Intro:

The U.S. National Library of Medicine says diabetes occurs because of elevated blood glucose levels. The pancreas no longer uses or produces enough insulin for the body to function properly. Without enough insulin, high levels of glucose remain in the bloodstream. Diet plays a major role in controlling blood glucose levels, so people should maintain a nutritionally dense diet. Many diabetics think that they can’t eat fruits when diagnosed with diabetics; however, many fruits are good for diabetes because they have low sugar content.

Diabetes is a disease in which the body is not able to filter glucose levels properly, and that leads to damage of the nerves and blood vessels. When this damage occurs, two main problems happen, nerve damage and poor blood flow. These conditions can lead to many diabetic foot problems. Have a question? Get an answer from a Medical Professional now!

Neuropathy

Diabetic nerve damage is also called neuropathy. When you have neuropathy, your sensation of pain in your feet is diminished. This loss of pain sensation could make one unaware of a sore, blister, cut or rash until it becomes infected. Neuropathy will affect the amount of moisture delivered to your skin and may cause dry, cracked feet. These cracks can also become infected.

Peripheral Vascular Disease

Damage to your blood vessels, or peripheral vascular disease, leads to poor blood flow to your legs and feet. This condition impacts how well your body will be able to heal a cut or blister. Smoking also decreases blood flow to your extremities and will compound the lack of blood flow.

Potential Problems

Neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease work together to create major problems for your feet. For example; you have a rock in your shoe, but you can’t feel it under your toe because of neuropathy. By the end of the day, you have a blister on your toe and it does not heal well because lack of blood flow to your foot. The blister gets infected, and excess glucose in your bloodstream (due to diabetes) feeds on the germs on the infected toe. If this sore does not heal, it may turn to gangrene. If your physician can’t keep this from spreading, you may have to have your toe, foot or part of your leg amputated. Gangrene is a condition where the skin and flesh around a wound turns black and dies.

Calluses

Calluses on your feet are also common when you have diabetes, usually due to poor fitting shoes. You should prevent calluses from forming in the first place, by gently using a pumice stone while your skin is wet. Rub lotion on your feet directly after using the pumice stone. Calluses need to be treated by a doctor. If left without proper care, calluses may get thick and fall off, leave an open wound in the skin, and become infected.

Prevention/Solution

How can you avoid diabetic foot problems? Stop smoking. Buy comfortable, properly fitting shoes. Inspect your feet every day, preferably at night after a long day of usage. Look for redness, sores, cracks, blisters, calluses, cuts and rashes. If you are unable to bend down to look at your feet, use a mirror, or better yet, get someone to check for you. Wash your feet every day in warm water; avoid hot water, as it dries the skin out. Rub a good lotion on them; make sure the foot is completely dry before putting on socks and shoes. Make sure the area between the toes is dry as well. Use a pumice stone on calluses every day. Trim your toenails carefully, or have a professional do it who understands the proper way to avoid skin injury. Wear socks, shoes or slippers to protect your feet. Get the proper amount of exercise each day to keep circulation moving to your feet.

You should be under a physician's care to help protect your feet from diabetic foot problems.

The pancreas, an endocrine gland, produces one of the body’s most important hormones, insulin. Insulin lowers blood sugar levels by allowing cells to accept glucose (sugar) for use as energy. In individuals with diabetes, the pancreas cannot produce insulin. The lack of insulin in the body raises blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia), which can lead to kidney problems, liver problems, vascular disease coma or even death. Have a question? Get an answer from a Medical Professional now!

Type I Classification

The majority of individuals with Type I diabetes develop the disease as children. Diabetes develops because the lost beta cells in the Islets of Langerhans within the pancreas prohibit insulin production. Individuals with Type I diabetes must be on the lookout for skin disorders, nerve damage in the feet, eye care and maintain good dental health.

Type II Classification

Individuals with Type II diabetes develop the disease through a combination of genetics, poor diet and lack of exercise. The pancreas releases insulin to lower blood sugar levels. Excess fat around the muscles can block the absorption of glucose, making the body insulin-resistant. The glucose remains in the bloodstream, raising blood sugar levels and causing the pancreas to release more insulin. The cycle continues until the body becomes completely immune to the effects of insulin.

Type I Prevention/Solution

Since the beta cells no longer produce insulin, the body must get it from other sources to survive. Insulin cannot be taken orally, as it would be broken down during digestion. Without insulin, the body cannot use glucose for energy; therefore, insulin must be injected into the fat under the skin. Most insulin injections are made from synthetic sources, and a few are made from pigs. Extreme cases can be treated with insulin pumps. Pumps deliver insulin through a catheter placed under the skin.

Type II Prevention/Solution

Type II diabetes develops from insulin resistance. Insulin sensitivity can be restored with modest weight loss; as little as 10 to 15 lbs. can make a difference. Over 90 percent of individuals who lose weight and keep it off do it through a combination of diet and exercise. Until insulin sensitivity is restored, individuals with Type II diabetes may have to take insulin injections.

Misconceptions

Diabetics are no more likely to get the common cold and flu than any other individual. Colds raise blood sugar levels and can be dangerous for diabetics; diabetes does not affect the immune system and is not contagious. Diabetes does not create athersclerosis (hardening of the arteries). However, an obese Type II diabetic is at a greater risk of atherosclerosis than the rest of the population.

Carbohydrates are broken down during digestion into glucose. This substance moves into your blood and a hormone called insulin transfers the glucose to the body cells to give your body energy. People with diabetes either have a problem with insulin production or the cells aren't able to use the insulin which causes glucose to buildup in the blood. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, gestational diabetes affects anywhere from three to eight out of 100 women in the United States. This condition is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy but typically resolves after the baby is born. Its symptoms are similar to those of diabetes mellitus. Have a question? Get an answer from a Medical Professional now!

Increased Appetite

An increased appetite can indicate gestational diabetes, but despite this symptom, a pregnant woman may also lose weight. The body responds to the high level of insulin in the blood by producing and releasing more insulin. One action of insulin is to stimulate the appetite, which means that a higher level of insulin leads to an increased hunger. If the cells aren't able to use the insulin, the level of glucose in the blood will continue to build up, so the body breaks down the muscles and fat stores as a way to get the required energy to the cells. The pregnant woman may lose weight as these tissues shrink as well as feel constantly fatigued or lethargic, since this action causes the body to use more energy.

