Dental Health Tips

Baby-Bottle Caries

How early can a person have tooth decay? The answer is, as soon as a person has teeth erupted.

This means an infant under the age of 1 can start having tooth decay. Tooth decay that happens in infants is called Early Childhood Caries. ECC is a severe problem that causes debilitating tooth destruction in infants and young children.

The prevalence of ECC is estimated to be as high as 90 percent in some Head Start populations. However, by following the guidelines developed by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and by visiting a dentist for the first check-up by the child's first birthday, ECC can easily be prevented.

ECC is a specific form of severe decay found in the teeth of infants and toddlers who fall asleep with bottles of milk, juice or any sweetened liquid in their mouths. ECC is also known as baby-bottle tooth decay, nursing-bottle caries and milk-bottle syndrome. It is the only severe dental disease common in children under 3 years of age.

Bacteria, which are found in the mouth, convert sugar into acids. These acids destroy the enamel and dentin of the tooth. The flow of saliva in the mouth helps to wash acids from the tooth surface during the daytime. However, when an infant is asleep, the flow of saliva is significantly reduced, and this allows acids to pool on the tooth. This, coupled with the sugars found in juices, milk or other soft drinks, will lead to early cavities.

The top four front teeth are most affected by ECC, which appears as white chalky marks on the teeth due to decalcification by the acids. If these teeth are left untreated, unsightly and often painful cavities will develop.

Baby teeth are important to a child for chewing and biting food, making a good smile, and speaking. However, the most important function of baby teeth is that they are holding space in the mouth for upcoming permanent teeth.

The first baby tooth erupts around 6 to 8 months of age, and usually all 20 baby teeth are erupted by the age of 2 or 2-and-a-half. Early loss of baby teeth can cause blocked eruption, drifting, crooking and crowding of the permanent teeth.

A child who prematurely loses baby teeth will have a very high chance of needing braces in the future. If an abscess or infection occurs around baby teeth with ECC, it may affect the development of the underlying permanent teeth.

The best treatment for ECC is prevention. But teeth affected by ECC can still be treated if intervention is early and the underlying causes are stopped.

The following are guidelines, developed by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, for preventing baby-bottle tooth decay:

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Don't allow a child to fall asleep with a bottle containing milk, formula, fruit juices or other sweet liquids.
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Comfort a child who wants a bottle between regular feedings or during naps with a bottle filled with cool water.
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Always make sure a child's pacifier is clean, and never dip a pacifier in a sweet liquid.
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Introduce children to a cup as they approach 1 year of age. Children should stop drinking from bottles soon after their first birthdays.
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See the dentist if any unusual red or swollen areas appear in a child's mouth, or any dark spot on a child's tooth.

Healthy adult teeth begin with healthy baby teeth. Knowing and following the AAPD guidelines, and visiting a dentist for the first check-up around the age of 1, are very important for preventing young children from getting ECC.

High Blood Pressure Tips

If you have diabetes it is even more important to maintain your blood pressure at an acceptable level, which reduces long-term complications associated with this disease process. You should be receiving regular monitoring and advice from you GP/diabetic practitioner.

Aim for a healthy weight

Ideally try not to gain extra weight in the first place, if you have then try to lose the weight slowly, at about half to one pound a week until you reach a healthy target. This can be easier to achieve if you include exercise as well to burn off those unwanted calories and tone your body as you lose the weight.

If you are overweight or obese, carrying this extra weight increases your risk of high blood pressure because the heart has to work very hard to keep blood circulating efficiently.

Exercise - be active every day!

Even the simplest exercise will help; you can walk, dance, use the stairs, play sports, or do any activity you enjoy. For instance: get off the bus one or two stops early; park your car at the other end of the car park and walk; walk or cycle to the corner shop.

Being physically active is one of the most important steps you can take to prevent or control high blood pressure and will help you keep your weight down. It will also help to reduce your risk of heart disease and enhances overall wellbeing. All you need to do is 30 minutes of moderate level activity preferably every day of the week - you can even divide the 30 minutes into shorter 10 minute periods if you are not used to regular exercise.

Exercise does not have to be strenuous; you should start slowly and build up the amount of exercise that you do.

It is not advisable, however, to lift heavy weights or to take on certain strenuous activities if exercise has not been gradually and appropriately introduced. If you are worried that your health could be adversely affected by exercise, i.e. you have a heart complaint; make sure that you are reviewed by your GP.
Look at what you are eating. Does it contain a lot of sodium?

It is suggested that no more than 2.4 grams of sodium should be consumed per day. Read the labels and be aware of hidden sodium, which is known to increase blood pressure. Try not to add salt to your meals.

