Thursday, December 25, 2008

10 Things To Do Before You Die

In 1902, as he lay dying at the age of 48, Cecil Rhodes could look back on a not undistinguished career. He had made a vast fortune in gold and diamonds. He had built railroads through the wilderness and become one of the century's great rulers. He had created an empire, which is more than your average 48-year-old has on his rsum. But Rhodes was not going gentle into any good night. On his deathbed he was heard muttering, "So little done, so much to do."

What did he mean? It's possible he wanted still more money or land or power--maybe he was the one workaholic who really spent his last minutes wishing he'd spent more time at the office. But at that moment most people worry about a different kind of "To Do" list. When Jos Mart named the things that every man ought to do before he dies, the list did not include "Liberate a country." The hero of Cuban independence named three more important tasks: Plant a tree, write a book, have a son. That's an excellent start. Here are ten more.

Make a pilgrimage.
The destination might be a traditional one such as Jerusalem or Rome or Mecca. It might be a site of prehistoric rituals, like Stonehenge or Machu Picchu. For nature-worshippers it could be an African savanna or Amazonian rain forest; for music-lovers it could be La Scala or Bayreuth. The goal is a cathedral you hold sacred, a place where you can feel part of something larger. The reward is a moment, whether it's hearing the "Gloria" at St. Peter's or watching a gazelle take its first step, that you won't need a video camera to capture.

Eat a meal good enough to be your last.
When the end comes for you, there is a distinct possibility that you will be in no position to enjoy white truffles. But if you plan ahead carefully--if you eat them now--you will not die feeling cheated. Think of it as death insurance and pay no attention to those numbers on the right side of the menu.

Keep in mind the two versions of William Pitt's dying words.
The grand version of his deathbed scene in 1806 is that the British prime minister, disillusioned by Napoleon's successes, expired murmuring, "My country, oh, how I leave my country!" The less grand version is that his last words were: "I think I could eat one of Bellamy's veal pies." If you have any doubt as to which version is more believable, you need to start reexamining your priorities.

Climb your own Mount Ventoux.
It has been said that the Renaissance began with Petrarch's ascent of this peak in Provence in the 1330s. At the time, climbing a mountain was not something people went on vacation to do. Mountains were considered dangerous and useless. Mountains could even be a sinful distraction from God, as Petrarch interpreted a passage in Augustine rebuking men who "admire the high mountains." The poet tried to tell himself that he should be looking inward at his soul--the medieval view.
But the ever-curious Petrarch nonetheless climbed 6,000 feet and marveled at a new vista. "What I had read of Athos and Olympus seemed less incredible as I myself witnessed the same things," he wrote. Today you can have the same view easily enough--there's a road and restaurant at the peak--but that's not really the point. The point is to climb something you were afraid to climb and see something new.

Memorize a poem and pass it on.
The most obvious choice is a performance during courtship, and it's hard to go wrong with Byron's "She walks in beauty, like the night." For more of an edge, try Marvell's "To His Coy Mistress." But it can be for anyone at anytime. Teach children the opening lines of The Canterbury Tales, or get their blood flowing with Kipling's "If." You can do more for an ailing friend with Keats than with a Hallmark card. Yeats's "Sailing to Byzantium" can enliven a journey on any waters, and it will never be forgotten if you recite it on the Bosporus.

Make an enemy for life.
A gentleman has been defined as someone who never gives pain to anyone unintentionally. This leaves plenty of leeway for deliberate rudeness toward someone you can't stand. Stand up to a bully; speak out against a fraud; fight off a rival for a prize. Care enough about something to make someone mad. An enemy helps you define yourself. As Schopenhauer said, "We can come to look upon the deaths of our enemies with as much regret as we feel for those of our friends, namely, when we miss their existence as witnesses to our success."

Forgive someone.

See for yourself that the earth is round.
The surest way is to set sail in one direction and not stop until you're home again. For a cheaper, although not quite as direct, method, journey north of the Arctic Circle around the summer solstice and spend a night (ideally in a hot tub) watching the sun circle above the horizon.

