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Signs of the Times Australia / NZ edition — lifestyle, health, relationships, culture, spirituality, people — published since 1886 |
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Signs of the Times Australia / NZ edition — lifestyle, health, relationships, culture, spirituality, people — published since 1886 |
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chronic fatigue
or just fatigue?
Chronic fatigue has a definite set of symptoms. First, it usually starts a week or two after a simple viral infection, such as a sore throat or infection of the airways, with tiredness, which often worsens, despite adequate rest. This is often accompanied by swelling of glands under the jaw, neck, groin and liver and under the right lower rib margin. Have an initial investigation and blood test, then take supplemental vitamins, observe good nutrition, work within your (reduced) capacity, get adequate rest and allow plenty of time for recovery. Some major hospitals specialise in this condition.
for good bones
To develop good, solid bones for life, you need calcium. Milk and dairy products are the richest natural source of calcium, essential in the rapid bone-growing years of the teens and twenties. Low-fat dairy products are readily available. Almonds and small-boned fish are good alternative sources. Regular vigorous exercise is also a good idea.
pill side effect
Many women develop blotching on their face after beginning the contraceptive pill. The condition is called chloasma, in which the melanin or pigment-bearing cells of the skin become more reactive to UV light. Take sun-care precautions, such as using an SPF-30 cream when outdoors.
sweet smell
Jasmine has been used for centuries as a healing agent, helping relieve depression, stress, fatigue, irritability and apathy. PMS is also helped. As it is a good skin softener, use it with massage and in baths—it mixes well with other oils. For an inhalant, add a few drops to a saucer of water placed near a heat source—it’s a relaxing aroma.
how to say no
Young people describe their uncomfortable feelings among friends, when saying no to alcohol. This is not uncommon, I know, being a non-drinker. If you choose to say no, avoid embarrassment by ordering Claytons, a bitters-lime-and-lemonade, or a soft drink. Don’t apologise for not drinking. Offer, instead, to be the designated driver—your friends will thank you later.
dental check
Cleaning between your teeth is easy. Use interdens to massage the gums. Bottle brushes (from chemists) do a similar job, also cleaning the sides of the teeth. Ideally, follow up with a floss, then massage your gums with a brush or your fingertip.
Swiss ball
Some people sit on a Swiss Ball when using their computer, finding it helps them relax, also enabling an improved posture. If using a computer daily, stretch the back, neck and shoulder muscles, drink plenty of water, take breaks and walk the stairs when you can.
hearty foods
Foods containing unsaturated (non-animal) fats are essential to cardiac health. Wholegrains are important and so is an abundance of fruit, vegetables and Omega-3, which is found in fish. This, along with regular exercise, not smoking, and avoiding weight-gain will prevent most heart conditions. It’s been known since 1908 that cholesterol destroys arteries, but that received scant attention until the past few years.
A: These are the ominous symptoms of depression, often starting in childhood and adolescence. Try to eliminate sad thoughts by becoming involved in happy situations and cultivate pleasant, happy friendships. The early treatment of depression is essential, as it tends to worsen. Mild natural antidepressants are available. But prompt medical assistance from your GP is strongly advised.
Extract from Signs of the Times, August 2003.
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