Lifestyle Choices

I do encourage you to use complementary techniques to optimise your condition and augment your healing. But always consult your doctor first, and even if he or she does not believe in the therapy, just make sure that no harm can be done. These therapies may give you support, comfort or may aid your healing. You may choose to learn meditation, practise guided imagery, relaxation techniques, acupuncture, reflexology Ayurvedic or Chinese medicine or follow a sound nutritional plan. Steer clear of any practitioner who tells you there is only one way to heal from cancer and that is with his/her therapy, or anyone who advises you to forego the treatment advised by your doctor. This is extremely dangerous. (more…)

Heart disease is on the increase throughout the world, especially in developing countries. Although South Africa has always had a high incidence of ischaemic heart disease in certain population groups, the incidence has increased dramatically and it now affects everyone. (Ischaemic heart disease means blockages have occurred in coronary vessels which means less oxygen is getting to the heart.)

At the simplest level, the function of the heart is to pump blood. If the coronary arteries are in any way compromised, the heart muscle pump becomes inefficient, which in turn affects the whole body .

With a little knowledge about your heart and what is good or bad for it, you can significantly reduce your risk for heart disease.

As a woman your risk for a heart attack is minimal until you reach menopause when it becomes equal to that of a man. The hormone estrogen has a cardio-protective effect. Around menopause the production of this hormone diminishes and your heart is no longer protected. (more…)