Take someone you love to the Camera degli Sposi.
There may be more important works of art, like the David or the Last Supper or the Sistine Chapel, but for sheer charm there's nothing like these 15th-century frescoes by Mantegna. You find them not in a mobbed museum but in a quiet jewel box, a small chamber in the ducal palace of Mantua. The brightly colored paintings literally shimmer with inlaid gold and lapis. The paintings depict nobility, courtiers, children, dwarves, horses, dogs--all watched over not by a stern God but by an assortment of famously playful putti on the ceiling. The cherubs also seem to be looking down on some life-affirming activities, which is why it's called the Room of the Bride and Bridegroom.

Defy gravity.
Yes, it's the most drearily immutable law on the planet, but on your deathbed it would be good to recall a momentary rebellion--one sky dive out of a plane, one plunge on a bungee cord, one ride on a parasail. For the ultimate in simplicity and pleasure, paraglide off Baba Dag, a 6,000-foot-high peak rising straight above the coast of southern Turkey. Just make sure that you have a professional pilot strapped in the harness of your parachute. The two of you take a few running steps and leap into the void, at which point the pilot and the wind take over. You soar a mile above the ocean, then slowly circle for 20 minutes as the pilot guides you to a leisurely landing on the beach, whereupon gravity takes over again.

Let someone else have the chance you missed. Maybe it will be one of the things on this list, like a trip you always meant to take but which eventually becomes impossible. With age come limitations. But with age also come wisdom and money. When it's too late for you, give someone younger what you always wanted.

Making a 'bucket list' before you kick

Death bites. But dying while healthy, rich and free enough to drink life to the last drop is getting great press, thanks to a new movie.
Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman star in The Bucket List, a buddy flick in which they leap from planes, drive race cars, eat caviar, motorcycle on the Great Wall of China, and trot by other wonders of the world before they "kick the bucket."

The movie's premise resonates. Millions of people have a dream "do" list: all they would do if they could in life.

These lists tend to feature all the highlights on the aspirational horizon — acts of fancy, courage and delight, full of punch and flavor, adrenalin and imagination.

"It's not enough to react to life on a day-by-day basis. People need a road map. Life lists are one of the best ways to plumb the depths of the human psyche," says Caroline Adams Miller, a Bethesda, Md.-based author, motivational speaker and life coach who encourages clients to create a 100-item roster.

Her website, Your100things.com, posts goals and lets users see how their lists stack up. Among other such sites: 43things.com, Superviva.com and Reaperlist.com.

Travel is a common denominator on most life lists, fueled by the 2003 best seller 1,000 Places to See Before You Die and a raft of successors.

Sasha Cagen, author of To-Do List: From Buying Milk to Finding a Soul Mate, What Our Lists Reveal About Us, says making travel goals also can "motivate you to get through the drudgery of a mundane job."

The January issue of Smithsonian Magazine features 28 Places to See Before You Die, from the Pyramids of Giza to the giant stone heads on Easter Island to the Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights.

The Bucket List's exotic backdrops — the Great Pyramids, the Taj Mahal, an African safari — notwithstanding, Miller says that "many people don't have a longing to go to far-flung places. If they're honest, travel goals should reflect inner passions and values."

Most accomplishments on people's lists are more personal On the website 43Things.com, where 1.2 million people have posted their personal lists in the past three years, according to The New York Times, the top goal is losing weight.

Freeman says he has movies he still wants to make. Ellen DeGeneres wants to learn Spanish; Beyoncé, a lifelong dancer, crossed ballet off her list (too hard) but added learning Arabic.

When USA TODAY asked readers about their lists, many had destinations, accomplishments and relationships in mind.

Genny Scott, 49, who works at the county jail in Goldendale, Wash., most wants to "learn to scuba dive and see the Great Barrier Reef in person. I've never been anywhere that the ocean is warm enough to stick your toes in."

