AYUSH system of medicine becomes famous among people

KUPWARA, Dec 30: With the aim to familiarize the AYUSH System of Medicine among the people of J&K, this system of medicare facility are becoming famous day by day among the people of border district Kupwara due to utmost dedication shown by the doctors, paramedical staff of AYUSH units of the district. To treat the patients through regimental therapy, 43 AYUSH doctors, 33 Pharmacist are working round the clock in AYUASH units of PHC’s, CHC’s of the district. As per the statement by District Nodal Officer of AYUSH System of Medicine, Dr Shabir Ahmad said that about 1.22 lakh patients are treated by the doctors of this system during this year on daily basis’s OPD’s in the AYUSH units across the district. Besides 586 Institutional delivery’s are also held during this period in said units. Similarly 11056 ANC registrations, 500 regimental therapies on IPD basis, 27 Septum Positive, 3 malaria positive, 2 urine for AFB positive has also been detected by the AYUSH doctors. The patients are also being provided the free medicine by these units. In addition to that free medical camps are also being organised under AUYSH system of medicine in far off areas of the district like Machil, Tangdhar, Keran, Teetwal, Chowkibal, Nowagam etc to provide this type of medicare facilities to the people of border district at their doorstep. One of the biggest AYUSH health camp was organised at Zangli Kupwara with a title “Healthy Life Style”. On the best performance and dedication of AYUSH Unit CHC Kupwara, it has been selected for Special Performance Award-2012 which has been received by the Medical officer AYUSH unit CHC Kupwara on September 25, 2012 at the function held at Dental Collage Srinagar.

AYUSH: Adjunct supportive therapy for cancer control

Cancer Research Institute is offering clinical services of ( AYUSH ) complimentary therapies to cancer patients through collaboration with Ayurveda Center, Holistic Medicine Department , Homeopathy & Yoga services at HIHT.
CRI has started AYUSH clinics staffed by well trained physicians in complimentary therapies such as Ayurveda , Homeopathy , Yoga , Osteopathy . These therapies are offered only as supportive treatment , while patients are receiving standard protocols of modern cancer treatment. Multidisciplinary teams of various experts such as Surgical Oncology, Radiation Oncology & Medical Oncology identify the needs and suitability of patients for integration of these therapies and monitors the progress of patients.
Complimentary therapy is not promoted as Anti - Cancer treatment.
Some of the common indications for use of these therapies are -

• Rejuvenation after completion of cancer specific therapies, from toxicities and general debility.
• As supportive therapy for physical , mental & spiritual well being , while a patient is undergoing cancer specific therapy.
• Symptom control in patients receiving only palliative care for advanced cancer / end of life care.
• Life style management for prevention of cancer.

AYURVEDIC MEDICINE:

Ayurveda, the most ancient & holistic health system of medicine originated in India provides rational means for the treatment of many chronic diseases including cancer. The Ayurvedic system of medicine is well founded on the basic principles of nature and is the first system to emphasize health as the perfect state of physical, psychological, social and spiritual component of a human being.
According to Ayurveda all the diseases and other health problems are caused due to imbalances of doshas and disharmony with the natural environment. The primary aim of ayurveda is to re-establish balance of doshas and strengthening the body tissues along with body's biological and spiritual forces. The therapeutic approach of Ayurveda has been divided into four categories as Prakritisthapana chikitsa (health maintenance), Roganashani chikitsa (disease cure), Rasayana chikitsa (restoration of normal function) and Naishthiki chikitsa (spiritual approach). This unique holistic approach of ayurveda helps cancer patients in restoring cellular intelligence, doshic balance, immunity, vital strength and healthy environment covering all the levels: physical, mental, emotional & spiritual.
Ayurvedic dietary recommendations, herbal supplements, and lifestyle practices , stress management techniques help the patient to enjoy an optimum state of health while undergoing cancer treatment.

OSTEOPATHY:

Osteopathy is a form of drug-free, non-invasive manual medicine that focuses on total body health by treating and strengthening the musculoskeletal framework, which includes the joints, muscles and spine. Its aim is to positively affect the body's nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems. Osteopaths do not simply concentrate on treating the problem area, but use manual techniques to balance all the systems of the body, to provide overall good health and wellbeing. The philosophy of Osteopathy is what sets it apart from other medical disciplines. The key principles are based on all parts of the body functioning together in an integrated manner. If one part of the body is restricted, then the rest of the body must adapt and compensate for this, eventually leading to inflammation, pain, stiffness and other health conditions. When the body is free of restrictions in movement, Osteopathic treatment assists the body with pain minimization, reduced stress and greater mobility providing the body with the opportunity to heal itself.
Osteopaths use a broad range of gentle hands-on techniques including soft tissue stretching, deep tactile pressure, and mobilization or manipulation of joints. Osteopathic treatment in itself is not disease preventive or curative . Osteopaths respect the body's natural ability as a self-regulating mechanism and only intervene when pain or discomfort is present. The benefits of osteopathy are the general improvement in mobility and structural stability of the body. In turn, other systems of the body such as the circulatory, nervous and lymphatic systems function more effectively and for a number of general conditions, minimal treatment is required.
Osteopathic treatment at CRI is available by a qualified renowned osteopath trained in UK, Dr. Mira Swami, in consultation with treating oncologist.

TN offers siddha cure for dengue

Over 285 cases of dengue have been reported so far across the state and the recent incidents of dengue-related deaths have sparked off panic among the public. Several persons are getting admitted to hospitals with dengue and swine flu and TN has recorded 24 dengue-related deaths so far. On Friday alone, six persons died due to the fever and this has sent alarm bells ringing all over the state.
In a related development, health minister, Dr V.S. Vijay, said Siddha remedies like ‘nila vembu’, a Siddha concoction that helps reduce the spread of the dengue-causing virus in the human body, would be made available at all government hospitals to prevent the disease. It will also be available at the primary health centres and Siddha hospitals in the state.
In a day, more than 7,000 people approach government hospitals across the state for treatment of fever, cold, cough and other viral infections. Up till last week, almost 70 persons have taken the Elisa test for dengue and 300 have tested positive for the disease after using the rapid diagnosis kit. More than 175 people have been treated for dengue in the districts so far and 110 are undergoing treatment at hospitals with symptoms of the fever.
Senior health officials assured that they were identifying hotspots and intensifying mosquito control exercises. “The entire state is under constant monitoring and the hospitals across Tamil Nadu, including primary health centres, have enough stock of medicines and blood. We are identifying the hotspots and conducting vector control measures,” said a senior health official.

