that come with that healthy smile? Yet over 7 out of 10 Americans lack affordable dental plans. Discount Dental Plans can provide an affordable alternative to costly dental insurance and offer benefits not provided by insurance policies."

Wenchypoo presents Universal Health Care Blues: Patient Stacking posted at Wisdom From Wenchypoo's Mental Wastebasket. Editor’s note: An interesting perspective on some of the problems with universal health care.

Shaheen Lakhan presents Are Insurance Copayments Unethical? posted at GNIF Brain Blogger, saying, “A large-scale study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients who are required to pay $10 or more for a mammogram are significantly less likely to have the examination on a biannual basis when compared to individuals whose insurance plans provided complete coverage.”

John Cogan presents State efforts to increase health coverage come with a price--higher income taxes posted at Regulating Health Insurance, saying, "In an effort to increase health insurance coverage, many states have passed laws to increase the maximum age limit for young adults to stay on their parents’ health insurance policies. Whether you are in favor of these coverage mandates or not, there’s one hitch to such laws that isn’t often mentioned: the tax consequences for parents keeping their twentysomething children on the family's employer-based health insurance coverage." Editor’s note: One must weigh this cost versus the probably higher cost of obtaining a separate health insurance policy for the grown child. With the economic downturn, there aren’t a lot of entry level jobs for people fresh out of high school and college which would offer decent benefits.

Raymond presents How To Avoid A Major Cause Of Bankruptcy By Getting Basic Health Insurance Coverage posted at Money Blue Book. Editor’s note: as the author notes, having adequate health insurance can help you avoid bankruptcy provided you can afford health insurance and are not turned down due to pre-existing conditions.

Jose DeJesus MD presents Usual and Customary Charges Artificially Rigged posted at Physician Entrepreneur, saying, “Out of network health insurance claims and claims paid through indemnity based health plans are settled based on a percentage of the “usual and customary” or “reasonable and customary” charges prevailing in the area where the service is performed. Physicians and patients have long felt that these rates were understated, which leaves patients with a much larger share of healthcare costs than they should actually bear.”

save money on health care

Helene Zemel presents Great News! AmeriPlan $25 Business Opportunity Extended to March 31st posted at Health Plans Plus, saying, "Great News! Our $25 new business promotion has been extended to March 31, 2008. Now you can start your own business as a benefits consultant for just $25." Editor’s note: If you are interested in a home-based business in the health benefits field, there are just a few days remaining to take advantage of this opportunity.

Alex M presents What Everybody Should Know About Secured Medical Loans Within Employment Benefits posted at eloanex.com. Editor’s note: Some good information here on employee benefits.

Jose DeJesus MD presents Discouraging Frivolous Malpractice Lawsuits posted at Physician Entrepreneur. Editor’s note: Frivolous lawsuits are definitely a factor in increasing the cost of healthcare.

alternative medicine

Rickey Henderson presents Aaaargh, Rickey's Back! posted at Riding with Rickey. Editor’s note: Some good advice on sciatica in the comments on this blog.

David Richeson presents Beginning my Detox from Toxic Mercury Dental Amalgam Fillings posted at 360 Degree Success, saying, "Why dental amalgam fillings are so toxic, and how to safely detoxify your body." Editor’s note: Thanks for bringing attention to the dangers of amalgam fillings. Most people do not realize that the silver amalgam used by dentists contain mercury which is highly toxic.

Lovelyn presents Self Massage: Trigger Point Therapy posted at The Art of Balanced Living. Editor’s note: Some excellent information on performing self massage to relieve discomfort at trigger points.

Amy S Quinn presents The Top 50 Alternative Medicine Blogs posted at Online Nursing Degree Directory. Editor’s note: A comprehensive list of alternative medicine blogs.

Deb Serani presents Understanding Research: Antidepressant Data posted at Dr. Deb, saying, "This post looks at how one needs to consider "research" when making healthcare decisions." Editor’s note: Some good information on anti-depressant medications can be found in this blog post.

Lori Jewett presents Yes Virginia - There is a Perimenopause posted at Between Us Girls, saying, "What you should know about perimenopause that your doctor may not be telling you."

Burton Kent presents Legal Drugs Kill Far More People Than Illegal Drugs! Acupuncture Marketing for Clinics posted at Acupuncture Marketing for Clinics, saying, "Discusses how healing can only come from the body's natural healing processes. Attempting to bypass or repress these processes just makes things worse."

Ellen Landauer presents Stress from Electromagnetic Fields: Natural Solutions posted at Health Freedom Coaching, saying, "Stress from electromagnetic field (EMF) pollution is more significant than most people know. Simple tips can help you feel more happy and relaxed at home, and minimize deleterious effects when you are out and about."

Chris presents Tai Chi Ruler: The Cure For a Sore Lower Back posted at Martial Development, saying, "Learn this simple Tai Chi form to cure and prevent back pain. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels."

consumer driven health care

Jose DeJesus MD presents Doctors Get Bonuses for Raising the Bar posted at Physician Entrepreneur. Editor’s note: Dr. DeJesus discusses how some insurance and health management companies are paying a bonus to physician’s who emphasize preventative care.

