Moobs: A growing number of guys with growing breasts

Let’s face it. Men like boobs. But in terms of today, it seems that nearly half the population of men all over the world loves a nice rack so much, that it starts to grow on them… Literally! The result: MANBOOBS or MOOBS!

Manboobs, moobs, b!+(# tits, whatever you want to call it. Gynecomastia is a serious condition.
Screengrab from the movie, Fight Club

Manboobs – or GYNECOMASTIA in medical terms – is an endocrine disorder wherein breast tissues of men start to develop due to mainly due to hormonal imbalance. This imbalance is usually caused by other illnesses, injuries, food and medications that can alter the function of significant glands that produce hormones in the body, particularly irregularities in the secretion of estrogen and androgen.

Considering this some sort of a disorganized process happening inside the man’s body, there are still quite a handful of factors to consider as to why this hormonal imbalance literally gives guys the worst case of “Robert Paulson”. You know who that is? Just take a look at the screengrab from the movie, Fight Club.

Listed are just some of the common causes of gynecomastia:

Chronic diseases and illnesses that can be linked to hormonal imbalance

Diabetes, kidney failure and endocrine illnesses (hypothyroidism, etc.) are just some of the diseases and ailments that can affect the production of hormones in the body – specifically androgens and estrogens. These chronic diseases may trigger hormonal imbalance by deterring and interrupting the regular production of the testosterone in the body. As for liver cirrhosis being linked to gynecomastia, the liver’s ability to metabolize hormones is damaged and can no longer able to regulate excess estrogens. These effects can also be attributed to cancer –particularly prostate, testicular, etc., when it comes to the production and balancing of the testosterone.

That explains why and how “Robert Paulson” got the ridiculously-large pair of tits, and why I am associating this bodybuilder-turned-testicular-cancer-survivor fictional character with this post.

Medications and treatments

Tied up to the first one is the medication that goes with it. And this could get your chest all pumped up and juicy. Chemotherapy and dialysis are two major medications may and can save you from cancer and kidney-related diseases. However, there’s a big chance that your chest may grow even more due to the treatment’s effect on the gonad – a gland responsible for the production of hormones in the testicular area – as you undergo with these treatments.  This also goes for anti androgens and radiation treatments used for curing prostate cancer.

Moreover, medications for depression, ulcer, antibiotics, and even anabolic steroid can cause a firm man to grow a pair… of tender boobage. Instead, try something more natural like ginseng root to alleviate minor illnesses and ailments.

Food and booze

And just because you’re healthy as a horse, it doesn’t mean you’re exempted from sprouting a pair of fun bags. There are a number of foods and beverages that contains phytoestrogens – compound that mimics the characteristics of an estrogen. This can be found mostly on hops – which is normally found on beer – as well as green tea, soy, cereals, chickpeas, processed and legumes among others. So, you might wanna take it easy on shrugging down a 6-pack and be mindful of what you eat. Moderation is the key.

Drug abuse

Surprised? Believe it! Marijuana, along with those other drug substances found in heroin, meth, methadone as well as other barbiturates and opiates can slow down the production of testosterone in the body. So regardless if you’re into legal organic stuff or those high caliber drugs, you might want to steer clear from these drugs.

To sum up, the causes of gynecomastia mentioned above all boils down to one factor: hormonal imbalance. As a solution, experts recommend to track your testosterone level. Also, with the help of exercise, balanced diet, proper use of medication, as well as taking care of yourselves and of course, you will be able to regain the loss manly hormone in your body and restore the chiseled figure that you used to have.

Furthermore, sipping a nice warm cup of ginseng tea to facilitate hormone regulation and promote overall well being won’t hurt a bit in ensuring your toned chest won’t sag and look like Kim Kardashian’s oily booty.

So Bad, It’s good: Healthy Food with Bad Taste but Good for You

A rhetorical question for every meat lovers that keeps on coming everytime mom serves those good ol’ broccoli and carrots for dinner, “Why bacons can never be considered healthy food?”

If you think about it, it’s quite sad to see most of those green & leafy veggies, plant root, bean curd and those other grub being left out just because most of them taste weird. Some even taste more bitter than your ex-girlfriend/boyfriend (that means you, bitter gourd). Truth be told, bland is definitely an understatement when it comes to most healthy food we see. But nevertheless, these foods meant well, especially when it comes to taking care of our well-being.

