The kidneys are responsible for filtering out toxins and excess waste in the body. They also help the body retain key nutrients that travel back to the tissues by way of the bloodstream. The kidneys regulate the water, sodium and electrolyte balance in the body, as well help prevent dehydration and bloating.
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If your hands and feet are cold to the touch, it doesn't mean you've got a cold heart. The more likely explanation is that your circulation isn't pumping effectively through your extremities.
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Cigarette smokers experience changes in their lung function that may affect the ability to breathe deeply. Breathing exercises can help to relieve this problem by re-training your lungs to breathe more deeply. Smokers also can use deep breathing techniques to relieve stress when trying to quit smoking.
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If you're approaching or have hit age 40, you may feel your physical fitness has reached its peak and will, from here on out, be going downhill. This attitude may be the product of a youth-obsessed culture, but it's not based on evidence.
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Fasting refers to the process of abstaining from solid foods in an attempt to purge your body of toxins during religious rites or as a method of weight loss. You are instructed to only take in liquids such as juices or water for the course of your fast.
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Human chorionic gonadotropohin, hCG, is a hormone produced during pregnancy. Cells that form the placenta excrete hCG once an egg has been fertilized and implanted into the uterus. HCG levels double every 72 hours and peak between eight and 11 weeks gestation.
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A low sperm count can be a source of frustration for any couple that is attempting to build a family. In many cases, a low sperm count can be addressed by dietary changes, adjustments in sexual practices and even changes in underwear.
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According to FamilyDoctor.org, the normal cycle of hair growth lasts around 2 to 3 years. Losing small amounts of hair is normal; however, excessive amounts of hair loss and an itchy scalp in women can be the result of a medical condition or illness. There are a number of factors that contribute to these conditions.
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Mid-abdominal pain may arise for a variety of reasons. Many organs and bodily systems are contained within or near the abdomen, so pinpointing the exact cause of pain can be challenging.
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Auras are visual manifestations of neurological symptoms. Flashing lights are one type of aura people report seeing, and these auras often seem to appear in either the left or the right eye.
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The male hormone testosterone has many different effects upon a man's body and brain. Before a male baby is born, testosterone secretions cause his internal and external reproductive organs to develop.
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Pelvic pressure is a common female complaint. It may be constant or intermittent, sharp or dull. Often it occurs at particular times, such as during intercourse, urination or menstruation.
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Cortisol is a corticosteroid hormone that is released by your adrenal gland during stressful situations. When the stress does not last very long, the levels of cortisol in your brain dissipate.
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Twilight anesthesia, more commonly known as conscious sedation or sedation analgesia, according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, consists of intravenous medications to decrease pain, reduce anxiety and facilitate relaxation during procedures such as minor surgery.
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Lemon and ginger are strong cold remedies in themselves; together they form a powerful one-two punch. Lemons are high in vitamin C, which helps support the immune system.
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Skin tags are tiny, flesh-colored growths of skin. Common on the eyelids, neck and body folds such armpit, removal of skin tags is typically considered an optional, cosmetic procedure -- not be covered by health insurance.
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Dopamine is a naturally occurring chemical in the body that functions as a neurotransmitter and neurohormone. It primarily affects movement control, emotions and the pleasure and reward centers of the brain. It activates five dopamine receptors, D1 through D5, which are found throughout the brain and body.
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The five major organs that secrete digestive juices are the salivary glands, stomach, pancreas, liver and small intestine. Each of these organs synthesizes its mixture of digestive juices that breaks down food into smaller pieces that can be absorbed into the body.
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Nose piercings have become more commonplace in recent years in different countries around the world, including the United States. Although many people believe nose piercings to be aesthetically appealing, you need to be aware of potential negative consequences associated with this type of procedure.
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Using steroids can result in a variety of side effects. These side effects can be physical and mental.
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