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Archive for November, 2010

Anti-aging is a bit of a misnomer and I’ve yet to meet anyone who has turned back the hands of time. However, as we age our skin becomes depleted of nourishment and hydration which leads to pre-mature skin aging. Antiaging skin care are formulated to renew and reclaim our youthful appearance.

Through a combination of hydration, protection with antioxidants, and anti wrinkle creams, lotions and moisturizers, those of us in the baby-boomer stage of life can add years to aging or damaged skin.

Antiaging skin care begins with several fundamentals we should all follow together with the use of effective skin care. Diet, fitness and health, together with maintaining proper hydration for healthy cell membranes and a bit of scientific “know-how”, allows us to look years younger, slow or halt pre-mature aging, improve suppleness and smoothness, and somewhat “turn back the hands of time”.

Keeping Your Skin Clean

As simple as this may sound, many skin problems result from lack of proper cleansing. Clogged pores can cause skin rashes, rosacea, blackheads and whiteheads, and prevent the proper irrigation of pores. Dermal layers require adequate moisture and circulation; and nutrition can be hampered without proper cleansing.

As part of a daily skin care regimen, using a facial cleanser in the morning and at night before bed is recommended. Avoid cleansers with harsh surfactants that may irritate the skin – this only worsens the problem and my offset gains from products formulated to treat or protect.

Oily or dry skin may need special attention, but a good, deep cleaning, removing makeup and pat drying are the first best steps towards protecting your skin from aging quicker than you would like.

Hydrating Your Skin

You have probably heard by now that our bodies are made-up in large part of water. Water is the primary component of skin cells, so it holds true that proper hydration is important. Moisture content directly effects healthy cell maturation and development, while improving circulation and delivery of nutrients.

Maintaining adequate levels of bodily fluids is a must. As the doctor says, drink plenty of fluids and avoid liquids high in caffeine and sugar. Caffeine is a diuretic that acts to deplete fluids and sugar is known to increase metabolism, both flushing nutrients and reducing fluid levels. It goes without saying diet and regular exercise and stopping smoking (if you do) are hugely helpful.

Anti-Aging Skin Care

Though anti aging covers a broad topic, to keep the conversation succinct and to focus on the most effective products, anti aging skin care can be categorized into a relatively small group:

Wrinkle Treatment

Antioxidants Skin Care

Age Spots

Dry Skin

Enlarged Pores

Body Firming

Spider Veins

Stretch Marks

Granted this is not an all encompassing list, but it covers many of the skin care issues we face as we age. Skin care is fundamentally developed to address symptoms, but effective products can remedy the causes as well. Let’s take a closer look at antiaging skin care and how it can help in our anti aging “quest”.

Wrinkle treatment comes primarily in the form of wrinkle creams formulated to reduce the density and depth of wrinkles. Many provide added hydration that acts to reinforce and provide nutrients to cell membranes – improving the skin’s health, while improving healthy cell rejuvenation.

Argireline and Matrixyl are two of the most commonly used active ingredients. These peptide compounds act similar to BOTOX in that they relax facial tissue – smoothing wrinkled skin and eliminating fine lines. Many are somewhat temporary in nature, though consistent use will aid to further prevent wrinkles.

Common in anti wrinkle eye and face cream, Argireline and Matrixyl are also effective for use on the neck (where my wrinkles started) and on the chest. Hyaluronic Acid is also useful in wrinkle treatment. Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring substance in our bodies. It helps cells retain moisture and acts to plump and smooth. Used as an active ingredient in wrinkle creams, it has a cumulative effect in relaxing and smoothing wrinkles.

Antioxidants skin care should not be overlooked. Free-radicals produced from naturally occurring oxidization destroy cells – and are especially fond of skin cells. Antioxidants are common in many fruits and vegetables – in particular, Green Tea, Idebenone and coffee.

All three have found themselves as popular ingredients in anti aging skin care. Green Tea in particular is promoted in consumables (tea), moisturizers, and topical serum applications. Free-radicals, in a nut shell, lead to pre-mature skin aging and can be accelerated if you smoke or are over exposed to the sun. Using an antioxidant as part of your anti aging program is a great step in the right direction.

I turned 50 last year…mmm…I still feel 30, but I’ve started noticing some things on my skin that I only linked to my grandmother – age spots. As we age melanin pigment in our skin loses its ability to protect from sun damage, thus dark, brown or age spots appear.

Bleaching or skin whitening creams can be effective reducing the appearance of age spots, but should be used with care. Many whitening agents make skin sensitive – and sensitive to the sun. Also, use should be confined to the age spots themselves, unless used in light(er) formulations for overall skin lightening.