So before these good eats go into obscurity, here are some of the most hated food that we should all love:

Wheatgrass

Just by simply seeing that green stuff being poured in a glass makes us want to throw up instantaneously. Wait until you shrug down the shot of this bitter-tasting smoothie. Wheatgrass is made from wheat sprouts, and has been long-recognized as a wonder tonic by dieticians, nutritionists and doctors for its high vitamins and amino acid contents to enhance overall well-being.

Okra

We can blame our hatred on this vegetable’s hairy outer texture and its mucus-like gooey fiber on the inside. Looks and texture aside, this “lady finger” vegetable (or is it a fruit?) is rich in vitamins, riboflavin, zinc, antioxidants, folic acid and fiber, making it ideal for pregnant women, as well as for people who are undergoing detox.

Durian

The smell is without a doubt, unbearable, that you can actually compare it to a soiled diaper or a guava fruit covered in used pair of socks sundried for 3 hours without exaggerating it. Don’t believe me? In Singapore, the spike-skinned fruit is banned on most public transits and hotels. Mind you, it may smell like a cesspool of rotten fruits but it sure does good to one’s health and wellness, but it can sure take away the blues, as it contains high Vitamin B6, which is responsible for the production of serotonin. It is also fiber-rich, which is essential for better digestion.

Calf’s Liver
I, myself ain’t a fan of this “superfood”. Along with its stale smell, the texture of this food is like chewing a rubber tire with grainy stuff all over it. And yes, imagine eating an animal part that’s responsible for deterring toxins in its body is already a factor for hating it. However, calf or cow’s liver is essential for regulating blood circulation as well as the production of red blood cells and improvement of the immune system with its high vitamin B12, riboflavin, iron, zinc and omega 3 contents.

Asparagus

One of the default “hated greens” by kids, merely because of its musty smell and bland taste. But with the right seasoning, prep and cooking, asparagus is one of the most delectably-tasting veggies. Not only that, this strings of veggies are good source of fibers, folic acid, amino acids, glutathione and other antioxidants to detoxify and helps the immune system to fight off free-radicals.

Spinach

This food is so hated by many, even Popeye had a hard time convincing them to devour a spoonful of these leafy food. In reality, spinach is known to contain vitamin A, calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium, which is good for the improvement of vision, blood circulation, muscle efficiency, brain function and in the production of hemoglobin.

Tomatoes

Maybe it’s because of the seeds and the watery part of this fruit that makes it unpalatable for kids and even to some adults, which is kinda weird if you think, considering it is one of the key ingredients in making spaghetti. Going back, eating fresh tomatoes are fortified with folic acid, fiber, potassium, as well as vitamins A, C and E, the last two being the key nutrients for having a more radiant youthful skin.

Bleu Cheese

Another food that breeds hatred (and molds)… Now who would want to eat a food that is practically spoiled? Nevermind the “cannot be unseen” fungus living all over the cheese, this processed milk contains anti-inflammatory properties to keep the arteries free from blockages, as well as preventing arthritis. Moreover, this food is calcium-filled, making it vital for fighting osteoporosis.

Ginseng

In its most basic form, the taste of American ginseng can be compared to that of its cousin, ginger. It has this strong and sharp bitter taste, with a hint of pungent sensation, leaving your tongue somewhere in between feeling the sense of discomfort and being numb. On the other hand, this perennial plant contains high dose of ginsenoside – a chemical compound responsible for a number of health benefits including reviving your virility, stimulate brain cells and deter chances of having an erectile dysfunction just to name a few.

Mushroom

Heck, just look at how Mario and Luigi love this fungus food. This icky food contains a significant amount of vitamin D – rare vitamin that can only get from a few source like… well, shrooms. This vitamin is responsible for regulating and absorbing calcium and phosphorous intake. No wonder those videogame superheroes love this! Moreover, a substantial intake of vitamin D lowers the risk of getting type 1 diabetes and cancer.

Is it bad? Maybe it’s not.

Researchers, doctors and dieticians says that these foods are not exactly “bad” in terms of taste. Okay, granted that some those have sharp taste, and even odd smells. But the main point is that once you get the hang of it, this list of food won’t be that bad anymore, and in fact can be substituted – or included to say the least – to your typical meat dinner for a more balanced meal.

Got anymore bad tasting food in your fridge that are not included on this list? Feel free to leave a comment below.