She also wants to research her family roots, swim with dolphins and become a nature biologist. One item she's already started: working on a novel, she says. "So that's not totally unattainable."

Wayne Palmer's list is a mix of "fantasies, reality (and) duty."

Like the film buddies, Palmer, 46, an engineering technician in West Allis, Wis., wants to sky-dive. "I just have to lose a few pounds first."

His travel list highlights the last five U.S. states he hasn't visited (Hawaii, Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Vermont) and the Holy Land, to see the sunrise from a mountaintop and to look up an old pal.

Interior designer Lisa Echard, 43, of Taylorsville, N.C., has already checked off items, including riding in a hot-air balloon, "which actually landed, accidentally, in a lake," seeing the Grand Canyon, and accompanying her husband on his life-list goal of visiting Australia.

Still on the list: "Make myself a handmade quilt; see Paris and about 20 other places outside the U.S.; live in the Pacific Northwest, even for just a year to try somewhere different; write a book."

Possibly most important, Echard says: "Find a meaningful way to enrich other people's lives — outside of my own family."

The Rev. Kerry Shook and his wife, Chris, are leading 500 churches nationwide in a program that challenges them to live the next 30 days as if they were their last. They did the challenge at their church, Fellowship of The Woodlands, in a Houston suburb. Their book on the challenge, One Month to Live: Thirty Days to a No-Regrets Life, is due in stores Feb. 5. It addresses "the big difference between a full life and a fulfilling life," he says.

In their pilot program, people took the honeymoon they'd forgone for 25 years, lost weight, quit smoking and clocked adventures, but most took it to a higher plane, including a woman who forgave the man who killed her son.

"We are all encouraged to leave a small ecological footprint and a huge spiritual footprint," Kerry Shook says.

The Shooks have four teenagers, and the couple's own list included more time and deeper conversations together. "It's the relational shortcomings that most haunt people in life," he adds.

The Bucket List movie ultimately sends its two wanderers to the people, not the places, who matter.

"Find the joy in your life," Freeman tells Nicholson before the credits roll.

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

戲說CP的風月現況

廣東省東莞市常平(CP)鎮
一個不是工業區集結的城鎮
也沒有風光明媚的旅遊景點
然而竟是一個目前中國境內 " 鎮 " 級城市單位擁有最多間三星級以上酒店的地方
所謂何故??

簡單的說
主要原因是因為鐵路的便利造就cp的發展
廣九鐵路線
連繫廣州跟香港九龍
東莞站下車就是cp
從香港九龍搭乘火車到cp車程只要一個小時
廣州搭乘火車到cp也只要35分鐘

深圳到廣州的鐵路線
中途停靠點有石龍,樟木頭,..等
當然也少不了cp
從深圳到cp搭火車只需30分鐘

藉由鐵路來往的便利
驅使很多香港男人週五下班之後就來cp這裡休閒娛樂
有男人就會有女人
有很多男人就會有很多女人在cp討生活
有很多女人就會有更多的男人來cp找娛樂

除了搭乘火車之外
香港機場有幾間大巴客運公司專門營運機場到CP的大巴(例如通寶,華通)
單程只需2.5-3.5小時
若選擇搭乘vip車的話
從香港機場一車直達常平只需兩個小時

加上隨著去年虎常高速的開通
從澳門進珠海後,包車到常平全程只需2個小時
便捷了從台灣的朋友飛澳門經珠海到CP來遊玩

時至今日
cp成了一個讓男人很簡單就可以找到很多美女 [ 認識交往 ] 的絕佳之地

以下針對cp各類風月作一個簡單的解說

FL

CP的FL集中地區在XX酒店周遭五百公尺方圓之內
目前2008年4月統計總數有7間
這7間店家裏
比較小的店家可能只有十幾名mm
而有三間堪稱大場的店家mm人數可達30-50人