Eat more fruit and vegetables

Eating more fiber should help to stop you feeling hungry and less likely to pick at sweets, chocolate and crisps etc.
Stop/reduce smoking - smoking causes the blood to thicken

Not only does this make you more at risk of developing a dangerous blood clot but it makes the heart work harder in order to 'push' the blood around the system to provide oxygen and other important components.

Reduce your stress levels

Take time out for yourself each day to do something you like to do without feeling guilty. If there are any problems worrying you try talking them over with a friend, or someone you trust, this is often all that is needed to make you feel better. Also remember if you wear a smile, it will rub off on others. Try it and see!

Watch your alcohol intake

Keep the amount of units you consume to a minimum, as your body works hard to flush it out of your system and this will have an effect on your blood pressure (plus it will increase your weight).

It is recommended that men limit themselves to no more than one or two drinks per day and women should have no more than one drink per day.

Ginger - Health Benefits

Zingiber Officinale or Ginger is known for its pungent taste and medicinal properties. The plants botanical name is thought to be derived from its sanskrit name 'singabera'. Basically Ginger belongs to the Turmeric family. The plant's under ground stem is used for medicine and flavouring. Ginger is a perennial plant.

Ginger is said to have originated in china. The Chinese have relied on ginger as a medicine and flavouring agent for more than 2000 years. Although a native of southeast Asia the top commercial producers are India, Jamaica, Indonesia, Australia. Ginger adds a special flavour to the food.

Its available all around the year. Ginger is also available in several other forms including crystallized, candied and pickled ginger. Fresh ginger can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three weeks if it is left unpeeled. Stored unpeeled in the freezer, it will keep for up to six months. Dried ginger powder should be kept in a tightly sealed glass container in a cool, dark and dry place. Ginger is also used for flavoring cookies and cakes. Ginger can be freshly grated and used in cooking.

Ginger contains approximately 1-4 % of volatile oils. These oils are responsible for its medicinal values. The health benefits of ginger come from the gingerols and shogaols, that give ginger its spicy and pungent taste. Ginger does not interact with any other nutrients or drugs in the body and hence is very safe.

Ginger is very effective in curing gastrointestinal distress. Ginger's anti-vomiting action has been shown to be very useful in reducing the nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. The 'Gingerols' present in ginger reduces the pains in people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Ginger's therapeutic properties stimulate circulation of the blood, cleansing the bowels and kidneys.

Ginger promotes sweating which is helpful during Influenza. The sweat contains potent germ-fighting agents. While sweating the Dermicidin that is manufactured in the sweat glands are transported to the skin surface which helps fight bacteria like staphylococcus. Ginger is the best medicine for relieving motion sickness, nausea, dizziness, controlling pain etc.,

Oregano

Oregano is a perennial herb. Oregano is also an ancient herb which was used for culinary purposes. It belongs to the mint family. It has a pungent flavour and a slightly bitter taste. The leaves contain essential oil called origanum oil. Oregano was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans and eventually got introduced to European countries. It was initially grown in the mountainous regions around the Mediterranean sea. This herb has won the "Herb of the Year -2005' award.


Historically oregano was used to crown young Greek and Roman couples. In ancient times it was believed that it would ensure happiness of the deceased one if Oregano was grown in their grave. It was also used to cure venomous bits in history.


The oregano became popular with the Pizza craze. It is one of the main flavouring agents used in Pizza making. The leaves are slightly crushed so that the aroma gets released. Oregano can be used fresh or in dried forms. It is used to flavour meat dishes, soups, steaks, salads and stuffing's too. Oregano grown in the warm and dry climate is of the best quality. Oregano is often used in tomato sauces, fried vegetables and grilled meat. It is an indispensable ingredient for Greek and Italian cuisine.


Oregano also is known for its medicinal properties. It is the natural best herbal antiseptic. Oregano tea is said to cure colds, Jaundice, flu, indigestion and regulate menstrual cycles. It is used as an expectorant and should not be taken in large doses. The Oregano Tea has a soothing effect and aids in sleep. Pregnant women should not consume Oregano Tea. The plant has high oil content and can irritate sensitive skin. Oregano contains thymol, which can help loosen the mucous and relieve symptoms of the respiratory system.


This plant is easily grown from seed or cuttings. The herb was used for aromatic purposes also. It blooms between July and October. It was also used in dye making. It is available both in fresh and dried forms in the markets.

Botanical name: Origanum vulgare.

