Article Presented by:
Trey Pennewell
Most webmasters are always looking for new and inventive ways to drive traffic to their website. There are many proven methods of getting the traffic to a website, but if that new increase in traffic does not convert into sales, then is it still worth the effort that you put into getting that traffic?
I had a discussion recently with a colleague about generating traffic from outside of our target market. As a result of our discussion, we decided that we certainly could utilize various markets to get a huge boost in traffic, but since this traffic would likely not result in any conversions, that there was really no point in spending the time and effort on going after that traffic.
In a previous "experiment" on one of my websites, I started using the social networking tactic to generate traffic. I bookmarked a page of my site and submitted to many of the standard sites like, www.digg.com, www.reddit.com, www.furl.net, www.spurl.net, etc.
By doing this, I was able to get a huge increase in traffic to the site for a couple of days. The problem is, that I did not get one single conversion from this new traffic. I used a catchy headline and a good description of the article that I submitted to the social networking sites, good enough to get people to come visit the page anyway. But with the lack of getting a single conversion, it really did not seem worthwhile to me to do again in the future.
Now I know that some of you might be thinking, "Well, his sales pitch must be terrible" or that "His website is poorly designed." If this were the case, I would have no problem admitting to this, but when I compare the untargeted traffic that I received from the social book marking sites to the targeted traffic that I see from organic searches I can see a big difference in conversion rates. The targeted traffic that comes from organic searches generally results in a 5-8% conversion rate. The untargeted traffic resulted in a 0% conversion rate.
How To Talk To Prospects Who Are In Your Target Market
The above results lead me to believe that a much better use of my time would be to focus more on the targeted market and to stop wasting time on the untargeted visitors. There are many techniques that can be used to find prospects in your target market. Many of these techniques are old news to experienced webmasters.
Some of these methods include contextual marketing through programs such as AdWords, posting on relevant forums, improving your Search Engine Optimization (SEO) for the organic traffic, and submitting articles to article repositories. You can also buy paid advertising in newsletters that cater to the people who are most likely to buy your products or services. These are just a handful of the methods that a Webmaster could utilize to get in touch with his or her target market.
Each of the above listed methods has their pros and cons.
Time commitment and ongoing financial commitments are two of the cons that are mentioned on a regular basis.
The pros given with all five typically represent tightly targeted traffic, suitably primed for conversion to paying customers.
The Dick Cheney Analogy
The Dick Cheney analogy has often been used to talk about this subject. Should you use the Rifle Approach or the Shotgun Approach?
The Rifle Approach lets you pinpoint your target and to hit it with great accuracy and frequency. The Shotgun Approach is sending a number or projectiles into a flock of birds and hoping you hit something. Dick Cheney proved that the shotgun sometimes hits its mark. (tongue-in-cheek people, tongue-in-cheek.)
For example, if you are selling health related products, then a media buy in WebMD would make good sense. People browsing WebMD are already interested in health and therefore are more likely to buy your health related products. People who are browsing on Myspace are not motivated to think about their own health at the time they see your ad, so your chances of success with Myspace ads are greatly diminished.
So, if you are going to expend time and money to attract visitors to your website, shouldn't you take care to primarily target people who are most likely to buy what you are selling?
Playing The Odds To Our Favor
Sure, a shotgun approach can sometimes hit its mark; we know that. But, if your cost for advertising or time expense is exactly the same, why aim for 1-2% when you know you can hit 5-8% doing something else?
We still mix-and-match our advertising approach. We aim most of our projectiles at the 5-8% conversion targets. We still aim a few projectiles at the 1-2% conversion prospects, because it allows us to reach people that we may not be able to reach otherwise. But, any method that we use that consistently turns 0% is taken off of our plate forever.
About the Author:
Trey Pennewell writes for LinksAndTraffic.com, owned by Bill Platt. Bill's team specializes in creating content-driven linking strategies that establish one-way inbound links to his client's websites, helping his clients to gain traction and better positioning in the organic search engine results. Bill has moved his businesses into new offices in Stillwater, Oklahoma. If you would like to learn more about his link building methods, feel free to give Bill a call at 405-780-7745 between 9am and 6pm CST, Monday through Friday. Or you can visit his website at: http://www.LinksAndTraffic.com
10.31.2006
How To Avoid Blisters: A Hiking Sock Guide.
Article Presented by:
Marc Wiltse
Great hiking socks are critical for a comfortable . Do yours deliver in all the important areas? Learn how to pick the hiking sock that is best for your trip.
Your hiking socks are probably like you at work... they do a lot more than they're given credit for. They must be comfortable, wick moisture, protect against shear, support your natural posture, keep your feet at a good temperature, distribute pressure, promote circulation, absorb shock, and be tough. That's no small order.
Socks are almost as important as your boots and shoes when it comes to your comfort. Here are some things to consider before investing in your next pair...
Blood Flow- This is the circulation of blood through the foot. A decrease or cut-off in blood flow can be caused by unyielding fabrics in hiking socks. Acrylics in combination with other fibers and a terry weave can help with this and shear. Lack of blood flow can cause fatigue, numbness and leave your feet more susceptible to injury.
Moisture- With exertion one foot can sweat 1-2 pints of vapor/fluid per day. That's like dumping a whole soda in each shoe! OK, so pop is stickier, but wet skin still has a tendency to stick to other surfaces which causes even more stress and trauma to your tissue. That's why wicking technology in hiking socks is so important.
Keep in mind too, if your socks don't wick well, bacteria and fungus can also become more of a problem. And we've all known that camp mate that had funky smelling feet. One of my friends actually resorted to burning his shoes in the campfire, but that's another story... ;-)
Position- If your hiking socks don't help to maintain correct anatomical alignment it can cause premature fatigue. Correct posture also helps to correctly position your foot in your boot or shoe to make it feel like it's an extension of your body. If you wore your dad's shoes when you were a kid, or had a pair of shoes that were too large and floppy you know how important position is.
Pressure Areas- Pressure can cause discomfort and lead to damage if it's not addressed. A good example of this is a bedsore. Most people hopefully won't experience pressure to this degree, but it's something you want to keep in mind when looking at hiking socks. Padding is especially important around bony areas like the heal and ball of the foot. Bony prominences as they're called, don't have the luxury of much padding. A good sock will provide just enough, but not too much cushion.
Shearing Force- This happens when your tissue is moving in opposite directions, like when jumping over a stream, or descending a steep slope. Part of your skin is moving one way and the tissue underneath it another, this causes a tearing action just under the surface of the skin. This is the most common way of getting blisters.
Temperature- Good hiking socks need to be appropriate for their intended use, from a warm weather day hike, to a week-long mountaineering trip. Once in that environment, they should help maintain a consistent comfortable temperature.
Like a shoe or boot your hiking socks should be matched to the type of hiking you'll be doing. Whether you're trail running or hiking the Appalachian Trail with a 50 pound backpack. Selecting the right tool for the job makes all the difference.
My website offers hiking sock reviews and recommendations as well as other gear information. I hope you found this article informative. Happy hiking. :-)
About the Author:
Marc Wiltse began investing in quality gear after a flooded tent forced him to sleep in his tiny 2-seat Honda CRX. His hiking equipment & camping gear guides, reviews & newsletter save you time & money. Find reviews on hiking socks here: http://www.hiking-gear-and-equipment-used-for-camping.com/hiking
© Marc Wiltse. Reprint permission if author, copyright, links & this notice intact.
Marc Wiltse
Great hiking socks are critical for a comfortable . Do yours deliver in all the important areas? Learn how to pick the hiking sock that is best for your trip.
Your hiking socks are probably like you at work... they do a lot more than they're given credit for. They must be comfortable, wick moisture, protect against shear, support your natural posture, keep your feet at a good temperature, distribute pressure, promote circulation, absorb shock, and be tough. That's no small order.
Socks are almost as important as your boots and shoes when it comes to your comfort. Here are some things to consider before investing in your next pair...
Blood Flow- This is the circulation of blood through the foot. A decrease or cut-off in blood flow can be caused by unyielding fabrics in hiking socks. Acrylics in combination with other fibers and a terry weave can help with this and shear. Lack of blood flow can cause fatigue, numbness and leave your feet more susceptible to injury.
Moisture- With exertion one foot can sweat 1-2 pints of vapor/fluid per day. That's like dumping a whole soda in each shoe! OK, so pop is stickier, but wet skin still has a tendency to stick to other surfaces which causes even more stress and trauma to your tissue. That's why wicking technology in hiking socks is so important.
Keep in mind too, if your socks don't wick well, bacteria and fungus can also become more of a problem. And we've all known that camp mate that had funky smelling feet. One of my friends actually resorted to burning his shoes in the campfire, but that's another story... ;-)
Position- If your hiking socks don't help to maintain correct anatomical alignment it can cause premature fatigue. Correct posture also helps to correctly position your foot in your boot or shoe to make it feel like it's an extension of your body. If you wore your dad's shoes when you were a kid, or had a pair of shoes that were too large and floppy you know how important position is.
Pressure Areas- Pressure can cause discomfort and lead to damage if it's not addressed. A good example of this is a bedsore. Most people hopefully won't experience pressure to this degree, but it's something you want to keep in mind when looking at hiking socks. Padding is especially important around bony areas like the heal and ball of the foot. Bony prominences as they're called, don't have the luxury of much padding. A good sock will provide just enough, but not too much cushion.
Shearing Force- This happens when your tissue is moving in opposite directions, like when jumping over a stream, or descending a steep slope. Part of your skin is moving one way and the tissue underneath it another, this causes a tearing action just under the surface of the skin. This is the most common way of getting blisters.
Temperature- Good hiking socks need to be appropriate for their intended use, from a warm weather day hike, to a week-long mountaineering trip. Once in that environment, they should help maintain a consistent comfortable temperature.
Like a shoe or boot your hiking socks should be matched to the type of hiking you'll be doing. Whether you're trail running or hiking the Appalachian Trail with a 50 pound backpack. Selecting the right tool for the job makes all the difference.
My website offers hiking sock reviews and recommendations as well as other gear information. I hope you found this article informative. Happy hiking. :-)
About the Author:
Marc Wiltse began investing in quality gear after a flooded tent forced him to sleep in his tiny 2-seat Honda CRX. His hiking equipment & camping gear guides, reviews & newsletter save you time & money. Find reviews on hiking socks here: http://www.hiking-gear-and-equipment-used-for-camping.com/hiking
© Marc Wiltse. Reprint permission if author, copyright, links & this notice intact.
How to Beat the Survival Game and Achieve Self Actualization
Article Presented by:
Tom Digges
I don't know about you, but I spent a lot of years struggling to find a way to make time for self actualization. It always seemed like survival issues got in the way and stole all the energy I needed to achieve my higher needs and goals. I call this syndrome...
Maslow's hierarchy Blues There were other symptoms too. My relationships suffered because of stress and low energy. I could barely even find time to learn or study let alone contemplate or meditate. Possibly it was made a little more difficult by the fact that I had 6 children and because of that my wife couldn't work much. I also never went to college before starting a family. With all this working against me how could I achieve self actualization?
My story is a glaring example of what Abraham Maslow, eminent psychologist and researcher, found when he interviewed people who were self - actualized. He developed the theory that people have a hierarchy of needs. When a need isn't met on a lower level, it's much more difficult or even impossible for them to evolve to more mature or self actualized states. Whether or not the theory of a "hierarchy" of needs holds true, it seems to be a universal experience that some needs are more basic than others and when they are not met adequately they stifle personal growth. Self actualization must stand on a foundation that is more or less stable. The basic needs are a healthy body, security and satisfying relationships. To the extent that we are not able to adequately meet these needs, we are doomed to a treadmill existence. We are trapped in a system that requires all of our available energy to meet basic needs and none is left for self actualization. In order to beat this system consider approaching your basic need aquisition in a way we call Optimal Living. Put simply, Optimal Living principles help you achieve the most with the least amount of energy. For great resources on each of the subjects below see the Authors box at the end of the article. Now let's take a look at these basic physiological needs.
Take Care Of Your Body
We obviously need to breathe, drink, eat, sleep and stay warm enough and avoid illness. It would be difficult to put our attention anywhere else if we didn't have these things in place. These needs can be met in a minimal (not enough) or extravagant (too much) way. There is also the optimal way. Consider joining a natural food Co-Op where you can buy wholesome food at a huge discount at the same time you will meet like minded friends. This will help you meet your relational needs. When you do it right you will have a body that will carry you through to the highest level of human actualization and give you many years of enjoyment instead of pain.
A Roof Over Your Head
Another physiological need is to have shelter. You can solve your shelter needs in a lot of ways, some of them painfully expensive. If you want to do this with the least amount of wasted life energy, try Co-housing. This is where a group of people are getting together to lower the costs of housing in many creative ways. You get to maintain your freedom, but live well at the lowest possible cost. Why do you need a lawn tractor in every garage when you can share one? The possibilities are endless. There are organizations set up to assist you in finding the right solution. Try looking up "Co- housing" or "alternative lifestyle" on the Internet.
Stabilize your financial position. Security and Safety is the next level of needs to be met. When your body is OK and you have adequate shelter, you'll be able to turn your attention to this. How can we create income and financial stability in an optimal way?
A steady income is paramount and is important if you want to meet any of the other needs of being a human. Face it, income or money is the medium of exchange in our society and around the world. If we can't resolve this need, we remain stuck in many ways. The only alternative is to drop out of society by joining a commune or monestary. I don't recommend either. I feel that the loss of personal freedom would hamper my ability to meet the higher needs that exist. There is also the issue of autonomy which is seriously challenged in these living situations. So how to develop a steady income that doesn't steel all your energy and time? Plus how can we avoid the treadmill of 9 to 5 suburban - barely making it - stressed out existence?
In our effort to obtain financial security we can't give up the ship of our moral compass. That creates inner conflict. Nor can we throw out the baby with the bathwater. Finding a right livelihood that creates income and complements our values is a rare gem. Fortunately, the Internet is making things possible that couldn't even be dreamed of before the computer / information age. Explore these possibilities.
Affiliate Programs - are web based businesses that allow you to join up and promote a product or service for a commission. You can easily find a program that resonates with you no matter what your interests are. If you want to sell vitamins and organic foods, you got it. If you want to help people overcome their issues, build better relationships etc. you got it. Another important factor to consider is, don't put all your eggs in one basket. Work on creating multiple self perpetuating streams of income.
Build Healthy Relationships
This could prove to be the most difficult objective in your quest for self actualization. Relationships have a tendency to press all of our buttons sooner or later. Knowing what to do with the raw emotions that can arise in relationships can make or break you. Why do you think the divorce rate is way above 50%? The dating breakup statistics are even worse. Even getting along with our children or parents or siblings is a serious challenge. All of this potential conflict can seriously sap your energy and time.
Relationships are complex. On one hand they meet a basic need of the individual. On the other hand they provide a continual challenge that either catalyzes our personal growth or triggers our issues and causes alienation and emotional pain. Negotiating the perilous waters of relationship is much safer and more rewarding if we get some genuine quality assistance and guidelines. Don't leave it to chance, there is plenty of great relationship help on the internet.
Join supportive groups. Find a group that you can feel comfortable and relate to. The main criteria to look for is their "inclusivity" quotient. Make sure the group you give your life energy to is not excluding or marginalizing any other groups or people. The degree to which they accept and appreciate all forms of truth and expression is the degree to which you will be able to grow with them and express yourself freely.
Obviously this would not be a fundamentalist "We are the only way" type group. Think about what type of activities you enjoy, your lifestyle and what you would like to experience. Find a group or groups that compliment your criteria at the same time give you opportunity to stretch or challenge yourself. Lots of groups can be found on the Internet, or in our resource pages.
Optimal Living guarantees maximum "lift off" from the gravitational pull of the basic physiological needs. By optimal living I mean that you create a situation that guarantees that these needs are met in an automatic way. If not automatic, the idea is to obtain what you need with the least amount of energy necessary. Energy is the commodity of transformation. Without it you stand still. Gather it, conserve it and use it wisely, and you create the optimal conditions for real lasting growth.
With the right strategy and by paying attention to the hierarchy of needs, you can make your way to self actualization a much more pleasant journey. You will be covering all the bases so you will experience less surprises and setbacks. By sewing the right seeds, you will also have the energy you need. For a great list of resources on fulfilling all these human needs in an optimal way, see our resource site below.
About the Author:
Go To the GFN resource page: Optimal Living Resources http://gfnproject.com/optimal_living_resources.htm Thomas S Digges is a Life Coach and author. See his other work here: Articles http://gfnproject.com/ArticlesMain.htm Join a community of people dedicated to optimal living and self actualization: Get Free Now Community http://gfnproject.com/join_us/
Tom Digges
I don't know about you, but I spent a lot of years struggling to find a way to make time for self actualization. It always seemed like survival issues got in the way and stole all the energy I needed to achieve my higher needs and goals. I call this syndrome...