New rule to keep an eye on single doctor establishments

Every private medical practitioner will have to obtain a license for his or her ‘single doctor establishment’ from the state health department, which is headed by chief minister Mamata Banerjee. The state health department has recently prepared a draft for the West Bengal Clinical

Establishment Rule, 2012, in order to keep a watch on the functions of medical practitioners in their individual establishments across West Bengal. The draft will be discussed in the state cabinet meeting before it is passed in the state legislative assembly.
A single doctor establishment is a medical clinic with just one registered medical practitioner, who is the owner of the clinic. Only dental practitioners have been left out of the equation.
According to the rules of the draft, every private practitioner will have to produce documents, such as academic and professional qualifications; registration certificated issued by the West Bengal Medical Council; and a written undertaking declaring that he or she will follow the provisions of bio-medical wasted management & handling rules before the clinical establishment cell at Swasthya Bhaban, while seeking a license for single doctor establishments or chambers.
Licenses will be issued to the applicants if the clinical establishment cell is satisfied with the documents. Licenses will be issued for a maximum of five years.
“Several thousands of private practitioners conduct medical practice in their individual chambers across the state. But, we don’t have official record on how many doctors practice in single doctor establishments or chambers,” said a senior official at the clinical establishment cell.
“The rules will be mandatory for all medical practitioners who practice individually in such chambers. The new rules will help the government prevent quack practice, which is rampant in the districts,” said the official.
“The government doesn’t have official records on doctors with individual chambers. The proposed rules will regulate the system,” said Dr Santanu Sen, state secretary of the Indian Medical Association.
Draft rules also pro-pose that each single doctor establishment should have adequate space for an examination room as well as sitting arrangements for both doctors and patients, and access to toilet facilities and availability of drinking water.
Also, doctors will have to generate and maintain records, as per the Medical Council of India Act, and records related to medico legal cases in the chamber, as well as any other records or registers required.
The name of the establishment and the doctor’s name and license number, the system of medicine practice and the specialty must also be displayed as per the draft rules.

Homoeopaths, physios, nurses queuing up for BPO jobs

Dabur may have taken ayurveda global, corporatising and then coasting on the traditional healthcare system to a potential multi-billion-dollar business, but ayurvedic practitioners in India — and others of their ilk, such as homoeopaths, nurses and physiotherapists — are flocking to healthcare-related business process outsourcing firms, or BPOs, doubling up as specialists in analytics and medical transcription. Take Bangalore-based ayurvedic doctor Monika Kumar, whose routine today is typical of any BPO employee’s – shift-based work, taking calls, feeding data to computers and so on. But Kumar is happy. She switched careers ten years ago as BPO work promised a stable salary, growth prospects and opportunities to work on a global platform, something that eluded her when she worked as an ayurvedic doctor for two years after graduating from the Government Ayurvedic College in Madhya Pradesh. Besides, BPO work engaged her in creating electronic health records, a task that allowed her to remain in touch with her expertise. And this is not a case in isolation. The assistant principal of a science college in Coimbatore along with 17 of her former physiotherapy students recently queued up before a healthcare BPO in Bangalore seeking jobs. Again for similar reasons: limited opportunities in their areas of expertise and growing potential of healthcare outsourcing. Monthly salaries at medical BPO firms start in the range of Rs8,000-15,000 and can zoom to Rs30,000-40,000 in three years. Small wonder a number of graduates in life sciences, medicine, zoology, botany, microbiology, nursing, homeopathy and physiotherapy now feel compelled to migrate towards BPOs engaged in analytical and voice-based work, medical transcriptions, electronic health records, medical coding and patient charts. “Very often, people do not get the right kind of breaks in their respective areas of expertise,” said Sanjay Shanmugaum, vice-president of human resources at M*Modal Global Services, a medical transcriptions firm. “Jobs in a healthcare BPO are therefore seen as an alternative career,” said Gopi Natarajan, CEO of Bangalore-based Omega Healthcare, a firm providing medical coding and voice-based services to the US healthcare industry, which saves up to 60% on costs by outsourcing such work. To be sure, most of the BPO clients are from the US. Industry estimates suggest the US healthcare market will likely outsource BPO-related work to the tune of $14-18 billion in the next few years. India could potentially garner around $4.5-5 billion of that business, up from the current $400 million, say experts. The new US healthcare law piloted by President Obama, which is expected to bring 30 million more Americans under medical insurance, is seen adding to the sector’s prospects. In fact, industry estimates suggest that by 2015-16, about 1 lakh new medical BPO jobs will be created every year, up from the current 18,000. Experts say more projects related to data conversion, management of electronic health records, claims processing, verifications, so on, will likely be outsourced to Indian BPO firms in the years to come. The industry has started gearing up in anticipation. For instance, Omega, which has around 4,000 employees, is looking to add 150-180 a month from now on. Similarly, M*Modal has around 6,000 employees whose backgrounds are in fields like radiology, medicine, life sciences and pharmacy. According to Shanmugaum, about 100 new staff are added every month. “The potential is humongous,” said Natarajan of Omega. “The sector is growing at 30-35%.”

