IBS and debulking agents

I have IBS and my doctor told me to take bulking agents on a regular basis. Will this help my disorder?

Unfortunately IBS is a difficult disorder to treat. Not all patients respond to the same medications. Moreover, even the responses are variable with the same medication. In general, patients with IBS do not respond to bulking agents like bran or psyllium. The only way to know is to try them out. Bulking agents are safe but they appear to worsen the symptoms of IBS in most patients. if you have tried cereals and this has not helped your IBS, i suggest you change your doctor or try something else.

Cocoa to lower blood pressure

Is it true that ingesting cocoa products can lower blood pressure?

In the last decade, many health miracles have been attributed to cocoa products. Almost every week someone seems to be cured of cancer or a serious medical disorder after ingesting cocoa. Cocoa does contains strong antioxidants, which are claimed to be good for health. However, as far as health is concerned, the effects of cocoa are not consistent, unpredictable or unreliable. 

The few studies on cocoa on blood pressure lowering did not show any benefit. The blood pressure lowering was minimal and similar to that obtained with a placebo (that is the same response you would get by drinking your own urine). If you have high blood pressure, I suggest you go and see your doctor. Fooling around with this silent disorder can lead to serious complications. In the meantime, stop smoking, eat less and walk more. The only thing cocoa will do - is give you severe constipation.

Finger in the arse

During sex, my girlfriend wants me to put my finger in her arse. Is this safe?

Well, some people find is pleasant to have a finger in the arse during sex. It is also known as postillionage. There is no harm to your girlfriend as long as your nails are not sharp and you are gentle.

On your part, you should not suck on the finger afterwards or place it any other orifice of your body without first washing the hands.

Some men also find it exciting to have the woman place a finger in the arse. Anecdotal reports indicate that it enhances the erection. This is a new trend in sex and statistics indicate that at least 2-5% of women/men, love it. I guess, different strokes for different folks.

Bedbugs in hotels-is there a problem?

Is the bedbug problem under control in hotels?

Unfortunately no, bedbugs are seeing a resurgence almost everywhere. The problem is the lack of reporting. A fancy hotel is unlikely to ever comment that they have a bed bug problem, otherwise they lose business. But in reality, the problem is huge. Unlike most insects and household vermin, bedbugs are a lot more difficult to get rid off. These creatures are hardy and can survive in almost any environment. Besides the home, you are also likely to find bedbugs in hotels, hospitals, movie theaters, and anywhere where humans socialize.

Hotels and bedbugs

Is it possible to know if a hotel has bedbugs?

No, you can check the bed, the carpet, crevices and mattress, but bedbugs are not easily seen. They usually hide in places where you may never think of looking. You are more likely to find them along the cracks and crevices and along the headboard. But the way hotel beds are built, it is impossible to dismantle them and check for bedbugs. You have two choices if you are worried about bedbugs- do not go to the hotel or sleep outside in the park or the bench.

Insecticide to kill bedbugs

Do insecticide sprays work against bed bugs?

More than likely the insecticide spray will make you sick. Today, bedbugs are resistant to almost every known insecticide. So if you go on spraying these toxic chemicals in your home, it is you and your family who is going to need treatment in hospital. Insect experts claim that we have run out of solutions on to kill these creatures. The role of chemicals and insecticides is no longer practical or effective. The only way to prevent bedbugs is being aware how these critters can enter your home. Once inside your home, they are like herpes- they stay forever.

Artichoke to lower cholesterol

Recently my alternative healthcare practitioner suggested I take artichoke to lower my blood cholesterol. Does it work?

Many people eat artichoke leaf extracts for the treatment of elevated lipids. However, there are no good studies to show that it does anything. The few limited studies are not impressive and the lowering of cholesterol is mild at best. If you have high cholesterol, I suggest you stop relying on artichoke leaves. I highly recommend exercise and if that fails you may need to take the statin medications. In the meantime, stop smoking and decrease ingestion of fatty foods. Stop relying on a single plant or herb to maintain good health.