Excessive Thirst and Urination

A pregnant woman with gestational diabetes may have an increased thirst since the body craves liquids to help dilute the excess glucose in the blood. The body also moves liquids from the body tissues to help dilute the blood. For example, the body can pull fluid from the lenses of the eyes. This action can affect the way the eyes focus, which causes blurred vision. The increased fluid intake causes the pregnant women to pass large, excessive amounts of urine, which is different than the frequent passing of small amounts of urine that is typical of pregnancy. Diagnostic testing at the physician's office can reveal high amounts of glucose in the urine.

Infections

Since diabetes interferes with the body's ability to fight infections, the pregnant woman may experience frequent infections in areas such as the bladder, vagina and skin. White blood cells defend the body against bacteria, but these cells aren't able to function normally when a person has a high blood sugar. A woman with gestational diabetes may also complain of a yeast infection in the vagina or on the skin. Yeast cells are normally present in the vaginal area in small amounts. The vaginal secretions and urine contain more glucose when a woman has gestational diabetes. The yeast cells use the glucose as food, which causes the cells to multiply. With the body's immune system compromised by the high level of glucose in the blood, this increase in yeast cells turns into a yeast infection.

High Blood Sugar

Since a woman may not have any noticeable symptoms of gestational diabetes and symptoms can mimic regular pregnancy symptoms, screening for this condition is part of prenatal care for at-risk women between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy. Your physician will initially order a blood test called a glucose challenge test. If the glucose challenge test indicates a high blood sugar level, your physician may order a glucose tolerance test to confirm the diagnosis of gestational diabetes. Both tests involve drinking a sweet glucose solution and having your blood drawn after a prescribed amount of time.

Cranial diabetes insipidus

The underlying cause of cranial diabetes insipidus may need treating first. For example, if you are found to have a tumour affecting your hypothalamus or pituitary gland. Your doctor will be able to advise any treatment that you may need.

Otherwise, the following may be suggested:

Careful control of the fluids that you drink. In mild cases, cranial diabetes insipidus may be controlled by ensuring that you are drinking enough fluid to quench your thirst and to keep the salt levels in your blood stable. You may not need any other treatment. Regular monitoring of the salt levels in your blood using blood tests will usually be suggested.

Desmopressin. This is a medicine that resembles ADH. It can have the same effect as ADH on your kidneys. Desmopressin is also known as DDAVP®. It is usually given as nasal drops or nasal spray, or it can be taken as tablets by mouth. You usually need to take desmopressin between one and three times a day. The correct dose for you will be decided by your doctor. The aim is that the medicine should replace the ADH that your body is lacking and so will help to control the amount of urine that you pass.

Sometimes cranial diabetes insipidus may only last for a short period (perhaps a few weeks) after a head injury or brain surgery and so treatment may only be needed in the short term. However, other causes may mean that you need lifelong treatment for diabetes insipidus.

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus

As mentioned above, sometimes nephrogenic diabetes insipidus can be caused as a side-effect of certain medicines such as lithium. If you are taking such a medicine and you develop diabetes insipidus, your doctor may recommend that the medicine be changed. However, only make changes to your medication on the advice of your doctor.

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus is not caused by a lack of ADH and so giving desmopressin will not treat the condition. If you have mild nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, your doctor may suggest that you drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. They may also suggest some changes to your diet to help reduce the amount of urine that you produce. For example, eating fewer salty and processed foods and fewer foods that contain protein (such as meat, fish and eggs). You may be referred to a dietician for specialist advice about your diet. You should not make changes to your diet without the advice of an expert.

If you have more severe nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, medication may be suggested. For example, a medicine called hydrochlorothiazide. This medicine can help to reduce the amount of urine that your kidneys produce.

Some other considerations and advice

If you have diabetes insipidus and you develop diarrhoea and/or vomiting, you need to pay particular attention to make sure that you drink plenty of fluids to help prevent lack of water in your body (dehydration). If you have any vomiting and/or serious diarrhoea, you should see a doctor. You also need to take care in hot weather because you will sweat more and so may become dehydrated more easily.

But it is also important that you don't become overloaded with water. This can happen if you are drinking more fluids than you are passing out in your urine or if you are taking too much desmopressin. Water overload can lead to problems with the levels of salts in your blood, particularly sodium. It can make your sodium levels drop too low. Signs that you may be water-overloaded can include headaches, weight gain and dizziness. Low sodium levels can make you feel drowsy and confused and in severe cases can lead to a fit (seizure) and unconsciousness. You should see your doctor if you are concerned about any of these symptoms. To avoid this, never take more desmopressin than you need and, if you are taking desmopressin, follow the advice of your doctor about how much fluid you should drink. Also, your doctor will usually recommend regular blood tests to check on your sodium and other salt levels if you have diabetes insipidus.

Your doctor may suspect diabetes insipidus by your typical symptoms and because of other things; for example, if you have had a recent head injury, surgery to your brain, etc. In order to confirm the diagnosis, various tests are usually suggested. These can include the following.

Blood and urine tests

For example:

To check the levels of sodium and potassium salts in your blood. These can be high in diabetes insipidus.

To check the level of sugar (glucose) in your blood and urine to exclude diabetes mellitus.

A water deprivation test

This is a special test where you must not drink any water or other fluids for a certain period of time (usually around 6-8 hours). The volume of urine that you produce will be measured to see if there is any change in the amount. If your body is working normally, the amount of urine that you produce should reduce if you have not drunk anything for a long time. However, if you have diabetes insipidus, there will be little change in your urine production.

Antidiuretic hormone test

After the period of fluid deprivation, you may then be given a drug that is similar to ADH. If you have cranial diabetes insipidus, once you have been given this drug, the amount of urine that you produce should reduce. The drug is replacing the ADH that you are lacking. If you have nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, you may have no, or only a small, response to the drug.

Other tests

Other tests may sometimes be suggested to look for possible causes of diabetes insipidus. For example, an MRI scan of your brain and pituitary gland.