‘Fraud’ in NRHM selections

 A probe into the selections made under the National Rural Health Mission in central Kashmir’s Budgam district has revealed that those selected are “dubious degree holders from unrecognized institutions.”  Soon after the selection list of NRHM (ISM) doctors and pharmacists for district Budgam appeared in local dailies last month, the unsuccessful candidates raised certain objections about the genuineness of the appointments after which the Commissioner/Secretary Health and Medical Education MK Dwivedi ordered an inquiry into the selection process. The list was issued vide no. CMOB/NRHM/12/3042-47 dated 12/09/2012  The inquiry report prepared by the Director Indian System of Medicine Dr Abdul Kabir Dar revealed that most of the selected candidates including ISM doctors have acquired their degrees from “unrecognized” or “temporarily registered” institutions while those having degrees from recognized institutions have been dropped.  “Out of 10 candidates selected as ISM pharmacists, eight have obtained their Ayurvedic Compounder Certificates from Vinayaka Mission University, Tamil Naidu through a Jammu based Madre-e-Meherban Institute of Health Sciences which is not recognized by state government for such courses,” the report said.  The report has been corroborated by official documents wherein the Assistant Director, ISM has informed the Commissioner Secretary that Mader-e-Meherban Institute had “neither produced any documentary evidence regarding permissions/NOC of the state government for conducting such courses nor any other institutions or universities offering such ‘Ayurvedic Compounder’ diploma is recognized by the competent authority”.  “Even the nomenclature on the certificates does not conform to that of the Department,” the documents read.  The documents reveal that soon after the disclosures, the Madr-e-Meherban Institute filed a petition against the State Government “seeking inter-alia directions to recognize the degrees/diplomas issued Vinayak Mission University and IASE University, Rajasthan conferred upon the candidates undergoing Paramedical courses from the petitioner institute in view of affiliation with the (above mentioned) universities.” The Court has asked the department to look into the genuineness of the degrees certificates submitted by the students from institutes like the Madr-e-Meherban Institute.  Pertinently, a number of district health societies have issued advertisements for


appointments under the NRHM. However, the advertisement notifications, according to sources, have been issued with dubious nomenclature aimed at benefitting unrecognized institutions.”  In one such notification the CMO Budgam uses a wrong nomenclature and skips the genuine statutory body in the requisite qualification column.  For pharmacist posts the notice invites applications from “Compounder/pharmacist having diploma in Homeopathy/Ayurvedic/Unani from the institutes recognized by the GOI or certificates course recognized by statutory body constitutional by J&K Govt”.  “It is vague terminology used in the notifications,” said a senior health official. “The right term used is ISM pharmacist recognized by the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM), an analogous body of MCI.”  Pertinently after the probe report, the Vice-Chairman of District Health Society Budgam Dr Aleemudin has been attached.  According to the probe report, the society headed by the District Development Commissioner (DDC) with Chief Medical Officer as its vice chairman “bypassed the expert panel of ISM and NRHM while giving final nod to the selections.” It said the two members, one each of ISM and NHRM, didn’t sign the final award/merit list and despite this it was issued to press.

Panel formed to study AYUSH row

The deadlock over the use of allopathic medicines along with ayurveda by the Bachelor of Ayurveda, Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) doctors may soon end in the state.

 A high-power committee, headed by the additional chief secretary, has been constituted to look into the use of the allopathic medicines by ayurveda doctors.

 The government has directed the committee to submit a report within 20 days.

 The committee also consists of principal secretary of Medical Education, director of Department of AYUSH, vice-chancellor of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, secretaries of legal and finance departments, members of IMA and Karnataka Medical Council.

 Dr N A Magadum, president of AYUSH Federation of India-Karnataka said it is crucial to use allopathy medicines along with ayurveda especially in emergency cases.

 “The use of allopathy is essential in rural areas, as more number of BAMS doctors serve in villages.

 In cases of emergency, like in case of dehydration the doctors have to administer IV fluids.

.At a situation like this a doctor cannot restrict to Ayurveda medicines alone”.

 He also cited the example of administering anti-tetanus drug in case of a cut or bruise, which is again an allopathic drug.

 He said, that under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act section 2 (ee) BAMS doctors use modern medicines along with ayurveda practises.

 “States like Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu have already permitted the BAMS doctors to use allopathy medicine,” he said.

 As per the instruction from the Apex Court and the Centre, 12 states have been issued government order to permit the usage of allopathic medicine along with ayurveda based on the need of the situation.

 Magadum said that if the GO permitting AYUSH doctors to use allopathic medicine is passed then as many as 40,000 ayurveda doctors in the state would benefit.

Can’t allow Indian system of medicine in military

Defence Minister AK Antony on Wednesday ruled out introduction of Indian systems of medicine in the Armed forces saying the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) system is based on the allopathic system of medicine.

Replying to a question by BJP MP Chandan Mitra in the Rajya Sabha, the Minister said in a written reply that the feasibility of introduction of the Indian systems of medicine in the armed forces was repeatedly studied by various committees and they did not recommend their inclusion. 

Mitra had asked whether Indian systems of medicine have not been introduced in the armed forces and the scientific reasons for not including these systems besides steps taken by the Government to reimburse expenses on Ayurvedic treatment of the army personnel who opt for this system.

Antonysaid combat medical and surgical requirements are the pivot on which the structure of the AFMS revolve.

He also said the Government has not taken steps to reimburse expenses for Indian systems. The AFMS is responsible for providing comprehensive medical care to Services personnel.

This question came in the backdrop of the Army disallowing reimbursement of Ayurvedic treatment of PV Manesh, a National Security Guard (NSG) commando who was wounded during the firefight with terrorists in the 26/11 Mumbai terror carnage.  Manesh was awarded Shaurya Chakra for his act of bravery.

Manesh was in coma for six months after he was hit by a grenade and discharged from the Army hospital with left side fully paralysed. He then underwent Ayurveda treatment and recovered.  He is currently incurring an expense of `5,000 on Ayurvedic treatment per month and has sought reimbursement from the Army. The Army has refused it saying Ayurveda is not approved under the defence medical system.

Dept of Ayush plans to support effectiveness studies of 500 select ASU drugs for better global recognition

The Department of Ayush may initiate a scheme to support biological activity and effectiveness studies of 500 select Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani (ASU) medicines so that they get a wider acceptance in the international markets and as part of further streamlining the regulations and standards in the sector.

The Steering Committee of the Planning Commission had made recommendations for supporting shelf life studies, development of phyto-chemical marker compounds, safety studies, biological activity studies and efficacy/effectiveness of 500 ASU drugs. The proposal is being pursued with the Planning Commission for approval, sources in the department said.