這幾間大大小小的FL
都隱身在小巷的民宅之內
沒去過的人可能會以為在FL上班的mm素質會比較低
因為認識所花費的代價不高(一Q200-250,過夜500-600)
但事實上卻非那些沒去過的人所想的那樣
法郎集中區全部mm加起來也在上百個之譜
在這些為數不少的MM當中
也大有機會找到優質的MM

在CP有個很特殊的情況
有不少FL的MM有K房MM的水準
其原因是因為由於在K房上班比較多規矩,例如一個月只能請幾天假,上班下班都要打卡...
加上K房要喝酒,且坐檯不一定能出檯(若沒出檯喝一晚上酒扣掉吃飯化妝坐車媽咪台費只賺一百多)
所以很多時候並不會去K房辦月牌上班
但三不無時就跑去K房辦個臨時牌上幾天班
所以造成了同一個MM
在不同地方 [ 發現&認識 ] ,價格就不同的情況
總的來說,FL還是有不少靚女的

在這七間FL店當中
有一間店是不能不特別解說的
就是昔日的金色xx

一年前的這時候
金色xx還是一間半夜總會模式的FL
但隨著老闆的經營理念改變而轉化為正統的FL店

金色xx堪稱為全CP最硬的FL店
價格也是最貴的
一般FL一Q為200
這間卻硬是比別人多50也就是250

但個人覺得這間店貴有貴的價值
裡面有不少MM有K房紅牌的素質
且有不少mm升級去了k房上班後都成為K房的紅牌
由於很多k妹紅牌都是在金色xx出身的
故有人稱金色xx為--->[K房紅牌的孕育搖籃]

金色xx的MM由於有不少姿色可媲美K房MM
所以整體來說素質算是目前CP FL裡面最高的
加上金色xx的媽咪都有在管理MM
所以不會出現MM不服務的情況
(保證每個MM都會BJ,不向其他FL比較常有機會遇到不會服務的)

也由於MM素質不錯加上服務保證的緣故
MM放飛機*(註一)的比率也很高<---一般散客自己去的話
但若由我出面帶過去的話
若MM無法(不能)或不想過夜的話
媽咪跟MM會跟我事先告知
如此就不會有事後放飛機的情況
除了特殊情況以外(例如MM突然來大姨媽)
幾乎沒有出現過放飛機的情形

註一
放飛機的意思是說
當客人在店裡面找了某MM想要過夜
媽咪跟MM在現場時都拍胸口說沒問題
但等到回去了酒店跟MM一Q完事之後
MM卻找理由說要回去
什麼身體突然不舒服 不習慣在酒店睡
或什麼你太厲害了受不了等等
這種一開始說好過夜
一Q完後就找各種理由要離開的情況
就是所謂的放飛機

夜總會

目前在CP的夜總會大場
像是半X 桃X 匯X 美XX 雄X 華X 新XX 等等
MM的費用皆是2 5 8 的消費

那什麼樣的情況算是大場呢???
就是每日上班的MM人數平日至少要在兩百五十人以上
假日則至少要超過三百五十人

目前人數最多的夜總會前三名
依序是 半x > 匯x > 桃x

CP的夜總會
MM的價格剛剛說過都是2-5-8
比起珠海2-8-10 或 2-8-12的價格相對便宜
但酒水的消費就比較貴
普遍來說
各大夜總會不論白酒紅酒都是買二送一
紅酒像是長城紅或是白酒古棉純都是一支至少是定價178還另加10%的服務費

為什麼我說CP的夜總會酒水消費比較貴呢
像珠海來說
買單之際帳單上所打的折扣都是帳單上的總額去打折
例如1000元打七折就是700元
但在CP夜總會所打的折扣
只有針對桌面小食果盤等等非酒類的消費去打折
客人酒喝的再多,酒卻是一率都不打折
假設買單1000的話,就算打七折
可能折扣的金額還不到100元
導致買單的時候費用都不低
因為真正貴的都麻是酒錢