Maslow's hierarchy Blues There were other symptoms too. My relationships suffered because of stress and low energy. I could barely even find time to learn or study let alone contemplate or meditate. Possibly it was made a little more difficult by the fact that I had 6 children and because of that my wife couldn't work much. I also never went to college before starting a family. With all this working against me how could I achieve self actualization?
My story is a glaring example of what Abraham Maslow, eminent psychologist and researcher, found when he interviewed people who were self - actualized. He developed the theory that people have a hierarchy of needs. When a need isn't met on a lower level, it's much more difficult or even impossible for them to evolve to more mature or self actualized states. Whether or not the theory of a "hierarchy" of needs holds true, it seems to be a universal experience that some needs are more basic than others and when they are not met adequately they stifle personal growth. Self actualization must stand on a foundation that is more or less stable. The basic needs are a healthy body, security and satisfying relationships. To the extent that we are not able to adequately meet these needs, we are doomed to a treadmill existence. We are trapped in a system that requires all of our available energy to meet basic needs and none is left for self actualization. In order to beat this system consider approaching your basic need aquisition in a way we call Optimal Living. Put simply, Optimal Living principles help you achieve the most with the least amount of energy. For great resources on each of the subjects below see the Authors box at the end of the article. Now let's take a look at these basic physiological needs.
Take Care Of Your Body
We obviously need to breathe, drink, eat, sleep and stay warm enough and avoid illness. It would be difficult to put our attention anywhere else if we didn't have these things in place. These needs can be met in a minimal (not enough) or extravagant (too much) way. There is also the optimal way. Consider joining a natural food Co-Op where you can buy wholesome food at a huge discount at the same time you will meet like minded friends. This will help you meet your relational needs. When you do it right you will have a body that will carry you through to the highest level of human actualization and give you many years of enjoyment instead of pain.
A Roof Over Your Head
Another physiological need is to have shelter. You can solve your shelter needs in a lot of ways, some of them painfully expensive. If you want to do this with the least amount of wasted life energy, try Co-housing. This is where a group of people are getting together to lower the costs of housing in many creative ways. You get to maintain your freedom, but live well at the lowest possible cost. Why do you need a lawn tractor in every garage when you can share one? The possibilities are endless. There are organizations set up to assist you in finding the right solution. Try looking up "Co- housing" or "alternative lifestyle" on the Internet.
Stabilize your financial position. Security and Safety is the next level of needs to be met. When your body is OK and you have adequate shelter, you'll be able to turn your attention to this. How can we create income and financial stability in an optimal way?
A steady income is paramount and is important if you want to meet any of the other needs of being a human. Face it, income or money is the medium of exchange in our society and around the world. If we can't resolve this need, we remain stuck in many ways. The only alternative is to drop out of society by joining a commune or monestary. I don't recommend either. I feel that the loss of personal freedom would hamper my ability to meet the higher needs that exist. There is also the issue of autonomy which is seriously challenged in these living situations. So how to develop a steady income that doesn't steel all your energy and time? Plus how can we avoid the treadmill of 9 to 5 suburban - barely making it - stressed out existence?
In our effort to obtain financial security we can't give up the ship of our moral compass. That creates inner conflict. Nor can we throw out the baby with the bathwater. Finding a right livelihood that creates income and complements our values is a rare gem. Fortunately, the Internet is making things possible that couldn't even be dreamed of before the computer / information age. Explore these possibilities.
Affiliate Programs - are web based businesses that allow you to join up and promote a product or service for a commission. You can easily find a program that resonates with you no matter what your interests are. If you want to sell vitamins and organic foods, you got it. If you want to help people overcome their issues, build better relationships etc. you got it. Another important factor to consider is, don't put all your eggs in one basket. Work on creating multiple self perpetuating streams of income.
Build Healthy Relationships
This could prove to be the most difficult objective in your quest for self actualization. Relationships have a tendency to press all of our buttons sooner or later. Knowing what to do with the raw emotions that can arise in relationships can make or break you. Why do you think the divorce rate is way above 50%? The dating breakup statistics are even worse. Even getting along with our children or parents or siblings is a serious challenge. All of this potential conflict can seriously sap your energy and time.
Relationships are complex. On one hand they meet a basic need of the individual. On the other hand they provide a continual challenge that either catalyzes our personal growth or triggers our issues and causes alienation and emotional pain. Negotiating the perilous waters of relationship is much safer and more rewarding if we get some genuine quality assistance and guidelines. Don't leave it to chance, there is plenty of great relationship help on the internet.
Join supportive groups. Find a group that you can feel comfortable and relate to. The main criteria to look for is their "inclusivity" quotient. Make sure the group you give your life energy to is not excluding or marginalizing any other groups or people. The degree to which they accept and appreciate all forms of truth and expression is the degree to which you will be able to grow with them and express yourself freely.
Obviously this would not be a fundamentalist "We are the only way" type group. Think about what type of activities you enjoy, your lifestyle and what you would like to experience. Find a group or groups that compliment your criteria at the same time give you opportunity to stretch or challenge yourself. Lots of groups can be found on the Internet, or in our resource pages.
Optimal Living guarantees maximum "lift off" from the gravitational pull of the basic physiological needs. By optimal living I mean that you create a situation that guarantees that these needs are met in an automatic way. If not automatic, the idea is to obtain what you need with the least amount of energy necessary. Energy is the commodity of transformation. Without it you stand still. Gather it, conserve it and use it wisely, and you create the optimal conditions for real lasting growth.
With the right strategy and by paying attention to the hierarchy of needs, you can make your way to self actualization a much more pleasant journey. You will be covering all the bases so you will experience less surprises and setbacks. By sewing the right seeds, you will also have the energy you need. For a great list of resources on fulfilling all these human needs in an optimal way, see our resource site below.
About the Author:
Go To the GFN resource page: Optimal Living Resources http://gfnproject.com/optimal_living_resources.htm Thomas S Digges is a Life Coach and author. See his other work here: Articles http://gfnproject.com/ArticlesMain.htm Join a community of people dedicated to optimal living and self actualization: Get Free Now Community http://gfnproject.com/join_us/
Green Tea May Positively Effect Stomach Cancer in Habitual Tea Drinkers
Article Presented by:
Jon M. Stout
Stomach Cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the Western World. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimates that 22,228 Americans will be diagnosed with stomach cancer during 2006. They also project that there will be an estimated 11,430 deaths from this type of disease. Therefore, the search for a cure for this disease has been a long standing one. In the past, clinical researchers have hypothesized that drinking green tea may indeed inhibit stomach carcinogenesis, and a few case-studies with animals and human beings have successfully broadened this theory.
One landmark case study was conducted on humans in Shanghai, China from October 1991 to December 1993. This study is still considered to be the largest of its kind. During this study, 711 subjects and 711 controls (under the age of 80) were evaluated. They were all residents of the Hongkou district and Nanhui country and were selected from identical streets or communes and matched in gender and age (within three years). This created two nearly identical, homogeneous groups. By creating these groups, researchers ensured that their findings would not be impacted by any outside contributing factors.
During this study, researchers evaluated the types of tea used, strength and temperature of the tea consumed, age when habitual tea drinking began, total duration of drinking for each batch, frequency of new batches of tea leaves used per day, and number of cups brewed from each batch. Statistical analysis was then completed with conditional logistic regression.
Researchers found that habitual Chinese green tea drinkers (regardless of when they started drinking the tea) had a lower risk of stomach cancer than their non tea drinking counterparts. They reasoned that the green tea may disrupt gastric carcinogenesis at both the intermediate and the late stages and that the major polyphenol in green tea extracts, also known as epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC), positively effects stomach cancer and also protects a number of organs in the digestive tract.
In 2004, a research team from Harvard Medical School worked on and expanded the premise of the Shanghai study. They reported that the epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC) in Green Tea impairs the growth and reproduction of cancer cells (SEG-1 and BIC-1) involved with Barrett's Esophagus. Barrett's Esophagus is a condition in which the stomach throws back stomach acid due to impaired function and often leads to the destruction of the cells that line the esophagus which in turn, increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
Barrett's Esophagus is a very serious condition often mistaken by sufferers as heartburn. This condition is frequently a precursor to esophageal cancer. Although one of the rarer forms of cancer, esophageal cancer is also one of the more deadly forms of cancer, with a five year survival rate of only 25 percent. Harvard Medical School researchers found that exposure to ECGC (which is found in green tea) releases proteins which are known to help in repairing DNA damage. This finding has created even more interest in researching the effects of green tea and EGCC on cancer.
In other words, drinking Chinese Green Tea may be a healthy habit to acquire – one, that may prevent and lead to a positive effect on stomach cancer and those suffering from Barrett's Esophagus.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Jon M. Stout
Stomach Cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the Western World. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimates that 22,228 Americans will be diagnosed with stomach cancer during 2006. They also project that there will be an estimated 11,430 deaths from this type of disease. Therefore, the search for a cure for this disease has been a long standing one. In the past, clinical researchers have hypothesized that drinking green tea may indeed inhibit stomach carcinogenesis, and a few case-studies with animals and human beings have successfully broadened this theory.
One landmark case study was conducted on humans in Shanghai, China from October 1991 to December 1993. This study is still considered to be the largest of its kind. During this study, 711 subjects and 711 controls (under the age of 80) were evaluated. They were all residents of the Hongkou district and Nanhui country and were selected from identical streets or communes and matched in gender and age (within three years). This created two nearly identical, homogeneous groups. By creating these groups, researchers ensured that their findings would not be impacted by any outside contributing factors.
During this study, researchers evaluated the types of tea used, strength and temperature of the tea consumed, age when habitual tea drinking began, total duration of drinking for each batch, frequency of new batches of tea leaves used per day, and number of cups brewed from each batch. Statistical analysis was then completed with conditional logistic regression.
Researchers found that habitual Chinese green tea drinkers (regardless of when they started drinking the tea) had a lower risk of stomach cancer than their non tea drinking counterparts. They reasoned that the green tea may disrupt gastric carcinogenesis at both the intermediate and the late stages and that the major polyphenol in green tea extracts, also known as epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC), positively effects stomach cancer and also protects a number of organs in the digestive tract.
In 2004, a research team from Harvard Medical School worked on and expanded the premise of the Shanghai study. They reported that the epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC) in Green Tea impairs the growth and reproduction of cancer cells (SEG-1 and BIC-1) involved with Barrett's Esophagus. Barrett's Esophagus is a condition in which the stomach throws back stomach acid due to impaired function and often leads to the destruction of the cells that line the esophagus which in turn, increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
Barrett's Esophagus is a very serious condition often mistaken by sufferers as heartburn. This condition is frequently a precursor to esophageal cancer. Although one of the rarer forms of cancer, esophageal cancer is also one of the more deadly forms of cancer, with a five year survival rate of only 25 percent. Harvard Medical School researchers found that exposure to ECGC (which is found in green tea) releases proteins which are known to help in repairing DNA damage. This finding has created even more interest in researching the effects of green tea and EGCC on cancer.
In other words, drinking Chinese Green Tea may be a healthy habit to acquire – one, that may prevent and lead to a positive effect on stomach cancer and those suffering from Barrett's Esophagus.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Drinking Green Tea Might Prevent The Absorption of Cholesterol
Article Presented by:
Jon M. Stout
There are many studies being conducted on the effects of drinking green tea and how it can benefit the body. Along with its possible antioxidant qualities, there are also studies pointing to the possibility that green tea can help you maintain and even lower your cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol comes in two forms, 'good' or HDL-cholesterol and 'bad' or LDL-cholesterol. Doctors are very concerned about the balance of these two types of cholesterol. Ideally, there should be more good cholesterol than bad. Also, there should only be very small amounts of the bad cholesterol in your blood.
Imbalances in your levels of cholesterol can lead to many diseases, one of which is atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a hardening of the arteries caused by damage caused by high levels of bad cholesterol and other factors.
Studies revealed that green tea consumption in rats appears to lower their levels of bad cholesterol and even prevents them from getting high cholesterol when they are on high cholesterol diets. This has significant implications for the use of green tea in humans to prevent high cholesterol and heart disease. There are still more studies and research to be done before researchers can confirm that green tea indeed has such benefits.
Researchers have also studied how green tea was able to protect rats on high cholesterol diets from getting bad cholesterol. In 2000, a study came out that shed some light on how green tea is able to keep LDL-cholesterol levels down in laboratory rats. Doctors Teddy T.C. Yang and Marcel W.L. Koo studied the effects of Lung Chen tea consumption on a group of laboratory rats with high cholesterol diets.
Lung Chen tea is also known as Long Jing tea. It is a green tea, meaning that the leaves are unoxidized. Whereas other green tea leaves are steamed, Lung Chen tea is pan fried to stop the oxidation process. This tea is usually found to contain the highest levels of antioxidants, called catechins, of all teas. It's typically very expensive and has a sweet flavor.
The doctors fed a group of male laboratory rats different diets according to their group status. The first group got a regular diet of Purina Rat chow and unlimited amounts of tap water. This was the control group. The other rat groups were given a 1% cholesterol diet with 0.5% cholic acid. Those in the cholesterol group were divided further into groups receiving 1%, 2% and 4% solutions of Lung Chen Tea to drink. One group didn't receive any of the tea, but did receive the high cholesterol diet.
After eight weeks, the doctors collected two day's worth of fecal matter from each of the groups and examined the contents. After nine weeks, they collected blood samples and examined the rat's livers.
Immediately, they noticed that the rats in the high cholesterol group that didn't get any Lung Chen tea had gained the most weight, while the rats in the 2% and 4% Lung Chen tea groups had actually lost a small amount of weight compared to the control group which remained on the rat chow. Also, the blood samples revealed that while all the rats on the high cholesterol diet had a higher cholesterol level than those in the control group, the rats that had received the 2% and 4% solutions of Lung Chen tea had the lowest cholesterol levels of those in the high cholesterol group. It appeared that the Lung Chen tea protected them, which is what other studies previously had shown.
When the doctors examined the fecal content of the rats, they found that the groups with the 2% and 4% solutions of Lung Chen tea had higher levels of lipid and cholesterol excretion than those in the high cholesterol diet without any tea. This means that the Lung Chen tea is working to keep the cholesterol levels in the blood down by keeping it from being absorbed in the intestinal tract. Doctors theorize that this may be one of the mechanisms by which Lung Chen tea and possibly other green teas operate to help protect the body from high cholesterol diets.
Of course, this is only a study in rats and still needs to be examined in humans, but there is definite evidence that drinking green teas can help you maintain lower cholesterol levels.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Jon M. Stout
There are many studies being conducted on the effects of drinking green tea and how it can benefit the body. Along with its possible antioxidant qualities, there are also studies pointing to the possibility that green tea can help you maintain and even lower your cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol comes in two forms, 'good' or HDL-cholesterol and 'bad' or LDL-cholesterol. Doctors are very concerned about the balance of these two types of cholesterol. Ideally, there should be more good cholesterol than bad. Also, there should only be very small amounts of the bad cholesterol in your blood.
Imbalances in your levels of cholesterol can lead to many diseases, one of which is atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a hardening of the arteries caused by damage caused by high levels of bad cholesterol and other factors.
Studies revealed that green tea consumption in rats appears to lower their levels of bad cholesterol and even prevents them from getting high cholesterol when they are on high cholesterol diets. This has significant implications for the use of green tea in humans to prevent high cholesterol and heart disease. There are still more studies and research to be done before researchers can confirm that green tea indeed has such benefits.
Researchers have also studied how green tea was able to protect rats on high cholesterol diets from getting bad cholesterol. In 2000, a study came out that shed some light on how green tea is able to keep LDL-cholesterol levels down in laboratory rats. Doctors Teddy T.C. Yang and Marcel W.L. Koo studied the effects of Lung Chen tea consumption on a group of laboratory rats with high cholesterol diets.
Lung Chen tea is also known as Long Jing tea. It is a green tea, meaning that the leaves are unoxidized. Whereas other green tea leaves are steamed, Lung Chen tea is pan fried to stop the oxidation process. This tea is usually found to contain the highest levels of antioxidants, called catechins, of all teas. It's typically very expensive and has a sweet flavor.
The doctors fed a group of male laboratory rats different diets according to their group status. The first group got a regular diet of Purina Rat chow and unlimited amounts of tap water. This was the control group. The other rat groups were given a 1% cholesterol diet with 0.5% cholic acid. Those in the cholesterol group were divided further into groups receiving 1%, 2% and 4% solutions of Lung Chen Tea to drink. One group didn't receive any of the tea, but did receive the high cholesterol diet.
