smoking dangers

Cigarette smoking is responsible for more than 480,000 deaths per year in the United States, including more than 41,000 deaths resulting from secondhand smoke exposure. This is about one in five deaths annually, or 1,300 deaths every day. On average, smokers die 10 years earlier than nonsmokers.

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Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome

What are the other medical consequences of inhalant abuse?

Inhalant abusers risk an array of other devastating medical consequences. The highly concentrated chemicals in solvents or aerosol sprays can induce irregular and rapid heart rhythms and lead to fatal heart failure within minutes of a session of prolonged sniffing. This syndrome, known as "sudden sniffing death," can result from a single session of inhalant use by an otherwise healthy young person. Sudden sniffing death is associated particularly with the abuse of butane, propane, and chemicals in aerosols. Inhalant abuse also can cause death by—

• asphyxiation — from repeated inhalations that lead to high concentrations of inhaled fumes, which displace available oxygen in the lungs;
• suffocation — from blocking air from entering the lungs when inhaling fumes from a plastic bag placed over the head;
• convulsions or seizures — from abnormal electrical discharges in the brain;
• coma — from the brain shutting down all but the most vital functions;
• choking — from inhalation of vomit after inhalant use; or
• fatal injury — from accidents, including motor vehicle fatalities, suffered while intoxicated.

Based on independent studies performed over a 10-year period in three different states, the number of inhalant-related fatalities in the United States is approximately 100–200 per year.

Compared with the brain of an individual with no history of inhalant abuse (A), that of a chronic toluene abuser (B) is smaller and fills less of the space inside the skull (the white outer circle in each image). Courtesy of Neil Rosenberg, M.D., NIDA Research Report (NIH 05-3818).

Animal and human research shows that most inhalants are extremely toxic. Perhaps the most significant toxic effect of chronic exposure to inhalants is widespread and long-lasting damage to the brain and other parts of the nervous system. For example, chronic abuse of volatile solvents, such as toluene or naphthalene (the volatile ingredient in mothballs), damages the protective sheath around certain nerve fibers in the brain and peripheral nervous system. This extensive destruction of nerve fibers is clinically similar to that seen with neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
The neurotoxic effects of prolonged inhalant abuse include neurological syndromes that reflect damage to parts of the brain involved in controlling cognition, movement, vision, and hearing. Cognitive abnormalities can range from mild impairment to severe dementia.
Inhalants also are highly toxic to other organs. Chronic exposure can produce significant damage to the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys. Although some inhalant-induced damage to the nervous and other organ systems may be at least partially reversible when inhalant abuse is stopped, many syndromes caused by repeated or prolonged abuse are irreversible.
Abuse of inhalants during pregnancy also may place infants and children at increased risk of developmental harm. Animal studies designed to simulate human patterns of inhalant abuse suggest that prenatal exposure to toluene can result in reduced birth weights, occasional skeletal abnormalities, delayed neurobehavioral development, and altered regulation of metabolism and body composition in males, as well as food intake and weight gain in both sexes. A number of case reports note abnormalities in newborns of mothers who chronically abuse solvents, and there is evidence of subsequent developmental impairment in some of these children. However, no well-controlled prospective study of the effects of prenatal exposure to inhalants in humans has been conducted, and it is not possible to link prenatal exposure to a particular chemical to a specific birth defect or developmental problem.
Finally, a 2008 survey of over 13,000 high school students has identified an association between disordered eating (defined as a positive response to one or more of three questions about engaging in inappropriate behaviors for weight control during the past 30 days) and inhalant use among both male and female students.