Getting the balance right between how much water your body takes in and how much water your body passes out is very important. This is because a large proportion (about 70%) of your body is actually water. Also, water levels in your body help to control the levels of some important salts, particularly sodium and potassium.

Your body normally controls (regulates) water balance in two main ways:

By making you feel thirsty and so encouraging you to drink and take more water in.

Through the action of a hormone called antidiuretic hormone (ADH) which controls the amount of water passed out in your urine.

ADH is also known as vasopressin. It is made in a part of your brain called the hypothalamus. It is then transported to another part of your brain, the pituitary gland, from where it is released into your bloodstream. After its release, ADH has an effect on your kidneys. It causes your kidneys to pass out less water in your urine (your urine becomes more concentrated).

So, if your body is lacking in water (dehydrated), your thirst sensation will be triggered, encouraging you to drink. As well as this, more ADH will be released by your pituitary gland, so reducing the amount of water that is passed out in your urine. However, if you have too much water on board already, your thirst sensation will be switched off. This removes your desire to drink and take in more water. At the same time, less ADH will be released by your pituitary gland, so increasing the amount of water that is passed out in your urine (your urine becomes more diluted).

What are the causes of diabetes insipidus? 

Our kidneys remove excess body fluids from our bloodstream. This excess fluid waste is stored as urine in the bladder. If our body fluid levels drop due to, for example perspiration (sweating), our kidneys produce less urine in order to maintain a proper body fluid level balance. 

Our fluid volume and composition remains balanced through a combination of fluid consumption and excretion in the kidneys. The amount we consume is mainly dictated by our thirst, even though individual habits may result in consuming more than we need. Our fluid excretion rate (through our kidneys) is influenced significantly by the production of ADH (anti-diuretic hormone), also known as vasopressin. 

ADH is produced in the hypothalamus (a gland in the brain that also controls processes in the body, such as mood and appetite) and is stored in the pituitary gland (found just below the brain, behind the bridge of the nose). ADH is released into the bloodstream whenever it is needed. ADH also makes the kidney tubules reabsorb water back into the bloodstream - concentrating the urine. 

Diabetes insipidus occurs when something goes wrong with this system and the body is unable to properly regulate body fluid levels. There are different types of diabetes insipidus:

Central diabetes insipidus (cranial diabetes insipidus) - usually caused by damage to the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland, often as a result of surgery, a tumor, meningitis, inflammation or a head injury, which disrupts ADH production, storage and release. Central diabetes insipidus that is caused by a head injury, or surgery to your pituitary gland, is sometimes only a temporary condition that lasts for just a couple of weeks. On some occasions the exact cause is never determined.

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus - there is something wrong with the kidney tubules. The tubules cause fluids to be excreted or reabsorbed. Patients' kidneys do not respond properly to ADH. This may be caused by a congenital problem (inherited disorder) or some chronic (long-term) kidney disorder. Lithium, tetracycline and some other medications may also cause nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.

Gestational diabetes insipidus - occurs during pregnancy. An enzyme produced by the placenta may destroy AHD in the mother.

What are the signs and symptoms of diabetes insipidus? 

A symptom is something the patient senses and describes, while a sign is something other people, such as the doctor notice. For example, drowsiness may be a symptom while dilated pupils may be a sign. 

The main signs and symptoms of diabetes insipidus include:

Extreme thirst - patients find themselves having to drink water all the time. The constant thirst and a dry feeling are persistent; even after consuming large quantities of water.

Polyuria - excretion of very large quantities of urine (diluted). Urine output can range from 2.5 liters (2.6 quarts) per day to 15 liters (16 quarts) per day, compared to about 1.5 to 2.5 liters per day in other adults without the condition. 

Patients may find that they need to pass pale, watery urine as often as every 15 to 20 minutes. This may make it very hard to be out of the house if there is no toilet nearby. In the UK patients may receive a toilet facility card which allows them to use toilets in non-public places.

The following signs and symptoms are also possible:

Nocturia - having to get up from sleep to urinate. Disrupted sleeping patterns can lead to fatigue (tiredness, irritability, and concentration problems.

Enuresis - bed-wetting

Feeling unwell - patients commonly feel run down for much of the time.

The following signs and symptoms may be present among young children with diabetes insipidus:

Cool hands and feet

Delayed growth (failure to thrive)

Diapers (UK: nappies) which are excessively wet

Diarrhea

Dry skin

Fever

Inconsolable crying

Unexplained fussiness

Vomiting

Weight loss (failure to thrive)

Anybody who has excessive thirst and urination should see their doctor as soon as possible.

Diabetes insipidus is a condition in which the body cannot retain enough water. The patient is excessively thirsty and excretes large amounts of extremely diluted urine - a reduction in fluid intake does not reduce amounts and consistency of urine excretion. It is a rare condition, affecting approximately 1 in every 25,000 people. 

Diabetes insipidus is not related to diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes). The term diabetes on its own nearly always refers to diabetes mellitus. This article is about diabetes insipidus - the condition characterized by intense thirst and polyuria (excretion of large amounts of urine). 

In most cases diabetes insipidus occurs because the body does not properly produce, store or release a key hormone - arginine vasopressin (AVP), also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH). It may also occur when the kidneys do not respond properly to ADH (antidiuretic hormone). 

There are three types of diabetes insipidus:

Neurogenic diabetes insipidus - a deficiency with ADH (antidiuretic hormone).

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus - insensitivity of the kidneys to ADH.

Gestational diabetes insipidus - in very rare cases diabetes insipidus may also occur during pregnancy.

According to Medilexicon's medical dictionary:

Diabetes insipidus is "Chronic excretion of very large amounts of pale urine of low specific gravity, causing dehydration and extreme thirst; ordinarily results from inadequate output of pituitary antidiuretic hormone; the urine abnormalities may be mimicked as a result of excessive fluid intake, as in psychogenic polydipsia. Two types exist: central and nephrogenic. Autosomal dominant [MIM*125700, *125800, *192340], X-linked [MIM*304800 and *304900], and even autosomal recessive forms [MIM*222000] have been described."