After eight weeks, the doctors collected two day's worth of fecal matter from each of the groups and examined the contents. After nine weeks, they collected blood samples and examined the rat's livers.
Immediately, they noticed that the rats in the high cholesterol group that didn't get any Lung Chen tea had gained the most weight, while the rats in the 2% and 4% Lung Chen tea groups had actually lost a small amount of weight compared to the control group which remained on the rat chow. Also, the blood samples revealed that while all the rats on the high cholesterol diet had a higher cholesterol level than those in the control group, the rats that had received the 2% and 4% solutions of Lung Chen tea had the lowest cholesterol levels of those in the high cholesterol group. It appeared that the Lung Chen tea protected them, which is what other studies previously had shown.
When the doctors examined the fecal content of the rats, they found that the groups with the 2% and 4% solutions of Lung Chen tea had higher levels of lipid and cholesterol excretion than those in the high cholesterol diet without any tea. This means that the Lung Chen tea is working to keep the cholesterol levels in the blood down by keeping it from being absorbed in the intestinal tract. Doctors theorize that this may be one of the mechanisms by which Lung Chen tea and possibly other green teas operate to help protect the body from high cholesterol diets.
Of course, this is only a study in rats and still needs to be examined in humans, but there is definite evidence that drinking green teas can help you maintain lower cholesterol levels.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Herbs as a Preventative Agent and Source for Healthy Living
Article Presented by:
Jon M. Stout
We have all heard of herbal remedies, passed on from generation to generation, lending healthful cures and preventative health maintenance from the ancient East to our American cowboy. Now through science, medicine is testing and researching the power of herbs and finding that there just might be something to the notion that herbs do more than look pretty, smell good, or make tasty spices and teas.
For as long as man has been getting sick, old, or even imbibed too much, we have been looking for a cure for our ills. Frequently, before formal medicine as we know it today, herbs played a major role in aiding our ills and soothing our pains. Herbs have played a prominent role in nearly every culture to prolong life, heal the sick, or even prevent sickness. During The Middle Ages, numerous herbs, including garlic, were used to ward off demons, vampires, and The Plague. Science can provide some evidence demonstrating the use of garlic to potentially ward off The Plague.
Recently, herbs have enjoyed resurgence in popularity. As most of us have become more health conscious, we have realized the drawbacks to relying solely on anti-biotic remedies to cure the flu, common colds, and most basic illnesses. We have started to look more seriously at older remedies that have been around for centuries for cures for everything from the common cold to arthritis. Modern science and medicine are now putting many of those supposed cures to the test, examining everything from wound healing poultices to depression remedies.
At the Division of Basic Research at the South Carolina Cancer Center in Columbia, South Carolina, this research has been taken to a new level. Not only are they examining whether herbal remedies might work, they are also looking at issues related to safety, dosages, and the possible interactions herbs might have with traditional medicine prescriptions.
In addition to their effectiveness, researchers are looking to see if herbs possess some benefit over and above allopathic medicine. They also are looking to see if herbal "remedies" allow individuals to control their medicinal decisions and thus possess more control over their choices of treatment and remedy. The use of herbs, both in remedies and in dietary supplements, has raised many questions.
Are herbal remedies safe? Can an herbal remedy be abused to the point of addiction or ineffectiveness? Most importantly, do they interact with pharmaceutical medications, and if they do, is the interaction positive or negative?
The best example of why research is needed has to do with the efficacy and interaction resulting from the regular use of St. John's Wort. St. John's Wort is a mild herbal antidepressant which is well-tolerated by many patients. While effective, it has been proven to have an effect on some common medications.
For instance, St. John's Wort can induce the CYP3A family of activation enzymes through which approximately 50% of drugs are metabolized. This type of interaction can create a risk by reducing the half life of such drugs as Indinavir, Cyclosporin and Cyclophosphamide, thus causing these drugs to less effective Interactions such as this, however, are not all negative.
In some cases, herbal products might create a pathway that replicates pharmaceuticals, but do not possess any negative side effects. As an example, several natural anti-inflammatory compounds found in herbs like green tea, turmeric, rosemary, feverfew, and others do not possess the risk that some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are supposed to possess. Natural remedies might alleviate the reliance on these types of pharmaceuticals, and thus reduce the potential of causing several types of cancers.
Additional study into these facts and findings is needed. The Division of Basic Research is dedicated to examining both sides of the issue. More research might, in fact, prove to us that what the ancients have known all along.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Jon M. Stout
We have all heard of herbal remedies, passed on from generation to generation, lending healthful cures and preventative health maintenance from the ancient East to our American cowboy. Now through science, medicine is testing and researching the power of herbs and finding that there just might be something to the notion that herbs do more than look pretty, smell good, or make tasty spices and teas.
For as long as man has been getting sick, old, or even imbibed too much, we have been looking for a cure for our ills. Frequently, before formal medicine as we know it today, herbs played a major role in aiding our ills and soothing our pains. Herbs have played a prominent role in nearly every culture to prolong life, heal the sick, or even prevent sickness. During The Middle Ages, numerous herbs, including garlic, were used to ward off demons, vampires, and The Plague. Science can provide some evidence demonstrating the use of garlic to potentially ward off The Plague.
Recently, herbs have enjoyed resurgence in popularity. As most of us have become more health conscious, we have realized the drawbacks to relying solely on anti-biotic remedies to cure the flu, common colds, and most basic illnesses. We have started to look more seriously at older remedies that have been around for centuries for cures for everything from the common cold to arthritis. Modern science and medicine are now putting many of those supposed cures to the test, examining everything from wound healing poultices to depression remedies.
At the Division of Basic Research at the South Carolina Cancer Center in Columbia, South Carolina, this research has been taken to a new level. Not only are they examining whether herbal remedies might work, they are also looking at issues related to safety, dosages, and the possible interactions herbs might have with traditional medicine prescriptions.
In addition to their effectiveness, researchers are looking to see if herbs possess some benefit over and above allopathic medicine. They also are looking to see if herbal "remedies" allow individuals to control their medicinal decisions and thus possess more control over their choices of treatment and remedy. The use of herbs, both in remedies and in dietary supplements, has raised many questions.
Are herbal remedies safe? Can an herbal remedy be abused to the point of addiction or ineffectiveness? Most importantly, do they interact with pharmaceutical medications, and if they do, is the interaction positive or negative?
The best example of why research is needed has to do with the efficacy and interaction resulting from the regular use of St. John's Wort. St. John's Wort is a mild herbal antidepressant which is well-tolerated by many patients. While effective, it has been proven to have an effect on some common medications.
For instance, St. John's Wort can induce the CYP3A family of activation enzymes through which approximately 50% of drugs are metabolized. This type of interaction can create a risk by reducing the half life of such drugs as Indinavir, Cyclosporin and Cyclophosphamide, thus causing these drugs to less effective Interactions such as this, however, are not all negative.
In some cases, herbal products might create a pathway that replicates pharmaceuticals, but do not possess any negative side effects. As an example, several natural anti-inflammatory compounds found in herbs like green tea, turmeric, rosemary, feverfew, and others do not possess the risk that some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are supposed to possess. Natural remedies might alleviate the reliance on these types of pharmaceuticals, and thus reduce the potential of causing several types of cancers.
Additional study into these facts and findings is needed. The Division of Basic Research is dedicated to examining both sides of the issue. More research might, in fact, prove to us that what the ancients have known all along.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Can Green and Black Tea Fight Some Tumors?
Article Presented by:
Jon M. Stout
In a recent study by the Department of Dermatology at the Mount Sinai-NYU Medical Center in New York, NY, aqueous extracts of green and black teas were revealed to ward off experimentally induced animal tumors, particularly those caused by ultraviolet (UV) light-induced skin carcinogenesis. The study compared the impact of variable extractable fractions of green and black teas on scavenging hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and UV irradiation-induced formation of 8-hydroxy 2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in vitro.
These samples were extracted via serial chloroform, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol. The extracts were then divided into four subfractions. Upon their division, they were designated as GT1-4 for green tea and BT1-4 for black tea. The team then monitored their affect on various controlled tumor growths.
The study's results showed that both green and black tea exhibited a very strong scavenging capacity of exogenous H2O2 in a dose-dependent manner. Black tea appeared to scavenge H202 in a more effective manner than green tea. Specifically, when tested individually, the results for green tea's potency as a scavenging agent for H202 were as follows: GT2 > GT3 > GT1 > GT4. The order for the potency as a scavenging agent for black tea was: BT2 > BT3 > BT4 > BT1.
The study also showed that the total fractions of green and black teas possessed the ability to dramatically inhibit the induction of 8-OHdG in a calf's thymus by all three portions of UV spectrum (UVA, B, and C). Like the results found in the study of the scavenging ability of green and black tea in regards to H202, the subfractions from black tea showed a greater ability to thwart UV-induced 8-OHdG than those from green tea. The final results of both the green and black teas' effectiveness were remarkably similar.
At lower concentrations, the order of potency most effective at thwarting 8-OHdG by green tea was GT2 > GT3 > GT4 > GT1. Black tea seemed to thwart 8OHdG at all levels, and the order of potency was BT2 > BT3 > BT4 > BT1. The effectiveness of all subfractions evened out when the dosage amounts were raised to the levels of what would be considered a high concentration.
When Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), an ingredient found in green tea extract, was added to low concentrations of green and black tea extracts, the scavenging of H202 and the quenching of 8-OHdG was increased dramatically. This provided compelling evidence that the role of EGCG in both thwarting 8-OHdG and scavenging H202 is significant in both green and black teas. These findings also indicated that if EGCG is extracted and used as a bolstering agent to green and black tea, this might hold scientific and medical significance in the future. Further study is definitely warranted.
Overall, the results of this test were powerful indicators of the role teas might play in being able to scavenge oxygen species and blocking UV-induced oxidative DNA damage. These results could play a major role, or at the very least, be used as a weapon against future exposure. More study is needed, but the results were both compelling and promising.
Additionally, the EGCG addition and the subsequent results provide a very good indicator of its role in the antioxidant activities of tea extracts. The ability to scavenge oxygen species and block UV-induced oxidative DNA damage is a likely explanation, at least in demonstrating how green and black teas inhibit photocarcinogenesis.
These results possess great promise both in terms of regular use of teas as a scavenging agent and inhibitor. The study also suggests the benefits of using both in higher concentrated dosages. Their impact as a regular mechanism for avoiding exposure or warding off contamination has yet to be determined.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Jon M. Stout
In a recent study by the Department of Dermatology at the Mount Sinai-NYU Medical Center in New York, NY, aqueous extracts of green and black teas were revealed to ward off experimentally induced animal tumors, particularly those caused by ultraviolet (UV) light-induced skin carcinogenesis. The study compared the impact of variable extractable fractions of green and black teas on scavenging hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and UV irradiation-induced formation of 8-hydroxy 2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in vitro.
These samples were extracted via serial chloroform, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol. The extracts were then divided into four subfractions. Upon their division, they were designated as GT1-4 for green tea and BT1-4 for black tea. The team then monitored their affect on various controlled tumor growths.
The study's results showed that both green and black tea exhibited a very strong scavenging capacity of exogenous H2O2 in a dose-dependent manner. Black tea appeared to scavenge H202 in a more effective manner than green tea. Specifically, when tested individually, the results for green tea's potency as a scavenging agent for H202 were as follows: GT2 > GT3 > GT1 > GT4. The order for the potency as a scavenging agent for black tea was: BT2 > BT3 > BT4 > BT1.
The study also showed that the total fractions of green and black teas possessed the ability to dramatically inhibit the induction of 8-OHdG in a calf's thymus by all three portions of UV spectrum (UVA, B, and C). Like the results found in the study of the scavenging ability of green and black tea in regards to H202, the subfractions from black tea showed a greater ability to thwart UV-induced 8-OHdG than those from green tea. The final results of both the green and black teas' effectiveness were remarkably similar.
At lower concentrations, the order of potency most effective at thwarting 8-OHdG by green tea was GT2 > GT3 > GT4 > GT1. Black tea seemed to thwart 8OHdG at all levels, and the order of potency was BT2 > BT3 > BT4 > BT1. The effectiveness of all subfractions evened out when the dosage amounts were raised to the levels of what would be considered a high concentration.
When Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), an ingredient found in green tea extract, was added to low concentrations of green and black tea extracts, the scavenging of H202 and the quenching of 8-OHdG was increased dramatically. This provided compelling evidence that the role of EGCG in both thwarting 8-OHdG and scavenging H202 is significant in both green and black teas. These findings also indicated that if EGCG is extracted and used as a bolstering agent to green and black tea, this might hold scientific and medical significance in the future. Further study is definitely warranted.
Overall, the results of this test were powerful indicators of the role teas might play in being able to scavenge oxygen species and blocking UV-induced oxidative DNA damage. These results could play a major role, or at the very least, be used as a weapon against future exposure. More study is needed, but the results were both compelling and promising.
Additionally, the EGCG addition and the subsequent results provide a very good indicator of its role in the antioxidant activities of tea extracts. The ability to scavenge oxygen species and block UV-induced oxidative DNA damage is a likely explanation, at least in demonstrating how green and black teas inhibit photocarcinogenesis.
These results possess great promise both in terms of regular use of teas as a scavenging agent and inhibitor. The study also suggests the benefits of using both in higher concentrated dosages. Their impact as a regular mechanism for avoiding exposure or warding off contamination has yet to be determined.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Chinese Teas May Help Lower Your Cholesterol Levels
Article Presented by:
Jon M. Stout
For thousands of years the Chinese have claimed many health benefits can be gained from drinking teas. In fact, many international, Canadian and U.S. based tea drinkers agree that Chinese teas should be the beverage of choice. In fact, during a recent survey conducted by the Canadian Tea Council, over 40% of Canadians agreed that they drank tea for its "health benefits" and others stated that it "tasted great, had no calories or fat and can help you take better care of yourself."
Only in recent years has the medical community jumped on the Chinese tea bandwagon. Now, researchers are conducting numerous studies on the viability of Chinese tea extracts in the treatment and prevention of many diseases and conditions. The most common types of Chinese teas are:
Green tea Red tea White tea Black tea Oolong tea Pu-erh tea Flower tea Yellow tea Pressed tea Iron Buddha Kudin tea
However, of these eleven types, scientists seem most concerned with learning about green, red, white, and black tea. Here's a little background about these teas:
Each of them come from the same plant Camellia sinensis but are merely picked at different stages of development and fermented or oxidized for different periods of time. The differences in oxidation and development allow for more or less of a certain kind of antioxidants in them often called catechins. Antioxidants have been shown to help protect the body from all kinds of damage.
Lucky for us, some of the claimed benefits look like they really exist. For instance, Chinese teas may help lower and maintain your cholesterol levels. A recent study looked at the possibility that the antioxidants in Chinese teas, specifically called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) could affect diet induced Hypercholesterolemia in rats.
Hypercholesterolemia is high levels of LDL or 'bad' cholesterol in the blood. This in of itself isn't a disease but it can cause heart diseases, such as Atherosclerosis or 'hardening of the arteries.'
In the study, laboratory rats were divided into four groups. These groups were all given a diet high in cholesterol and fat along with no EGCG, 0.2 grams EGCG, 0.4 grams EGCG and 0.7 grams EGCG per group on a daily basis. The rats were given the same diet for four weeks. After this time it was found that the levels of bad cholesterol in the rats given 0.7 grams EGCG was significantly reduced compared to the levels of bad cholesterol in the control group of rats given no EGCG at all.
In addition, the rats were given a sample liquid meal high in cholesterol and it was observed that cholesterol absorption in the intestines in the group of rats given the most EGCG was significantly reduced (62.7%) compared to the control group with no EGCG (79.3%). In essence, the study demonstrated that the cholesterol in the food the EGCG rats were given wasn't being absorbed into their bodies as readily it normally would be, thus preventing it from getting into the bloodstream.
Researchers speculated that the EGCG interfered with the solubility of the cholesterol in the digestive tract so that it couldn't be absorbed.
Another study of laboratory rats had similar results. This study used the extracts from Green tea, Jasmine, Iron Buddha, Oolong and Pu-erh teas in examining their effects on hypercholesterolemia in rats. Jasmine tea is made from a mixture of Jasmine flowers and Oolong or black tea leaves. Oolong tea is fermented or oxidized to a level between green tea and black tea in taste.
Pu-erh is a tea made from tea leaves that are fermented and then aged for as many as 50 years. Iron Buddha tea is an Oolong tea noted for a particularly fine flavor.