Ginseng Wars on TV: History Channel’s Appalachian Outlaws

You want to know what seems to be the big fuzz about ginseng? Find out on TV.

Appalachian Outlaws is a relatively new, 6-part series made and released early this year by History. It tackles about rival families trying to conquer and outsmart each other over the claims of their own share of vast land, deep in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.

In search for furs, moonshine and the main cast of the show: Ginseng; These families are willing to risk jail time, even lives, just to get a chunk of the ginseng action, as well as the other riches of the Appalachian to sustain their day-to-day lives.

Talk about recapturing The Godfather and Breaking Bad fighting over turf, only set in the rural area of North America.

War over ginseng but across America, has been running for quite sometime now, and it continues to rise whether the camera rolls or not. To know more why Appalachian locales outsiders alike are clamoring about the “Green-Gold” plant root known as American Ginseng, here are some quick facts about it:

-    Ginseng, along with moonshine and fur, is the primary source of income in the Appalachian Mountains. This explains the rising feud between families and locales that are situated in the said mountain region of North America.

-    The supply of American ginseng is slowly deteriorating. As an alternative for its natural cultivation process (wild method), wild simulation is being utilized to help its sustainability. This allows landowners to cultivate their own ginseng plant, provided that they should acquire permits, certificates and other licenses from US Fish and Wildlife Service.

-    Wisconsin, particularly in Marathon, is known to be the largest ginseng producers in America, supplying a record high of 97% of the total ginseng production in the US.

-    Unlike any other ginseng that is grown in America, Wisconsin ginseng proves to be more potent and effective, containing a higher concentration level of ginsenosides, a compound responsible for the medical effects found in the plant root.

-    Harvest of ginseng is strictly regulated. One of the stipulations is the plant must have at least three leaves to the maturity of the ginseng (at least 5 years.). For the state of Illinois, it requires at least four leaves (10-year maturity) before it can be legally harvested.

-    The cost of ginseng can be as high as $1,000 per pound. This explains why some landowners, families, poachers and other ginseng players are willing to literally get their hands dirty for this plant.

Appalachian Outlaws premiered last January 9, 2014 in the US, and will be shown in Asia on August 21, 2014. Intrigued ginseng followers can also binge watch reruns on various video sites.

See the ginseng war as it erupts right before your eyes!

Parenting and American Ginseng for ADHD

Image Credit: projectwellness.com.au

Being a parent of a child with ADD or ADHD is a lifetime challenge. You definitely want to be part of your child's life for as long as you live, right? Your child is having an ADD or ADHD condition should make your resolve all the more resolute. But beware: being in the life of a child with ADD or ADHD is both overwhelming and frustrating. But these emotions should not distract you from doing what you can because as a parent, you have the capability to exercise a lot. You just need to find all the help you can get, be it with advice from medical experts or natural methods and cures like American ginseng. You have the power to aid your child in meeting his or her challenges daily, channel his or her energy into positive areas while maintaining order in your home and controlling the negative symptoms of ADD or ADHD.

Adopt a positive attitude and don't be hard on yourself. Getting fed-up is normal, even in rearing a child without any psychological condition. Thus, you always need to remember to take care of yourself. Children with ADD or ADHD are likely to be less mature than kids their age, usually displayed with their impatience and impulsiveness. Being too hard on yourself, you will eventually transmit that attitude with your child, which will guide him or her to be more stubborn as they can sense your frustration.

Tackle one thing at a time with your youngster. Perform all activities piecemeal so that he or she won't get frustrated and you will take it easy on yourself as well. Sit down with your child and when he is settled, and set one rule for that sit-down session. For instance, set a rule that when he or she is inside the bathroom and needs your assistance he or she needs to call you just once so that you can attend to him or her. Tell your child about the no-nos like shouting and roughhousing. Then, you can make a chart that would allow him or her to find out when a rule has been adopted. Then, if he or she follows for five times, you can give him or her some reward like a trip to the zoo or a story at bedtime. A behavioral program will enable you to condition his or her behavior and at the same time give each other special time and beautiful memories.

Another thing you can look into is integrating herbal supplements in your child's diet. You may be struggling with your child's inability to focus, so it would be wise to seek natural cures that will assist with that issue. Studies have shown that American ginseng may be effective in improving levels of inattentiveness in children with ADHD. Though the jury still out on how it can help in improving the general condition of ADHD, or bouts of depression and anxiety children with ADHD experience, the fact that it helps in focus is already a huge help.