Hazards of Chemicals Found in Commonly Abused Inhalants

amyl nitrite, butyl nitrite
("poppers," "video head cleaner")
sudden sniffing death syndrome, suppressed immunologic function, injury to red blood cells (interfering with oxygen supply to vital tissues)
benzene
(found in gasoline)
bone marrow injury, impaired immunologic function, increased risk of leukemia, reproductive system toxicity
butane, propane
(found in lighter fluid, hair and paint sprays)
sudden sniffing death syndrome via cardiac effects, serious burn injuries (because of flammability)
freon
(used as a refrigerant and aerosol propellant)
sudden sniffing death syndrome, respiratory obstruction and death (from sudden cooling/cold injury to airways), liver damage
methylene chloride
(found in paint thinners and removers, degreasers)
reduction of oxygen-carrying capacity of blood, changes to the heart muscle and heartbeat
nitrous oxide ("laughing gas"), hexane
death from lack of oxygen to the brain, altered perception and motor coordination, loss of sensation, limb spasms, blackouts caused by blood pressure changes, depression of heart muscle functioning
toluene
(found in gasoline, paint thinners and removers, correction fluid)
brain damage (loss of brain tissue mass, impaired cognition, gait disturbance, loss of coordination, loss of equilibrium, limb spasms, hearing and vision loss), liver and kidney damage
trichloroethylene
(found in spot removers, degreasers)
sudden sniffing death syndrome, cirrhosis of the liver, reproductive complications, hearing and vision damage
Nitrites are abused mainly by older adolescents and adults. Typically, individuals who abuse nitrites are seeking to enhance sexual function and pleasure. Research shows that abuse of these drugs in this context is associated with unsafe sexual practices that greatly increase the risk of contracting and spreading infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis.
Animal research raises the possibility that there may also be a link between abuse of nitrites and the development and progression of infectious diseases and tumors. The research indicates that inhaling nitrites depletes many cells in the immune system and impairs mechanisms that fight infectious diseases. A study found that even a relatively small number of exposures to butyl nitrite can produce dramatic increases in tumor incidence and growth rate in animals.
To learn more about inhalants and other drugs of abuse, visit the NIDA Web site at www.drugabuse.gov or contact the DrugPubs Research Dissemination Center at 877-NIDA-NIH (877-643-2644; TTY/TDD: 240-645-0228) or online at drugpubs.drugabuse.gov.

Remedies for Diabetes

Ayurvedic Medicine

In Ayurveda, diabetes is known as ‘Prameha’ meaning profuse urination. Ayurveda, considers diabetes as a metabolic kapha type of disorder, in which decline in activity of agni (digestive fire) can cause raise blood sugar levels. Ayurvedic medicine treats diabetes using a multi-prong approach where diet and lifestyle are modified and Panchakarma and herbs are prescribed.
As always the fastest most effective way to receive tailored advice to your own situation, you should visit a local licensed practitioner. Find your closest Ayurvedic practitionershere
You may wish to research or discuss the following Ayurveda herbal remedies:

• Intake of bitter gourd or bitter lemon juice daily, in empty stomach.
• Intake of 2 turmeric capsules daily thrice a day.
• Intake of rose apple stones powder twice daily.
• Intake of small amounts of fenugreek, musta, Arjuna, triphala, ajwan, haritaki mixed with ghee.
• Intake of amlaki powder, haldi powder with honey, twice daily.
• Intake of fenugreek, white pepper and turmeric powder with a glass of milk, twice daily.
• Take 2.5g of holy basil powder each morning.
• Intake of a mixture of bay leaf, turmeric and aloe vera gel, twice daily, before lunch and dinner.

Implement a Prameha regimen. The following study indicates a beneficial outcome: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21668351
Practice the basic tenets of Ayurveda – find out more here: (goes to Ayurveda landing page)

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Receive bespoke advice based upon your own situation; You should visit a local licensed practitioner. Find your closest Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners here
Here are some of the things they may recommend:
American Ginseng (yi shang shen) – a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine in 2000 showed that American ginseng could reduce blood sugar in people prior to, or at the same time as, consumption of a drink high in glucose.
Korean Red Ginseng -studies have shown this power herb improves glucose and insulin regulation in well-controlled type 2 diabetes.
Bitter Melon (aka momordica charantia) – contains a plant like form of insulin which studies have found effective in lowering blood and urine sugar levels.
Tian Hua Fen (trichosanthis root) – one study showed that 9g of this herb taken for 3-7 consecutive days relieved symptoms of diabetes and glucose in urine was lowered or completely removed.
Gymnema Sylvestre – has been used to treat diabetes for over 2,000 years in India.  A study at the University of Michigan found it helps the pancreas to produce insulin in Type II diabetes.  It is also said to improve the ability of insulin to lower blood sugar in both Type I and Type II diabetes and also reduce sugar cravings.  This herb has been found to be an excellent replacement for oral blood sugar-lowering drugs in Type II diabetes.
Fenugreek – Experimental and clinical studies have shown the seeds of this plant to be highly effective in reducing fasting glucose levels.
Berberene – research published in well-known, medical journals in 2008 found that berberine is just as effective but much much safer—than metformin, the most commonly prescribed medicine to regulate blood sugar in type 2 diabetes
Chiropratic Treatment
A study published in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research highlighted the benefits of chiropractic when used as part of an integrative treatment for diabetes.  As well as chiropractic care, the patient also received advice on exercise and nutrition.
After just one month of following the treatment plan, the patient’s glucose blood and urine levels normalized and remained stable. The medical doctor monitoring his progress stated the patient would not need insulin if the condition remained stable.
Find your closest Chiropractor here