Other recommendations of the panel included development of new scientific monographs and revision of already published monographs, selection of priority drugs with high market potential by the Pharmacopoeia Commission of Indian Medicine and development of Ayush drug dossiers to facilitate entry of Ayush drugs in the international market.

Elaborating on the specific achievements of the Department in the last five years in the regulatory areas, an official of the Department said three national institutes and a Pharmacopoeia Commission of Indian Medicine have been/are being set up.



Publication of pharmacopoeial standards and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) of 152 ayurvedic formulations, publication of pharmacopoeial monographs of 101 single plant drugs and 21 minerals, publication of macro and microscopic and TLC atlases of 172 drugs, and development of eight community herbal monographs in the format given by European Medicines Evaluation Agency (EMEA) for submission to European Union were the other highlights of the performance.

The Steering Committee of the Planning Commission also had recommended Rs.50 crore towards the activities in the regulatory area for the current Five Year Plan. The amount was sought for augmenting pharmacopoeia work to develop 1000 monographs and strengthening Pharmacopoeia Commission and associated laboratories to accelerate the work of standardization and quality parameters of ASU drugs as per global requirements and acceptability, to take up development of monographs of such medicinal plants as are widely used in folklore/tribal medicine but not documented in ASU literature and to work on the lines of other Pharmacopoeia Commissions of the world.

Ayurveda doctors to perform cataract surgery

Jaipur: A unique marriage between Ayurveda and medical science is on the cards in Jaipur. The tie-up is likely to produce eye specialists with an Ayurvedic insight, who can perform cataract, glaucoma and other eye surgeries.
The National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA, Jaipur), India’s premier Ayurveda institute is set to hire modern ophthalmologists in line with Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) guidelines.
The CCIM is a statutory body tasked by the central government to frame and implement various regulations, including the curricula of Indian systems of medicine — Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Tibb — at graduate and postgraduate levels.
“We’ll hire qualified ophthalmologists on part-time basis. The ophthalmologists (eye specialists and surgeons) will particularly perform eye surgeries at our newly-created operation theatre,” NIA, Jaipur director Prof Ajay Kumar Sharma told DNA.
The tie-up will become functional at department of Shalakya Tantra (eye and ENT) in NIA, Jaipur within a month. The ophthalmologists will not only perform surgeries with a team of Ayurvedic eye specialists of department of Shalakya Tantra at NIA, but also train the department’s postgraduate students. “We’ll begin with cataract surgery, the most common form, and later cover other eye surgeries, like glaucoma,” Sharma said.

Initiation of modern eye surgery at NIA, Jaipur is likely to boost prospects of present PG students of Shalakya department and help them become eye and ENT specialists to treat patients with green (natural and herbal) medications.
The NIA director believes the tie-up, if successful, will help develop eye specialists, who will go for holistic treatment of eye ailments. “Such eye specialists will first try to prevent spread of eye diseases with classical Ayurvedic formulations, and if not successful only then go for the surgical cure,” he maintained.
NIA, Jaipur has already implemented two similar synergies between modern surgery and Ayurveda at department of Shalya Tantra (surgery) and department of Prasuti Tantra (gynecology).
“At Shalya Tantra department, modern surgeons have joined their Ayurveda counterparts in performing most common surgeries, like appendicitis, hernia, gall-stone and at department of Prasuti Tantra they are aiding to perform caesarian deliveries and other tubectomy,” he added.

பாட்டு கேட்டால் உடலில் 'எனர்ஜி' அதிகரிக்குமா!!!

பொதுவாக பாட்டு கேட்டாலே உள்ளம் குதூகலத்தில் துள்ளிக் குதிக்கும். அதுவும் பாட்டை ஜிம்மில் உடற்பயிற்சி செய்யும் போது அதிகம் கேட்பதை பார்த்திருப்பீர்கள். மேலும் யோகா செய்யும் போது மனதை அமைதிப்படுத்தும் வகையில் மியூசிக் போட்டிருப்பார்கள். ஏனெனில் இவ்வாறு உடற்பயிற்சி மற்றும் யோகா போன்றவற்றை செய்யும் போது பாட்டு அல்லது மியூசிக் கேட்டால் உள்ளம் அமைதி அடைவதோடு, உடலில் சக்தியும் அதிகரிக்கும்.
அதற்காகவே ஜிம் மற்றும் யோகா செய்யும் நேரத்தில் பாட்டை கேட்கிறார்கள். இதனால் டென்சன் இருந்தால் கூட மறைந்து, உள்ளமானது அமைதி பெறும். அப்படி உள்ளத்தை அமைதிப்படுத்த மற்றும் உடலில் சக்தி பெற எவ்வாறெல்லாம் மற்றும் எப்போது பாட்டை கேட்கலாம் என்று பார்ப்போமா!!!
பாட்டைக் கேட்டால்...

1. பாட்டானது வேகமாக, நல்ல பீட்ஸ்ஸோடு எனர்ஜி அளவை அதிகரிக்கும் வகையில் இருக்க வேண்டும். அதுவும் காலையில் எழுந்து உடற்பயிற்சி செய்ய வேண்டுமென்றால் மிகவும் சோம்பலாக இருக்கும். அப்போது நல்ல பீட்ஸ் இருக்கும், மிகவும் பிடித்த பாட்டை வீட்டில் இருக்கும் ப்ளேயரில் செட் செய்துவிட்டு எழுந்தால், உடற்பயிற்சி செய்வதோடு, உள்ளமும் உற்சாகமாக இருக்கும்.