As adults, we do not need to be helpless in dealing with children that have ADHD. We just need to know where to look for assistance because they are abundant and can really ease the burden.

The Best Home Remedies for Common Colds

Common colds is no tough customer. In fact, a little rest is sometimes enough to make you well.

Image Credit: vitalhomeremedies.com

While this is true, it isn’t the case sometimes. When common colds become so much of a bother, you may need to take some action. Don’t worry, you don’t even have to leave the house for this one.

In here is a list of home remedies for common colds to speed up your recovery. Some of them are as ordinary as water to less popular choices like American ginseng.

Water – first on the list is the one thing humans can’t live without. Be sure it’s the clean kind though. In place of water, you may have fruit juice (those rich in Vitamin C like orange). Fluids aren’t only good in keeping you hydrated; they can fight common colds because they keep your throat moist. Remember the 8-10 glasses of water people have been telling you since you were in 5th grade. If you feel you’re having more than enough water, you may insert some green tea, ginger tea, or any nutritious fluid in there.

Chicken soup – Yes, your grandmother was right all along. Chicken soup is packed with the nutrients that help treat colds. Not only does it fill the stomach when you have lost your appetite, it also ups your energy level. Experts say the noodles and the broth release the mucus from your nose. Sprinkle some garlic in the soup and it gets even better.

Salt water – Oh no, no one’s asking you to go to the beach and have your salt water fix. What you need to do is dissolve at most, ¼ teaspoon of salt with about 8 ounces of water. Gargling this mixture will help kill the bacteria on your mouth and throat.

Honey – Honey is another popular home remedy for colds. Like salt water, it helps soothe irritated throat. It’s also known to help kids sleep soundly at night. Be forewarned though, honey isn’t meant to be consumed by children under one year old.

Pepper – Kids may not agree on this one but pepper really helps in fighting colds because of an essential expectorant. Putting in some pepper in your meal or simply smelling it will help relieve you from colds.

American ginseng – Known to be a wonder herb, American ginseng can battle many kinds of ailment. There are American ginseng extracts and capsules available in the market so you won’t have to search North American rainforests. Recently, it’s been gaining popularity for its anti-viral capacity.

Herbal Medicines: Natures’ Precious Gifts

Mighty China has influenced the world in many ways; one of them can be seen in how the latter has embraced herbal medicines.

Image Credit: www.wellbeing.com.au

Here is a list of the best herbs with medicinal properties. Try looking up the web and you will see that there are an abundance of similar lists, but with contrasting entries – a testament to the abundance of gifts nature has for us.

American ginseng – There are other types of ginseng but American ginseng is the most popular, and quite easily, the best. It’s because of its surplus of medicinal properties. Among its top benefits is it boosts the immune system, decreases the blood sugar level especially of people with type 2 diabetes, and slows down the cell growth of colorectal cancer.

Ginkgo biloba –Native to China, Ginkgo biloba strengthens the lungs and heart, among other things. It enhances the memory and helps cure memory disorders like Alzheiner’s. It likewise helps relieve headache, depression, vertigo, and certain hearing disorders.

Cilantro – This herb improves bone strength and aids in blood clotting. It helps in lowering cholesterol, and because it is rich in antioxidants, it helps in the prevention of a lot of diseases such as Alzheimer’s, certain cancers, and other age-related problems.

Astragalus – If you want to talk about an herb that really strengthens the immune system, astragalus is it. It also cures colds and certain allergies, and like many other herbs, it also helps control heart rate.

Cinnamon – Another herb that is capable of lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels so it reduces the risk of heart ailments.

Ginger – This root crop and popular spice fights fatigue, nausea, and indigestion. It is also known to reduce the risks of cancer, lower blood pressure, and assists in relieving pain caused by arthritis.

Garlic – Another popular spice that offers cardiovascular benefits and helps control blood pressure. Garlic also lowers the risks of cancer, particularly ovarian and colorectal.

Licorice – This aromatic herb is good for treating asthma and heartburn. A popular sweetener, licorice has detoxification capacities so it helps care for fatigue, depression, and for the figure conscious, it helps trim your waistline.

Oregano – For certain kinds of infection, the oregano is your herb. Its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial attributes help treat food-borne diseases. Apart from this, oregano also helps fight respiratory tract disorders and urinary tract infection. Apply it topically and you may just be saying goodbye to dandruff and acne.