Yoga is often about breath, more than movement. Many new practitioners of Bikram and other types of yoga must learn how to properly breathe as their practice develops. Follow these steps to get it right.

Instructions

Use the Two Methods of Breath for Bikram Yoga

1

Study the two types of breath used during Bikram yoga: the 80-20 breath and the exhalation breath. Each is used during different poses and achieves different results within the body.

2

Begin with the 80-20 breath. Take a deep breath. Lift your ribs. Engage and stretch your abdominal muscles, and then hold the breath as though you were about to go underwater. As you hold the posture, breathe normally, keeping your lungs 80 percent full. Exhale only the upper 20 percent of the breath and inhale into that upper 20 percent.

3

Use the 80-20 breath for standing poses and back-bending poses. This breath builds energy and balance within each pose.

4

Release air on an exhalation to move deeper into poses. The exhalation breath is as simple as it sounds. Once you move fully into the pose, breathing returns to normal.

5

Apply the exhalation breath during forward-bending poses. It protects the lower back from strain, relaxes the body, assists in proper rotation of the pelvis over the thighs and compresses the digestive organs to aid in digestion.

6

Train the organs of respiration to function properly. By utilizing the two breathing methods, you teach your abdominals to tone and stretch while you stand, which facilitates your posture.

Study the Importance of Breath in Yoga

7

Go within. By focusing on your breathing, you disengage from the external world. Thoughts of work, family and obligation diminish, allowing you to connect with your true, inner self.

8

Connect breath and movement. This mindfulness can help you move into and out of yoga postures in a safe, attentive way.

9

Allow your breath to cleanse you. Deep breathing is more cleansing than our normal shallow breathing. Note how yoga breathing mimics the breathing of infants and young children while they sleep.

10

Bring fresh, oxygenated blood into the body. Freshly oxygenated blood stems from healthy breathing patterns, allowing beneficial nutrients to enter the bloodstream.

source : http://www.ehow.com/how_2047667_breathe-bikram-yoga.html#ixzz2i03vdjPi

Bikram yoga is one of the renowned form of yoga which is said to burn the most number of calories as compared to the other forms. Just scroll down to know the number of calories burnt by this form of yoga and how does it help your body.

Yoga is a traditional form of exercise. There are many different types of yoga, which are practiced around the world. One of the forms of yoga is Bikram yoga. This form of yoga was invented by a yoga guru, who goes with the name Bikram Choudhary. Hot yoga is the other name given to Bikram yoga. The number of calories burned by this form of yoga is much more than in any other form.

Bikram Yoga Facts

In Bikram yoga, there is a series of 26 yoga poses, which are practiced. This series is performed in a heated room. The temperature is set at 100 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Along with the temperature, humidity is also maintained at 40%. With the high temperature and humidity levels, a person begins to sweat profusely. Therefore, the body warms up quickly. A warm body ensures deeper stretching, but at the same time reduces chances of injury. Every session of Bikram yoga is made up of 90 minutes. Along with the 26 postures, 2 breathing exercises are also practiced. There is a strict format in which the hot yoga workouts are to be performed.

The most important of the benefits of this yoga is weight loss. Therefore, it is not uncommon to see Bikram yoga and weight loss spoken in same breath. Other than the weight loss, there are other benefits of hot yoga as well. They include promoting flexibility as well as help in metabolism. For further information, take a look at what is hot yoga.

Bikram Yoga – Calories Burned

The number of calories burned in hot yoga vary according to the intensity in which the poses are practiced. Like any other form of exercise, more the intensity of the yoga poses, more are number of calories burned. The experts opine, that the calories burned during Bikram yoga is as high as 500 to 1200 calories per session. It is difficult to give the breakup of the calories burned per hour, as the duration of each class is 90 mins.

Calories burned per 90 mins of this yoga session vary depending on a number of factors. The most important factor is the weight of the person practicing the form of yoga. More the weight of the person, more are the calories burned in a session. We will see this with an example. If a person weighing 180 pounds practices Bikram yoga, he will burn approximately 1000 calories. On the other hand a person who weighs 120 to 160 pounds will burn anywhere around 350 to 700 calories.

Now you will ask me why are the calories burned by yoga, less as compared to calories burned in a session of Bikram yoga. It is because of the high temperature in which one works out, while doing this yoga. The high temperature loosens the muscles. This in turn helps in burning more calories. At the same time, the high temperature are also responsible for relaxing the body, which in turn helps in stretching the body deeper. Since different muscles and ligaments are worked out during the session, calories are burned even after the person has finished his session.

It is important that you practice the yoga exercises regularly. This will not only help in weight loss, but you will also be able to reap other benefits. Wearing the right clothes while performing this yoga will help you to burn more calories. Do not forget to consume sufficient liquids after the class, as well as before the class.

source : http://www.buzzle.com/articles/bikram-yoga-calories-burned-in-bikram-yoga.html

Everyone wants to be healthy and will try everything in their power to achieve their goal. If you are familiar with Yoga, you must have heard of Bikram Yoga. It is important to be well-informed before undergoing the Bikram yoga practice which is always performed in « Torture Chambers » or Bikram Yoga Studios with a 40 percent humidity factor necessary for the effectiveness of the workouts.

« Hot Yoga » or Bikram Yoga is done in a chamber or studio maintained at 105 degrees Fahrenheit temperature. The certified instructors advise students to consume plenty of water before, during and after practice to avoid dehydration brought about by too much sweating. Since the skin is the largest excretory organ of the body, more toxins are being excreted through the skin by sweating. The more you sweat, the more toxins are eliminated from your body.

Bikram Choudhury, Bikram yoga developer, selected and developed 26 postures from Hatha Yoga. The selected postures aim to move every single internal organ, vein and artery of the human body. The involvement of all the muscles, tendons and ligaments in every pose is scientifically arranged and developed further to bring out the maximum desired effect of a flexible healthy body.

The toxins or waste products from all the glands and organs of the excretory system are flushed away by Hatha yoga. The regular excretion of toxins from the body is important for the normal functioning of the cells. Bikram yoga makes use of the heated chambers to assist in the cleansing process. When you perspire, the skin flushes out the toxins and impurities from the body.

