Whelehans Health Blog

Fatigue- Fighting it naturally (Part 2)   I continue aspects of our diet that influences fatigue as well as other aspects of our health   Keep Alcohol in moderation Too much alcohol will reduce energy levels. It robs the body of vital vitamins, especially B vitamins which play an important part of releasing energy from food. In excess, it causes high blood pressure, and its diuretic action can dehydrate the body, causing tiredness and headache. Moderation is the key. A good tip is drinking a glass of water in between each alcoholic drink, it will not only reduce the risk...

How Compression Hosiery can help you? Part 1   Compression hosiery are elasticated stockings that give support to your legs. In graduated compression hosiery, the pressure given by the stockings is greater at the ankle and reduces towards your knee. The stockings can be knee-length or thigh-length depending on your condition. Why do I need compression hosiery? The veins in your legs carry blood back to the heart. The calf muscles are responsible for pumping the blood through the veins back to the heart. The veins have one-way valves to ensure the blood flows in the correct direction. Damage to...

Cholesterol Part 2 Statins How effective are statins? A study published in the BMJ in 2003 showed statins reduce LDL cholesterol by 1.8 mmol/litre. This resulted in a 60% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, clots, and sudden cardiac death and a 17% reduction in stroke risk. Which statin is best? No indication that any one statin is better than the rest   Who should be prescribed statins? Over 20% of adults are at risk of coronary heart disease due to high cholesterol. The general guideline for people who have no previous heart problems is...

Cholesterol Part 1   Cholesterol is a lipid (fat).  It is manufactured by the liver from the fatty foods, and help maintain many body functions.   Cholesterol is carried in the blood by molecules called lipoproteins. The three main types are: Low density lipoprotein (LDL) often known as bad cholesterol and is thought to promote arterial disease.  Recommended LDL level is below 3.37 mmol/l High density lipoprotein (HDL).  This is often referred to as 'good cholesterol', and is thought to prevent arterial disease.  Recommended LDL range is 1.45 - 4 mmol/l Triglycerides are another type of fatty substance present in...

Indian Head Massage   Indian head massage is a traditional therapeutic technique that originated in India thousands of years ago. It involves massage of the scalp, neck, and shoulders to release tension and promote relaxation. Indian head massage is often used as a complementary therapy to help relieve stress and improve overall wellbeing. Benefits of Indian Head Massage Indian head massage can help relieve tension in the scalp, neck, and shoulders, which are common areas where people hold stress. The massage techniques used in Indian head massage can help improve blood flow and circulation in the head and neck area....