Dry skin is the hidden villain of aging. As we age our skin naturally loses moisture, the ability to retain hydration, and this leads to amplifying other skin problems such as, wrinkles, rashes, and psoriasis.

Using a night cream that moisturizes is the best advice. Avoid the sun, drink plenty of fluids, and attempt to eat fruits and raw vegetables if possible. As mentioned, many products utilize Hyaluronic Acid to aid moisture retention. Often found in face applications, it is also used successfully in body lotions and creams.

In the past couple of years, Emu Oil has also become a favorite in anti aging skin care. Emu Oil is known to penetrate into the dermis and subcutaneous skin layers and is super-moisturizer. It also has anti-inflammatory properties as well as being an antibacterial. It has carrier benefits allowing it to “carry” other anti aging ingredients deeper into the skin – improving their effectiveness. Like Hyaluronic Acid, it can be found in body lotions and creams for the eyes and face.

Enlarged pores create havoc on the face. A result of heredity, clogged pores, or excessive oils, enlarged pores accumulated dirt, oil and dead skin cells. Often they lead to rough skin, bacterial infections, blemishes, swelling and irritation, inflammation, or acne and rosacea.

Daily and effective cleansing usually helps reduce pore size and irrigates bacteria-laden pores. Light use of makeup or using mineral makeup that does not irritate the skin and cause inflammation is recommended.

Many skin care products use either Emu oil or Alpha Hydroxy crystals to clean bacteria and reduce pore size. Both are effective active ingredients and when used in concert, help clean and clear your complexion and make skin pores smaller.

Ah…if you’re still with me, there are just a few items to cover – but, they are the top-three on the countdown list. Let’s start by discussing body firming lotions. Again, I know you’re tired of hearing this, as we age our skin loses elasticity and elastin fiber production drops. So?…well, this causes loose skin.

Outside the more obvious causes of lack of exercise and diet, collagen production and elastin development diminishes. Combined with depleted hydration, you get a one-two punch for loose and sagging skin. To get skin tight, body firming lotions use a complex of ingredients that firm and tighten skin, improve hydration, and nourish for optimal cell reproduction.

Many body firming lotions use Collagen III, Emu Oil, a firming peptide complex, and nutrients and amino acids that act together to firm sagging skin. Particularly useful on the arms, stomach, neck, and legs, these lotions tighten skin while adding moisture.

Spider veins are generally the result of several common occurrences – weight gain, pregnancy, having work responsibilities that require you to be on your feet a lot, or often from sun exposure – especially facial spider veins.

Considered a result of damaged or weak veins and capillaries, spider veins occur when damaged valves allow blood flow to get in, but not get out. Weight gain and gravity complicate the problem and in some respects may contribute to the problem. Anti aging skin care focuses on two results.

One, healing or strengthening the vessel walls. There are several active ingredients considered useful in helping the vessels and restoring healthy walls, but Vitamin k is consider the most effective currently. Two, you can cover them up. Repairing spider veins usually requires a spider veins cream or a spider veins treatment.

In fact, I had several facial spider veins removed from below my eyes and at the top of my nose with laser treatment – the result of too many days in the Florida sun growing up, per my dermatologist. But, I have had great success using a cream enriched with Vitamin K and have experienced measurable and noticeable clearing since use.

But, back to covering them up. Many folks have begun using spray-on pantyhose (men and women) to add some tint and color to their legs as the warmer seasons approach. Many spray-ons are formulated to not run when wet or to give you a weird coloring. Often available in a variety of shades, they can be chosen to give you a hint of color that matches your body without being noticeable.

Finally, whew, stretch marks. Though not necessarily at the top of the anti aging list, they are a common problem that folks like to address, especially as they age and become more “aware” of their bodies or pass through the child-bearing age.

Stretch marks are often result from childbirth, pregnancy, weight loss and gain, and are common among body builders. Simply, stretch marks are just that, marks created when the skin stretches faster that the skin can keep-up. Elastin and collagen are not able to reproduce quickly enough to counteract the stretching and the result is scarred and torn tissue.

Underlying the obvious, stretch marks core issue is elasticity and hydration. There’s that word again. True, though. If you are experiencing weight gain or are pregnant, using a stretch mark cream developed to add moisture and hydration has been shown to significantly reduce or even prevent stretch marks. If you already have them, as the title of this article suggests, there are several options.

Again, a stretch marks and scar creams help increase collagen and elastin fiber production. If used with ingredients that stimulate healthy cell reproduction, consistent, disciplined use can often marks and scars.

An alternative is to use an in-home, soft light laser. Low-level lasers emit light waves in oscillations that have been shown to stimulate cell growth and increase circulation. Used for many applications such as scars, burns, sores, and blemishes, low level “soft light” lasers have been shown effective.