While practicing Bikram yoga, it is normal for the students to feel nauseous, dizzy and tired after their first yoga practice. So, it is good to be prepared by drinking plenty of water. To avoid dehydration and even electrolyte imbalance from workouts, students need an additional 60 to 80 ounces of water from the normal daily water requirement of an adult which is 8 glasses a day.

While undergoing the program, students will experience the beneficial effects of continued practice such as weight loss, improved flexibility, toned muscles, better digestion, higher energy levels, better sleep, reduced chronic pain, stress relief, cardiovascular benefits and recovery from eating disorders, calm attitude, positive disposition, youthful looking skin, stronger immune system and enhanced mood. Bikram yoga can make a determined individual physically and mentally healthier. Start your practice today!

Abbey Reynolds is a yoga instructor in North Dakota. She has been practicing yoga for more than 8 years and has been a certified yoga instructor for 6 years. Her life goal is to spread the therapeutic benefits of yoga and help beginners to find the way to these benefits. Visit her site to learn how you can enjoy these yoga benefits.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6915926

Bikram yoga is one of the most effective and popular forms of hot yoga. But this popular form of yoga seems to have certain advantages and disadvantages. Find in this article about Bikram yoga pros and cons.

Yoga, for years together, has been practiced as the way of life, be it hot yoga or regular yoga. But these days, regular yoga seems to have taken a back seat and in its place hot yoga is in vogue. One the forms of hot yoga is Bikram yoga. It was initiated by Bikram Choudhury, the basis of which were the traditional techniques of regular yoga. The popularity of this form of hot yoga began in the early 1970s. This form of yoga includes 26 yoga postures and 2 breathing exercises. It is ideally practiced in 105 degrees Fahrenheit with 40% humidity, and considered as the most effective form of hot yoga. The popularity of this hot yoga grew to the extent that celebrities like Lady Gaga, Venus and Serena Williams, Elton Brand and so on were also reported of practicing Bikram yoga. What follows next is a detailed discussion about the disfavors and benefits of this yoga.

Pros

Flexibility

Since, Bikram yoga is practiced in 105 degrees Fahrenheit, it usually heats up the body, and a warm body increases flexibility. According to Bikram Choudhury, a flexible body can be molded in any way you want. Moreover, the 26 postures of this form of yoga strengthens the spine, stretches muscles and improves posture, thus increasing flexibility.

Improves Blood Circulation and Releases Toxins

Bikram yoga works on two dynamics, one is called the extension and the other is called compression. While performing various asanas, the practitioner compresses various parts of the body, temporarily cutting off blood circulation. This activity causes the heart to pump more blood to make up for the shortage. Once you are out of the yoga posture, new oxygenated blood is restored in parts of the body that were compressed during the process. The influx of fresh blood is known to improve blood circulation and release various infections, bacteria and toxins from the body.

Tones Your Body

The heated studios and the effective 26 asanas no doubt would help you reduce weight, but the best thing about this activity is it tones your muscles and various parts of the body. This eliminates the sagging effect and also helps in dispersing the stored fat, to get you out of the vicious circle of fats, therefore has a great body toning effect.

Induces Deeper and Peaceful Sleep

The two breathing exercises included in the series of other exercises, induces better sleep than normal. The breathing activity helps you break from the hectic lifestyle and helps you concentrate on the breathing process which in turn, relaxes your mind, releases stress, and allows you to relax for a deeper and more peaceful sleep.

Improves Entire Health

Bikram yoga not only helps relieve stress or strengthen joints and muscles, but also improves digestion and metabolism, which ultimately boosts the immune system. Therefore, it helps promote an overall feeling of peace and well-being.

Cons

Dehydration

The heat and humidity of Bikram yoga will make you sweat, plus the physical strain your body is put through for the whole 90 minutes, will drain all the water out of your body. If you do not restore the lost water, you might put yourself at risk for dehydration. Hence, keep a bottle close by and keep sipping little water to replenish the water levels in the water.

Cardiovascular Risks

While practicing the Bikram yoga poses, you usually have to hold the yoga poses for about 30 seconds or so. This is when you push your body too hard or may also have to overexert your body, which would lead to heatstroke, dizziness, nausea, fainting and other side effects.

Quick Weight Loss

Although the amount of calories burnt per session vary from person to person, on an average it ranges between 600 to 1300 depending upon the intensity of the workout. Losing weight in a steady fashion is healthy and sustainable. Losing weight too fast is unhealthy, which would lead to severe weakness and also a quick weight gain the moment you lose touch with Bikram yoga.

Controversy

There are many medical practitioners who consider Bikram yoga unsafe while many others swear by it. Moreover, there is also a different school of thought, which says Bikram yoga does not incorporate the spiritual aspect of yoga and is more of a workout than practicing mind-body oneness.

Other Problems

Bikram yoga can get monotonous with only 26 asanas. Moreover, there are a few postures that require extreme bending, squatting and stretching which might result in torn muscles or other pains and injuries.

Fortunately, the above cons can be eliminated easily by following correct instructions and by pushing yourself only to a point, where you are comfortable, in that particular asana. Also before practicing Bikram yoga make sure you are tolerant to the heated studio and always look for a certified instructor.

By Divya Bichu

source  : http://www.buzzle.com/articles/bikram-yoga-pros-and-cons.html

MGH begins a one of a kind study that looks at the mental health benefits of Bikram yoga.

Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) announced this week that researchers are launching a new pilot study to examine a potential link between Bikram yoga and improved mental health in clinically depressed patients.

Despite Bikram yoga’s growing popularity, no previous medical study has looked at the possible mental health benefits of this form of hot yoga. This MGH study is looking to fill in where previous studies have come up short.

Approximately 15 percent of adults are affected by Major Depressive Disorder, or MDD, in the U.S. and yoga’s regular intense exercise and mindfulness have previously proven beneficial as antidepressant treatments. However, the heat involved in Bikram yoga (rooms are heated to 105 degrees with 40 percent humidity) and its strict 26 pose routine, have been previously unstudied.

Dr. Maurizio Fava, director of the MGH Depression Clinical and Research Program and professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, said in a press release last week:

“Although there is only minimal empirical evidence, heat has traditionally been used to promote wellness. The heated environment may enhance the antidepressant effects of this form of yoga.”