2. காலையில் அல்லது மாலையில் 'ஜாக்கிங்' அல்லது 'ரன்னிங்' செய்வோம். அப்போது மனதை புத்துணர்ச்சி செய்யும் வகையில் இருக்கும் பாட்டை கேட்டுக் கொண்டு உடற்பயிற்சி செய்யலாம். அவ்வாறு கேட்கும் பாட்டின் ஒவ்வொரு வரிகளும் வாழ்க்கையை ரசித்து பாடுவது போல் இருந்தால் மிகவும் நன்றாக இருக்கும். இவ்வாறெல்லாம் பாட்டை கேட்டால், வாழ்க்கையின் ஒவ்வொரு நிமிடத்தையும் ரசித்து, மகிழ்ச்சியோடு வாழ வேண்டும் என்ற எண்ணம் தோன்றுவதோடு, ஆரோக்கியமாகவும் வாழலாம்.
3. வீட்டில் ஏதேனும் சண்டையால் மனமானது பெரும் துன்பத்தில் மற்றும் அழுத்ததில் இருக்கும். ஆகவே அப்போது காலையில் எழுந்து உடற்பயிற்சி செய்தால் அழுத்தமானது குறையும். மேலும் புகழ் பெற்ற 'ரிஹானா' பாட்டுகளை கேட்டால் மனமானது உறுதியடைவதோடு, மன அழுத்தமும் குறையும்.
4. எப்போதெல்லாம் யோகா செய்கியோமோ, அப்போதெல்லாம் மனதை ரிலாக்ஸ் செய்யும் வகையில் மென்மையான மியூசிக்கை கேட்கலாம். ஏனெனில் யோகா செய்தால் மனமும், உடலும் ரிலாக்ஸ் அடைகிறது. ஆகவே அதற்கு ஏற்ற வகையில் மியூசிக்கானது மென்மையாகவும், அமைதியாகவும் இருந்தால் நன்றாக இருக்கும்.
ஆகவே பாட்டை கேளுங்க!!! மனசை ரிலாக்ஸா வெச்சுக்கோங்க!!!

Benefits of Laughter

Benefits of Laughter

There may be more to the lyric “Put on a Happy Face” than just a catchy tune — putting on a happy face is absolutely good for you, and those around you.

For hundreds of years, it has been acknowledged that “Laughter is the best Medicine”. Breakthrough scientific research is shedding new light on the physiological beneficial effects of humor on health. Laughter can come in handy, whether it’s for dealing with an illness, the pressures of daily living, stress, coping at work even, laughter can dramatically change the quality and outlook of our lives.

And laughing makes us feel good for a reason. The physiological effects on our body do some pretty amazing stunts. Here are some examples:

1. Manage your hormones.   
Laughter reduces the level of stress hormones like cortisol, epinephrine, adrenaline, dopamine and growth hormone. It also increases the level of health-enhancing hormones like endorphins, and neurotransmitters. Laughter increases the number of antibody-producing cells and enhances the efficiency of T-cells. All this means a stronger immune system, as well as fewer physical effects of stress.
2. Nice internal workout.

A good belly laugh exercises the diaphragm, contracts the abs and even works out the shoulders, leaving muscles more relaxed afterward. It even provides a good workout for the heart. Laughing 100 times is the equivalent to 10 minutes on the rowing machine or 15 minutes on an exercise bike!

3. Physical release.

Have you ever felt like you had to laugh or you’d cry? Have you experienced the cleansed feeling after a good laugh? Laughter provides a physical and emotional release.

4. Positive frame of mind.

Laughter brings the focus away from anger, guilt, stress and negative emotions to them alongside other “mere distractions.” It will make you cheerful and put you in a positive frame of mind.

5. Change your perspective.    


Researchers found that our response to stressful events can be altered by whether we view something as a “threat” or a “challenge.” Humor can give us a more light-hearted perspective and help us view events as “challenges,” thereby making them less threatening and more positive.

 
6. Social benefits of laughter.

Laughter is contagious, so if you bring more laughter into your life, you can most likely help others around you laugh more. By elevating the mood of those around you, you can diminish their stress levels, and possibly improve the quality of social interaction you experience with them, reducing your stress level even more!
What’s even better is that the more you smile, the more others will too. Seeing a smile creates what is termed as a “halo effect,” helping us to remember other happy events more vividly, feel more optimistic, more positive and more motivated.

7. Fight illness better.

People who are optimistic (who are out there laughing!) have stronger immune systems and are actually able to fight off illness better than pessimists.

The research is very clear — this is not some social science generalization — there is a link between optimistic attitudes and good health. And it has been measured in a variety of ways. Overall, scientists have found that optimistic people are healthier. Their biological makeup is different and they have a more robust immune system.



8. Live longer.   
  

According to some recent research published in the Archives of General Psychiatry, elderly optimistic people, those who expected good things to happen (rather than bad things), were less likely to die than pessimists.

In fact, among the 65-85 year-old study participants, those who were most optimistic were 55 percent less likely to die from all causes than the most pessimistic people. What’s more, after researchers adjusted the results for age, smoking status, alcohol consumption, physical activity and other measures of health, the optimists were 71 percent less likely to die than the pessimists!


9. It feels like eating 2000 chocolate bars.

That’s right — according to The British Dental Health Foundation, a smile gives the same level of stimulation as eating 2000 chocolate bars. The results were found after scientists measured brain and heart activity in volunteers as they were shown pictures of smiling people and given money and chocolate.

People have long been drawing attention to the fact that smiling increases happiness both in yourself and those around you, so it is good to receive the backing of this scientific research.

    


10. It costs absolutely nothing.

It doesn’t cost a cent and it is highly contagious.

A recent research showed that pre-school-aged children laugh up to 400 times a day, but by the time we reach adulthood, we laugh a mere 17 times per day on average! Here are some strategies to help you raise your laughter level:


HOW TO USE LAUGHTER

TV and movies: There’s no shortage of comedies out there, both at the theater and in the aisles of the video stores, as well as right on your TV. While wasting your time watching something slightly humorous may actually frustrate you, watching truly hilarious movies and shows is an easy way to get laughter into your life whenever you need it.

Laugh with friends: Going to a movie or comedy club with friends is a great way to get more laughter in your life. The contagious effects of laughter may mean you’ll laugh more than you otherwise would have during the show, plus you’ll have jokes to reference at later times. Having friends over for a party or game night is also a great setup for laughter and other good feelings.