Health Benefits of Rosemary

Rosemary or 'Rosmarinus officinalis' has its origin in the Mediterranean region and eventually its fame spread to other parts of the world. The word 'Rosemary' is a derivative from the Latin word 'Rosamarinus' which means 'Dew of the sea'. The Romans used Rosemary in many religious ceremonies. The mention of Rosemary is also found in the ancient Egyptian civilization, wherein the Rosemary extracts were used in incense preparations.

Rosemary is an evergreen perennial herb. It has a pine-like fragrance and a pungent flavor. Rosemary grows as shrub and it belongs to the Mint family. It is a woody plant with rigid branches. The leaves are deep green in color and are flat like that of the pine tree with silvery undersides. The Rosemary flowers are pale blue in colour. It grows well in dry soil and requires good amount of sunlight. Rosemary is known for its culinary use for a very long time. It is often used as a seasoning for stews, soups etc., Other than flavoring food its used in cosmetics and extracts of Rosemary are used for medicinal purposes. The flavor and health benefits make it indispensable in every kitchen. Rosemary is commercially available as whole springs both fresh and dried. Rosemary oil extracts and powders are also available. The flavor of the fresh Rosemary is far superior to dried ones. A mixture of rosemary oil and water helps remove bad odour.

A good source of minerals and iron, Rosemary is as well a dietary fiber. Rosemary oil when externally applied on the skin rejuvenates the skin and strengthens the capillaries. Many cosmetics have Rosemary extracts as the main component.

Rosemary is used to treat many ailments like headaches, digestion problems, liver diseases, throat congestion, regulation of menstrual cycle and many more. Rosemary oil is a popular essential oil which is used in Aroma therapy. It stimulates hair growth and boosts mental activity.

Rosemary has the ability to prevent cancer, helps enhancing the functioning of the liver and improves the functioning of the kidney. Two natural acids present in Rosemary the 'Caffic acid' and 'Rosemarinic acid'. These acids are both potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents.

The antioxidants contained prevents the damage of cells by free radicals thus a good defense for cancer. Rosemary has the ability to block the hormone oestrogen, the imbalance of which causes breast cancer. Although drugs are available for treating breast cancer they have many unpleasant side effects. Rosemary thus offers a natural remedy. Rosemary tones down the effect of harmful toxins and flushes them from your body. Rosemary extracts possess the ability to inactivate toxins and then eliminate them from the liver, before they can cause any serious damage. Rosemary helps combat the effects of water retention. Rosemary also has therapeutic properties as a mild diuretic in reducing swollen ankles.

Rosemary oil and teas are used extensively for hair care. Regular usage of the oil stimulates hair growth and prevents premature graying of hair. The scalp related problems like dandruff, flaky scalp are treated with a combination of tea tree oil and rosemary oil. Rosemary is also used to evade bad breath. Regular massage of Rosemary oil prevents skin dryness. It has a good aroma and can be used as a room freshener. The anti microbial property helps treat skin disorders like psoriasis, eczema, and athletes��s foot etc., Rosemary oil may, at times, have allergic reactions and hence it should be used only with prescription.

Cumin - Curative Properties

Cumin is a most popular spice all over the world. Cumin is one of the most typical spices for India, especially the Southern part. Cumin is an ancient spice and has mentions in Bible too. It is native to upper Egypt. It grows well in hot climates. It is mainly used for seasoning dishes. The Romans and the Greeks used it medicinally and cosmetically. Cumin botanically known as 'Cumin cyminum'. It is an annual plant. Cumin has a nutty, peppery flavor.

Cumin is an important ingredient in the spice powders made in south India. The North Indian preparations prefer Black Cumin to the normal variety. Cumin is often powdered and used in many meat and salad preparations. The aroma of the ground cumin is stronger than whole ones. The Cumin flavor is accentuated by toasting.

Cumin is a good source of iron, required in the body to make hemoglobin in the blood. The cumin seeds promote a healthy digestive system has been known since ancient times. Cumin Tea which is made by adding few grains of cumin to boiling water is supposed to cure stomach disorders. The seeds are still believed to increase heat in the body, making metabolism more efficient. Cumin is said to enhance the kidney and liver functioning. Cumin is used as a general tonic to boost immunity and prevent cancer. It is used to treat skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and dryness. Black cumin seed oil is taken internally to treat arthritis and asthma. Pregnant and lactating women should not use black cumin seed. cumin is said to relieve nausea and diarrhea.

Sage Health Benefits

Sage is botanically known as Salvia, a Latin word which means "to save or to heal". Sage is well known for its therapeutic properties. It is widely used for a variety of culinary purposes. Its also known as the "Garden Meadow". The Romans have widely used in treating many ailments ranging from snakebites to epilepsy. There is an Arab Proverb, which says, "Why should a man die when sage grows in his garden" this proverb depicts the healing property of Sage. Its said that Chinese traded with the Dutch to procure Sage from them for their use.