The pilot trial currently underway is designed to examine the safety, tolerability, and effectiveness of Bikram yoga on participants compared to control group of participants on a waitlist. Participants are either assigned an eight week waitlist period or an eight week Bikram yoga regimen. Once a participant has completed the waitlist period, they will then complete the eight week yoga program. Researchers will be looking closely at the effects on participants’ depression and quality of life as well as certain physiological warning signs of depression such as inflammation, autonomic arousal, and levels of stress hormones. If the study’s findings show that Bikram yoga’s strict style and heated rooms improve mental health in patients with MDD, this form of yoga may come to replace potentially dangerous antidepressant drugs.

Dr. David Mischoulon, director of research at the MGH Depression Clinical and Research Program and co-investigator in the study said last week:

“ This is an important study. If hot yoga proves to be effective, it would be an excellent and safe treatment option for people who have not benefited from regular antidepressants, cannot tolerate their side effects, or choose not to take them.”

The study is looking to randomly select 30 adults, ages 18 to 80, in good physical health who are experiencing the symptoms of MDD to participate. Researchers say there are already more than 60 participants eager to get involved.

All participants will receive free psychiatric and medical care—no health insurance required—and free yoga sessions courtesy of Bikram Yoga Boston studio owners Jill and Brad Koontz.

Article Source: http://www.bostonmagazine.com/health/blog/2013/09/13/bikram-yoga-may-treat-depression/

Bikram yoga, also known as hot yoga, is a type of yoga that is performed in a room heated to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Doing yoga at this high temperature causes you to sweat profusely, ridding the body of toxins. Raising the body temperature also increases flexibility, which helps you get deeper into the poses and stretches. The deep stretching in bikram yoga builds muscle in every part of the body. By following a few instructions, you can easily build strength by performing this method of yoga founded by Bikram Choudhury.

Instructions

1

Pay attention. Doing the poses in their proper sequence is important to gaining strength. Watch the instructor and follow her lead. She will tell how to correctly perform the poses and transition from one to the next without risking injury. Maintaining the required flow keeps the muscles contracted, which builds them up.

2

Drink enough water. If your muscles are poorly hydrated, it’s harder to do the poses, and thus less likely that you’re strengthening those muscles. One sure sign of dehydration during bikram yoga class is lightheadedness. Nausea is also a common reaction.

3

Focus on form. Getting deeper into the poses increases the stretching of the muscle, which builds strength. However, incorrectly performing poses will not build strength, and can cause injury. The mirrors in the room are there so students can check their form, so use them. If possible, practice the difficult poses outside of class to master them and make their form easier to perfect. Some instructors give private lessons to people who need extra help mastering bikram yoga poses.

4

Don’t eat anything for two to three hours before class starts. The heat in the room and the intense movement from pose to pose do not mesh well with a full stomach. Bring a healthy snack to eat for after class, such as fruits or vegetables. Always remember to feed the body healthy foods, since gaining muscle depends on a proper diet.

5

Give 100 percent. Just like any sport, the more that’s put into performing bikram yoga, the more the results will show.

If you’re interested in trying your hand at yoga, the sheer number of types and practices can make you feel like a total newbie. One obvious difference lies between « hot yoga » — also known as Bikram yoga — and « cold yoga, » the label for any type of yoga not practiced in the same conditions as Bikram. Since both types have specific benefits, weigh your options before you roll up your mat and head to class . so you can choose which one you prefer and which one is better for your health if you have any health concerns. And, of course, speak to a doctor to help you make your decision.

Some Like It Cold

Many varieties fall under the « cold yoga » category, with various types for different goals and outcomes. Some options include regular Hatha yoga with a mix of poses and meditation, power yoga for a workout, Iyengar yoga for proper form, integrative yoga therapy for healing and Ananda for mental and spiritual development.

Some Like It Hot

One popular form of yoga that has spread is hot yoga, which involves performing yoga in a heated studio of 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and with humidity levels of 40 percent or higher. Popular Bikram yoga is one type of hot yoga — the hottest type with temperatures of at least 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Argument for Hot

Hot yoga can help you burn more calories than a cold yoga class since your body works harder to control your temperature. In addition, the Bikram’s Yoga College of India website claims that performing yoga in a hot environment releases toxins from the body and makes the body more flexible to achieve poses, and that cold yoga can cause injury since the body is not properly warmed up and malleable.

The Argument for Cold

Other yoga enthusiasts and professionals opt for cold yoga, which can include regular room temperatures. One concern is that the heat of hot yoga can push your body past where it would normally go, resulting in injury. By practicing in a cold or warm temperature, you will follow your body’s limits better. Practicing yoga in a cooler environment can also prevent problems from the heat, like dehydration, heat-related concerns like heat stroke, and the aggravation of health conditions like fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy. Nonetheless, a warm temperature — not hot — might be the best choice, since it helps relax the muscles, the nervous system and the mind without the risks of extreme heat.

You finally let your friend talk you into trying Bikram Yoga despite the fact that everyone else you know laughs at the mention of people writhing in 100-degree heat. Now, you’re standing in that hot room sweating from pores you didn’t know you had and wondering if anyone has ever died doing this or if you’ll be the first. Here are some keys to surviving your first Bikram Yoga class.

Instructions

1

Dress properly. If you try a big T-shirt in Bikram Yoga like you wear to the gym, you’ll have a face full of cotton the first time you try to reach your toes. Wear close-fitting yoga clothes that allow you to bend and stretch easily. No matter your size, you will want to wear as little as possible to beat the heat.

2

Stay calm. The heat and exertion may cause you to panic and even fear for your life. Know that people in worse shape than you have lived through a Bikram Yoga class. Stay calm, breathe deeply and focus on your own eyes in the mirror. Try not to think about how hot it is.

3

Drink plenty of water. Even if you stand still for the whole class, you will sweat buckets because it’s so hot. Drink water before class, and don’t eat anything. You’ll appreciate having an empty stomach when you think you may be taking your last breath. Bring water to class and drink as much as you can hold when you’re instructed to drink.