Find humor in your life: Instead of complaining about life’s frustrations, try to laugh about them. If something is so frustrating or depressing it’s ridiculous, realize that you could “look back on it and laugh.” Think of how it will sound as a story you could tell to your friends, and then see if you can laugh about it now. With this attitude, you may also find yourself being more lighthearted and silly, giving yourself and those around you more to laugh about. Approach life in a more mirthful way and you’ll find you’re less stressed about negative events, and you’ll achieve the health benefits of laughter.

“Fake it, till you make it!”: Just as studies show the positive effects of smiling occur whether the smile is fake or real, faked laughter also provides the benefits mentioned above. So smile more, and fake laughter; you’ll still achieve positive effects, and the fake merriment may lead to real smiles and laughter.
  

 

WARNINGS
A small stomach ache can result.
Don’t force your laugh.

Laughing invokes feelings of happiness and joy. Instead of being all gloomy and frustrated because there is no perceived solution, laughing lifts us up out of our pool of problems and plops us on solid ground where we can gain some new insights. Don’t forget to LOL (laugh out loud) frequently!

AYUSH hospital to come up in city

With the Indian system of medicine gaining popularity, the Department of AYUSH is coming up with a hospital facilitating ayurveda, homeopathy, yoga and unani at the epidemic hospital premises on Old Madras road very soon. Mr G.N. Sreekantaiah, Director, Department of AYUSH, Karnataka told Deccan Chronicle, “We have already sent a proposal to government. The hospital to come up will be equipped with 10 beds, an outpatient department (OPD) catering to all panchakarma (ayurveda, yoga, unani, naturopathy, siddha and homeopathy). For elderly patients who rely on Indian medicines, we have made plans for a separate geriatric ward at the hospital where special care will be provided to the elderly suffering especially from joint pains, arthritis and spondylitis."

“Currently, in the state, we have five hospitals under the AYUSH Department, but they specialize in only one form, one hospital for homeopathy, another for ayurveda and another for unani. So this hospital will be the first to cater to all forms of panchkarma," he added. The Indian system of medicine gaining acceptance across the world clearly manifested during the International conference on Yoga, Naturopathy and Arogya Expo (ICYN) – 2012 held in the city during February. He said, “The Indian systems of medication are easily available especially in rural areas and have relatively lower side-effects.”

Meanwhile, spreading its wing across the state, the Department of AYUSH has also put forward a proposal to come up with similar AYUSH hospitals in 15 taluks. He said, “There are 176 taluks across the state of Karnataka and currently we have small AYUSH hospitals only in 47. As per the budget proposal of 2012-13, by the end of 2013, we will be coming up with 15 more AYUSH hospitals in different taluks.”

courtesy news :
Deccan Chronicle

REMOVING GALLSTONES NATURALLY...

REMOVING GALLSTONES NATURALLY...
By: Dr.Lai Chiu Nan

Possible 'dangers'
Before I pass on this method to remove gallstones, I should point out that some doctors have warned of its "dangers". They say that, if the gallstones are too big, they might end up being stuck in the gall bladder ducts and this could be dangerous. In theory, this might happen. So if you are afraid, don't do it.

When you embark on natural remedies, whether to remove gallstones or for other purposes, you need to take responsibility for your own health and I shall not be held liable for any harm or danger that you might experience. At the same time, when you embark on natural cures, it helps also to understand the reasons behind some of the procedures.

In this case, part of the method to remove gallstones naturally involves drinking plenty of apple juice for about a week. It is believed that some substance in the apple juice, probably malic acid, helps softens the gallstones so that the risks of them being stuck in the gall bladder ducts are minimised. In any case, if you lack the confidence, don't do it.

Just be aware also that surgery and other medical procedures to remove gallstones UN-naturally also come with their own set of risks. You decide which risks you wish to take.

It has worked for many.  If it works for you please pass on the good news. Chiu Nan is not charging for it, so we should make it free for everyone. Your reward is when someone, through your word of mouth, benefits from the regime. Gallstones may not be everyone's concern. But they should be because we all have them. Moreover, gallstones may lead to cancer. "Cancer is never the first illness," Chiu Nan points out. "Usually, there are a lot of other problems leading to cancer.

In his research in China , he came across some materials which say that people with cancer usually have stones. We all have gallstones. It's a matter of big or small, many or few.

One of the symptoms of gallstones is a feeling of bloatedness after a heavy meal. You feel like you can't digest the food. If it gets more serious, you feel pain in the liver area." So if you think you have gallstones, Chiu Nan offers the following method to remove them naturally.

The treatment is also good for those with a weak liver, because the liver and gallbladder are closely linked.

Regimen: 
1. For the first five days, take four glasses of apple juice every day. Or eat four or five apples, whichever you prefer. Apple juice softens the gallstones. During the five days, eat normally. 
2. On the sixth day, take no dinner. 
3. At 6 PM, take a teaspoon of Epsom salt (magnesium sulphate) with a glass of warm water. 

4. At 8 PM, repeat the same. Magnesium sulphate opens the gallbladder ducts. 
5. At 10 PM, take half cup olive oil (or sesame oil) with half cup fresh lemon juice. Mix it well and drink it. The oil lubricates the stones to ease their passage. 
PS. 1cup=250ml,  1 cup lemon juice=3 lemons (aprox.)
The next morning, you will find green stones in your stools. "Usually they float," Chiu Nan notes. "You might want to count them. I have had people who passes 40, 50 or up to 100 stones. Very many."

"Even if you don't have any symptoms of gallstones, you still might have some. It's always good to give your gall bladder a clean-up now and then.

NO GUARANTEES

This method to remove gallstones naturally MAY NOT WORK for everyone.
Medical advice is still important in this type of regime.  Taking out gallstones naturally, the better, but follow up from doctors and experts is recommended.