Anti aging is a goal we all have and can be effectively dealt with using anti aging skin care. The reduction or elimination of wrinkles, smoother, softer clear skin, protection with antioxidant products, a firmer, tighter body and the elimination or fading of spider veins and stretch marks is possible with the right skin care products.

Though it’s a lot to consider, a skin care regimen focused on cleansing, moisturizing, and treating will to give you substantial short-term and long-term benefits.

It is hard to discern the truth about the nutritional health supplements available on the market today. How do you know which of the nutritional vitamin supplements to pick? Why do we need nutritional supplements? Many of us, in today’s hurried lifestyle, do not eat a well balanced diet. Because of this we need nutritional supplements to boost our daily diet.We are now living in an information age and smart consumers are able to easily research nutritional supplement choices before they buy, particularly on-line.Nutritional supplements are meeting the health concerns of today forcing a shift in focus. The focus is now on proactive healthcare rather than symptom relief. People want to stay healthy.More people want to take proactive measures for maintaining good health.

Nutritional supplements are meeting the health concerns of today forcing a shift in focus. The focus is now on proactive healthcare rather than symptom relief.Many health problems can be linked to nutritional deficiencies. For some this may mean that the road to better health may lie in improving nutritional habits. This is where nutritional supplements can play an effective role in supporting your health.Nutrition experts recommend that you get your nutrition from your diet as often as possible.When people don’t get enough of nutrients through food and when a well-designed diet doesn’t work, people turn to the help of some type of nutrition supplement or supplements.There is a good chance that quality herbal supplements may be a healthy choice for you.

Herbal nutrition supplements are excellent for people who are unable to meet their nutritional requirements because of food allergies.Considering the controversy over whether it’s safe to take nutritional supplements or not, you probably wonder just what you can really expect from taking nutritional supplements.Supplements are an integral part of athletes’ diet. It is required to have an enhancement of their endurance, and also to increase or, if not increase, at least maintain the appropriate muscle mass to be able to improve size and strength.Nutritional supplements aid in the body’s abilities to ward off disease and sickness. When the body has a proper nutritional balance, it is better able to fight off infections or sickness.Of course, in every industry, some companies cheat — they sell low-quality or fraudulent product. Nutritional supplement manufacturers are not required to list their ingredients the way food makers must.Consulting your health care provider will be your next vital step on the road to better health. You will need to examine your strengths and weaknesses in your diet and make calculated decisions on what supplements will fit your lifestyle and current diet best in order to give your body what it needs.Studies show that not everyone needs the same nutrients. Any nutritional supplements you choose to take, should be taken a supplement to your regular diet, to offset what you are missing with your diet.Choosing one of the high-quality nutritional vitamin supplements helps fill the ‘gaps’ in nutrition that everyone has. The ingredients used in vitamin nutritional supplements can be one of two types, either natural or synthetic. Some of the discounts given on nutritional supplements that one is so attracted by the deal that whether they need it or not they make the purchase.

INTRODUCTION

Two types of retrovirus (HIV 1 and HIV 2) were known to cause AIDS worldwide; predominantly HIV 1.transmission in both could be by sexual contact, transfusion of blood or blood products, contact with sharp objects and vertically from mother to child. However, HIV 2 is transmitted less early and has a longer period between infection and development of AIDS [i]. Worldwide, more than fifty million children under 18 years have been orphaned due to AIDS, more that twelve million of these children leave in sub-Sahara Africa [ii].

The concept of orphan varies from one cultural context to another but refers to children (age 0-14) whose either or both parents have died [iii]. The age of orphan is fairly constant across countries with 15% being 0-4 years old, 35% 5-9 years old and 50% 10-14 years old [iv] .The vulnerability of children to health and social mishaps increase long before the death of their parents or guardians. Children watch their parents deteriorate and eventually die. They are often confronted with loss of family identity, increased malnutrition, reduced education opportunity, exploitative child labour and child abuse, and increased susceptibility to HIV infection [v]

Inconsistent findings in nutritional status of orphan and other children make vulnerable by HIV/AIDS make it difficult to assess if orphaned and other vulnerable children have specific nutritional needs separate from invulnerable children [vi] .Malnutrition and HIV have similar deleterious effect on the immune system [vii] . In both malnutrition and HIV, there is reduced CD4 and CD8 T-lymphocytes [viii], delayed cutaneous sensitivity, reduced bactericidal properties [ix] and impaired serological response after immunizations [x]..HIV/AIDS have a detrimental impact on household food security and nutrition in endemic areas. Household problems start as soon as the first adult become sick which results in a decline or loss in the productive capacity of individuals and households, decline or complete loss of household incomes [xi].