4

Make no extra movements. The idea of any yoga practice is holding each pose as long as possible without moving. In Bikram, this is especially important. Don’t waste energy fixing your hair or adjusting your shorts between poses.

5

Learn the rest positions. During the standing poses, the rest position is your starting position. Standing with your feet together and your arms straight down by your sides, wait for the instructor to begin the next pose. Anytime you feel you can’t continue your yoga, assume this resting posture and slow your breathing. During the sitting poses, the rest position is lying on your back, feet together, arms sraight down by your sides and palms up.

Bikram yoga, also known as Hot yoga, is a popular method of yoga practice that provides many benefits to participants. Bikram is unique among other forms of yoga because classes always take place in a heated room, which is said to provide many benefits to users.

History

Bikram Yoga is a form of yoga that was created by Bikram Choudhury, a yoga master, in the 1960s.

Detoxification

When Bikram yoga is practiced in a very warm room, the skin releases toxins through sweat. In addition to promoting overall well-being, this may also improve the appearance of skin.

Weight Loss

The consistent practice of Bikram yoga increases metabolism, which often results in weight loss and provides overall toning of the entire body.

Improved Mental Well-Being

Bikram is extremely mentally and physically challenging. Participants often find that the dedication they devote to Bikram yoga helps relieve stress and provide a channel to focus concerns and worries.

Increased Flexibility

By being practiced in a warm room, Bikram yoga loosens muscles and provides a good platform for stretching the body and improving flexibility.

Improved Endurance

Bikram provides a cardiovascular workout and increases endurance with continued practice.

Physical Strength

Bikram requires the user to hold challenging poses for extended periods of time, resulting in increased physical strength.

If you’ve taken the course before inside the 105 degree F area, you’ll know how the intensive exercise causes you to sweat more than most sporting activities individuals participate in. Among the most frequent health inquiries inquired is with regards to the number of calories expended in a single session.

A 90 minute session of bikram yoga can burn at least 300 to 600 calories whereas people who perform advanced bikram yoga burns between 500-1000 calories per session. Of course, the more effort you put in to it, the more calories you burn. If you are a person with average weight performing bikram yoga at a moderate intensity, you may be able to burn about 400-500 calories in an hour. The heat in the room helps to loosen the muscles allowing for more flexible movements and helps to avoids injuries. The intensity of the workouts together with the high temperature in the room increases the cardiovascular activities similar to an aerobic workout. Depending on the heart rate, weight and muscles mass of a person, a single bikram yoga session can help burn approximately 500 to 1000 calories. This contributes to one of the most attractive benefits of bikram yoga which is weight loss.

According to the bikram yoga practitioners, the heated conditions in the room increase the energy demands which in turn increases the caloric needs. This demand for calories is met by burning up the fat stored in the body. The approximate amount of calories burned in a 90-minute bikram yoga session can be calculated using the standard “calories burned” formula which is (METS * 3.5 * Weight in kg/200) * duration of the session, where MET = Metabolic equivalent of task based on rate of oxygen used at rest. Since this formula does not take into account a person’s muscle mass or their heart rate while resting or working, the results derived from this calculation are only approximate values.

Burning more calories not only means doing all the 26 poses in sequence but also believing that you can do it. You need to perform the exercises at least 3 sessions a week to burn all those calories. If you can do more than 3 sessions per week, you can burn even more calories and reach your goal much faster. Another important thing to remember is to eat a well balanced diet and to drink plenty of liquids so that you remain properly hydrated. You need to understand the importance and benefits of each bikram pose and perform them correctly in order to burn the calories effectively.

Because of the various benefits that bikram yoga has to offer, it has become one of world’s most popular forms of yoga. More and more people are in to practicing bikram yoga for the obvious benefits, especially burning of calories so that they can achieve their fitness and weight loss goals.

Hot yoga allows its practitioners to safely go deeper into poses, helps release toxins in the body and also reduces the risk of injury, according to The ABC of Yoga. The benefits of practicing yoga in a heated room are widely debated, according to the Seattle Times, which stated that « few researchers have studied the physical and mental effects of hot yoga…leaving…practitioners as the main guide to its benefits or harms. » Nonetheless, there are several steps to take both before and during your hot yoga sessions that will help you get the most out of your yoga practice.

Step 1

Fuel yourself early, and skip the pre-workout snack. Bikram yoga is rather demanding, so it’s crucial to fuel your body throughout the day in preparation for the class. Eat plenty of calories — but try to avoid heavy, greasy foods that are sure to cause a churning belly during your class — and drink plenty of water throughout the day. Stop eating and drinking at least one to two hours before class.

Step 2

Be prepared. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that fits snugly against the body. Along with your yoga mat, come to each class with a bottle of water to keep you hydrated and a towel to wipe away the sweat. If you’re prone to heavy sweating, a larger non-slip yoga towel might also come in handy — just lay it across your yoga mat to keep you from slipping and sliding as you move through the poses.

Step 3

Talk to your teacher before class. Whether this is your first or your fiftieth class, let your teacher know when you need extra help. Most bikram yoga teachers are passionate about the practice — and they want to help you achieve your best possible practice.

Step 4

Accept your personal limitations. It can be a bit frustrating to be the only person in a crowded Bikram class who can’t perform a particular pose, but pushing your body too hard will only cause injury. You might breeze through the class one day, only to find yourself struggling the next day. Try to begin each class with no expectations, and understand that your body is always changing and learning.

Step 5

Learn to love child’s pose. It’s a very restful pose, and it’s the one you should return to any time you feel overwhelmed, dizzy or nauseated. Take a few minutes to rest, and once you’re feeling better, quietly ease back into the lesson.

Step 6

Practice at least six days per week for the first two months of your Bikram practice. Although it might be challenging to set aside this much time in your busy schedule, an almost-daily dose of Bikram helps your body and mind better adapt. After two months, adjust your Bikram schedule based on your body’s needs — some people feel best when practicing five times per week, while others prefer the heat just two or three times a week.

Bikram yoga studios are called « torture chambers » by the founder, Bikram Choudhury, because participants work in 104 degree Fahrenheit conditions. The heated environment helps with the execution of yoga poses by loosening up the muscles, according to Choudhury. Once executed properly, most of the 26 poses of Bikram yoga support toning of the lower body.