This group of rats was given a high cholesterol diet for one week before receiving the different tea extracts in their respective groups along with a continued high cholesterol diet for eight weeks. All the teas were found to lower the atherogenic index and increase the total 'good' vs. 'bad' cholesterol ratio in the rats.
The green tea and the Jasmine tea extracts contained higher levels of EGCG than the other extracts and it was found that they had significantly lowered the cholesterol levels in the rats compared to the other tea extracts. The teas also worked to reduce the average increase in liver size of the rats due to lipid disposition while they were on their high cholesterol diets.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Jon M. Stout
For thousands of years the Chinese have claimed many health benefits can be gained from drinking teas. In fact, many international, Canadian and U.S. based tea drinkers agree that Chinese teas should be the beverage of choice. In fact, during a recent survey conducted by the Canadian Tea Council, over 40% of Canadians agreed that they drank tea for its "health benefits" and others stated that it "tasted great, had no calories or fat and can help you take better care of yourself."
Only in recent years has the medical community jumped on the Chinese tea bandwagon. Now, researchers are conducting numerous studies on the viability of Chinese tea extracts in the treatment and prevention of many diseases and conditions. The most common types of Chinese teas are:
However, of these eleven types, scientists seem most concerned with learning about green, red, white, and black tea. Here's a little background about these teas:
Each of them come from the same plant Camellia sinensis but are merely picked at different stages of development and fermented or oxidized for different periods of time. The differences in oxidation and development allow for more or less of a certain kind of antioxidants in them often called catechins. Antioxidants have been shown to help protect the body from all kinds of damage.
Lucky for us, some of the claimed benefits look like they really exist. For instance, Chinese teas may help lower and maintain your cholesterol levels. A recent study looked at the possibility that the antioxidants in Chinese teas, specifically called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) could affect diet induced Hypercholesterolemia in rats.
Hypercholesterolemia is high levels of LDL or 'bad' cholesterol in the blood. This in of itself isn't a disease but it can cause heart diseases, such as Atherosclerosis or 'hardening of the arteries.'
In the study, laboratory rats were divided into four groups. These groups were all given a diet high in cholesterol and fat along with no EGCG, 0.2 grams EGCG, 0.4 grams EGCG and 0.7 grams EGCG per group on a daily basis. The rats were given the same diet for four weeks. After this time it was found that the levels of bad cholesterol in the rats given 0.7 grams EGCG was significantly reduced compared to the levels of bad cholesterol in the control group of rats given no EGCG at all.
In addition, the rats were given a sample liquid meal high in cholesterol and it was observed that cholesterol absorption in the intestines in the group of rats given the most EGCG was significantly reduced (62.7%) compared to the control group with no EGCG (79.3%). In essence, the study demonstrated that the cholesterol in the food the EGCG rats were given wasn't being absorbed into their bodies as readily it normally would be, thus preventing it from getting into the bloodstream.
Researchers speculated that the EGCG interfered with the solubility of the cholesterol in the digestive tract so that it couldn't be absorbed.
Another study of laboratory rats had similar results. This study used the extracts from Green tea, Jasmine, Iron Buddha, Oolong and Pu-erh teas in examining their effects on hypercholesterolemia in rats. Jasmine tea is made from a mixture of Jasmine flowers and Oolong or black tea leaves. Oolong tea is fermented or oxidized to a level between green tea and black tea in taste.
Pu-erh is a tea made from tea leaves that are fermented and then aged for as many as 50 years. Iron Buddha tea is an Oolong tea noted for a particularly fine flavor.
This group of rats was given a high cholesterol diet for one week before receiving the different tea extracts in their respective groups along with a continued high cholesterol diet for eight weeks. All the teas were found to lower the atherogenic index and increase the total 'good' vs. 'bad' cholesterol ratio in the rats.
The green tea and the Jasmine tea extracts contained higher levels of EGCG than the other extracts and it was found that they had significantly lowered the cholesterol levels in the rats compared to the other tea extracts. The teas also worked to reduce the average increase in liver size of the rats due to lipid disposition while they were on their high cholesterol diets.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Add Natural Lighting To Your Home
Article Presented by:
Emerson Lockwood
The addition of simple natural light to a remodeling project can have a huge impact on your level of satisfaction. A well designed home that maximizes the use of natural lighting without compromising energy efficiency brings extra sunshine into your life.
Don't hesitate to flood a room with light, particularly on the north side. The north side is where constant light can fill the entire space very evenly all day. Try using larger windows where you can. The larger glass area adds light to the space, but you will want to use energy-efficient windows. Not using energy efficient windows could result in cold drafts in the winter, thermal heat gain in the summer, and higher energy bills all year round. Consider putting windows in unusual places, such as bathrooms and even shower spaces. This will bring in a ton of daylight and change the entire look of the area.
Don't discount using windows on a southwestern exposure, even in warm climates. Look for new glazing and low-emissive glass coatings that make windows more efficient and better suited to the specific exposure and application. Minimize east- and west-facing wall areas. These elevations feel summer sun most intensely. Maximize south-facing glazing as this will help minimize winter heating bills.
The right-sized overhang placed above south-facing windows can help minimize heat gain during the summer, when the sun is high in the southern sky, yet still emits warming rays during winter months. Provide for shade at south- and west-facing windows with an appropriate roof truss design, architectural features, landscaping plan, and decorating plan.
In warm climates, sunlight can overheat the home through windows on the south and west facing sides of homes. Roof overhangs can provide shade for these windows as well as improve the home's long-term ability to withstand rain. They will also allow you to open windows on a rainy day. Specify 24" eave and 12" rake overhangs when possible. Where overhangs will not throw shade, like first floor windows in 2-story homes, architectural features like lanais or awnings can offset potential heat gain that windows on southern and western facades might be subject to during the cooling season.
Try entrance doors with transoms and sidelights. Where space is limited, a single sidelight may work instead of two flanking an entry. Think about etched and translucent patterns for the sidelight glass if privacy or security is a concern. French doors with transoms above doors and windows can be added if the ceilings are at least eight feet high. If lower ceilings prohibit the use of transoms a wider window or bank of windows can be used.
Investigate using windows and skylights even where you might have been concerned about heat gain or loss in the past. New products, including high-performance windows, integral electronic blinds, and automatic timed closing devices can minimize such concerns.
Today's skylights units are sleek, leak proof, and easier to install with special integral flashing kits. Consider sun tubes or tunnels for areas in the middle of a structure, such as a hallway. Sun tubes are good alternatives in areas where there's not enough space for a skylight.
Tubular Skylights
Where windows are not practical due to elevation or a room's layout, tubular skylights can provide natural light while minimizing the size of the roof penetration. Tubular skylights have a roof-mounted light collector that reflects light through a metal or plastic tube with a highly reflective interior coating. The reflective tube guides the sunlight to a diffuser lens mounted on the interior ceiling surface that spreads light evenly throughout the room. They are frequently used in windowless bathrooms and closets where natural light is desirable and skylights aren't possible because of attic space above the ceiling.
They can also be used in other dark spots throughout the house, such as hallways and stairwells. In single-story homes they can even direct natural light to basements. Try new options in moveable, retractable opening curtain walls for residential applications. The following are a few of the common-sense tactics that can be considered when designing high-efficiency custom homes:
Maximize The Use Of Operable Windows
Aim for operable-window space equal to 6 to 7 percent of floor space. (Only the operable portion of a double-hung window counts toward this percentage, while all of a casement window's space counts toward the total.)
Use Thoughtful Window Placement
Place windows diagonally across from each other, rather than directly opposite, to encourage ventilation through, rather than across, a space. Incorporate whole-house/attic fans. Today's units are more powerful and efficient than models you might remember from your grandmother's home. In the evening, with windows and attic doors open, these fans can help flush out daytime heat quickly.
Locate Windows With Daylight In Mind
Good lighting begins with the effective use of sunlight. Consider the size, location, and primary function of the windows. Will the window frame a view, capture prevailing breezes, allow adequate light or provide architectural balance?
There is a tradeoff between the benefits of windows, such as daylight and good views, and the major drawback is reduced insulation value. Because even new windows have a much lower insulation value than walls, they should not exceed 15% of the wall area, unless the home is specifically designed to take advantage of passive solar heating. With proper window placement, there should be more than enough daylight in the home with 15% or less window-to-wall area.
Low-emittance (low-E) windows help keep heat inside in winter and outside in summer and - as a side benefit - protect furnishings from fading. They have a thin film applied to the glass that improves the performance of the window. These can cut out up to 95% of ultra violet rays in a home.
The two most important indicators of a window's performance are the U-factor and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The U-factor measures how well the window insulates. The lower the U-factor the better the insulation value. The SHGC measures how well the window blocks heat from the sun. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat the window lets in. Each climate has optimum values for both the U-factor and SHGC. Remember, the better the window, the more comfortable - and more energy efficient - the home.
Window treatments, such as window films, can also be added to windows to keep heat from the sun from entering the home, although they have the disadvantage of darkening the home throughout the day. Shades and blinds can be closed during peak solar hours to prevent overheating.
Now that you know more about natural lighting and the impact it can have on energy costs it is time for you to get to work!
About the Author:
Emerson Lockwood writes on topics related to Home Technology, Home Improvement and Home Financing. You can see more of his work at his website: http://www.SuperHomeIdeas.com . Super Home Ideas covers everything to do with your home. Read more of his DIY Home Improvement Articles at his website.
Emerson Lockwood
The addition of simple natural light to a remodeling project can have a huge impact on your level of satisfaction. A well designed home that maximizes the use of natural lighting without compromising energy efficiency brings extra sunshine into your life.
Don't hesitate to flood a room with light, particularly on the north side. The north side is where constant light can fill the entire space very evenly all day. Try using larger windows where you can. The larger glass area adds light to the space, but you will want to use energy-efficient windows. Not using energy efficient windows could result in cold drafts in the winter, thermal heat gain in the summer, and higher energy bills all year round. Consider putting windows in unusual places, such as bathrooms and even shower spaces. This will bring in a ton of daylight and change the entire look of the area.
Don't discount using windows on a southwestern exposure, even in warm climates. Look for new glazing and low-emissive glass coatings that make windows more efficient and better suited to the specific exposure and application. Minimize east- and west-facing wall areas. These elevations feel summer sun most intensely. Maximize south-facing glazing as this will help minimize winter heating bills.
The right-sized overhang placed above south-facing windows can help minimize heat gain during the summer, when the sun is high in the southern sky, yet still emits warming rays during winter months. Provide for shade at south- and west-facing windows with an appropriate roof truss design, architectural features, landscaping plan, and decorating plan.
In warm climates, sunlight can overheat the home through windows on the south and west facing sides of homes. Roof overhangs can provide shade for these windows as well as improve the home's long-term ability to withstand rain. They will also allow you to open windows on a rainy day. Specify 24" eave and 12" rake overhangs when possible. Where overhangs will not throw shade, like first floor windows in 2-story homes, architectural features like lanais or awnings can offset potential heat gain that windows on southern and western facades might be subject to during the cooling season.
Try entrance doors with transoms and sidelights. Where space is limited, a single sidelight may work instead of two flanking an entry. Think about etched and translucent patterns for the sidelight glass if privacy or security is a concern. French doors with transoms above doors and windows can be added if the ceilings are at least eight feet high. If lower ceilings prohibit the use of transoms a wider window or bank of windows can be used.
Investigate using windows and skylights even where you might have been concerned about heat gain or loss in the past. New products, including high-performance windows, integral electronic blinds, and automatic timed closing devices can minimize such concerns.
Today's skylights units are sleek, leak proof, and easier to install with special integral flashing kits. Consider sun tubes or tunnels for areas in the middle of a structure, such as a hallway. Sun tubes are good alternatives in areas where there's not enough space for a skylight.
Tubular Skylights
Where windows are not practical due to elevation or a room's layout, tubular skylights can provide natural light while minimizing the size of the roof penetration. Tubular skylights have a roof-mounted light collector that reflects light through a metal or plastic tube with a highly reflective interior coating. The reflective tube guides the sunlight to a diffuser lens mounted on the interior ceiling surface that spreads light evenly throughout the room. They are frequently used in windowless bathrooms and closets where natural light is desirable and skylights aren't possible because of attic space above the ceiling.
They can also be used in other dark spots throughout the house, such as hallways and stairwells. In single-story homes they can even direct natural light to basements. Try new options in moveable, retractable opening curtain walls for residential applications. The following are a few of the common-sense tactics that can be considered when designing high-efficiency custom homes:
Maximize The Use Of Operable Windows
Aim for operable-window space equal to 6 to 7 percent of floor space. (Only the operable portion of a double-hung window counts toward this percentage, while all of a casement window's space counts toward the total.)
Use Thoughtful Window Placement
Place windows diagonally across from each other, rather than directly opposite, to encourage ventilation through, rather than across, a space. Incorporate whole-house/attic fans. Today's units are more powerful and efficient than models you might remember from your grandmother's home. In the evening, with windows and attic doors open, these fans can help flush out daytime heat quickly.
Locate Windows With Daylight In Mind
Good lighting begins with the effective use of sunlight. Consider the size, location, and primary function of the windows. Will the window frame a view, capture prevailing breezes, allow adequate light or provide architectural balance?
There is a tradeoff between the benefits of windows, such as daylight and good views, and the major drawback is reduced insulation value. Because even new windows have a much lower insulation value than walls, they should not exceed 15% of the wall area, unless the home is specifically designed to take advantage of passive solar heating. With proper window placement, there should be more than enough daylight in the home with 15% or less window-to-wall area.
Low-emittance (low-E) windows help keep heat inside in winter and outside in summer and - as a side benefit - protect furnishings from fading. They have a thin film applied to the glass that improves the performance of the window. These can cut out up to 95% of ultra violet rays in a home.
The two most important indicators of a window's performance are the U-factor and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The U-factor measures how well the window insulates. The lower the U-factor the better the insulation value. The SHGC measures how well the window blocks heat from the sun. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat the window lets in. Each climate has optimum values for both the U-factor and SHGC. Remember, the better the window, the more comfortable - and more energy efficient - the home.
Window treatments, such as window films, can also be added to windows to keep heat from the sun from entering the home, although they have the disadvantage of darkening the home throughout the day. Shades and blinds can be closed during peak solar hours to prevent overheating.
Now that you know more about natural lighting and the impact it can have on energy costs it is time for you to get to work!
About the Author:
Emerson Lockwood writes on topics related to Home Technology, Home Improvement and Home Financing. You can see more of his work at his website: http://www.SuperHomeIdeas.com . Super Home Ideas covers everything to do with your home. Read more of his DIY Home Improvement Articles at his website.
Drinking Green Tea May Help to Reduce the Risk of Developing Gastrointestinal Cancer
Article Presented by:
Jon M. Stout
Green tea has been found to contain high levels of antioxidants which are considered very beneficial in the fight against cancer. Antioxidants are compounds that can oxidize very easily, or in other words sacrifice one of their molecules to carcinogens, which are compounds looking to steal molecules from normal, healthy cells. Carcinogens, or free radicals, in the body are considered cancer causing agents because they damage the body's cells by stealing molecules. This can cause the cells to grow out of control, thus developing into cancer cells.
Green tea is thought to be extremely beneficial because the tea leaves are fresh and unfermented, thus preserving the antioxidants, called catechins, present in the leaves. The tea leaves come from the plant Camellia sinensis, which is the same plant that black tea comes from. The difference lies in how the leaves are treated. The black tea leaves undergo the oxidation process, which oxidizes much of the specific antioxidants that are present in the green tea leaves. Of course, black teas have been found to contain many beneficial and unique antioxidants of their own, but do not contain the same amount of antioxidants as green tea.
These catechins found in green tea are considered better and stronger antioxidants than those found in black tea because they are water soluble and oxidize very easily, giving them a better chance of neutralizing free radicals before they have that chance to damage the body's cells.
There are currently 30 epidemiological studies of green tea's use in the prevention of cancer. However, there are very few studies on the treatment of preexisting cancers with green tea. A majority of the studies on green tea deal with whether the antioxidants present in the tea leaves help prevent gastrointestinal cancers.
One particular study on laboratory rats showed that 93.8% of a group of rats fed the extracted catechins from green tea survived after exposure to a strong mammary carcinogen (DMBA). This is compared to only 33.3% of the control group of rats not fed the protective catechins.
In another study was conducted on 1004 Chinese men: 190 of who had gastric cancer, 42 of whom had esophageal cancer, and 772 of whom were cancer free.
These men were studied over the course of 4 to 12 years. Those participants who were known to drink green tea on a regular basis showed a 50% lower risk of developing gastric and esophageal cancers. This is a significant difference. It basically means that 50% fewer participants in the tea drinker's group developed cancer than of those in the group found not to drink tea on a regular basis.