Rachel Walden presents Tips for Savvy Medical Web Surfing? - A Critique posted at Women's Health News, saying, "This post is my critique, as a medical librarian, of CNN's recent "Tips for Savvy Medical Web Surfing" article. Another's commentary on this article is linked in the post."

Eric Cech presents Essential Oils for Aromatherapy from Synergy Essentials posted at Synergy Essential Oils, Aromatherapy for Professionals and Enthusiasts. Editor’s note: You will find some excellent descriptions and good information on various essential oils on this site.

Pete Quily presents Top 10 Ways to Manage Adult ADHD posted at Adult ADD Strengths. Editor’s note: Very informative article listing various alternatives for dealing with adult ADD.

Aparna presents Correcting a gummy smile posted at Beauty and Personality Grooming, saying, "A gummy smile is one where the gums outsize the teeth, making your teeth appear shorter and the gums more prominent. Or it could be that the gum line is not symmetrical with the teeth. If you have a gummy smile you may feel self-conscious to smile or laugh freely with others. You need not live with it. So if it’s bothering you, ask your dentist about the corrective techniques."

Aparna presents Sleeping for long hours is not good for health posted at Beauty and Personality Grooming, saying, "Insomnia is by far the most talked about and discussed sleep disorder. Tons of information is available on this topic and countless remedies are suggested by all and sundry to overcome this problem. Comparatively, excessive sleep and its effects on health rarely get so much attention and this issue hardly finds a place in the conversation of laymen."

Charles H. Green presents Who(m) Do You Trust? posted at Trust Matters, saying, "Trust in your doctor isn't just a matter of knowing he's skilled, but in knowing he will listen to you, not just dictate to you."

Raymond presents My Experience With Lasik Eye Surgery - Thoughts About Laser Vision Correction - Is It Worth The Cost and Risks? posted at Money Blue Book. Editor’s note: Very informative post about Lasik eye surgery. This is certainly a viable and safe alternative for people who want freedom from contact lenses or thick eyeglasses.

Silveral presents Celebrity skin care – secret to perfect skin posted at Celebrity News, and Gossip. Editor’s note: Good information on skin care and celebrity skin care products.

diet & fitness

Sagar presents 20 Simple At Your Desk Exercises For Web Workers posted at Online Nursing Degree Directory. Editor’s note: Some great exercises that can be easily performed right at your desk.

Mike Remer presents Celebrating! My Path To Fitness Blog posted at My Path To Fitness Blog. Editor’s note: This post will help motivate you to start exercising again.

Mike Remer presents Wish Exercise wasn’t so Hard? My Path To Fitness Blog posted at My Path To Fitness Blog, saying, “When you were a kid, what did you do when you went out to play? Right, you ran around, climbed trees, jumped rope. You were moving and called it ”play.” What physical activities can you add to your life or increase today — or at the very latest tomorrow -and call it play?”

Life. Money. Development. presents Diet Tips for Preventing High Cholesterol Levels posted at Life. Money. Development., saying, "A neat collection of diet tips for keeping cholesterol in recommended levels."

Alex Blackwell presents 45 Tips for a Happier, Simpler and More Productive Life posted at The Next 45 Years, saying, “Every now and then we need a nudge, a little extra help. Life can be challenging and sometimes it can test our resolve.” determination and faith. When Life surprises us with a pop-quiz, it’s good to know where we can find some of the answers.” Editor’s note: 45 tips to help you stay mentally fit and happy.

Anwar Daniels presents Eat Healthier. Try Black Eyed Peas. posted at cannedfitness.com, saying, "A great write up on the benefits of black eyed peas and how they can help you with your goals of living a healthier life."

Joshua Seth presents 10 Reasons Why Weight Loss Diets Fail posted at Joshua Seth Blog, saying, ": "Did you know that over 90% of people actually gain weight within 6 months of dieting! Here are the top 10 reasons why...""

James D. Brausch presents Is Your Keyboard Making You Fat? posted at Weight Loss Dude. Editor’s note: I have to admit that I am guilty of eating at the computer, but actually the no eating at the computer rule can help you stay fit.

James D. Brausch presents This Week's Supplement: Calcium posted at Weight Loss Dude. Editor’s note: James Brausch reports here on his experience with various supplements and weight loss results.

Kavit Haria presents Easy weight loss by counting your calories posted at Wellness Junction by Kavit Haria. Editor’s note: Some good advice on using calorie counting as a weight loss method.

Kavit Haria presents Top five tips to healthy meal planning posted at Wellness Junction by Kavit Haria, saying: “A common reason many people don’t eat healthy is because “they don’t have the time”. By carefully planning your meal in advance, you set yourself up for a healthy week as well as saving time and money when you go shopping. “

Louis presents Learn To Dance Like The Stars And Lose Weight At The Same Time! posted at "Finally, You Too Can Master Ballroom Dancing Easily From Dancing With The Stars' Louis van Amstel", saying, "Who says losing weight can't be fun?"