Concurrently, there is increase in household expenses as a result of increase health care costs [xii] .Household assets are often sold to offset there effects resulting in more poverty and more food insecurity [xiii]. Children might be forced to discontinue their schooling due to household engagements and inability to afford school expenses.

Thus, food assistance can have multiple objectives in supporting food-insecure households and this can enable them to participate in treating or preventing malnutrition [xiv]. Linking participation in food assistance program with nutrition education and skills training can foster self reliance [xv]

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty HIV/AIDS orphaned children whose parents were attending Sagamu Community Centre (a non-governmental organization) were used for the study. The children were all screened for HIV/AIDS and they were all non-reactive (seronegative). The control group comprises of fifty children who were not orphaned, selected randomly amongst the 1,495 people that attended the centre during the period of this study. They were all HIV negative

Structured questionnaire were administered to the parents of the children in the control group as well as guardians of the orphaned children to obtain additional information on their nutritional status. Certain anthropometrics measures were taken to assess the nutritional status; these include height, weight, mid-upper arm circumference, and the head circumference. The BMI was computed in both the orphaned and non-orphaned children.

Five millilitres of blood were aseptically collected from both the subjects and the control group with minimum stasis, using pyrogen-free needles and disposable plastic syringes. Two millilitres of the collected blood was put in an EDTA bottle for the determination of haemoglobin concentration while the remaining three millilitres was dispensed into heparinized bottle for the determination of total protein, albumin, calcium, and phosphate levels.

Serum haemoglobin was determined by standard method [xvi] other parameters were estimated as described total protein [xvii], albumin [xviii], calcium [xix] and phosphate [xx] in both subject and control groups. The obtained data were analyzed using SPSS version 10.0 chi-square was used to determine differences between the subject and control groups.

RESULT

Table 1 shows anthropometric measurements of the subjects and the control. There was no significant difference in the anthropometric measurements the subjects and the control (p>0.05) Significant difference in the height for age which is a measure of stunted growth was observed between the orphan and control (p<0.05), but no significant difference in weight for age and weight for height. (Table 2).

Table 3 shows mean concentration of haemoglobin, total protein, albumin, calcium phosphate and globulin. Significant difference in mean between the orphan and control (p<0.05) was observed for all parameters

Table 4 shows type of nutrition taken for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in both orphan and control group. 3.8% of orphan did not take breakfast, 77.3% of breakfast meal was carbohydrate while .protein was 18.9%. 82.0% of lunch meal was carbohydrate while .protein was 18.0%, 85.5% of breakfast meal was carbohydrate while .protein was 14.5%

Table 5 reveals Mean body mass index in stratified age groups in subjects and controls There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the age groups < 6 years, 7 11 and > 12 years of subjects compared to the control groups.

From the data obtained, it was observed that paternal orphan was the commonest (60%), while double orphan was the least (4%), maternal orphan constitute only 36%. The sponsorship of education of the orphans was done mainly by their mothers (50%), while sponsorship by the father and other relatives constitute 26% and 16% respectively.

DISCUSSION

Nutritional status in children, are usually assessed by determining their weight, height, head circumference, and mid-upper arm circumference. Values obtained that are below the normal range for individual age group is considered to reflect a malnutrition state. Lack of social support for orphan from family members as a result of stigmatization and discrimination contribute to reduced food availability and hence inadequate dietary intake by orphans

There were no significant differences observed in the anthropometrics between the orphaned and non-orphaned children. However, there were significant differences in their plasma levels of hemoglobin, total protein, albumin, globulin, calcium and inorganic phosphate. These biochemical parameters were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in orphaned children than non-orphaned children. The reduction in the above parameters amongst orphan children is a reflection of the poor nutritional status exhibited by the orphaned children in comparison to non-orphaned children.

Households affected by HIV/AIDS are usually confronted by severe decline in food availability (qualitatively and quantitatively) or food insecurity due to complete loss of the socio-economic contributions of either or both of their parents. The necessary home needs of such orphaned children are catered for by the grandparents or often by the guardians, who also have their immediate family to take care of.

The stunted growth observed in these orphans might contribute to further stigmatization and discrimination by fellow community people. Most times, the orphans with stunted growth are often tagged HIV/AIDS infected individuals, after all both malnutrition and HIV/AIDS have similar presentation. In this situation, a diet rich in protein, energy, micronutrients especially vitamin A is essential to bring about drastic changes in the health and physical appearances of such orphans.