雖然在CP的夜總會酒水費用偏高且不打折
但只要您找我幫你們處理
我自然會有辦法幫您節省酒水的費用
讓您們喝一樣多的酒
費用卻節省不少
或者是付一樣多的錢
讓您喝更多酒

以下針對各間夜總會做一個簡單分析

半X

半X夜總會的硬體設備該算是現在CP夜總會大場當中
算是平均值比較豪華的
尤其是新裝潢的二期包廂
50吋16:9的電漿電視
加上其他三個可看電視節目的附屬電視
可上網電腦,麻將桌等等

在半X2003年剛開幕的時候
為人所詬病的是
[硬體設備優良,軟體(MM素質)設備不佳 ]

但經過半X夜總會高層和媽咪近年來大刀闊斧的改善之後
目前的半X夜總會
可算是硬體與軟體兼備的場子

平日上班MM人數在三百五十人以上
遇到假日更有機會到五百人次

在人數這麼多的情況下
不管是外貌協會的
還是有奶便是娘的
或是要高頭大馬的
都可以在這裡找到屬意的對象

不過近半年來
一旦遇到星期五六
半x夜總會大大小小97間包廂一定滿房
其中還有20幾間可容納12個男人以上的大包廂
真的是生意火紅

正也由於生意太好了
且每間包廂客人進房的時間點都差不多
所以各組媽咪都會預先帶自己組內的mm給找自己定房的客人
造成星期五六媽咪帶抬的速度非常的慢
可能半小時內看不到五六組(目前半島共有20組媽咪)
不像平常非星期五六的時候
媽咪是在包廂門口排隊等候進房帶mm給客人挑選

所以建議星期五六去半島的朋友
要轉被動為主動
等媽咪帶mm進房實在太慢
主動出擊去外面走廊上看路過經過的mm還比較實際

現階段的半X夜總會
該是來CP遊玩風月的人
不可缺席的場所

桃x

目前在cp當紅的炸子雞
包廂最難預定的
非是桃x夜總會莫屬

桃x夜總會之所以火紅
就是因為它mm選秀的模式是出名的[花街]模式

CP大多數的夜總會
選秀都是由各組的媽咪分別帶領著組上的MM一一到客人的包廂
分批一次大概帶七到十個輪流讓客人挑選
這組看不喜歡在通知其他組媽咪換組帶
此類選秀模式很耗費時間
多看個幾組的MM
可能半個小時就過去了

且有些人一開始看到了不錯的MM
但抱持著也許下一個會更好的心態而想看看其他的
卻最後發現原來一開始那個的比較合自己感覺
想要回頭過來找尋一開始的MM坐檯之際
卻不幸得知MM已經上了別的客人的抬…
而[花街]模式的選秀方式就相當特別


所謂的[花街]在進門口右轉後的一處長廊上
MM分別在兩旁的走道上靠牆處縱列排開
且中間走道上還背靠背分四排站滿著MM
共計六排MM
一眼望去,可說是人山人海
只要穿梭於其中走上一圈
就可以將當天有上班的mm全部都看過一遍
對於那種挑選mm比較慢工出細活的朋友相對來說很方便

桃x平日MM比較少的時候
可能只有兩百五十個左右的MM上班(此時就已經很多人了)
遇到假日的之際
MM人數可能超過三百五十人
那情況可說是連逛個一圈也篳路藍縷,舉步維艱
因為在一條不算很寬的走廊上
除了六條mm行列之外
加上熙來攘往的遊客還有介紹mm的媽咪
真的是擠死了

當您看到了好像不錯的mm
想要停下來慢慢看
不是媽咪過來譏哩聒啦的跟你說些廢話
就是有其他的遊客要跟你借過
加上花街的燈光有些昏暗
所以越來越有許多人覺得在花街反而不好挑選mm
特別是在假日的時候