The Push Up Coach presents Pros And Cons Of A Personal Trainer posted at The 1000 Push Ups Club, saying, "1000 Push Up Club will help you stay motivated as you do every push up and help you reach your goal - whether it is 50, 100, or 1,000 push ups."

Neelakantha presents 100 Weird Facts About the Human Body posted at Bootstrapper. Editor’s note: Some very interesting facts about the human body posted here. A good read.

Neelakantha presents The Webmaster?s Guide to Better Health ? 101 Tips and Resources posted at WHDb. Editor’s note: Well researched list of resources and articles on various health matters.

Anmol Mehta presents Free Online Yoga Videos Launched posted at Mastery of Meditation, Enlightenment & Kundalini Yoga, saying, "Free online yoga videos to help you achieve physical, emotional and mental mastery."

Wenchypoo presents The "No-Label Diet" One Year Later posted at Wisdom From Wenchypoo's Mental Wastebasket. Editor’s note: This diet will help reduce your blood pressure and cholesterol. Good low calorie salad dressing recipe in the comments section.

Ellen Landauer presents Insomnia: Better Sleep Can Be Yours posted at Health Freedom Coaching, saying, "A wealth of sleep-optimizing tips, including the recipe for my special supplement nightcap, diet tips for better sleep, and details on a number of other natural ways to get better sleep."

Randy Powell presents Cardiovascular Health posted at Eating-Veggies.com: Alkaline Diet blog. Editor’s note: Some very good dietary advice that we can all follow.

Miscellaneous

Ariah Fine presents What If We Wiped for Our Great, Great, Great, Great Grandchildren? posted at Trying to Follow. Editor’s note: Sometimes small steps can make a big difference when it comes to conservations. Thoughtful article about conservation.
.
James Chambers presents Combat Hyperhidrosis with Botox posted at Hyperhidrosis. Editor’s note: Good information on a possible treatment option for excessive sweating.

James Chambers presents Natural Deodorants Do They Stop Sweating? posted at Hyperhidrosis. Editor’s note: Some good information on natural deodorants that can help if you suffer from hyperhidrosis.

zerg presents Suffering in Mesothelioma posted at Mesothelioma News Blog, saying, "Some information on how to treat and what actions take when somebody suffers from mesothelioma - how to find best lawyer."

Asbestos presents Suffering in Mesothelioma posted at Mesothelioma News Blog, saying, "It is possible to live well with mesothelioma."

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of take charge of your health care using our carnival submission form. Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.

Technorati tags: take charge of your health care, blog carnival

Take Charge of Your Health Care February 23, 2008

take charge of your health care - February 23, 2008
Blog Carnival
take charge of your health care

archives submit post


Welcome to the February 23, 2008 edition of take charge of your health care. February is heart health month, so read through some of our diet and fitness, consumer directed healthcare, and alternative medicine selections to help you stay fit and healthy.


If you are a U.S. resident, and are interested in a career in the health benefits industry, see my article “The AmeriPlan Business Opportunity” which is posted below. This month, AmeriPlan, the discount medical and dental benefits company that I am a Senior Regional Sales Director for, has an excellent promotion going on. You can start your own health benefits business for just $25.00. There are still a few days to take advantage of this opportunity.


Again we received many quality posts this month. I do accept about 80% of the submissions because they are generally quite good and on topic. If you submitted more than 2 posts, you will find that I have posted your 2 articles most relevant to this carnival. Feel free to resubmit your post to next month’s carnival.


Happy reading and stay healthy.

health insurance

Raymond presents How To Avoid A Major Cause Of Bankruptcy By Getting Basic Health Insurance Coverage posted at Money Blue Book, saying, “Currently, unpaid medical bills due to unforeseen and catastrophic medical related ailments compete with debt mismanagement and credit card bills as the number one contributor to personal bankruptcy.”

Helene Zemel presents Finding an Affordable Dental Plan - Questions to Ask posted at Health Plans Plus, saying, "Seven out of 10 Americans do not have dental insurance. A discount dental plan may be an affordable alternative. Here are some questions to ask when searching for an affordable dental plan."

D.A. presents What You Need to Know When Choosing Dental Insurance posted at Dental Aggregate. This post provides some excellent advice for selecting a dental insurance plan plus an explanation of insurance terms you should know.

Health Chaos presents The wheel goes round and round posted at Health Chaos. Editor’s note: An interesting commentary about the problems caused by a lack of health insurance.

save money on health care

Helene Zemel presents The AmeriPlan Business Opportunity Get Started for $25 posted at Health Plans Plus, saying, "For a limited time only, you can start your AmeriPlan business for just $25.00 for the first month. This promotion begins on February 1, 2008 and ends February 29th, 2008 at 5:00 p.m. Central Time. This is an excellent opportunity to try a new business and see if it is right for you with minimal financial risk."