There are a total of about eight studies that show drinking green tea on a regular basis can reduce the risk of stomach cancer. It's possible that green tea is also more effective in the prevention of esophageal and stomach cancers because it moves through the intestinal tract and is in direct, prolonged contact with those tissues.
Many researchers are saying that it is still too early to state conclusively that green tea can help to protect its drinkers from developing gastrointestinal cancers or even help fight the cancer that has all ready developed. However, the current clinical studies look promising. Many tea drinkers claim the possible benefits of drinking green tea outweigh any small inconveniences.
Green tea has been used for hundreds of thousands of years in China and Japan. In fact, the numbers indicating the risks of developing gastrointestinal cancers in those two countries are among the lowest in the world
Not all green teas are the same. There is a wide variance among green teas concerning freshness, consistency, and concentration of the antioxidants in the teas. Information about the concentration of the antioxidants can sometimes be found on the packaging. It is best to find your preferred brand of green tea and stick to it, drinking the tea habitually.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Jon M. Stout
Green tea has been found to contain high levels of antioxidants which are considered very beneficial in the fight against cancer. Antioxidants are compounds that can oxidize very easily, or in other words sacrifice one of their molecules to carcinogens, which are compounds looking to steal molecules from normal, healthy cells. Carcinogens, or free radicals, in the body are considered cancer causing agents because they damage the body's cells by stealing molecules. This can cause the cells to grow out of control, thus developing into cancer cells.
Green tea is thought to be extremely beneficial because the tea leaves are fresh and unfermented, thus preserving the antioxidants, called catechins, present in the leaves. The tea leaves come from the plant Camellia sinensis, which is the same plant that black tea comes from. The difference lies in how the leaves are treated. The black tea leaves undergo the oxidation process, which oxidizes much of the specific antioxidants that are present in the green tea leaves. Of course, black teas have been found to contain many beneficial and unique antioxidants of their own, but do not contain the same amount of antioxidants as green tea.
These catechins found in green tea are considered better and stronger antioxidants than those found in black tea because they are water soluble and oxidize very easily, giving them a better chance of neutralizing free radicals before they have that chance to damage the body's cells.
There are currently 30 epidemiological studies of green tea's use in the prevention of cancer. However, there are very few studies on the treatment of preexisting cancers with green tea. A majority of the studies on green tea deal with whether the antioxidants present in the tea leaves help prevent gastrointestinal cancers.
One particular study on laboratory rats showed that 93.8% of a group of rats fed the extracted catechins from green tea survived after exposure to a strong mammary carcinogen (DMBA). This is compared to only 33.3% of the control group of rats not fed the protective catechins.
In another study was conducted on 1004 Chinese men: 190 of who had gastric cancer, 42 of whom had esophageal cancer, and 772 of whom were cancer free.
These men were studied over the course of 4 to 12 years. Those participants who were known to drink green tea on a regular basis showed a 50% lower risk of developing gastric and esophageal cancers. This is a significant difference. It basically means that 50% fewer participants in the tea drinker's group developed cancer than of those in the group found not to drink tea on a regular basis.
There are a total of about eight studies that show drinking green tea on a regular basis can reduce the risk of stomach cancer. It's possible that green tea is also more effective in the prevention of esophageal and stomach cancers because it moves through the intestinal tract and is in direct, prolonged contact with those tissues.
Many researchers are saying that it is still too early to state conclusively that green tea can help to protect its drinkers from developing gastrointestinal cancers or even help fight the cancer that has all ready developed. However, the current clinical studies look promising. Many tea drinkers claim the possible benefits of drinking green tea outweigh any small inconveniences.
Green tea has been used for hundreds of thousands of years in China and Japan. In fact, the numbers indicating the risks of developing gastrointestinal cancers in those two countries are among the lowest in the world
Not all green teas are the same. There is a wide variance among green teas concerning freshness, consistency, and concentration of the antioxidants in the teas. Information about the concentration of the antioxidants can sometimes be found on the packaging. It is best to find your preferred brand of green tea and stick to it, drinking the tea habitually.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Consumption of Green or Black Tea May Positively Effect Cardiovascular Disease
Article Presented by:
Jon M. Stout
Over the years, researchers have stipulated that green or black tea consumption reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. This is very important because people from all walks of life inevitably suffer from some form of this potentially deadly disease.
According to the , in 2003, there were 71,300,000 individuals that have this disease and it claimed 910, 614 lives that year alone. This disease does not just affect people in the United States. It also affects international residents. In the U.K alone, cardiovascular disease was responsible for over 23,000 deaths in 2004. In other words, every one (regardless of where they live) is at risk for this potentially deadly disease.
With this in mind, researchers have been working diligently to combat this illness. Numerous epidemiologic studies have indicated that consumption of green or black tea reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, many are left wondering "How?".
Scientists have made many assumptions about how these eas positively affects cardiovascular disease and research is still pending. One hypothesis states that drinking green or black tea affects lipoproteins. However, researchers have found that drinking green or black tea does not increase the resistance of low-density lipoprotein to oxidation in humans or the serum lipid concentrations in humans either.
Researchers determined this during a four week long parallel study comprising of 45 volunteers. The study involved the subjects drinking 900 ml (6 cups) of mineral water, black tea, or green tea daily. Blood samples were dutifully collected from the fasting subjects, both before and after the study. An in vitro experiment was carried out to record the effect of adding tea extract to plasma and the consequence on the resistance of isolated LDL to oxidation.
Data was carefully evaluated utilizing various research methodologies and researchers concluded that the said 900 ml (6 cups) of the beverage did not have any substantial effect on either serum lipid concentrations or resistance of LDL to oxidation. However, It was determined that the large intake of green tea did increase the total antioxidant activity of the plasma slightly.
Nevertheless, the arresting effect of tea flavonoids on cardiovascular disease is an open proposition and researchers are still evaluating other probable mechanisms. For instance, many researchers stipulate that green or black tea may have a positive effect on the panacea and on cardiovascular disease.
Before we discuss this hypothesis further, let's take a moment to discuss how cardiovascular disease is triggered. In some cases, cardiovascular disease runs in families, and in other cases it doesn't. Many of its victims experience such triggers like high cholesterol, raised blood pressure, and obesity. In addition, stress is thought to contribute to this disease.
As such, physicians currently prescribe a preventive diet of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and Omega 3 fatty acids in order to keep this disease at bay. In addition, physicians also recommend that patients engage in regular exercise, reduce stress and anxiety levels, and quit smoking to help prevent and keep CVD in check. In addition, drinking black or green tea is also an important addition on the list. However, it is still unclear the extent to which tea helps control CVD, but researchers are not giving up.
Animal and in vitro studies have suggested numerous and probable cardiovascular protective mechanisms of tea which include prohibition of oxidized LDL cholesterol, the disintegration of the inflammatory process in atherosclerosis, reducing thrombosis, promotion of normal endothelial function, reduction of total plasma, and LDL cholesterol and adhesion molecules blocking mechanisms.
In addition, the effect of tea consumption on platelet aggression shows mixed results. A study by Duffy, et al. noted an improved endothelial function post consumption of black tea. In addition, researchers believe that green or black tea also positively effect endothelial function and have found that polyphenolic compounds in tea other than catechins are responsible for improved endothelial function in humans.
Blood pressure is another area where the cardio-protective properties of tea are believed to have a positive influence. However, studies have shown that a positive effect is seen among subjects who had been drinking tea for at least a year, if not more. Short-term tea drinking has not made much of a difference.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Jon M. Stout
Over the years, researchers have stipulated that green or black tea consumption reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. This is very important because people from all walks of life inevitably suffer from some form of this potentially deadly disease.
According to the , in 2003, there were 71,300,000 individuals that have this disease and it claimed 910, 614 lives that year alone. This disease does not just affect people in the United States. It also affects international residents. In the U.K alone, cardiovascular disease was responsible for over 23,000 deaths in 2004. In other words, every one (regardless of where they live) is at risk for this potentially deadly disease.
With this in mind, researchers have been working diligently to combat this illness. Numerous epidemiologic studies have indicated that consumption of green or black tea reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, many are left wondering "How?".
Scientists have made many assumptions about how these eas positively affects cardiovascular disease and research is still pending. One hypothesis states that drinking green or black tea affects lipoproteins. However, researchers have found that drinking green or black tea does not increase the resistance of low-density lipoprotein to oxidation in humans or the serum lipid concentrations in humans either.
Researchers determined this during a four week long parallel study comprising of 45 volunteers. The study involved the subjects drinking 900 ml (6 cups) of mineral water, black tea, or green tea daily. Blood samples were dutifully collected from the fasting subjects, both before and after the study. An in vitro experiment was carried out to record the effect of adding tea extract to plasma and the consequence on the resistance of isolated LDL to oxidation.
Data was carefully evaluated utilizing various research methodologies and researchers concluded that the said 900 ml (6 cups) of the beverage did not have any substantial effect on either serum lipid concentrations or resistance of LDL to oxidation. However, It was determined that the large intake of green tea did increase the total antioxidant activity of the plasma slightly.
Nevertheless, the arresting effect of tea flavonoids on cardiovascular disease is an open proposition and researchers are still evaluating other probable mechanisms. For instance, many researchers stipulate that green or black tea may have a positive effect on the panacea and on cardiovascular disease.
Before we discuss this hypothesis further, let's take a moment to discuss how cardiovascular disease is triggered. In some cases, cardiovascular disease runs in families, and in other cases it doesn't. Many of its victims experience such triggers like high cholesterol, raised blood pressure, and obesity. In addition, stress is thought to contribute to this disease.
As such, physicians currently prescribe a preventive diet of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and Omega 3 fatty acids in order to keep this disease at bay. In addition, physicians also recommend that patients engage in regular exercise, reduce stress and anxiety levels, and quit smoking to help prevent and keep CVD in check. In addition, drinking black or green tea is also an important addition on the list. However, it is still unclear the extent to which tea helps control CVD, but researchers are not giving up.
Animal and in vitro studies have suggested numerous and probable cardiovascular protective mechanisms of tea which include prohibition of oxidized LDL cholesterol, the disintegration of the inflammatory process in atherosclerosis, reducing thrombosis, promotion of normal endothelial function, reduction of total plasma, and LDL cholesterol and adhesion molecules blocking mechanisms.
In addition, the effect of tea consumption on platelet aggression shows mixed results. A study by Duffy, et al. noted an improved endothelial function post consumption of black tea. In addition, researchers believe that green or black tea also positively effect endothelial function and have found that polyphenolic compounds in tea other than catechins are responsible for improved endothelial function in humans.
Blood pressure is another area where the cardio-protective properties of tea are believed to have a positive influence. However, studies have shown that a positive effect is seen among subjects who had been drinking tea for at least a year, if not more. Short-term tea drinking has not made much of a difference.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Lifestyle Choices May be a Predictor or Bladder Cancer
Article Presented by:
Jon M. Stout
The thought itself is astounding: a way possibly exists to predict if a person could possibly contract bladder cancer in the future. In recent studies, debate is emerging in regards to one theory that lifestyle choices and the impact of living life a certain way may be related to bladder cancer. A recent study by the Department of Preventive Medicine of Nagoya University School of Medicine indicates that there might, in fact, be a strong and credible link between lifestyle and bladder cancer.
The department studied 258 bladder cancer patients in order to determine if lifestyle choices played a role in allowing medical professionals to prognosticate the possibility that patients might be susceptible to bladder cancer. This was a follow-up study of patients who had suffered from bladder cancer in metropolitan Nagoya, Japan and were recruited for study. Their personal survival information was derived from a database that was maintained by the Nagoya Bladder Cancer Research Group.
After reviewing the tests and their results, researchers were able to pinpoint several key factors that impact the occurrence and reoccurrence of this type of cancer. Univariate analysis showed that there was a significant relationship between 5 year survivorship and the level of education a person possessed, their marital status, drinking habits, and the degree of green tea consumption in males. Additional factors were the age at which the cancer was diagnosed, the histological type and grade of the any tumors, the degree of metastasis, and the state of metastasis in both sexes.
The results were adjusted for age, stage, histology (histological type and grade), and distant metastasis by means of a proportional hazards model.The consumption of alcoholic beverages was also significantly associated with the prognoses of bladder cancer in males. The ratio of adjusted hazard was 0.46 with a 95% confidence interval of 0.26 * 0.79 among males that consumed alcoholic beverages.
Detailed analysis revealed that former drinkers and every level of current drinkers exhibited hazard ratios smaller than unity, although no correlation between dosage amounts was detectable. Other factors, such as smoking habits, uses of artificial sweeteners and hair dye, and consumption of coffee, black tea, matcha (powdered green tea), and cola were detected, leading one to believe that it is reasonable to conclude that drinking any type of beverage, not just alcohol, plays a significant role in the development or reoccurrence of bladder cancer.
The significance of this is vague in terms of prognosis, although that ratio seems to indicate that at least among those who participated in the study and were bladder cancer survivors, drinking alcohol is not a very good idea. Additionally, the study showed that the higher risk factor in regards to bladder cancer and males can be correlated directly to drinking in terms of reoccurrence propensity. If you are male and have had bladder cancer, along with dietary changes and other lifestyle choices, avoiding alcoholic beverages might increase the possibility of avoiding the sickness in the future.
This, however, is not, and should not be considered conclusive, but merely the very compelling result of one specific study. Also, the indication that other factors, such as smoking, did not seem to increase the risk of reoccurrence, should not be construed as rock solid justification for those behaviors.
For instance, the fact that smoking does not apparently increase the risk bladder cancer does not in any way obviate the fact that smoking has been risked to other diseases or maladies such as heart disease, lung cancer, strokes, or degradation of blood circulation. All of these conditions are just as life-threatening as bladder cancer.
One significant factor seems to be that dosage amounts of alcohol do not seem to correlate with the propensity of reoccurrence. In fact, this study seemed to show that among moderate to heavy drinkers, the reoccurrence rate was unaffected. If one were to take this at face value, one could conclude that any drinking at all increases the chances of bladder cancer coming back.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Jon M. Stout
The thought itself is astounding: a way possibly exists to predict if a person could possibly contract bladder cancer in the future. In recent studies, debate is emerging in regards to one theory that lifestyle choices and the impact of living life a certain way may be related to bladder cancer. A recent study by the Department of Preventive Medicine of Nagoya University School of Medicine indicates that there might, in fact, be a strong and credible link between lifestyle and bladder cancer.
The department studied 258 bladder cancer patients in order to determine if lifestyle choices played a role in allowing medical professionals to prognosticate the possibility that patients might be susceptible to bladder cancer. This was a follow-up study of patients who had suffered from bladder cancer in metropolitan Nagoya, Japan and were recruited for study. Their personal survival information was derived from a database that was maintained by the Nagoya Bladder Cancer Research Group.
After reviewing the tests and their results, researchers were able to pinpoint several key factors that impact the occurrence and reoccurrence of this type of cancer. Univariate analysis showed that there was a significant relationship between 5 year survivorship and the level of education a person possessed, their marital status, drinking habits, and the degree of green tea consumption in males. Additional factors were the age at which the cancer was diagnosed, the histological type and grade of the any tumors, the degree of metastasis, and the state of metastasis in both sexes.
The results were adjusted for age, stage, histology (histological type and grade), and distant metastasis by means of a proportional hazards model.The consumption of alcoholic beverages was also significantly associated with the prognoses of bladder cancer in males. The ratio of adjusted hazard was 0.46 with a 95% confidence interval of 0.26 * 0.79 among males that consumed alcoholic beverages.
Detailed analysis revealed that former drinkers and every level of current drinkers exhibited hazard ratios smaller than unity, although no correlation between dosage amounts was detectable. Other factors, such as smoking habits, uses of artificial sweeteners and hair dye, and consumption of coffee, black tea, matcha (powdered green tea), and cola were detected, leading one to believe that it is reasonable to conclude that drinking any type of beverage, not just alcohol, plays a significant role in the development or reoccurrence of bladder cancer.
The significance of this is vague in terms of prognosis, although that ratio seems to indicate that at least among those who participated in the study and were bladder cancer survivors, drinking alcohol is not a very good idea. Additionally, the study showed that the higher risk factor in regards to bladder cancer and males can be correlated directly to drinking in terms of reoccurrence propensity. If you are male and have had bladder cancer, along with dietary changes and other lifestyle choices, avoiding alcoholic beverages might increase the possibility of avoiding the sickness in the future.
This, however, is not, and should not be considered conclusive, but merely the very compelling result of one specific study. Also, the indication that other factors, such as smoking, did not seem to increase the risk of reoccurrence, should not be construed as rock solid justification for those behaviors.