Aromatherapy

The essential oils of cedar, olive or juniper can provide symptom relief when massaged into the lower left side of the body, where the spleen and pancreas are located.  Add 2-3 drops to 1 ounce of carrier oil (such as sweet almond oil) and massage into affected areas.  You can also add the oils to your bath water, 8-10 drops in total.  Always swirl the water vigorously to disperse the oil before bathing.

Homeopathic Medicine

Homeopathic remedies can play an important role in treating diabetes.  Owing to the principles behind homeopathy (link to full description of what it is) it is essential you see a licensed practitioner to receive your own personalised prescription.  Find your closest Homeopath here
The following is just one example that shows the power of homeopathy in treating one common symptom of diabetes – A 1992 study examined sixty diabetics with retinal problems. In approximately 50%of the patients taking the homeopathic remedy (Arnica), their eye condition improved; only 1 percent of the subjects receiving placebo improved to the same degree. The study indicates that homeopathy may prove valuable in helping diabetics preserve their sight.

Herbs

Cinnamon – proven in studies that a daily dose of 1-3g of cinnamon can cause a 10-29% decrease in blood sugar levels.  It can also regulate blood pressure, reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol.
Glucomannan  – a dietary fibre derived from konjac root.  A Toronto study found Glucomannan supplementation to improve blood glucose, blood lipids and blood pressure.  Controlled research has shown 500-700mg of glucomannan per 100 calories in the diet has been successful in controlling blood sugar.
Barley Grass Powder – people supplementing with this have experienced a significant drop in fasting blood sugar.  Research has also shown it can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease in diabetics.
Exercise
Find a form of exercise you enjoy and can adhere too.  This is such an important part of your treatment as exercise lowers blood sugar, helps control weight, stimulates the metabolism and oxygenates tissues.  Activities such as walking, yoga, tai chi and dancing are all good options.

Other

Juice Therapy
Celery, cucumber, green beans, parsley and watercress is a great alkaline drink, sip between 1-3 glasses a day of this or other ‘green’ juices.
Magnetic Field Therapy
Invest in a magnetico sleep pad which has been shown to reduce the need for insulin.
Ozone Therapy
According to Frank Shallenberger M.D., Alternative and Anti-aging specialist in Nevada, ozone (a more reactive form of oxygen) can create a big improvement in symptoms  of adult-onset diabetes due to its connection in blood circulation.
Chelation Therapy
Chelation therapy is often very useful for preventing complications caused by diabetes. According to Garry F. Gordon, M.D., D.O., co-founder of the American College of Advancement in Medicine and developer of the modern-day chelation protocol, the benefits of EDTA chelation therapy include fewer cases of blindness and kidney dialysis, and a smaller number of amputations and other complications. Deferoxamine chelation therapy has also been shown effective for reducing adult-onset diabetes. Deferoxamine is a chelation agent that effectively chelates excess iron out of the bloodstream. Recent studies have shown that women with high levels of iron triple their risk for diabetes.
Alfalfa Seeds
Alfalfa is a common cure for an array of illness and you can easily also use it for diabetes. Since alfalfa is plentiful in vitamins, minerals and additional nutrients, Alfalfa has actually also been revealed to reduce blood sugar levels.
All you should do is take one tsp of alfalfa seeds and spray them on every meal you eat. You can also take alfalfa in pill form.
Cucumber: Cucumber juice contains a hormone which is needed by the cells of the pancreas for producing insulin which has been found to be beneficial to diabetic patients. Researchers found that a compound called sterols in cucumbers may help reduce cholesterol levels. Cucumbers contain a lot of potassium, magnesium and fiber. These work effectively for regulating blood pressure. This makes cucumbers good for treating both low blood pressure and high blood pressure.
F lax Seed Oil
This flaxseed oil cure has been revealed to mend mobile membranes which will at some point accept insulin once again. Combine 4 ounces of cottage cheese with 1.5 ounces of flaxseed oil and 1 ounce of milk in to a blender. You can easily include your favourite fruits for a sweeter taste. Eat this shake daily.