26. Нетрадиційна медицина. Alternative medicine

Alternative medicine is effective to heal many body diseases. In the past, alternative medicine practices and mind-body treatments were forbidden. Nowadays some people are convinced that alternative practices are ineffective since there is no scientific evidence of their efficacy. Nevertheless, alternative medicine is becoming more acceptable in clinics and hospitals around the country because there are many cases proving its efficacy in treating some chronic and terminal illnesses which holistic medicine couldn't cure.

Traditional alternative medicine may include such forms as Chinese or Oriental medicine, herbalism, massage therapy, homeopathy, reflexology, yoga, hypnosis and aromatherapy. To begin with, a great example would be acupuncture, the insertion of thin needles through the skin at certain anatomical points on the body. This alternative practice shows the efficacy in cases of pain, headache, migraine and osteoarthritis. The next example is yoga that is used to increase calmness and physical relaxation, to improve flexibility, to cope with illness and to boost the immune system.

 Herbalism is becoming more mainstream form of alternative treatment to heal and overcome illness. According to numerous studies, herbs cure or prevent numerous diseases, for example sore throat, migraine, arthritis, eczema, asthma and cough. Even terminally ill patients sometimes make a miraculous recovery due to herbalism.

In addition, there are psychic surgeons and witch doctors that are considered capable to treat any type of disease but beware of fraudulent practice.

To conclude, alternative medicine is as effective as orthodox one in overcoming and healing illness, so many people turn to alternative therapies.

26. Здоровий спосіб життя

It is well-known fact that our body and mental well-being are closely connected. There is an old saying: «a sound mind in a sound body». There are some factors make up a healthy lifestyle. To begin with, it is necessary to quit addictive habits because hundred toxic and harmful substances enter the body. Cigarette tar and nicotine, for instance, lead to cancer and cardiovascular diseases. They raise the level of cholesterol and eventually reduce the life expectancy. Getting enough sleep and learning ways to cope with stress are essential for being healthy. It is obvious that physical activity as well as diet maintain good health and well-being. The balanced diet is composed of adequate amount of nutrients such as proteins, fats, minerals, carbohydrates and vitamins which are necessary to fully satisfy the body’s needs and remain healthy. Furthermore, a balanced diet boosts the immune system to stave off widespread types of diseases, for instance, contagious and respiratory diseases, influenza and even cancer.

Here are some eating tips to become healthier:

• eat fresh vegetables and fruits to prevent a vitamin deficiency;

• try to cut down on the consumption of tea, coffee and alcohol that contain addictive substances;

• drink water instead of high-sugar drinks;

• try to eliminate eating junk food such as fry-ups and overcooked food as it does not have nutrients and one may get digestive upsets, obesity and high blood pressure .

To conclude, living a healthy lifestyle has positive impact on our short-term and long-term health.