For instance, the fact that smoking does not apparently increase the risk bladder cancer does not in any way obviate the fact that smoking has been risked to other diseases or maladies such as heart disease, lung cancer, strokes, or degradation of blood circulation. All of these conditions are just as life-threatening as bladder cancer.
One significant factor seems to be that dosage amounts of alcohol do not seem to correlate with the propensity of reoccurrence. In fact, this study seemed to show that among moderate to heavy drinkers, the reoccurrence rate was unaffected. If one were to take this at face value, one could conclude that any drinking at all increases the chances of bladder cancer coming back.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
10.30.2006
The History of Tea: Health and Healing Properties
Article Presented by:
Jon M. Stout
For more than 4000 years now, tea has been a faithful staple in many cultures and countries around the world. Used as a sustaining liquid for those suffering from infectious disease, there are many believers who have always asserted that tea holds powerful healing properties. In some cases, they believe that tea can actually cure ailments and sickness. New emerging studies are elevating these assumptions from myth to scientific reality, providing significant evidence that tea is indeed a source of health and contains legitimate healing properties.
Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, second only to water, and in many parts of the world, green and black teas are mass produced from the plant Camilla Sinensis. Because of the way the beverage is brewed, it is also one of the safest beverages made on the planet. This is because it is made with boiling water until it is sterile. It is this process that eradicates just about every type of bacteria or virus commonly found in water.
For centuries, tea has not only helped promote health, it also has served as a as a social outlet (tea time), battlefield sedative (the British for years served their wounded tea on the battle field as a way to calm them), and has played a major role in at least one revolution (the Boston Tea Party).
Pirates used to raid tea ships and bounties were put on these pirates' heads, sometimes even surpassing the bounties placed on pirates that raided gold and silver ships. Rumor has it that this beverage was so popular in England and the colonies that during the American War for Independence, tea was still served in many of the thirteen colonies under a collection of aliases.
Throughout this time, however, tea was also believed to possess qualities that promoted good health and it was believed that tea could help a sick or injured person heal. For centuries, this was merely attributable to antidotal experience, with no scientific foundation on which to base those beliefs. Recently, however, detailed research done by an array of colleges, universities, and research centers have focused on teas positive properties.
Japan and China initially carried out the lion-share of this research, which primarily focused on their tea-of-choice: green tea. Europe and the United States, though, have begun to get in on the act, focusing on green and black tea and the results have been nothing short of astounding.
Not only have many of the alleged healthful properties been certified, researchers have also identified other, previously unknown qualities of tea that have proven that the beverage possesses qualities that can fight cancer, ward off tumors, and prevent the introduction of free radicals into the body.
This results of these tests indicated that because teas possess a high level of the antioxidant tea polyphenols, it is a great disease fighter. Research has shown that not only can tea fight cancer and ward off tumors and other defects; it also is can reduce the risk of heart disease.
As researchers have discovered these properties, they also have been able to map out the chemical composition of tea and pinpoint what they believe are the critical properties of this near wonder-drug.
These findings have allowed researchers to begin to understand what makes tea so effective in healing and promoting health. The most productive tests have come in the form of multi-disciplinary approaches, which consider data from epidemiology and field studies, laboratory tests in animals and historical accounts that are compared to current testing results. Researchers have tested tea against many different ailments and the results have shown that it is one of the most effective methods that a person can employ to ensure that they are able to adequately fight against any of these sicknesses. The jury, however, is still out, as tea's potential is only just now beginning to be understood.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Jon M. Stout
For more than 4000 years now, tea has been a faithful staple in many cultures and countries around the world. Used as a sustaining liquid for those suffering from infectious disease, there are many believers who have always asserted that tea holds powerful healing properties. In some cases, they believe that tea can actually cure ailments and sickness. New emerging studies are elevating these assumptions from myth to scientific reality, providing significant evidence that tea is indeed a source of health and contains legitimate healing properties.
Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, second only to water, and in many parts of the world, green and black teas are mass produced from the plant Camilla Sinensis. Because of the way the beverage is brewed, it is also one of the safest beverages made on the planet. This is because it is made with boiling water until it is sterile. It is this process that eradicates just about every type of bacteria or virus commonly found in water.
For centuries, tea has not only helped promote health, it also has served as a as a social outlet (tea time), battlefield sedative (the British for years served their wounded tea on the battle field as a way to calm them), and has played a major role in at least one revolution (the Boston Tea Party).
Pirates used to raid tea ships and bounties were put on these pirates' heads, sometimes even surpassing the bounties placed on pirates that raided gold and silver ships. Rumor has it that this beverage was so popular in England and the colonies that during the American War for Independence, tea was still served in many of the thirteen colonies under a collection of aliases.
Throughout this time, however, tea was also believed to possess qualities that promoted good health and it was believed that tea could help a sick or injured person heal. For centuries, this was merely attributable to antidotal experience, with no scientific foundation on which to base those beliefs. Recently, however, detailed research done by an array of colleges, universities, and research centers have focused on teas positive properties.
Japan and China initially carried out the lion-share of this research, which primarily focused on their tea-of-choice: green tea. Europe and the United States, though, have begun to get in on the act, focusing on green and black tea and the results have been nothing short of astounding.
Not only have many of the alleged healthful properties been certified, researchers have also identified other, previously unknown qualities of tea that have proven that the beverage possesses qualities that can fight cancer, ward off tumors, and prevent the introduction of free radicals into the body.
This results of these tests indicated that because teas possess a high level of the antioxidant tea polyphenols, it is a great disease fighter. Research has shown that not only can tea fight cancer and ward off tumors and other defects; it also is can reduce the risk of heart disease.
As researchers have discovered these properties, they also have been able to map out the chemical composition of tea and pinpoint what they believe are the critical properties of this near wonder-drug.
These findings have allowed researchers to begin to understand what makes tea so effective in healing and promoting health. The most productive tests have come in the form of multi-disciplinary approaches, which consider data from epidemiology and field studies, laboratory tests in animals and historical accounts that are compared to current testing results. Researchers have tested tea against many different ailments and the results have shown that it is one of the most effective methods that a person can employ to ensure that they are able to adequately fight against any of these sicknesses. The jury, however, is still out, as tea's potential is only just now beginning to be understood.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Recent Research Indicates Major Antimutagenic Activity in Green Tea
Article Presented by:
Jon M. Stout
On any day around the globe, nearly two thirds of the population drinks tea, of one kind or another. 20% of daily global tea consumption is green tea. Used for various purposes in Asian countries for centuries; green tea is now a very popular North American beverage also. New research is emerging that suggests that green tea plays a significant role in prohibiting and in some cases, reversing common mutations that are considered carcinogens (cancer causing agents). Furthermore, the studies are also uncovering facts that indicate that green tea holds healing properties that slow the aging process and other age related illness and ailments.
Western culture has adopted a love for green tea in recent history, and as such, its pharmacological active compounds benefits have fallen under intense scrutiny as researchers seek to identify what, if any, benefit this beverage possesses in eradicating or avoiding cancers and other diseases usually associated with the promotion of free radicals. Recently, a research team from the Department of Dermatology at Case Western University in Cleveland, Ohio, conducted a study to see if green tea possessed antimutagenic qualities.
The results, while hardly conclusive and more study is likely needed, indicate that green tea does, in fact, possess some qualities that seem to thwart the creation or spread of certain mutations that are thought to contribute to the creation and spread of cancer, contribute to aging, and lead to other diseases associated with aging.
Interestingly, this research carefully studied water extracts from green tea, known also as WEGT, and their significant attributes, including green tea polyphenols (GTP). The study attempted to identify antimutagenic activity that was a direct result of interaction with WEGT, and subsequently, GTP. The results of the study found that WEGT and GTP significantly inhibited the reverse mutation induced by benzo [alpha] pyrene (BP), 2-aminofluorene, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), as well as methanol extracted from coal tar in Salmonella typhimurium TA100 and/or TA98 in the presence of a rat-liver microsomal activation system.
GTP was also found to inhibit gene forward mutation in V79 cells treated with AFB1 and BP. Another benefit that was identified was that the WEGT appeared to decrease the frequency of sister-chromatid interactions and chromosomal abnormalities in V79 cells when treated with AFB1. When GTP was added, during and after nitrosation of methylurea, the results in a dose dependent fashion were the inhibition of mutagenicity.
The study also found that the antimutagenic activity of GTP implies that it may affect carcinogen metabolism, DNA adduct structure, the interaction of ultimate carcinogen, or the scavenging of free radicals. Free radical inhibition is terrifically difficult and the results of this study could be an indication that green tea is a very effective natural source of accomplishing this restriction. This perhaps could hold significance as new studies are formulated to ascertain the healthful benefits of GTP.
Green tea has fallen under much scrutiny as its alleged benefits have been touted for centuries, but it popularity in regions of the West have increased dramatically in recent years. Many ancient cultures believed it possessed healing powers and even the ability to ward off disease and mutations, but this is still relatively new to countries in Europe, Canada, and the United States.
The study noted as 223(3):273-85 is yet one more confirmation that green tea in solid or beverage form possesses restorative and healthful powers that are just now being discovered. Green tea likely holds a potential that is relatively untapped.
With further study, researchers are becoming increasingly confident that consumption of green tea in any form might be an easy and inexpensive method of giving the body another weapon in its life long fight against diseases such as cancer. Additional studies also are beginning to examine whether or not green tea possess other qualities that can inhibit the mutation of certain compounds that contribute to disease and aging. The benefits of green tea are beginning to be unlocked and additional discoveries seem to be on the horizon.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Jon M. Stout
On any day around the globe, nearly two thirds of the population drinks tea, of one kind or another. 20% of daily global tea consumption is green tea. Used for various purposes in Asian countries for centuries; green tea is now a very popular North American beverage also. New research is emerging that suggests that green tea plays a significant role in prohibiting and in some cases, reversing common mutations that are considered carcinogens (cancer causing agents). Furthermore, the studies are also uncovering facts that indicate that green tea holds healing properties that slow the aging process and other age related illness and ailments.
Western culture has adopted a love for green tea in recent history, and as such, its pharmacological active compounds benefits have fallen under intense scrutiny as researchers seek to identify what, if any, benefit this beverage possesses in eradicating or avoiding cancers and other diseases usually associated with the promotion of free radicals. Recently, a research team from the Department of Dermatology at Case Western University in Cleveland, Ohio, conducted a study to see if green tea possessed antimutagenic qualities.
The results, while hardly conclusive and more study is likely needed, indicate that green tea does, in fact, possess some qualities that seem to thwart the creation or spread of certain mutations that are thought to contribute to the creation and spread of cancer, contribute to aging, and lead to other diseases associated with aging.
Interestingly, this research carefully studied water extracts from green tea, known also as WEGT, and their significant attributes, including green tea polyphenols (GTP). The study attempted to identify antimutagenic activity that was a direct result of interaction with WEGT, and subsequently, GTP. The results of the study found that WEGT and GTP significantly inhibited the reverse mutation induced by benzo [alpha] pyrene (BP), 2-aminofluorene, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), as well as methanol extracted from coal tar in Salmonella typhimurium TA100 and/or TA98 in the presence of a rat-liver microsomal activation system.
GTP was also found to inhibit gene forward mutation in V79 cells treated with AFB1 and BP. Another benefit that was identified was that the WEGT appeared to decrease the frequency of sister-chromatid interactions and chromosomal abnormalities in V79 cells when treated with AFB1. When GTP was added, during and after nitrosation of methylurea, the results in a dose dependent fashion were the inhibition of mutagenicity.
The study also found that the antimutagenic activity of GTP implies that it may affect carcinogen metabolism, DNA adduct structure, the interaction of ultimate carcinogen, or the scavenging of free radicals. Free radical inhibition is terrifically difficult and the results of this study could be an indication that green tea is a very effective natural source of accomplishing this restriction. This perhaps could hold significance as new studies are formulated to ascertain the healthful benefits of GTP.
Green tea has fallen under much scrutiny as its alleged benefits have been touted for centuries, but it popularity in regions of the West have increased dramatically in recent years. Many ancient cultures believed it possessed healing powers and even the ability to ward off disease and mutations, but this is still relatively new to countries in Europe, Canada, and the United States.
The study noted as 223(3):273-85 is yet one more confirmation that green tea in solid or beverage form possesses restorative and healthful powers that are just now being discovered. Green tea likely holds a potential that is relatively untapped.
With further study, researchers are becoming increasingly confident that consumption of green tea in any form might be an easy and inexpensive method of giving the body another weapon in its life long fight against diseases such as cancer. Additional studies also are beginning to examine whether or not green tea possess other qualities that can inhibit the mutation of certain compounds that contribute to disease and aging. The benefits of green tea are beginning to be unlocked and additional discoveries seem to be on the horizon.
About the Author:
Jon M. Stout is the Chairman of the Golden Moon Tea Company. Golden Moon Tea carefully selects the finest rare and orthodox teas, which are processed slowly and handcrafted with extreme care. At their website, you can learn more about their current tea offerings, including their exceptional green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea (also known as wu-long and wu long tea) and chai. Visit http://www.goldenmoontea.com for all details concerning the Golden Moon Tea Company's fine line of teas.
Article Presented by:
Erin Shaughnessy
According to the United States Census Bureau, 87.7 percent of Ohioans had some form of health insurance coverage during 2005, while 12.3 percent were not insured at any time during the year. Additionally, 14 percent of Ohio residents under the age of sixty-five did not have health insurance during 2005.
AFFORDABLE HEALTH INSURANCE OPTIONS IN OHIO
Most Ohioans who have health insurance are covered by either employer based plans or government programs. What options are available for individuals who do not have access to such coverage? Ohio Department of Insurance Director, Ann Womer Benjamin, references the "increasing number of options with Health Savings Accounts. There may be a person, or a family, generally comfortable paying for health care costs, but wants a high deductible policy. Also, for fairly young, fairly healthy individuals, an HSA coupled with a High Deductible Health Plan could really work."
Health Savings Accounts are not feasible for everyone. Ohio residents who are not interested in HSAs should try to take advantage of alternative plans and programs. "Ohio has an Open Enrollment Program that takes (uninsured individuals) regardless of pre-existing conditions, but is likely costly", Womer Benjamin explains.
HEALTH CARE COVERAGE LEGISLATION
There are currently two bills in the Ohio Legislature, Senate Bill 272 and House Bill 5 / Senate Bill 5 that are generally supported by the Ohio Department of Insurance as methods of expanding access to health insurance coverage.
Senate Bill 272 would repeal the Open Enrollment Program, as well as the Open Enrollment Reinsurance Program. In its place, the Ohio Health Insurance Risk Pool would be created to provide health care coverage to individuals who are unable to obtain affordable health care coverage in any other manner. This would eliminate the annual periods of open enrollment that sickness and accident insurers, health insurance corporations, and multiple employer welfare arrangements (MEWAs) are currently required to hold. "The Ohio Health Insurance Risk Pool would provide a state fund for those without health insurance coverage. We would support this concept and have various suggestions for funding. We would theoretically be able to reach ten times more individuals than the Open Enrollment Program does currently", says Womer Benjamin.
House Bill 5 / Senate Bill 5 would permit small employers to offer health care plans that do not provide benefits otherwise required by law. The bill provides for the operation of health savings accounts that are consistent with federal law, and places a limit on an insured's liability for co-payments and deductibles under a health benefit plan. ODI Director Womer Benjamin asserts that the bill "would provide more options for small businesses, and we are hopeful that that will pass".
THE MASSACHUSETTS EXAMPLE
On April 4, 2006, Massachusetts House Bill 4850 was overwhelmingly passed by the state legislature. All Massachusetts residents will be required to obtain health insurance coverage by July 1, 2007. The state's plan dictates that businesses with more than ten employees that do not provide health insurance coverage will be charged a fee of as much as $295 a year for each employee. Government subsidies to private insurance plans will provide affordable health insurance to a greater number of the working poor, and individuals who can afford private health plans will be penalized on their state income taxes if they do not have coverage. Should Ohio consider a similar plan in order to achieve nearly universal health insurance coverage? Ohio Department of Insurance Director Ann Womer Benjamin says that we need to "watch Massachusetts and evaluate the plan's success and funding". "Ohio has a larger number of uninsured individuals and is different than Massachusetts, politically."
Ohioans have a large selection of health insurance carriers and government programs to choose from. Regardless of the provider, it is extremely important for individuals to obtain a health insurance plan. Director Womer Benjamin emphasizes that she is "concerned with people who don't think they need health insurance coverage".
About The Ohio Department of Insurance
The Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI) is an informative resource for those seeking information regarding health insurance options in the state. ODI asserts that its mission is to be "responsive to and safeguard consumer interests through education and vigilance while promoting a stable and competitive marketplace among insurance providers". The Ohio Department of Insurance can help uninsured persons sort through their options, depending on their individual circumstances. For more information, call the ODI Consumer Hotline at 1-800-686-1526.