The significantly low globulin level (p < 0.05) in the orphans measures the immune status. It suggests that there are some degrees of immunosuppression in the orphaned children and they are thus vulnerable to multiple infections. The decreased immunity associated with malnutrition lead to increased susceptibility to infections (including HIV infection) which in turn lead to increased nutrient requirements. If these requirements are not adequately met, it may lead to more malnutrition state. As HIV/AIDS prone orphans to malnutrition, malnutrition makes orphan susceptible to HIV/AIDS.

REFERECES

[i] HIV/AIDS care and treatment: In a clinical course for people caring for persons living with HIV/AIDS ,2003; pp 24.

[ii] UNIAIDS: Report on the global AIDS epidemic, chapter 4, the impact of AIDS on people and societies, 2006.

[iii] Hunter,S. and Williamson,J.: Children on the brink;Strategies to Support Children Isolated

by HIV/AIDS,Arlindton, Virgina, 2002.

[iv] Monasch, J. and Ties Boerma: Orphanhood and child care patterns in sub-Saharan Africa. An analysis of National Surveys from 40 countries. AIDS 18 (suppl. 2); 2004;. Pg 555-565

[v] De Wagt, A. and Conndly, M.: Orphan and the impact of HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa. Food nutrition and agriculture 2005; 34;pg 24-31

[vi] Rivers, J, Silverstre,E., Mason,J.: Nutritional and Food Security Status of orphans and vulnerable children, report of a research supported by UNICEF, IFPRI, and WFP, 2004.

[vii] Piwoz, E.G.: Nutrition and HIV/AIDS; evidence, gaps and priority actions, 2004.

[viii] Suttajit,M.: Advances in nutrition support for quality of life in HIV/AIDS, Asia Pac. J Clin. Nutr. 2007; 16, suppl., pp318-322,

[ix] Beisel,W.R.: Nutrition and immune function; overview. Nutri. 1996; 126, pg 26115-26155

[x] Kroon,F.P.,van Dissel,J.T.,de Jong, J.C., and van Forth,R.: Antibody response to influenza,

tetanus, and pneumococcal vaccines in HIV-seropositive individuals in relation to the

[xi] Gillespie, S. and Kadayila,S.: HIV/AIDS and food nutrition security, from evidence in action, food policy review no 7, Washington, DC,IFPRI,2005.

[xii] Alban, A. and Anderson, N.B.: Putting it together; AIDS and the millennium development goals, 2005

[xiii] Barnett,A. and Rugalema,G.: HIV/AIDS, International Food Policy Research Institute,2020 focus no 05, brief no 09, Washington, DC, IFPRI,2001.

[xiv] Grant, F.: Nutrition interventions for PLWHAs and the use of Ready-to-use Therapeutic Foods, presentation at the FANTA project, academy for Educational Development, Washington, DC, 2006.

[xv] Greenaway, K. Greenblott,K.,Hagens,K.: Targeted Food Assistance in the context of HIV/AIDS, Gauteny, South Africa; consortium for southern Africa Food Security Emergency(C-SAFE) learning centre,2004.

[xvi] Kayira,K., Greenaway, K., Greenblott, K: Food for assents; adopting programming to an HIV/AIDS context, Gauteny, South Africa; consortium for southern Africa Food Security Emergency(C-SAFE) learning centre,2004.

[xvii] Dacie JV & Lewis SM Practical Haematology, p 10. London.

ChurchillLivingstone (1984

[xviii] Gornall AG, Bardwill CJ, David M.M: Determination of serum proteins by

means of the biuret reaction. J Biol Chem 1949; 177: 751-756.

[xix] Doumas B.T., Watson W.A and Biggs H.G: Albumin standards and the measurement of serum albumin with bromcresol green. Clin. Chim. Acta 1971; 31: 87.

[xx] Stern J. and Lewis W.H.P: The colorimetric estimation of calcium in serum with o-cresolphthalein Complexone. Clin. Chim. Acta 1957; 2: 576

[xxi] Fiske C. H. and SubbaRow Y:. The colorimetric determination of phosphorus. J.Biol.Chem. 1925; 66: 375

INTRODUCTION

Two types of retrovirus (HIV 1 and HIV 2) were known to cause AIDS worldwide; predominantly HIV 1.transmission in both could be by sexual contact, transfusion of blood or blood products, contact with sharp objects and vertically from mother to child. However, HIV 2 is transmitted less early and has a longer period between infection and development of AIDS [i]. Worldwide, more than fifty million children under 18 years have been orphaned due to AIDS, more that twelve million of these children leave in sub-Sahara Africa [ii].