Pinyo Bhulipongsanon presents Health Insurance, Medical Expenses, and Unscrupulous Doctors posted at Moolanomy. Editor’s note: The author makes the good point that it is important to question your healthcare provider about all procedures, medications, and tests.

Raymond presents Deadline Approaching To Use Up Your Flexible Spending Account - Use It Or Lose It Money Blue Book posted at Money Blue Book. Editor’s note: This post has excellent information regarding flexible spending accounts and is a reminder to max out your flexible spending account by the end of the year.

TheNourisher presents Forgotten tooth decay cure : heal your cavities and prevent root canals posted at Nourished Magazine, saying, "Contrary to popular belief, cavities aren't avoided by brushing your teeth, and you don't need a dentist to prevent tooth decay. In his search for a cure for his one-year-old daughter's cavities, Rami Nagel came across the work of Dr Weston A Price, a dentist who, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, discovered the true cause of dental decay." Editor’s note: This informative article is a real eye opener and should help those of us who suffer from an above normal amount of tooth decay.

Walter presents Living Healthy Isn’t Cost Saving, It’s Cost Effective posted at Highlight HEALTH, saying, “The value of healthy-living is reduced yearly healthcare costs earlier in life and increased life expectancy. Isn’t that what it’s all about?”.

alternative medicine

Mitch McDonald presents All Natural Home Remedy for Acne Breakouts posted at FYI About.com. Editor’s note: Some good information on acne is posted here.

Christian Goodman presents How Being Overweight Increases the Risk of Hypertension Christian Goodman posted at Christian Goodman, saying, "Hypertension and obesity are the two most serious health threats we face."

Christian Goodman presents Tired? It could be Fibromyalgia posted at Christian Goodman, saying, "Fibromyalgia has no known cause. Doctors all over the world suggest several catalysts for the syndrome, some conflicting with each other. Others even think it’s all in the mind. But simple exercises can heal Fibromyalgia."

Joe Lasiter presents Arthritis: Home Remedies posted at Natural Pain Relief, saying, "Soaks, Rubs, Teas and supplements have been used for centuries to reduce the pain of arthritis, here are a few you may not have tried."

Michael H presents Deodorants, Antiperspirants and Your Health posted at ControlYourImpact.com. Editor’s note: Thanks for informing us of the dangers of antiperspirants. I’m so glad that my father, many years ago, believed that stopping perspiration was very unnatural.

Joe Lasiter presents Herbal Home remedies posted at Natural Pain Relief, saying, "Medicinal plants have been used for centuries to provide healing before western medicine as we now know it with its manufactured pills and chemicals."

Spencer Jones presents Why Take Colloidal Silver? posted at Colloidal Silver Secrets, saying, "One of the easiest ways to take charge of your health is through the use of colloidal silver for boosting immunity and fighting infection."

Ellen Landauer presents Nutritional Supplements for Depression and Anxiety posted at Health Freedom Coaching. Editor’s note: Thanks for the great information on nutritional supplements that can aid in depression and anxiety. These supplements are certainly a much better alternative than the expensive drugs with their dangerous side effects which are pushed by the pharmaceutical companies.

Kavit Haria presents Facial Yoga - Get rid of your wrinkles faster posted at Wellness Junction by Kavit Haria. Editor’s note: This is certainly much safer than either Botox or cosmetic surgery and attending classes has social benefits too.

consumer driven health care

James Chambers presents Hyperhidrosis Treatment Advice and Options posted at Hyperhidrosis. Editor’s note: Excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis can be problematic. Here are some treatments to look into.

James Chambers presents Hyperhidrosis Causes posted at Hyperhidrosis. More on hyperhidrosis.

Alvaro Fernandez presents Brain Plasticity, Health and Fitness Books posted at SharpBrains, saying, "Enjoy this list of 20 great books on the brain, learning and healthy aging."

MT presents How To Protect Yourself From Bird Flu Or Avian Flu? posted at MT Herald Dot Com. Editor’s note: Some good information especially if you are traveling to a country where there have been bird flu cases.

Alvaro Fernandez presents Brain Fitness/ Training Newsletter: January Wrap-Up posted at SharpBrains, saying, "A selection of articles on cognitive and emotional training, focused on implications on health and wellness."

Mitch McDonald presents Maintain The Basics Of Elderly Personal Hygiene posted at FYI About.com. Editor’s note: This is good information for anyone who must care for the elderly.

Joyce Dowling presents Solution to TMJ! & should reduce tinnitus, too - why didn't I know? Everyone should know! posted at UU Mom, saying, "Not sure if that category totally fits, but I didn't give up until I found a solution to my health problem & even my holistic doctor missed the right diagnosis. Now I know the cause, the solution is soon to come. People need to know they don't need to suffer like this."