Thigh Muscle Building

Standing Bow requires one leg to be lifted behind the body and flexed at the knee so that the heel ends up behind the head. Half Tortoise pose requires posers to sit on their heels with their torso bent forward. Both poses stretch the quadriceps. Awkward pose balances the body on the toes, and Balancing Stick balances the body on one leg. Each forces contraction of the outer and inner thigh muscles to support the calf muscles and bones of the feet to maintain stability. Locust pose, Full Locust pose and Bow pose lift both legs simultaneously while lying prone. They contract and build strength in the muscles in the back of the thighs.

Joint Flexing and Tendon Lengthening

Standing Separate Leg Stretching pose stretches all of the leg tendons by making posers bend at the waist with each leg outstretched to each side of the body. It also provides a great hamstring stretch. In addition, several Bikram yoga poses enhance flexibility in the knees by placing them in a state of sustained flexion. These include Awkward pose, Eagle pose, Tree pose, Fixed Firm pose, Half Tortoise pose and Standing Bow. Eagle pose specifically makes the body look like it is wrapping around itself. It increases flexibility in hip, ankle and knee joints.

Calf Building and Hamstring Stretching

Balancing the upper body on the toes with the knees flexed as with the Awkward pose strengthens the calves by placing them in a state of contraction for the length of the pose. Standing Head to Knee is a self-explanatory pose that requires one leg to be lifted to hip level. It stretches the hamstrings and calves of the elevated leg and contracts the calves of the standing leg. Another pose that stretches the hamstrings and contracts the calves is the Wind Removing Pose, which draws the knees to the chest in a supine position.

Foot Strengthening

Awkward pose and Toe Stand require balancing the entire body on the toes in a squatting position. They utilize all of the bones of the feet. Awkward pose is believed to relieve cold feet, and both poses are credited with relief of arthritis and rheumatism in the legs. Toe Stand is a harder balancing act than Awkward Pose because the foot of one leg rests atop the thigh of the opposing leg. The hip and knee joints of the elevated leg open up during this pose. Wind Removing Pose, Locust Pose and Bow Pose also stretch and flex muscles in the feet.

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Bikram Yoga Skin Benefits 

Bikram yoga or hot yoga helps you accomplish your ideal body weight. It also helps you to improve your flexibility. Bikram yoga maintains your correct posture for that younger look. But are you aware that there are also several benefits of Bikram Yoga for your skin?

A hot yoga can help in cleansing and detoxifying your skin. Detoxification is essential for beauty. It is the process that leads to a flawless, blemish-free skin. Bikram Yoga has to be performed in a heated room and that is where all the benefits start coming in. When you do sessions of hot yoga, it creates the feeling that as if you are inside a sauna room. Once you break out in sweat, the cleansing process takes place. Profuse sweating gives your skin a radiant glow. Bikram yoga also improves the circulation of your blood that helps you get rid of the toxins in your body.

The high temperature work out that Bikram yoga gives you is known to improve blood circulation which helps to cleanse your skin and open up the pores. The sweat pushes out all the accumulated waste and toxins helping to clear your skin of all those pimples and blemishes. The result is a healthy glowing complexion.

You have probably heard people talking about it in your workplace, in the subway, in the coffee shop. That it really works. That it made them lose weight. Yes, Bikram yoga is hot. It may seem everybody else has tried it but you.

But before you dive in, it is important to be more informed. Because when people say Bikram is a hot yoga, they do not only mean it’s well-liked and in style. They also mean it literally. A session in Bikram yoga means exposure to elevated temperatures-105 degrees and about 40% humidity-for 90 minutes. It will make you sweat buckets.

It’s All about Sweating?

Now there’s a little confusion surrounding the sweating part. Some say sweating alone does not make you lose weight. Or it does but only temporarily. Once you drink fluids to rehydrate then you regain all the weight you just lost.

Well, yes and no. Yes, excess weight is not something you can simply sweat off without proper physical exertion. No, sweating is not the sole reason for weight loss when you do Bikram yoga. It is only part of the reason.

The Bikram « Glow »

Bikram involves 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises, which as you carry out inside the heated room give you a total body workout. Your heart rate increases. Your muscles, warmed and flexed, get stronger with regular practice and eventually burn more fat easily.

True, Bikram yoga can be challenging because you have to be able to stand the heat. But you also have to realize that those who do must have developed great endurance and will power. Though at some point, when they were just starting out, they were all novices just like you now.

Bikram yoga is a form of “hot yoga” consisting of a 26-posture series performed in a heated, humidified room. With rooms heated to 105 degrees, each 90-minute class is performed to scripted instruction. Studios are popping up all over the world and are filled with devoted practitioners for whom this is their primary method of health therapy.

Traditional Health Therapy

Traditional health therapy consists primarily of pharmaceutical treatment but can also include diet and exercise for the treatment of conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes. Many of these pharmaceutical treatments, although effective, can be accompanied by side effects that can negatively impact other health outcomes and overall quality of life. For instance, according to the Mayo Clinic, cholesterol-lowering statin medications can cause muscle pain, liver damage and memory loss.

Bikram Yoga as Therapy

While only a few published studies on the health benefits of Bikram yoga exist, there is emerging evidence that this alternative therapy may have medicinal properties. A recent study published in the « Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine » showed cholesterol reductions with just eight weeks of Bikram yoga. Another study in the « Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies » showed a reduction in glucose levels in the same time frame.

Yoga vs. Traditional Medicine

While a collective study on the overall risks or potential negative side effects associated with yoga has not been published, as with all exercise, there is a risk of potential injury. The aforementioned studies were conducted in adults ranging from ages 18 to 65, and the only negative side effect reported was acute or delayed muscle soreness, which was likely from the calisthenics-like work during the postures.

Considerations

While more studies are needed to establish the long-term benefits and potential risks of Bikram yoga practice, always stop exercising if you feel faint, week or nauseous. Also, stop and seek traditional medical care if you feel pain. Consult your primary care physician before starting this or any other exercise program especially if you are at high risk of developing heart disease or have a preexisting condition.