The concept of orphan varies from one cultural context to another but refers to children (age 0-14) whose either or both parents have died [iii]. The age of orphan is fairly constant across countries with 15% being 0-4 years old, 35% 5-9 years old and 50% 10-14 years old [iv] .The vulnerability of children to health and social mishaps increase long before the death of their parents or guardians. Children watch their parents deteriorate and eventually die. They are often confronted with loss of family identity, increased malnutrition, reduced education opportunity, exploitative child labour and child abuse, and increased susceptibility to HIV infection [v]

Inconsistent findings in nutritional status of orphan and other children make vulnerable by HIV/AIDS make it difficult to assess if orphaned and other vulnerable children have specific nutritional needs separate from invulnerable children [vi] .Malnutrition and HIV have similar deleterious effect on the immune system [vii] . In both malnutrition and HIV, there is reduced CD4 and CD8 T-lymphocytes [viii], delayed cutaneous sensitivity, reduced bactericidal properties [ix] and impaired serological response after immunizations [x]..HIV/AIDS have a detrimental impact on household food security and nutrition in endemic areas. Household problems start as soon as the first adult become sick which results in a decline or loss in the productive capacity of individuals and households, decline or complete loss of household incomes [xi].

Concurrently, there is increase in household expenses as a result of increase health care costs [xii] .Household assets are often sold to offset there effects resulting in more poverty and more food insecurity [xiii]. Children might be forced to discontinue their schooling due to household engagements and inability to afford school expenses.

Thus, food assistance can have multiple objectives in supporting food-insecure households and this can enable them to participate in treating or preventing malnutrition [xiv]. Linking participation in food assistance program with nutrition education and skills training can foster self reliance [xv]

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty HIV/AIDS orphaned children whose parents were attending Sagamu Community Centre (a non-governmental organization) were used for the study. The children were all screened for HIV/AIDS and they were all non-reactive (seronegative). The control group comprises of fifty children who were not orphaned, selected randomly amongst the 1,495 people that attended the centre during the period of this study. They were all HIV negative

Structured questionnaire were administered to the parents of the children in the control group as well as guardians of the orphaned children to obtain additional information on their nutritional status. Certain anthropometrics measures were taken to assess the nutritional status; these include height, weight, mid-upper arm circumference, and the head circumference. The BMI was computed in both the orphaned and non-orphaned children.

Five millilitres of blood were aseptically collected from both the subjects and the control group with minimum stasis, using pyrogen-free needles and disposable plastic syringes. Two millilitres of the collected blood was put in an EDTA bottle for the determination of haemoglobin concentration while the remaining three millilitres was dispensed into heparinized bottle for the determination of total protein, albumin, calcium, and phosphate levels.

Serum haemoglobin was determined by standard method [xvi] other parameters were estimated as described total protein [xvii], albumin [xviii], calcium [xix] and phosphate [xx] in both subject and control groups. The obtained data were analyzed using SPSS version 10.0 chi-square was used to determine differences between the subject and control groups.

RESULT

Table 1 shows anthropometric measurements of the subjects and the control. There was no significant difference in the anthropometric measurements the subjects and the control (p>0.05) Significant difference in the height for age which is a measure of stunted growth was observed between the orphan and control (p<0.05), but no significant difference in weight for age and weight for height. (Table 2).

Table 3 shows mean concentration of haemoglobin, total protein, albumin, calcium phosphate and globulin. Significant difference in mean between the orphan and control (p<0.05) was observed for all parameters

Table 4 shows type of nutrition taken for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in both orphan and control group. 3.8% of orphan did not take breakfast, 77.3% of breakfast meal was carbohydrate while .protein was 18.9%. 82.0% of lunch meal was carbohydrate while .protein was 18.0%, 85.5% of breakfast meal was carbohydrate while .protein was 14.5%

Table 5 reveals Mean body mass index in stratified age groups in subjects and controls There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the age groups < 6 years, 7 11 and > 12 years of subjects compared to the control groups.

From the data obtained, it was observed that paternal orphan was the commonest (60%), while double orphan was the least (4%), maternal orphan constitute only 36%. The sponsorship of education of the orphans was done mainly by their mothers (50%), while sponsorship by the father and other relatives constitute 26% and 16% respectively.

DISCUSSION

Nutritional status in children, are usually assessed by determining their weight, height, head circumference, and mid-upper arm circumference. Values obtained that are below the normal range for individual age group is considered to reflect a malnutrition state. Lack of social support for orphan from family members as a result of stigmatization and discrimination contribute to reduced food availability and hence inadequate dietary intake by orphans

There were no significant differences observed in the anthropometrics between the orphaned and non-orphaned children. However, there were significant differences in their plasma levels of hemoglobin, total protein, albumin, globulin, calcium and inorganic phosphate. These biochemical parameters were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in orphaned children than non-orphaned children. The reduction in the above parameters amongst orphan children is a reflection of the poor nutritional status exhibited by the orphaned children in comparison to non-orphaned children.