Aparna presents Can a shampoo session at a beauty salon trigger strokes in the elderly? posted at Beauty and Personality Grooming, saying, "Shampooing hair at a salon can prove to be dangerous and even fatal to the aged. Ever heard of the ‘Sink Shampoo Syndrome (SSS)’? During a shampoo session at a beauty salon, the head is bent backward over the edge of a basin and if this position is maintained for a long time it can trigger strokes in elderly persons." Editor’s note: I never would have thought of this danger, but it certainly makes sense. Thanks for informing us of this hidden danger

Tip Diva presents Top Ten Tips - Preparing For Medical Tests posted at Tip Diva, saying, "Most people have to take medical tests at some point in their lives, whether one-off or recurring. Here’s how to make preparing for these medical tests easier." Editor’s note: excellent information on preparing for medical tests.

FruitfulTime presents Are you sleeping enough? posted at FruitfulTime Blog. Editor’s note: Thanks for reminding us of the repair benefits of sleeping.

Daniel Lafleche presents A fascinating clip from the film Malaria Parasites posted at Film and Video Marketplace Blog, saying, "Why is it that 30 years ago malaria in Africa was no more serious than the flu? This 5-minute video provides an overview on what has happened, and pointers to help solve this health problem."

diet & fitness

Joshua Seth presents Weight Loss Tips posted at Joshua Seth Blog, saying, ""‘I don’t know about you, but I’m sick and tired of all the misinformation from the weight loss industry causing people to waste their time and money on fad diets that only end up making them fatter! The CDC reports that over 120 million Americans are overweight and the problem is just getting worse. Together we can do something about it."

Mike Remer presents Oh, Oh! Here Come the Holidays and the Cold Weather My Path To Fitness Blog posted at My Path To Fitness Blog. Editor’s note: It’s several weeks past the holidays, but these Winter fitness tips are great for those of us in colder climates.

James D. Brausch presents Does The Switch Diet Work Long-term? posted at Weight Loss Dude. Editor’s note: What a good idea switching diets! Most diets don’t work because people get bored with the same eating plans. People might even look forward to their new diet each week.

James D. Brausch presents Bathroom Scales posted at Weight Loss Dude. Editor’s note: A humorous commentary on modern bathroom scales.

Joshua Seth presents Your Weight Loss Mindset posted at Joshua Seth Blog, saying, ""Answer these four questions to start improving your health today. By doing so you’re taking the steps to do something good for yourself, as well as the people who love you. You’re taking charge of your health and your life. The greatest gift you can give yourself and those who love you is good health. Why wait any longer?" Editor’s note: It certainly makes sense to focus on your mindset for success with dieting rather than on diet pills or drastic diets.

Jose DeJesus MD presents Chronic Neck Pain Patients - Danish Study Describes Effective Treatment posted at Physician Entrepreneur. Editor’s note: Good article on the effectiveness of strength training and exercise for chronic neck pain.

Tiffany Washko presents Raw Food is Easier on the Budget posted at Raw Food Blog. Editor’s note: Raw foods are not only beneficial to your good health but can help reduce your food budget.

Roger Haeske presents I'll Be Eating At A Steakhouse Tonight posted at Raw Food Diet, Bodyweight Fitness and Peak Performance Living. Editor’s note: A very interesting post about the author’s experience in attending a friend’s restaurant party while adhering to his raw diet plan.

MT presents New Year Health Care Resolutions posted at MT Herald Dot Com. Editor’s note: It’s not too late to make New Year’s resolutions concerning your health.

Frederic Patenaude presents 24-Hour Special for Lightning Speed Fitness Program posted at Frederic Patenaude Talks, saying, "This is a blog entry for a program which makes fitness easy (with some effort) and affordable. No more fancy equipment or expensive gym memberships....for the average "joe" who wants to stay in decent shape, these exercises help you to use your own body weight to achieve fitness. The exercises can be done anytime, anywhere, within roughly 15-20 minutes. Convenient and efffective!"

Mike Remer presents Celebrating! My Path To Fitness Blog posted at My Path To Fitness Blog. Editor’s note: Thanks for your inspirational message about exercising.

Daniel Lafleche presents Sell Sheet Sampler: Fascinating clip from documentary 'Shredded' posted at Film and Video Marketplace Blog, saying, "5-minute clip that provides a unusual glimpse into the problem of body-image for teenage males, and warns about steroid use."

Randy Powell presents Good Fats! posted at Eating-Veggies.com: Alkaline Diet blog, saying, “The long term effects of an alkaline diet and consumption of healthy fats and oils will improve the quality of life for these people long into their adult years and help them bypass some of the health problems experienced by our elders.”

Anmol Mehta presents Free Online Hatha Yoga Poses Galleries posted at Mastery of Meditation, Enlightenment & Kundalini Yoga, saying, "Free online e-book of illustrated Hatha Yoga poses and exercises to help you start or deepen your Yoga practice."

Karl presents Self Hypnosis: Handle Stress with Self Hypnosis posted at SELF HYPNOSIS: Weight Loss, Quit Smoking Self Hypnosis!. Editor’s note: Some good tips on the use of self hypnosis for stress reduction and relaxation.