About the Author:
Erin Shaughnessy is a freelance writer of political and consumer advocacy articles, and is a frequent contributor to http://www.fast-health-insurance.com/.
Erin Shaughnessy
According to the United States Census Bureau, 87.7 percent of Ohioans had some form of health insurance coverage during 2005, while 12.3 percent were not insured at any time during the year. Additionally, 14 percent of Ohio residents under the age of sixty-five did not have health insurance during 2005.
AFFORDABLE HEALTH INSURANCE OPTIONS IN OHIO
Most Ohioans who have health insurance are covered by either employer based plans or government programs. What options are available for individuals who do not have access to such coverage? Ohio Department of Insurance Director, Ann Womer Benjamin, references the "increasing number of options with Health Savings Accounts. There may be a person, or a family, generally comfortable paying for health care costs, but wants a high deductible policy. Also, for fairly young, fairly healthy individuals, an HSA coupled with a High Deductible Health Plan could really work."
Health Savings Accounts are not feasible for everyone. Ohio residents who are not interested in HSAs should try to take advantage of alternative plans and programs. "Ohio has an Open Enrollment Program that takes (uninsured individuals) regardless of pre-existing conditions, but is likely costly", Womer Benjamin explains.
HEALTH CARE COVERAGE LEGISLATION
There are currently two bills in the Ohio Legislature, Senate Bill 272 and House Bill 5 / Senate Bill 5 that are generally supported by the Ohio Department of Insurance as methods of expanding access to health insurance coverage.
Senate Bill 272 would repeal the Open Enrollment Program, as well as the Open Enrollment Reinsurance Program. In its place, the Ohio Health Insurance Risk Pool would be created to provide health care coverage to individuals who are unable to obtain affordable health care coverage in any other manner. This would eliminate the annual periods of open enrollment that sickness and accident insurers, health insurance corporations, and multiple employer welfare arrangements (MEWAs) are currently required to hold. "The Ohio Health Insurance Risk Pool would provide a state fund for those without health insurance coverage. We would support this concept and have various suggestions for funding. We would theoretically be able to reach ten times more individuals than the Open Enrollment Program does currently", says Womer Benjamin.
House Bill 5 / Senate Bill 5 would permit small employers to offer health care plans that do not provide benefits otherwise required by law. The bill provides for the operation of health savings accounts that are consistent with federal law, and places a limit on an insured's liability for co-payments and deductibles under a health benefit plan. ODI Director Womer Benjamin asserts that the bill "would provide more options for small businesses, and we are hopeful that that will pass".
THE MASSACHUSETTS EXAMPLE
On April 4, 2006, Massachusetts House Bill 4850 was overwhelmingly passed by the state legislature. All Massachusetts residents will be required to obtain health insurance coverage by July 1, 2007. The state's plan dictates that businesses with more than ten employees that do not provide health insurance coverage will be charged a fee of as much as $295 a year for each employee. Government subsidies to private insurance plans will provide affordable health insurance to a greater number of the working poor, and individuals who can afford private health plans will be penalized on their state income taxes if they do not have coverage. Should Ohio consider a similar plan in order to achieve nearly universal health insurance coverage? Ohio Department of Insurance Director Ann Womer Benjamin says that we need to "watch Massachusetts and evaluate the plan's success and funding". "Ohio has a larger number of uninsured individuals and is different than Massachusetts, politically."
Ohioans have a large selection of health insurance carriers and government programs to choose from. Regardless of the provider, it is extremely important for individuals to obtain a health insurance plan. Director Womer Benjamin emphasizes that she is "concerned with people who don't think they need health insurance coverage".
About The Ohio Department of Insurance
The Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI) is an informative resource for those seeking information regarding health insurance options in the state. ODI asserts that its mission is to be "responsive to and safeguard consumer interests through education and vigilance while promoting a stable and competitive marketplace among insurance providers". The Ohio Department of Insurance can help uninsured persons sort through their options, depending on their individual circumstances. For more information, call the ODI Consumer Hotline at 1-800-686-1526.
About the Author:
Erin Shaughnessy is a freelance writer of political and consumer advocacy articles, and is a frequent contributor to http://www.fast-health-insurance.com/.
The Pros and Cons of Teaching Abroad
Article Presented by:
Justin Burch
As it has been said, teaching abroad isn't for everybody. Each program you will encounter will require some prerequisites and the proper attitude, but will offer unique challenges and personal incentives to the right individual. Here is an impartial analysis of opportunities confronting both sides of the arguments you need to consider before deciding to teach abroad.
Beyond the opportunities for those able to teach within specialized disciplines, there is an incredible demand for TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers in non-English speaking nations. This demand coupled with job placement opportunities offered by TEFL certificate programs and school groups makes finding a foreign teaching job easier than you think. On the other hand, you must consider that many of the fulltime teaching jobs require Bachelor's degrees and TEFL certificates are a must if you are serious about making a career of teaching in foreign countries. The qualifications will obviously depend upon the employer, but a college degree and relevant experience will help you land the right job for you.
Most exciting for some when considering teaching abroad is the opportunity to educate one's self. Being able to live in foreign country, learn the language, study the culture firsthand and travel on days off is something that many dream of, but few are able to realize. You will be exposed to new food, music and customs but still have e-mail to relay your astonishing experiences back home. Yet, if you have difficulty leaving the comforts of your home or can't live without a particular American item, this sense of awe could easily become an unbearable sense of culture shock. You must also realize that teaching is a fulltime job that requires incredible patience and commitment. While most positions don't represent permanent employment, they also aren't vacations. Though the right surroundings can make your experience worthwhile, you shouldn't select your travel location based on sightseeing aspirations.
Considering the financial aspect, it is possible to earn more than enough money to live comfortably and travel during free time while teaching abroad. The income will obviously be contingent upon many factors, including the location of the school and your qualifications. When deciding where to study abroad, you must first consider your destination's cost of living. Calculate your expected personal expenses, both here and abroad. Then, see if any programs cover the cost of housing, insurance and utilities while teaching. The difficulty here lies in the fact that it may be difficult in some situations to pay any of your bills back home with a modest salary. Also, as most of these positions are temporary they lack the job security and advancement possibilities one might have at home.
One thing taken for granted by many before teaching abroad is the possibility to meet and interact with interesting people unlike anyone at home. You will develop lasting friendships and important professional relationships while teaching everyone from young children to corporate executives. Many teachers take great pride in the fact that their students stay in contact years after returning home.
Despite this fact, you may also experience a distinct sense of isolation while teaching abroad. This detachment from the known world allows many to focus wholeheartedly on teaching while forgetting previous worries; the experience can easily be eye-opening and enriching if the proper motivation exists. When necessary, many teachers even like the added challenge of developing their own curriculum with limited supplies or English language materials. But there will come days when you will simply want to go home. Based on where you are teaching, you may find yourself surrounded by poverty or difficult political circumstances, struggling to adapt to the foreign language and culture. Maybe you will lose patience with your students or find the program to be boring and repetitive. At times like these, you must remember that most teaching opportunities require a contract and if you choose to abandon your requirements, you might never find a similar job again.
In summation, the most important thing to realize when considering teaching abroad is that one person's pro may be another's con. Everyone's experience will be unique, as each opportunity requires special skills and returns different rewards. If you find the right position for yourself, firm commitment and motivation may easily overcome many of the cons mentioned here.
About the Author:
This article was written by Justin Burch. Justin writes select pieces about teaching abroad for TIEonline.
Justin Burch
As it has been said, teaching abroad isn't for everybody. Each program you will encounter will require some prerequisites and the proper attitude, but will offer unique challenges and personal incentives to the right individual. Here is an impartial analysis of opportunities confronting both sides of the arguments you need to consider before deciding to teach abroad.
Beyond the opportunities for those able to teach within specialized disciplines, there is an incredible demand for TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers in non-English speaking nations. This demand coupled with job placement opportunities offered by TEFL certificate programs and school groups makes finding a foreign teaching job easier than you think. On the other hand, you must consider that many of the fulltime teaching jobs require Bachelor's degrees and TEFL certificates are a must if you are serious about making a career of teaching in foreign countries. The qualifications will obviously depend upon the employer, but a college degree and relevant experience will help you land the right job for you.
Most exciting for some when considering teaching abroad is the opportunity to educate one's self. Being able to live in foreign country, learn the language, study the culture firsthand and travel on days off is something that many dream of, but few are able to realize. You will be exposed to new food, music and customs but still have e-mail to relay your astonishing experiences back home. Yet, if you have difficulty leaving the comforts of your home or can't live without a particular American item, this sense of awe could easily become an unbearable sense of culture shock. You must also realize that teaching is a fulltime job that requires incredible patience and commitment. While most positions don't represent permanent employment, they also aren't vacations. Though the right surroundings can make your experience worthwhile, you shouldn't select your travel location based on sightseeing aspirations.
Considering the financial aspect, it is possible to earn more than enough money to live comfortably and travel during free time while teaching abroad. The income will obviously be contingent upon many factors, including the location of the school and your qualifications. When deciding where to study abroad, you must first consider your destination's cost of living. Calculate your expected personal expenses, both here and abroad. Then, see if any programs cover the cost of housing, insurance and utilities while teaching. The difficulty here lies in the fact that it may be difficult in some situations to pay any of your bills back home with a modest salary. Also, as most of these positions are temporary they lack the job security and advancement possibilities one might have at home.
One thing taken for granted by many before teaching abroad is the possibility to meet and interact with interesting people unlike anyone at home. You will develop lasting friendships and important professional relationships while teaching everyone from young children to corporate executives. Many teachers take great pride in the fact that their students stay in contact years after returning home.
Despite this fact, you may also experience a distinct sense of isolation while teaching abroad. This detachment from the known world allows many to focus wholeheartedly on teaching while forgetting previous worries; the experience can easily be eye-opening and enriching if the proper motivation exists. When necessary, many teachers even like the added challenge of developing their own curriculum with limited supplies or English language materials. But there will come days when you will simply want to go home. Based on where you are teaching, you may find yourself surrounded by poverty or difficult political circumstances, struggling to adapt to the foreign language and culture. Maybe you will lose patience with your students or find the program to be boring and repetitive. At times like these, you must remember that most teaching opportunities require a contract and if you choose to abandon your requirements, you might never find a similar job again.
In summation, the most important thing to realize when considering teaching abroad is that one person's pro may be another's con. Everyone's experience will be unique, as each opportunity requires special skills and returns different rewards. If you find the right position for yourself, firm commitment and motivation may easily overcome many of the cons mentioned here.
About the Author:
This article was written by Justin Burch. Justin writes select pieces about teaching abroad for TIEonline.
Alberta Angling Tournaments: Spectacular Scenery, Big Purses
Article Presented by:
Travel Alberta, All Rights Reserved Written by: Travel Alberta
Alberta's fishing tournaments pit angler against angler in a quest for the biggest shimmering walleye and a slice of the $60,600 (Cdn) in prize money.
Surrounded by vast stretches of boreal forest and big sky is the Golden Walleye Classic, the top tournament in the province. It's a showdown of the best anglers in North America at Lesser Slave Lake in Alberta's Big Lake Country.
For the Golden Walleye tournament, most people first visit Edmonton, the international gateway city to the North, and then it's only 250 kms (156 miles) or about a three hours' drive to Faust, staging ground for the Classic.
The tournament first became famous 16 years ago when anglers competed for an unheard-of prize payout of $20,000 for first place.
Today, the number of competitors has been reduced to 100 boats and the prize has been upped to $25,000. An entrance fee of $600 must be paid by each two-man team, and entrants must also possess applicable fishing licenses. The Golden Walleye Classic is part of the Northern Alberta Walleye Trail, a series of three tournaments in separate lakes throughout June.
Score Big With Walleyes
The series opens at Moose Lake's Vezeau Beach early in the month, followed by the Classic. While walleye is the only fish that scores, it's a fish with a reputation for size and numbers in this region.
"It's not uncommon to go out and catch 200 walleye in one day," says Tony Gellings, owner and operator of the local guiding outfit Adventure Alberta. "Eight to 10 pounds is pretty spectacular and I see between a half dozen to 20 fish that size in a summer. The five-to-seven-pound range is more common, but it's still a nice fighting fish."
While walleye populations are bountiful, the fish can prove difficult to find and that's likely why it was chosen for the tournaments, says Bob Chapman, a buyer for The Fishin' Hole and president of the Northern Alberta Walleye Trail.
"They can be elusive," he says. "You can end up going too fast or too slow, too deep or too shallow."
But even an inexperienced angler is almost sure to reap some shimmering walleye, thanks to its big populations and some sage advice from friendly locals.
"The people are amazing up here," says Tanya Samizadeh, interim executive director for Big Lake Country Tourism. "Everyone is friendly. They'll tell you the best places to fish where you're surrounded by lush, green boreal forest, white sand beaches, beautiful sunsets and sunrises, amazing wildlife and waterways brimming with fish."
While the tournaments are strictly catch and release and barb-less hooks are compulsory, Alberta's regulations allow non-competing anglers to keep three walleye or perch per person, as long as they're over minimum size.
Tournaments Attract U.S. and Ontario Anglers
It is that combination of big fish, big quantities and regulations that allow anglers to eat some of what they catch, coupled with large cash prizes, that's attracting fishermen and women from as far away as the United States and Ontario.
The trail's final tournament wraps up at Pinehurst Lake in the end of June when the warm summer sun makes for long days and short nights.
In addition to the grand prizes at individual tournaments, there's also a payout from the Northern Alberta Walleye Trail for series winners.
Once the tournament is over, anglers can fish for some of the other species that thrive in the lakes. These include northern pike, perch and burbot – a fish that's gaining popularity because of its taste.
"People used to throw them away because they're ugly, but now they're beginning to discover that they taste good, so people are starting to take them home and cook them," says Alberta Adventure's Tony Gellings, adding that anglers may keep 10 burbot per person.
Southern Trail Lures Angling Competitors
While the Northern Alberta Walleye Trail has spectacular scenery and relative isolation, the Southern Alberta Walleye Trail lures competitors with big purses. The tournament's first event at 40-mile reservoir is limited to 75 boats and has a guaranteed first-place prize of $10,000. The other three tournaments, Chin Reservoir, Travers Reservoir and Milk River Ridge Reservoir all have guaranteed minimum purses of $5,000.
The tournaments all take place in man-made reservoirs in deep coulees.
The clean water means the walleye populations have increased substantially, says Doug Kopp, chair of the Southern Alberta Walleye Trail.
"We're just a bunch of guys, none of us professional, so everyone's willing to share and show the best areas," says Kopp. "And the size of the fish in the U.S. tournaments are nowhere near the size of the keeper fish here in Alberta."
Last year six teams from the United States competed in the SAWT, attracted by the fishing, money and the people, adds Kopp.
For those that want to pass on the pleasure of fishing to their children, Alberta's Angler Young Angler tournament might be the recipe for success. The tournament is one of only six across Canada and is made up of teams of three. Two members must be 17 years old or younger and there's one adult. The AYA in Alberta consists of two tournaments, both of which offer substantial prizes in several categories like the $8,000 motor, boat and trailer package awarded last year.
Anglers Attracted to Big Fish
"The attraction is about the size of the fish," says Greg Beauchamp, owner of Alberta Marine, an AYA tournament sponsor. "The biggest fish last year was an 11-pound walleye. Last year the guys from the U.S. said they'd come back with all their buddies because of the size and quantity of the fish and they get to keep a couple over minimum size.
"The camaraderie and the sportsmanship is wonderful," he adds. "I expected worse people, but it was a lot fun."
About the Author:
Copyright © 2006 Travel Alberta, All Rights Reserved
Travel Alberta is the destination marketing organization for the Province of Alberta. Guided by the Strategic Tourism Marketing Council, Travel Alberta is the steward for the effective delivery of tourism marketing programs. For information about our organization, please visit our Travel Alberta industry web site at http://industry.travelalberta.com
Travel Alberta, All Rights Reserved Written by: Travel Alberta
Alberta's fishing tournaments pit angler against angler in a quest for the biggest shimmering walleye and a slice of the $60,600 (Cdn) in prize money.
Surrounded by vast stretches of boreal forest and big sky is the Golden Walleye Classic, the top tournament in the province. It's a showdown of the best anglers in North America at Lesser Slave Lake in Alberta's Big Lake Country.
For the Golden Walleye tournament, most people first visit Edmonton, the international gateway city to the North, and then it's only 250 kms (156 miles) or about a three hours' drive to Faust, staging ground for the Classic.