Households affected by HIV/AIDS are usually confronted by severe decline in food availability (qualitatively and quantitatively) or food insecurity due to complete loss of the socio-economic contributions of either or both of their parents. The necessary home needs of such orphaned children are catered for by the grandparents or often by the guardians, who also have their immediate family to take care of.

The stunted growth observed in these orphans might contribute to further stigmatization and discrimination by fellow community people. Most times, the orphans with stunted growth are often tagged HIV/AIDS infected individuals, after all both malnutrition and HIV/AIDS have similar presentation. In this situation, a diet rich in protein, energy, micronutrients especially vitamin A is essential to bring about drastic changes in the health and physical appearances of such orphans.

The significantly low globulin level (p < 0.05) in the orphans measures the immune status. It suggests that there are some degrees of immunosuppression in the orphaned children and they are thus vulnerable to multiple infections. The decreased immunity associated with malnutrition lead to increased susceptibility to infections (including HIV infection) which in turn lead to increased nutrient requirements. If these requirements are not adequately met, it may lead to more malnutrition state. As HIV/AIDS prone orphans to malnutrition, malnutrition makes orphan susceptible to HIV/AIDS.

REFERECES

[i] HIV/AIDS care and treatment: In a clinical course for people caring for persons living with HIV/AIDS ,2003; pp 24.

[ii] UNIAIDS: Report on the global AIDS epidemic, chapter 4, the impact of AIDS on people and societies, 2006.

[iii] Hunter,S. and Williamson,J.: Children on the brink;Strategies to Support Children Isolated

by HIV/AIDS,Arlindton, Virgina, 2002.

[iv] Monasch, J. and Ties Boerma: Orphanhood and child care patterns in sub-Saharan Africa. An analysis of National Surveys from 40 countries. AIDS 18 (suppl. 2); 2004;. Pg 555-565

[v] De Wagt, A. and Conndly, M.: Orphan and the impact of HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa. Food nutrition and agriculture 2005; 34;pg 24-31

[vi] Rivers, J, Silverstre,E., Mason,J.: Nutritional and Food Security Status of orphans and vulnerable children, report of a research supported by UNICEF, IFPRI, and WFP, 2004.

[vii] Piwoz, E.G.: Nutrition and HIV/AIDS; evidence, gaps and priority actions, 2004.

[viii] Suttajit,M.: Advances in nutrition support for quality of life in HIV/AIDS, Asia Pac. J Clin. Nutr. 2007; 16, suppl., pp318-322,

[ix] Beisel,W.R.: Nutrition and immune function; overview. Nutri. 1996; 126, pg 26115-26155

[x] Kroon,F.P.,van Dissel,J.T.,de Jong, J.C., and van Forth,R.: Antibody response to influenza,

tetanus, and pneumococcal vaccines in HIV-seropositive individuals in relation to the

[xi] Gillespie, S. and Kadayila,S.: HIV/AIDS and food nutrition security, from evidence in action, food policy review no 7, Washington, DC,IFPRI,2005.

[xii] Alban, A. and Anderson, N.B.: Putting it together; AIDS and the millennium development goals, 2005

[xiii] Barnett,A. and Rugalema,G.: HIV/AIDS, International Food Policy Research Institute,2020 focus no 05, brief no 09, Washington, DC, IFPRI,2001.

[xiv] Grant, F.: Nutrition interventions for PLWHAs and the use of Ready-to-use Therapeutic Foods, presentation at the FANTA project, academy for Educational Development, Washington, DC, 2006.

[xv] Greenaway, K. Greenblott,K.,Hagens,K.: Targeted Food Assistance in the context of HIV/AIDS, Gauteny, South Africa; consortium for southern Africa Food Security Emergency(C-SAFE) learning centre,2004.

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TRIGGERING EVENT:

Acne Vulgaris can begin as early as eight years old and may not appear in someone until they are twenty years old. But it is very common during adolescence. This is because acne is triggered by hormonal changes that occur during puberty and can continue throughout adult life if hormone levels remain high. For example, women with polycystic ovarian syndrome have chronically excessive levels of hormones.

CAUSE AND EFFECT

Acne is not caused by poor hygiene! (But good hygiene can reduce the effects) This particular myth makes some teenagers feel “dirty” but whilst acne is a skin disease, it is not infectious. Taking good care of skin can help control the symptoms and lessen the chance of scarring.

CAUSE AND CONTRIBUTION

A poor diet is not the cause of acne! There is much debate on whether particular foods contribute to the severity of acne or trigger “breakouts” but one’s own experience should prevail. The usual suspects are sugars, refined carbohydrates and saturated fats. Considering the wide health detriments of a diet rich in these substances, it is a worthwhile exercise to reduce or eliminate them from the diet anyway and see if there are improvements in the skin’s condition.