POSSIBLE DIARRHEA
Another possible side effect of this natural way to remove gallstones is "instant diarrhea" at the last step, Number 5  of the Regimen.  But just in case... do this gallstone removal remedy at home, and do the last step nearby a toilet.
Resource:  http://www.natural-cancer-cures.com/remove gallstones.html#Anchor-For-49575

Related Stories : Removing gallstones naturally : http://www.ehow.com/how_5098600_remove-gallstones-naturally.html

Ayurveda doctors support ISMGA's objection to redesigning Ayush course title by Dr MGR Medical Varsity

Expressing solidarity with the Indian Siddha Medical Graduates Association (ISMGA) for their agitation over redesigning the Ayush course titles by the vice chancellor of TN Dr MGR Medical University, the Kerala chapter of the Ayurveda Medical Association of India (AMAI) has made a scathing attack on the University’s move. Coming down heavily on the blatant attack on ISM courses by the vice chancellor, Dr Mayil Vahanan Natarajan, AMAI has alleged that the vice chancellor might have a hidden agenda to eradicate the Indian Systems from its own land. While speaking to Pharmabiz, Dr Rejith Anand, the Secretary of AMAI said the actions of the vice chancellor have shocked and dismayed all those who see the universities as places of learning. He said it is the duty of the VC to facilitate all the health sciences students update their knowledge with the advances in medical sciences, whether it is Indian or western. Meanwhile, by seeing the story in Pharmabiz, the reporter of BBC from London has contacted the president of ISMGA asking about the steps taken by the university in revamping of ISM courses. While expressing deep anguish over the VC’s plan to remove the term ‘surgery’ from the nomenclature of ISM degrees, the AMAI secretary said several Ayush systems including Ayurveda have their own surgical methods like agnikarma, ksharakarama etc. He asked whether it is an offence if an Ayurveda medical practitioner opens a wound and drains the pus. “Nobody will go to an Ayurveda doctor for cardiac surgery or spinal surgery. Even the layman goes for minor surgeries only to specialist surgeons and not to mere MBBS doctors,” Dr Rejith said. Regarding revamping of syllabus, he said the syllabus for Ayush courses is designed by Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) and respective committees. Dr Mayil Vahanan has nothing to do with the syllabus of Ayush courses. He is vested with the powers to implement the guidelines issued by concerned authorities. According to Dr Rejith, the father of surgery is Susruthacharya who was not an allopath. The allopath only modifies the practices by means of scientific developments. Since the VC is an ortho surgeon he may not have knowledge about Ayush treatments, he commented. “Irrational disputes between systems of health sciences will not fetch any good result for the public. The common man has the right to choose his option and he knows very well where to go for better healthcare,” he added. On March 26, Dr Mayil Vahanan Natarajan sent a letter to the Union health minister, Dr Gulam Nabi Azad, requesting him to consider the term ‘surgery’ suffixed to each undergraduate ISM course be removed and the nomenclature of the courses be redesigned accordingly. He wrote in the letter that the term ‘surgery’ could be used only when the candidate was exposed to the training for performing surgeries on the patients. Earlier there was allegation that the VC had tried to take away some portions dealing with modern medical sciences from the syllabus of these courses.

Siddha practitioners increasingly losing trust in system:

Siddha practitioners increasingly losing trust in system: Dr Thirunarayanan Confidence building measures have to be initiated among practitioners of Siddha system as they are increasingly losing trust in the system due to various reasons, said Dr T Thirunarayanan, secretary of Centre for Traditional Medicine & Research (CTMR), Chennai. While speaking in a function organised by the Tamil Nadu Siddha Practitioners on World Siddha Day, he said the main reason for this negative thinking is the impression that heritage or traditional knowledge is irrelevant in the current scenario. But the science of the system is rooted in genomics which is based on the concept of ‘Vata’, ‘Pita’ and ‘Kapha’. Even though, there is unique diagnostic methods like ‘Noi Nidhanam’, the modern Siddha practitioners are going after modern medical gadgets just for glamour. These modern medical equipments and the way of healing do increase the cost of diagnostics and treatment, he said. Quoting an incident he witnessed in an International Arogya Fair, the CTMR secretary told the practitioners and students of Siddha that even the allopathic doctors recognize the expertise of Siddha physicians in pulse diagnosis. He said it is helpful for deciding the primary line of treatment based on the ‘doshams’ or basic reasons. “Our diagnostic tools are purely dependant on the skill and expertise of the physician, which is possible to develop by constant practice. Application of this is possible even in remote locations. Traditional Chinese Medicine not only thrives in that nation, but also globally because they totally trust in their basic concepts,” Dr Thirunarayanan said. Highlighting the need of uniformity in treatment, he said it is time to incorporate the local health traditions in training and the local biological resources. In different regions in the country different herbal plants are recommended for same disease, this shows that there is no uniformity in treatment. This has to be changed and common single drug selection has to be introduced. Likewise, the tradition advocates for simple plant based remedies rather than inorganic. Today everybody is over depending on inorganic medicines, he maintained. Referring to the traditional ways, he alleged that the present day Siddha practitioners are drifting away from natural production of medicines and going after modern industrial products. This is against what the age old Siddha system has taught or advised. That is why the traditional knowledge of drug manufacturing was included in the medical curriculum which contained training in pharmaceutics both at graduate and post graduate levels. He said during CTMR’s field studies on local health traditions, they came across healers who developed indigenously simple but effective processing equipment and technology. “Today everybody wants to gather information with the help of internet and very few time is devoted for learning classical texts and holding discussions. Even some manufacturing industries are contorting the methods prescribed in the classical texts. Critical analysis and commentaries needs to be made based on in-depth studies in each area which would make our understanding of concepts much better. It is absolutely essential to study the composition of the classical medicines in-depth and appreciate the beauty of their composition and design. In our over enthusiasm to invent new proprietary medicines we fail to understand the reasons why ingredients are incorporated,” he commented.