Sage has many culinary uses too. It goes well with cheese and soup preparations. Sage is used as a preservative in meat preparations. Sage is widely sued in fat-rich food preparation to aid in digestion. Sage is an important ingredient used in the American's Thanks Giving dish - the Turkey.

Sage is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Mediterranean. Sage is a silvery green plant, which has a lingering fragrance. Its usually harvested just before flowering in the months of May and June. This plant grows in sunny regions and rich soil with sufficient drainage. Sage can be grown in pots too. The plant is perennial but has to be replaced every three to four years so that it does not become woody. The leaves have a leathery texture and can be dried and preserved for future use. The purple variety of sage is used for medicinal purposes than the green one. Sage grows well in warm regions. Sage is an important condiment in meat and fish preparations. Sage is also often used as a breath freshener and tooth cleaner.

Sage is used to cure variety of conditions like sore throats, mouth inflammations, coughs, liver disorders, and upset stomach. Studies have proved that the sage oil also contains the antibacterial and antiviral properties. Its popularly known for curing rheumatism, menstrual bleeding, improving the memory. The tannin content is relatively high in Sage, which is useful in treating the diarrhea in infants. Its also effective as an external applicant on wounds. The phenolic acid content in the Sage makes it potent against the Staphylococcus aurenus. Sage is also known for restoring failing memories in elderly people. The French used the herb and called it "Toute bonne" meaning 'all is well'.

Salvia is used to suppress excessive perspiration. Sage has a long history of curing gastrointestinal disorders. The bitter component present in the Sage helps promote digestive secretions and bile flow. Traditionally used to promote menstruation by stimulating the uterine contractions. Pregnant women are advised not to consume Sage due to this property of Sage. Sage has the capacity to control high Blood Sugar. Studies have shown that a combination of Biloba, Rosemarry and Sage is effective in slowing down the Alzheimer's. Sage oil concentrates are limited to aromatherapy only as they are toxic. Hot sage gargling relives soar throats and tonsillitis. Sage is an excellent remedy for mucous congestion in the airways and prevents infections.

Commercially Sage is available in dry leaf and oil forms. Sage based natural deodorants are also available in the markets

Herbs & Spices for health - Cloves for Flavour and Health

Cloves are known for their exceptional aroma. It is an ancient spice which holds an important portfolio in every kitchen. Clove trees are a more common site in Indonesia. Cloves are mainly grown in the Islands of Pemba today. Cloves are also grown widely in the Madagascar.

Cloves are the flower buds of the clove tree. They are pink in color when fresh and turn into a dark brown color when dried. Cloves are sweetly pungent and aromatic. Cloves retain their flavour when whole. The flavour tends to deteriorate quickly when powdered. The cloves are quite hard in nature and cannot be pounded easily. Cloves should be stored in dry air tight containers.

When powdered and added only a small quantity should be added as it has the tendency to overpower a dish. They are usually added to the food for flavour. They are used in number of spice mixtures like curry powders etc.,

Chinese have been using cloves to treat various conditions like indigestion, ringworm, athlete's foot and other fungal infections. Ayurveda uses cloves to treat digestive and respiratory disorders. German herbalists regarded clove as a part of anti-gout mixture. The Americans used clove to flavour the bitter medicines to make them palatable. Clove oil is used to treat tooth ache. Popular mouthwash products contain clove oil as an important component. Clove oil also provides relief from nausea.

Herbs & Spices for health - Thyme

Thyme is an ancient aromatic herb. The Egyptians used Thyme in embalming. The Greeks used thyme as incense in temples. Thyme was considered as a source of courage in the ancient times. It was kept under the pillows to ward off nightmares, gifted to warriors to bestow courage and it was placed witht he dead to assure passage for the dead to next life.

Thyme is a perennial herb and is known for its strong flavour. The flavour of the plant is due to the presence of 'Thymol'. Thyme like hot sunny climate and is a drought tolerant plant. Thyme is available both fresh and dried form. Thyme retains its flavour in dried form than any other herb. Powdered thyme is also available in the market. The leaves can be easily removed from the stem.

Thyme also has some medicinal uses. Thyme tea is a good cure for many respiratory infections. In Jamaica thyme tea is given to the mother at child birth to enhance the uterine contractions for a rapid delivery. Thymol is used in mouth wash. It possesses anti-oxidant and anti-microbial properties.

Thyme was primarily used for flavouring food in Lebanese and Caribbean cuisines. It is often used to flavour meat preparations and soups. It blends well with other spices and does not overpower.

Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris
Hindi: Banagwain