If acne suddenly appears when someone is in their late twenties, a food or drug sensitivity should be investigated.

CAUSE AND CAUSE

The reason why some people get worse acne than others has not been fully made clear, but it is likely that heredity plays a large role. This would be particularly relevant in two areas

Hormonal regulation on the stimulating side
Skin response on the receiving side (amount of keratin, tendency to scarring)

Hormonal action on skin -

The skin has two layers, the dermis and the epidermis. We see the top layer (epidermis) and sebaceous glands are found in the deeper dermis. They are usually (but not always) located by a hair follicle and the substance they produce is called sebum. Sebum is a fatty liquid which coats the hair as it grows up through the follicular canal, or pore. Sebum also contains keratin which is a tough, highly fibrous protein that is part of skin, nails and hair. The hardness helps protect from breakage, and it also provides a waterproofing quality and reduces fluid loss from the skin.

Sebaceous glands are controlled by hormones. In men, the hormone involved is testosterone and in women, both ovarian and adrenal androgens stimulate the sebaceous gland to increase the production of sebum. This is why puberty, when these hormone levels begin to rise, is the time acne begins to be a problem.

Overproduction of sebum may block the outlet of the sebaceous gland and follicle; this is referred to as a blocked pore. The amount of keratin in sebum may contribute to this happening more easily. A plug is formed at the top of the pore, at the surface of the epidermis. It is described as open, which means open to the air, or closed, which means it sits under a thin membrane. ‘”Open” are what we see as blackheads and this is because the air has caused oxidation and also dirt is contributing to the surface of the plug. “Closed” are what we see as whiteheads as the pus is building up under the membrane. Whiteheads are the precursors to more severe acne pimples and cysts.

As the liquid is kept in the canal, without ability to escape, certain processes take place. This may include some breaking down of the canal wall and spilling the contents into surrounding tissue so it is no longer encapsulated. (This is the main reason why squeezing pimples is a bad idea as it causes more of this to occur). At the same time, some bacteria colonize this liquid and begin proliferating and producing waste products, which also build up in the pustule. Inflammatory events begin taking place around this area which produces swelling, redness and pain. If the contents have built up so much or infiltrated so deeply as to affect the lower part of the dermis which is connective tissue, it is much more likely to result in scarring. This is because connective tissue tends to scar as part of its own healing mechanism.

Acne Vulgaris is a serious problem, especially common in adolescents and its therapy can be complex. It usually requires a many-pronged attack including antibiotics, topical creams, synthetic hormones or vitamin A derivatives. It is best treated by dermatologists if severe.

Acne can be very frustrating, the scars left by acne can be superficial, but if left untreated the scars can be deep. There is no age exception when it comes to acne, whether you are a teenager or an adult, if you have acne you should start treating it early, because the longer you wait for the worse it will become.

1. Drink water to moisturize your skin. When your skin is dry, a hormone called androgen will produce tons of sebum, also known as oil, and the oil produce by androgen will lead to clog pores, and that means more pimples.

2. Shrink your acne with ice cubes. Cover two or three ice cubes with washcloth, and hold it against your acne-affected skin for about 8 or 10 minutes, this will minimize the swelling and prevent breakouts.

3. Eyedrops. Use eyedrops to reduce the redness of your acne-affected skin. Two or three drops will do.

4. Zinc and vitamin c. Eating food that is rich in zinc and vitamin c like meat, beans and fruits strengthen and protect your skin from damage caused by acne. These foods will also help the skin to heal more quickly.

5. Minimize caffeine intake. Caffeine tastes good, but it can dehydrate your skin, and if your skin is dry, you will have more pimples. Furthermore, caffeine is a stimulant; it stimulates everything in your body including the androgen that is responsible for producing sebum.

6. Exfoliate your skin. If our pores to become clogged with the dead skin cells, the oil and the bacteria get trapped inside our pores, and this forms a pimple; exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells before they clogged our pores. Exfoliation will stop a pimple before it starts.

7. Medications. Anti-acne medications that contain benzoyl peroxide are a good way to heal acne, prevent future breakouts, and reduce inflammation caused by acne.

8. Laser treatments. Using laser to treat acne is used by dermatologists, it can take a couple of weeks to cure the acne, but it can be expensive, also laser treatment can get rid of acne for a long time.

9. Remove makeup. Before you go to sleep remember to remove your makeup, because makeup can clog the pores if left overnight.

The most important thing you should always remember is to treat your acne while it is still early.

Different cases of acne can be healed, with the right combination of elements; you can stop acne, stop future breakouts, and remove scars.