Frederic Patenaude presents Staying a Step Ahead of Aging posted at Frederic Patenaude Talks, saying, "As we age, increasing one's fitness levels is imperative to succeed with youth, vitality, and weight loss goals."

Alfa Mercado presents 40 Ways To Lose Weight Fast? And Keep It Off posted at Wellness Junction by Kavit Haria. Editor’s note: Here are some excellent tips for losing weight.

Alfa Mercado presents Five awesome ways to improve breakfast posted at Wellness Junction by Kavit Haria. Editor’s note: You’ll be hungry for breakfast after you read this article.

miscellaneous

Sagar presents Online Nursing Degree Directory » Blog Archive » 10 Terrible Patients You’ll Find In Every Hospital …And How To Deal With Them posted at Online Nursing Degree Directory. Editor’s note: A humorous look at various patients that you will come across as a healthcare provider.

Rebecca Suzanne Dean presents How To Research 5 Times Faster posted at Rebecca Dean. Editor’s note: Some good information on the value of speed reading.

Rob Moshe presents Live Your Best Life By Serving Others posted at Rob Schaumer, saying, "This is not necessarily a fitting post for your carnival. Once the project starts, each day I will recognize a fellow blogger that "Helped""

Joshua Wagner presents Focus on One Thing at a Time (Diversity is Death) posted at Total Possibility, saying, “If we lose our focus and diversify our life so much that we spread ourselves thin, all we are going to be able to do is to stare at someone when they need a response.”

jozy presents Asbestos can be fully removed - invention from Poland. posted at Mesothelioma Survivor Portal, saying, "Great invention."

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of take charge of your health care using our carnival submission form. Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.

Technorati tags: take charge of your health care, blog carnival.

Take Charge of Your Health Care Carnival January 22, 2008 Edition

Take Charge of Your Health Care - January 22, 2008

Welcome to the January 22, 2008 edition of take charge of your health care. First of all, I wish all of my readers a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year. I hope that all of you were able to spend some good, quality time with your friends and family. My own family is small, but I feel that I have made so many friends through business, on the internet, and in the blogosphere.

Our blog is becoming more and more popular each month. This month we have received 54 posts. Since I am the sole host for Take Charge of Your Health Care Carnival, I would like to request that each author send in no more than 2 posts per carnival. In future issues, I will select your best 2, if you submit more than 2 good content articles. All posts must be on topic, provide good content, and be family friendly to be included. Submissions that consist primarily of a sales landing page will not be included.

Here in the United States we are busy with the primary process which culminates in the selection of which candidate will be the nominee for president at each party’s convention. November 2008, we will be electing a new President of the United States. This new President will have formidable challenges, one of which will be to fix the broken U.S. health care system in which 47,000,000 Americans do not have health insurance and even more are underinsured. With this in mind, I would like to begin this carnival with some posts on health insurance.

This being the New Year, many excellent posts have been submitted on diet and fitness. Hopefully these posts will help you with your New Year’s Resolutions.

health insurance

Helene Zemel presents The Shame of the American Health Care System posted at Health Plans Plus, saying, "Over 47,000,000 Americans have no health insurance—more than 15 % of the population. Even more Americans do not have any dental insurance. With the exception of the United States, most developed countries have a National health system which benefits all of its citizens both rich and poor. Although the United States is a first world country, for the more than 47 million uninsured, medical care is third world."

Bill presents What are the Benefits of a Dental Plan? posted at I Need a Dental Plan. There is some good information on choosing a discount dental plan in this post plus some advice on dental hygiene.

Helene Zemel presents A Little Known Secret - Patient Assistance Programs posted at Health Plans Plus, saying, "For over 15 years, more than 200 pharmaceutical companies representing 1,100 brand-name drugs have been providing prescription medications to eligible individuals through Patient Assistance Programs. These programs assist eligible individuals who cannot afford their prescription medications due to limited income or other financial hardships. A major problem is that few people know about the existence of these programs or understand the complicated application and approval process required to participate in a Prescription Assistance Program."

consumer directed health care

Here is your opportunity to get some good recommendations on some common problems by a licensed registered pharmacist:

Carla presents 5 most common pharmacy questions posted at Carla
In another informative post, Carla presents Got a stuffy nose? Cough and cold medication explained posted at Carla.

Staying on the topic of medications, Dr Martin W. Russell presents Self Help For Sleeping Pills - The Campaign posted at Dr Martin W. Russell, saying, "Save money on your sleeping medication the best way possible." For those readers with sleep problems, Dr. Russell includes a link for people who want to get a good night's sleep, but who have been worried about the risks of sleeping pills or potions.

There is increasing evidence that computer based cognitive training can help prevent memory loss in the elderly. Alvaro Fernandez presents Brain Training: No Magic Bullet, Yet Useful Tool. Interview with Elizabeth Zelinski posted at SharpBrains, saying, "Newsweek says that "computer-based brain training has shot up from essentially zero in 2005 to $80 million this year, according to the consulting firm SharpBrains". Here goes an interview with a leading scientist."