COURTESY NEWS : PHARMA BIZ.COM

VC’s ‘surgery’ irks Indian medicine docs 

The Indian medicine fraternity has launched a fresh tirade against the vice-chancellor of the Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University — this time for attempting to remove the term ‘surgery’ from Ayush degree courses such as ‘Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery’ (BAMS) and Bachelor of Siddha Medicine and Surgery (BSMS).
The Indian Siddha Medical Graduates Association has procured a letter from vice-chancellor Dr Mayil Vahanan Natarajan addressed to top health officials including Union health minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, urging them to remove the term ‘surgery’ which is suffixed to all the degree courses.
In his letter, Dr Mayil Vahanan says, “The term “surgery” can be used only when the candidate is exposed to the training for performing surgeries on the patients. In reality, no surgery is involved in the Indian systems of medicine.”
In August last year, the state’s premier medical varsity invited trouble when a high-level committee decided to change the syllabus of Indian medicine courses by removing sections that taught modern medicine and surgery. 
This move provoked protests by Siddha and Ayurveda students across the state and ended when Central Council of Indian Medicine warned the university that it had no authority to make such changes to the prescribed syllabus being followed in hundreds of colleges across India. 
A case filed by Siddha doctors against the vice-chancellor has been pending in the Madurai high court since then.
Reiterating his stand on the issue, Dr Mayil Vahanan Natarajan says, “I wrote to all Siddha, Unani and Ayurvedia colleges in TN and asked for a list of surgeries they had performed over the past year.
There was no proper reply. I do not mean to offend anybody, but these are the facts. Practitioners of Indian medicine do not perform any surgeries and they do not have ‘ayurvedic’ anesthesia.”
“The term ‘surgery’ at the end of their degrees could be misleading. People’s lives could be in jeopardy,” says Dr Mayil Vahanan, who claims he raises these issues to protect patients.
Countering the VC, Siddha practitioners point out that MBBS graduates are also not allowed to perform surgery, but they still are called ‘Bachelors of Surgery’. 
“Siddha and Ayurvedic medicine students learn all the basics of surgery too, they also have lessons in modern medicine to help them diagnose and refer patients who need immediate allopathic attention.
When I receive a patient with appendicitis, I would definitely refer him to an allopathic surgeon; and not perform the surgery myself,” says Dr Selvin Innocent Dhas, president of Indian Siddha Medical Graduates Association. 
While Siddha doctors are confident that the surgeon-status would not be docked off their degrees just by the efforts of one VC, they contend that such issues would affect the confidence of students.
pursuing Indian medicine.

WE WERE PIONEER

WE WERE PIONEER 

Cinnamon and Honey; Whoever thought?

Cinnamon and Honey; Whoever thought?

Honey is the only food on the planet that will not spoil or rot. What it will do is what some call 'turning to sugar'. In reality, honey is always honey. However, when left in a cool dark place for a long time it will "crystallize". When this happens loosen the lid, boil some water and sit the honey container in the hot water, but turn off the heat and let it liquefy naturally. It is then as good as it ever was. Never boil honey or put it in a microwave. This will kill the enzymes in the honey.

Cinnamon and Honey

Bet the drug companies won't like this one getting around. Facts on Honey and Cinnamon: It is found that a mixture of honey and Cinnamon cures most diseases. Honey is produced in most of the countries of the world. Scientists of today also accept honey as a 'Ram Ban' (very effective) medicine for all kinds of diseases. Honey can be used without side effects for any kind of diseases.
Today's science says that even though honey is sweet, when it is taken in the right dosage as a medicine, it does not harm even diabetic patients. Researched by western scientists:

HEART DISEASES: Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply it on bread instead of jelly and jam and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attack. Also, those who have already had an attack, when they do this process daily, they are kept miles away from the next attack. Regular use of the above process relieves loss of breath and strengthens the heart beat. In America and Canada, various nursing homes have treated patients successfully and have found that as one ages the arteries and veins lose their flexibility and get clogged; honey and cinnamon revitalize the arteries and the veins.

ARTHRITIS: Arthritis patients may take daily (morning and night) one cup of hot water with two tablespoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon powder. When taken regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured. In a recent research conducted at the Copenhagen University, it was found that when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of one tablespoon Honey and half teaspoon Cinnamon powder before breakfast, they found that within a week (out of the 200 people so treated) practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain -- and within a month, most all the patients who could not walk or move around because of arthritis now started walking without pain.

BLADDER INFECTIONS: Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the bladder.

CHOLESTEROL: Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water given to a cholesterol patient was found to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10 percent within two hours. As mentioned for arthritic patients, when taken three times a day, any chronic cholesterol is cured. According to information received in the said Journal, pure honey taken with food daily relieves complaints of cholesterol.

COLDS: Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for three days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold, and, clear the sinuses.

UPSET STOMACH: Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache and also clears stomach ulcers from its root.
GAS: According to the studies done in India and Japan, it is revealed that when Honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

IMMUNE SYSTEM: Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacterial and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant use of Honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles (where DNA is contained) to fight bacterial and viral diseases.

INDIGESTION: Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food is eaten relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals

INFLUENZA: A scientist in Spain has proved that honey contains a natural 'Ingredient' which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu.

LONGEVITY: Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly, arrests the ravages of old age. Use four teaspoons of honey, one teaspoon of cinnamon powder, and three cups of boiling water to make a tea. Drink 1/4 cup, three to four times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life spans increase and even a 100 year old will start performing the chores of a 20-year-old.

RASPY OR SORE THROAT: When throat has a tickle or is raspy, take one tablespoon of honey and sip until gone. Repeat every three hours until throat is without symptoms.

PIMPLES: Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it off the next morning with warm water. When done daily for two weeks, it removes all pimples from the root.

SKIN INFECTIONS:Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin Infections.

WEIGHT LOSS:Daily in the morning one half hour before
breakfast and on an empty stomach, and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one cup of water. When taken regularly, it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. Also, drinking this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.

CANCER: Recent research in Japan and Australia has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder three times a day for one month.

FATIGUE: Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful rather than being detrimental to the strength of the body. Senior citizens who take honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts are more alert and flexible. Dr. Milton, who has done research, says that a half tablespoon of honey taken in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, even when the vitality of the body starts to decrease, when taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3:00 P.M., the vitality of the body increases within a week.

BAD BREATH: People of South America, gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water first thing in the morning so their breath stays fresh throughout the day.

HEARING LOSS: Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder, taken in equal parts restores hearing. Remember when we were kids? We had toast with real butter and cinnamon sprinkled on it!

You might want to share this information with a friend, kinfolks and loved ones. Everyone needs healthy help information ~ what they do with it is up to them. You may also want to share this with your email buddies... They deserve to be healthy too!