The tournament first became famous 16 years ago when anglers competed for an unheard-of prize payout of $20,000 for first place.
Today, the number of competitors has been reduced to 100 boats and the prize has been upped to $25,000. An entrance fee of $600 must be paid by each two-man team, and entrants must also possess applicable fishing licenses. The Golden Walleye Classic is part of the Northern Alberta Walleye Trail, a series of three tournaments in separate lakes throughout June.
Score Big With Walleyes
The series opens at Moose Lake's Vezeau Beach early in the month, followed by the Classic. While walleye is the only fish that scores, it's a fish with a reputation for size and numbers in this region.
"It's not uncommon to go out and catch 200 walleye in one day," says Tony Gellings, owner and operator of the local guiding outfit Adventure Alberta. "Eight to 10 pounds is pretty spectacular and I see between a half dozen to 20 fish that size in a summer. The five-to-seven-pound range is more common, but it's still a nice fighting fish."
While walleye populations are bountiful, the fish can prove difficult to find and that's likely why it was chosen for the tournaments, says Bob Chapman, a buyer for The Fishin' Hole and president of the Northern Alberta Walleye Trail.
"They can be elusive," he says. "You can end up going too fast or too slow, too deep or too shallow."
But even an inexperienced angler is almost sure to reap some shimmering walleye, thanks to its big populations and some sage advice from friendly locals.
"The people are amazing up here," says Tanya Samizadeh, interim executive director for Big Lake Country Tourism. "Everyone is friendly. They'll tell you the best places to fish where you're surrounded by lush, green boreal forest, white sand beaches, beautiful sunsets and sunrises, amazing wildlife and waterways brimming with fish."
While the tournaments are strictly catch and release and barb-less hooks are compulsory, Alberta's regulations allow non-competing anglers to keep three walleye or perch per person, as long as they're over minimum size.
Tournaments Attract U.S. and Ontario Anglers
It is that combination of big fish, big quantities and regulations that allow anglers to eat some of what they catch, coupled with large cash prizes, that's attracting fishermen and women from as far away as the United States and Ontario.
The trail's final tournament wraps up at Pinehurst Lake in the end of June when the warm summer sun makes for long days and short nights.
In addition to the grand prizes at individual tournaments, there's also a payout from the Northern Alberta Walleye Trail for series winners.
Once the tournament is over, anglers can fish for some of the other species that thrive in the lakes. These include northern pike, perch and burbot – a fish that's gaining popularity because of its taste.
"People used to throw them away because they're ugly, but now they're beginning to discover that they taste good, so people are starting to take them home and cook them," says Alberta Adventure's Tony Gellings, adding that anglers may keep 10 burbot per person.
Southern Trail Lures Angling Competitors
While the Northern Alberta Walleye Trail has spectacular scenery and relative isolation, the Southern Alberta Walleye Trail lures competitors with big purses. The tournament's first event at 40-mile reservoir is limited to 75 boats and has a guaranteed first-place prize of $10,000. The other three tournaments, Chin Reservoir, Travers Reservoir and Milk River Ridge Reservoir all have guaranteed minimum purses of $5,000.
The tournaments all take place in man-made reservoirs in deep coulees.
The clean water means the walleye populations have increased substantially, says Doug Kopp, chair of the Southern Alberta Walleye Trail.
"We're just a bunch of guys, none of us professional, so everyone's willing to share and show the best areas," says Kopp. "And the size of the fish in the U.S. tournaments are nowhere near the size of the keeper fish here in Alberta."
Last year six teams from the United States competed in the SAWT, attracted by the fishing, money and the people, adds Kopp.
For those that want to pass on the pleasure of fishing to their children, Alberta's Angler Young Angler tournament might be the recipe for success. The tournament is one of only six across Canada and is made up of teams of three. Two members must be 17 years old or younger and there's one adult. The AYA in Alberta consists of two tournaments, both of which offer substantial prizes in several categories like the $8,000 motor, boat and trailer package awarded last year.
Anglers Attracted to Big Fish
"The attraction is about the size of the fish," says Greg Beauchamp, owner of Alberta Marine, an AYA tournament sponsor. "The biggest fish last year was an 11-pound walleye. Last year the guys from the U.S. said they'd come back with all their buddies because of the size and quantity of the fish and they get to keep a couple over minimum size.
"The camaraderie and the sportsmanship is wonderful," he adds. "I expected worse people, but it was a lot fun."
About the Author:
Copyright © 2006 Travel Alberta, All Rights Reserved
Travel Alberta is the destination marketing organization for the Province of Alberta. Guided by the Strategic Tourism Marketing Council, Travel Alberta is the steward for the effective delivery of tourism marketing programs. For information about our organization, please visit our Travel Alberta industry web site at http://industry.travelalberta.com
10.28.2006
Brush Guards Can Protect Cars and Trucks in Low-Impact Collisions
oArticle Presented by:
Quinton Becker
Installing a brush guard is an effective way of protecting the front of your vehicle - in addition, doing so will add a custom look to your car or truck. A guard on the front of your truck will add a tough aesthetic to your vehicle, and this look will set your truck apart from other trucks on the road.
It may seem like an odd addition to a passenger car that is until you stop to realize that most police departments use them on their cars as well.
People call brush guards by many different names: some people refer to it as a grill guard or a push bar. Regardless of its name, the brush guard is a bar that can be installed across the front of your vehicle to protect it from debris, particularly brush - hence its name.
The brush guard's functionality is important if you plan on using your truck or SUV on off-road terrain. The large bar of a brush guard protects the front of your truck in much the same way a bumper does, but the guard also implements smaller bars, which cover your headlight lenses. These allow your headlights to shine through, while protecting the lenses from large debris.
If you are one of the many drivers who do not off-road with their vehicle, a brush guard may seem an irrelevant piece of equipment. It can, however, help prevent damage to the front of your car in the event of a low-speed accident. Low-speed, rear-end collisions can cause hundreds of dollars in damage to a vehicle. In cases like this, your brush guard may actually pay for itself. When you hit something with the front of your vehicle, you are likely to damage the bumper, sheet metal, headlight assemblies, and possibly even the radiator or air conditioning condenser. Having any of these parts fixed can add up to a significant repair bill, but the simple installation of a brush guard could prevent these damages in the first place. If you have ever watched police shows on television, you have probably seen a brush guard in action. The large, usually black bar attached the front of police cruisers are brush guards, used to protect police sedans from damage.
Many drivers install brush guards because they wish to add a customized look to their vehicles. Brush guards easy to install; in most cases, they are prefabricated to fit your vehicle via predrilled boltholes. One must simply line it up and bolt it into place. You may want to have a friend help you with the installation - these items tend to be quite large and heavy. You may also wish to install a winch on your vehicle, and you may easily attach such a device to your brush guard. Both offer protection when you winch something toward your vehicle.
Brush guards typically come in either black or chrome, but you do actually have a variety of choices when it comes to the style. You can choose one that covers the center of your front bumper, or you may prefer one that wraps around your headlights.
It is important to choose a high-quality manufacturer when you are selecting a brush guard. You will want to purchase from a trusted manufacturer in order to make sure that the guard will fit your vehicle. If you own a Dodge, you will want to be sure that any new parts you purchase will fit like the original Dodge-made parts. Dodge parts are made specifically for Dodge vehicles, and you will want your brush guard to be made for your car's make and model, versus a "one size fits all" design. Looking at photographs may help you decide which fit and style of brush guard you want for your vehicle. Whatever your preferences, make sure that you select a guard that will suit your vehicle and your vehicle's performance needs.
About the Author:
Quinton Becker writes about cars. DriveWire.com offers 1000s of parts and accessories for dozens of makes & models of vehicles. If you need Dodge parts or accessories such as brush guards for your vehicle, join those who already rely upon http://www.DriveWire.com for their new auto parts.
Quinton Becker
Installing a brush guard is an effective way of protecting the front of your vehicle - in addition, doing so will add a custom look to your car or truck. A guard on the front of your truck will add a tough aesthetic to your vehicle, and this look will set your truck apart from other trucks on the road.
It may seem like an odd addition to a passenger car that is until you stop to realize that most police departments use them on their cars as well.
People call brush guards by many different names: some people refer to it as a grill guard or a push bar. Regardless of its name, the brush guard is a bar that can be installed across the front of your vehicle to protect it from debris, particularly brush - hence its name.
The brush guard's functionality is important if you plan on using your truck or SUV on off-road terrain. The large bar of a brush guard protects the front of your truck in much the same way a bumper does, but the guard also implements smaller bars, which cover your headlight lenses. These allow your headlights to shine through, while protecting the lenses from large debris.
If you are one of the many drivers who do not off-road with their vehicle, a brush guard may seem an irrelevant piece of equipment. It can, however, help prevent damage to the front of your car in the event of a low-speed accident. Low-speed, rear-end collisions can cause hundreds of dollars in damage to a vehicle. In cases like this, your brush guard may actually pay for itself. When you hit something with the front of your vehicle, you are likely to damage the bumper, sheet metal, headlight assemblies, and possibly even the radiator or air conditioning condenser. Having any of these parts fixed can add up to a significant repair bill, but the simple installation of a brush guard could prevent these damages in the first place. If you have ever watched police shows on television, you have probably seen a brush guard in action. The large, usually black bar attached the front of police cruisers are brush guards, used to protect police sedans from damage.
Many drivers install brush guards because they wish to add a customized look to their vehicles. Brush guards easy to install; in most cases, they are prefabricated to fit your vehicle via predrilled boltholes. One must simply line it up and bolt it into place. You may want to have a friend help you with the installation - these items tend to be quite large and heavy. You may also wish to install a winch on your vehicle, and you may easily attach such a device to your brush guard. Both offer protection when you winch something toward your vehicle.
Brush guards typically come in either black or chrome, but you do actually have a variety of choices when it comes to the style. You can choose one that covers the center of your front bumper, or you may prefer one that wraps around your headlights.
It is important to choose a high-quality manufacturer when you are selecting a brush guard. You will want to purchase from a trusted manufacturer in order to make sure that the guard will fit your vehicle. If you own a Dodge, you will want to be sure that any new parts you purchase will fit like the original Dodge-made parts. Dodge parts are made specifically for Dodge vehicles, and you will want your brush guard to be made for your car's make and model, versus a "one size fits all" design. Looking at photographs may help you decide which fit and style of brush guard you want for your vehicle. Whatever your preferences, make sure that you select a guard that will suit your vehicle and your vehicle's performance needs.
About the Author:
Quinton Becker writes about cars. DriveWire.com offers 1000s of parts and accessories for dozens of makes & models of vehicles. If you need Dodge parts or accessories such as brush guards for your vehicle, join those who already rely upon http://www.DriveWire.com for their new auto parts.
Taking Care of Your Car's Braking System Can Prevent Accidents
Article Presented by:
Quinton Becker
A brake rotor is a vital part of the braking system on your vehicle. A brake rotor, in conjunction with brake pads, brings your car to come to a quick and complete stop. If you have a worn brake rotor, you should have it replaced as soon as possible for your own safety.
When you apply your car's brake pedal, brake pads press down against the brake rotor. The rotor is part of the front wheel hub, and it stops the wheels from turning. Brake rotors are commonly referred to as "discs," and people often refer to cars with brake rotors as being equipped with "disc brakes."
In recent decades, most cars have been equipped with a brake rotor at the front of the car. Some cars are also equipped with brake rotors on the rear wheels for added stopping power. The older alternative to a disc brake is the drum brake; some cars are still made with drum brakes on the back wheels. As with front-wheel disk brakes, rear-wheel disk brakes are added for a more acutely responsive braking system.
After a period of standard wear, your car's brake rotors may need to be replaced. However, some conditions may wear down the rotors more quickly, calling for quicker replacement. For instance, if you allow your brake pads to wear down too far before you replace them, the brake pad can dig grooves into the rotors. These grooves must be repaired in order for your brakes to operate correctly. If your brake rotors have grooves in them, you can have them "turned" or resurfaced by a machine shop. This will remove the grooves and make the rotor itself thinner.
Warped brake rotors will also require premature replacement. Brake parts grow extremely hot during normal operation. If you have been applying your brakes heavily and heating them more than usual, this rapid heating and cooling may cause them to warp. Heating of your brakes plus water, snow, or ice will also warp the rotor. There is an easy way to determine if your brake rotor is warped: you may feel a shuddering as you apply your brakes. This vibration usually indicates that your brake pad is pressing against an uneven rotor. When this happens, it is time to either have your rotor turned or replaced entirely.
Most vehicles manufactured in the past five years or so have been equipped with composite brake rotors. It is strongly recommended that with these vehicles, you do not have the rotors turned. Turning these composite rotors will take the heat tempering out of them. It is best to simply replace the entire rotor in these this case, rather than trying to have it resurfaced.
When replacing brake rotors, you face a variety of manufacturer options. You can choose to purchase Chevy parts if you own a Chevy, or you can go with aftermarket parts that often outperform the stock Chevy parts. The primary consideration is to make sure that all of your brake parts are compatible with one another.
Finally, it is critical that you either replace or turn both of your brake rotors at the same time. Replacing one brake rotor and not the other can result in different heat dissipation rates - this will cause one wheel to stop turning sooner than the other, which could be very dangerous under hard braking circumstances. Remember that when you are working on your brakes. Your own safety should always come first - prompt response to any warning signs or problems is essential to the safe operation of your braking systems.
When you are talking about your vehicle's braking systems, an ounce of prevention is certainly cheaper than a pound of cure.
About the Author:
Quinton Becker writes about cars. If you need to replace the brake rotor in your car's disk brakes, Drivewire.com can help save you money. They sell auto parts for dozens of makes and models, including the always popular Chevy parts. Visit http://www.DriveWire.com today to see for yourself.
Quinton Becker
A brake rotor is a vital part of the braking system on your vehicle. A brake rotor, in conjunction with brake pads, brings your car to come to a quick and complete stop. If you have a worn brake rotor, you should have it replaced as soon as possible for your own safety.
When you apply your car's brake pedal, brake pads press down against the brake rotor. The rotor is part of the front wheel hub, and it stops the wheels from turning. Brake rotors are commonly referred to as "discs," and people often refer to cars with brake rotors as being equipped with "disc brakes."
In recent decades, most cars have been equipped with a brake rotor at the front of the car. Some cars are also equipped with brake rotors on the rear wheels for added stopping power. The older alternative to a disc brake is the drum brake; some cars are still made with drum brakes on the back wheels. As with front-wheel disk brakes, rear-wheel disk brakes are added for a more acutely responsive braking system.
After a period of standard wear, your car's brake rotors may need to be replaced. However, some conditions may wear down the rotors more quickly, calling for quicker replacement. For instance, if you allow your brake pads to wear down too far before you replace them, the brake pad can dig grooves into the rotors. These grooves must be repaired in order for your brakes to operate correctly. If your brake rotors have grooves in them, you can have them "turned" or resurfaced by a machine shop. This will remove the grooves and make the rotor itself thinner.
Warped brake rotors will also require premature replacement. Brake parts grow extremely hot during normal operation. If you have been applying your brakes heavily and heating them more than usual, this rapid heating and cooling may cause them to warp. Heating of your brakes plus water, snow, or ice will also warp the rotor. There is an easy way to determine if your brake rotor is warped: you may feel a shuddering as you apply your brakes. This vibration usually indicates that your brake pad is pressing against an uneven rotor. When this happens, it is time to either have your rotor turned or replaced entirely.
Most vehicles manufactured in the past five years or so have been equipped with composite brake rotors. It is strongly recommended that with these vehicles, you do not have the rotors turned. Turning these composite rotors will take the heat tempering out of them. It is best to simply replace the entire rotor in these this case, rather than trying to have it resurfaced.
When replacing brake rotors, you face a variety of manufacturer options. You can choose to purchase Chevy parts if you own a Chevy, or you can go with aftermarket parts that often outperform the stock Chevy parts. The primary consideration is to make sure that all of your brake parts are compatible with one another.
Finally, it is critical that you either replace or turn both of your brake rotors at the same time. Replacing one brake rotor and not the other can result in different heat dissipation rates - this will cause one wheel to stop turning sooner than the other, which could be very dangerous under hard braking circumstances. Remember that when you are working on your brakes. Your own safety should always come first - prompt response to any warning signs or problems is essential to the safe operation of your braking systems.
When you are talking about your vehicle's braking systems, an ounce of prevention is certainly cheaper than a pound of cure.
About the Author:
Quinton Becker writes about cars. If you need to replace the brake rotor in your car's disk brakes, Drivewire.com can help save you money. They sell auto parts for dozens of makes and models, including the always popular Chevy parts. Visit http://www.DriveWire.com today to see for yourself.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