Andrew Michaels presents Relearning to See: My Plan to Regain My Waning Eyesight and Hurl My Glasses Off A Cliff posted at Lifecrafting, saying, "One man's quest to repair his vision." Editor’s note: I hope that Mr. Michaels will report back on the benefits that he finds from this vision improvement course. I remember that my childhood optometrist was very big on visual training. I know that some supplements such as lutein, bilberry, eyebright, and carnosine can have a positive effect on vision problems.

Save Money presents LASIK Eye Surgery - My Experiences - Day 1 posted at How I Save Money.net. Editor’s note: If you are considering Lasik eye surgery, this is a very informative blog to read.

Kate Baggott presents Labor and Birth from A to Z posted at Babylune, saying, "Everything you should know about labor and delivery with even more fun stuff thrown in." Editor’s note: Excellent blog for anyone expecting a baby.

jonn presents Mesothelioma Survivor posted at Mesothelioma News Blog, saying, "Psychology on what to do when diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer." Editor’s note: This is very positive advice which will help you advocate if you are a victim of this serious illness. The author recommends a book by a Mesothelioma survivor.

diet & fitness

James D. Brausch presents New Years Resolutions posted at Weight Loss Dude. This is a good place to start your New Year’s reading.

Alex Blackwell presents Five Good Reasons to Exercise posted at The Next 45 Years. Editor’s note: Excellent post about the physical and mental benefits of an exercise routine and the importance of “me time.”

Maria Fernandez presents Weight loss myths demystified posted at Health and beauty - blog, saying, "This post gives you an assessment of long-held myths about dieting, and tips of how to lose weight successfully." Editor’s note: The author gives some excellent and sound diet advice which will help you lost weight sensibly.

andrew784 presents 100 Weight Loss Tips & Tricks posted at Personal Hack, saying, "Simple, quick and easy weight loss tips that cover every aspect of weight loss: Physical Activity Level, Eating Habits, and the right weight loss Mindset." Editor’s note: Another excellent post. These diet and weight loss tips are sure to help you lose weight sensibly.

Lucynda Riley presents Onions are Medicinal posted at Flower, Field, and Forest. This is an informative blog post about the medicinal and health benefits of onions.

For some good diet tips read the following posts by Lucynda Riley:

Handeling Cravings posted at A Public Diet.

Its not how much were eating its what were eating. posted at A Public Diet.

Dieting during Christmas posted at A Public Diet.

Mike Remer presents Wish Exercise wasn’t so Hard? My Path To Fitness Blog posted at My Path To Fitness Blog. The author reminds us that: “When you were a kid, what did you do when you went out to play? Right, you ran around, climbed trees, jumped rope. You were moving and called it ”play.” What physical activities can you add to your lifeor increase today — or at the very latest tomorrow -and call it play?”

Roger Haeske presents This Hang-Up Is Killing You, But You Don't Care posted at Raw Food Diet, Bodyweight Fitness and Peak Performance Living. Editor’s note: Some good advice from our Raw Food Diet expert.

Lucynda Riley presents Ham Bone Soup posted at A Public Diet. Editor’s note: This recipe sounds hearty, nutritious, and just perfect for the frigid weather we are having in much of the U.S. this week.

Abdulrasool Sumar presents Gardening & Good Diet Leads to Less Lung Cancer Risk posted at Mesothelioma Cancer, saying, "Cancer scientists at the The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center say that by simply eating 4 or more servings of green salad a week, and doing their gardening once or twice a week, people (both smokers and non-smokers) will be able to substantially reduce their risks of developing lung cancer during their lifetimes. This is a matter of doing physical exercise by gardening, and having good nutrition by eating green salads and other healthy meals."

Samuel Bryson presents High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): posted at Total Wellbeing. Editor’s note: Some good information on exercise physiology is presented in this article.

Alfa Mercado presents How to add more tofu to your daily diet posted at Wellness Junction by Kavit Haria. Tofu can be a much healthier substitute for meat while supplying protein and calcium to the diet. The author gives some excellent tips for cooking with tofu.

Alfa Mercado presents How to cut the fat and feel good posted at Wellness Junction by Kavit Haria. Obesity is becoming a global problem, not just an American or British problem. Alfa Mercado gives some good tips for losing weight.

Samuel Bryson presents Why Diets Don’t Work: posted at Total Wellbeing. This post focuses on the psychology of dieting. The author states that: “Dieting is a flawed concept. It has become associated with short term goals.”

Samuel Bryson presents Cycling and your wellbeing: posted at Total Wellbeing. Mr. Bryson suggests using cycling as a means of transport saving you money on gasoline, time being stuck in traffic, and also as an actual means of daily exercise.

Carey Yang presents Peppermint Oil for Curbing Appetite and Losing Weight posted at Carey for Fitness. This post reviews the many benefits of peppermint oil.

Carey Yang presents Experience the #1 Antioxidant Power to Fortify, Replenish and Rejuvenate Your Body posted at Carey for Fitness. Information about a powerful but good tasting antioxidant drink.



alternative medicine

Candida or Yeast Infection can be a stubborn health problem with uncomfortable symptoms. Michael Winicki submitted several short, excellent posts containing excellent information and treatment advice for treating this condition. If you suffer from yeast infection, you will want to read these posts:

What is Candida? posted at Michael Winicki

Candida Symptoms posted at Michael Winicki

Candida Diet posted at Michael Winicki.

articles_Signs_of_a_Yeast_Infection_during_Pregnancy.html posted at Michael Winicki.

The Real Problem With Candida Yeast posted at Michael Winicki.

Chronic Yeast Infection Cure posted at Michael Winicki.

Andrew Michaels presents Never Suffer A Headache Again posted at Lifecrafting, saying, "You need never suffer a headache again. Follow the steps in this article and become free of migraines and headaches." The author gives 5 steps which should help prevent headaches.

TherapyDoc presents Anxiety, Ethics, and Blogging posted at Everyone Needs Therapy. Some thoughts on blogging as well as a book recommendation are presented in this blog post.
Mitch McDonald presents Chemotherapy vs

Natural Alternatives posted at FYI About.com. Editor’s note: There is definitely controversy on this topic, but if you suffer from cancer, you should definitely look into alternative therapies as part of your treatment options.

Angela Williams Duea presents Eskridge & Associates: Try Hypnosis! posted at Eskridge & Associates, saying, "When I was was ready to face my tobacco habit, I found hypnosis helped me kick the addiction." In fitting with our New Years Resolutions edition, the author reports on his success in using hypnosis to cure a tobacco habit.

FitBuff presents How to Be Happy: 10 Mood-Boosting Moves FitBuff.com's Total Mind and Body Fitness Blog posted at FitBuff.com's Total Mind and Body Fitness Blog, saying, "Sometimes the best way to boost your physical health is to boost your mental health first. You'd be surprised at just how connected the two are. Try it out now with these 10 easy mood-boosting moves..."

Lucynda Riley presents Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus) posted at Flower, Field, and Forest. Information on an herbal remedy for colds and earaches.

James Chambers presents Hyperhidrosis Causes posted at Hyperhidrosis. Author’s note: Good content on hyperhidrosis, also know as excessive sweating, and what can be done about it.

Joe Lasiter presents Inside Look - A Bowen Session posted at Natural Pain Relief, saying, "A Bowen session lasts about the same as a typical massage 30-45 minutes. The therapist "rolls" over the muscles with their fingers. This rolling action increases the energy flow and causes the muscles to relax."

Anmol Mehta presents Free Online Yoga Breathing Exercises (Yoga Pranayama) E-Book posted at Mastery of Meditation, Enlightenment & Kundalini Yoga, saying, "Collection of powerful yoga breathing exercises to help you lose weight, cure diseases and get fit."

Alfa Mercado presents 5 Ways to Get Rid of a Cold posted at Wellness Junction by Kavit Haria. Some good tips on treating colds.

werelax presents The Health Benefits of Dancing - Found in Relaxation Activites posted at Where We Relax, saying, "Did you know that something as fun as dancing could have health benefits?"

Jose DeJesus MD presents Chronic Neck Pain Patients - Danish Study Describes Effective Treatment posted at Physician Entrepreneur. Dr. DeJesus cites an informative study which demonstrates that strength training can be helpful to people with chronic neck pain.

Hueina Su presents My Young Living Story and Exciting News posted at Intensive Care for the Nurturer's Soul, saying, "Ever since a health scare last summer, I've found the tools to help me regain my physical & emotional health. My husband and I are amazed at the turnaround I've made since last winter. Here's my healing journey and some exciting news to share."

Lovelyn presents An Introduction to Self Massage posted at The Art of Balanced Living. This post describes how self massage can be an effective therapy for carpal wrist syndrome, sciatic nerve pain, tension headache and stress.

Heidi Whitaker presents Work from Home Choices: Top Ten Reasons NOT to Choose Getting a Flu Shot posted at Work from Home Choices, saying, "Article focuses on little known negatives to getting a flu shot. Also recommends alternatives."

Miscellaneous

Pat B. Doyle presents Feng Shui and Clutter posted at Barton Pond Feng Shui.

SJ Yee presents The Best of RichGrad.com in 2007 posted at Personal Development for the Book Smart, saying, "21 of the Best Personal Development Articles from RichGrad.com in 2007... Have a blessed 2008!"

Kingsley Tagbo presents How to Overcome Procrastination in 8 Easy Steps: The Fastest Way to Learn Technical Skills or Get a Job posted at HOW TO LEARN COMPUTER PROGRAMMING FAST OR GET A JOB EASILY.

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of take charge of your health care using our carnival submission form. Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.
Technorati tags: take charge of your health care, blog carnival.