由於桃x花街的聲名遠播
是繼凡xx花街之後最有名氣的花街
故生意非常的紅火

但也由於生意太紅火了
故桃x官方的姿態頗高
要預定假日的房間
還會問客人消費能力高不高
若消費能力不高買單金額低的話
就有可能不給房
這實在是過於盛氣凌人

此外
桃x的MM費用雖然是2-5-8
但需要注意的是
桃x公司規定每個MM每次坐檯必須購買一杯25元的飲品(此舉為增加公司收入)
(小小一杯一口就喝完,且飲料要加10%的服務費所以是28元)
雖然飲料可改為特定幾樣小食(如四季豆,豆芽菜等)
(PS:若點飲料的時候不點在帳單裡的話,可以請mm現金去買,只需20元,但就沒有東西吃了)

要說明的是
這份飲料(小食)公司是規定mm要點
並不是規定客人一定要點
當然,客人可以不讓mm點的
但若客人不讓MM點
MM就必須自己花錢買
所以MM為了不讓自己花錢
往往用各種方法讓客人同意點這杯飲料(小食)
無形中讓客人多負擔了近28元(或付現20元)的費用(注意,是每個MM多28喔)

此外
桃x還規定mm坐台不能太早走
儘管是客人主動要求的

有些人去k房只是享受選秀時那人數眾多的壯觀與氣氛
挑選到了mm之後就想回去酒店客房內探討研習人體的奧妙
但桃x規定若mm早於8點離開公司要罰款100
早於10點離開公司也還要罰款50
mm當然不想自己出這個罰款
自然就會跟客人要
無形之中將這不合理的費用轉嫁到客人身上
真的個很鳥78的規定

桃x還有一點不成文的規矩更離譜
當遇到生意好,包廂爆滿的情況(例如星期五六或節日)
若您一旦買了單
桃x就會經理近來請求希望您儘快離開
此舉是為了好讓該間包廂能再開給其他客人使用
雖說這樣的情況不是硬性規定
但有這種要求就是擺明不尊重客人
怎啦?買單了就不能繼續唱歌了嘛?

現在的桃x算是目前cp有名氣的花街模式k房
但有著一堆不合理的規定和規矩
加上酒水消費不便宜
所以不是很推薦去此處遊玩

匯X

匯X是CP第二間五星酒店
也是比較現代化的五星酒店
所以住房部份從開幕以來的生意都不錯
連帶著夜總會沾光,夜總會的生意也很好

目前匯X的夜總會生意可說是火紅
星期五六若沒有提早一個星期預定包房
想要有包房的機會可說是很渺茫

這幾個月來更是離譜
匯x假日(星期五六)的包廂居然是用公開競標去給房的
例如原本一間房低消是980
若有人出價更多假設出價到低消1180
就把這間房給出價高者

上上個星期六曾有朋友15個人去匯x消費
原本低消2280的房居然喊到4580才拿到房
真的是有夠誇張的

匯XK房的MM不少
平日至少都超過三百人
假日可超過四百人
選秀模式為一般媽咪帶著自己組內的MM到客人房間選秀
雖然MM眾多
但選秀時不一定可以看到很多MM
因為匯X有一規定對客人而言很失當

例如當客人跟A組媽咪訂房
在A組媽咪同意之前
其他組媽咪是不能帶MM進去包房的(否則重罰500/次)

若假設客人跟A組媽咪定了房
卻連一個A組的MM都沒有挑
A組媽咪可能心懷怨懟而故意不通知(同意)其他組的MM進包房選秀
進而影響到客人選秀的權益

匯X由於生意太火紅
導致媽咪跟MM都不太在乎客人(熟客除外)
因為多的是客人
沒必要在某個不認識的客人上花工夫
所以導致機車妹不少

例如
曾有個客人在包廂內挑了兩個女孩
本想說給MM互相競爭的壓力
這樣會對他好一點
但沒料到MM反而意態闌珊
其中一個MM有點跩也比較冷
所以客人對他比就沒感覺
MM也感覺的出來客人比較不喜歡她
在九點多主動就跟客人說她有事情要先走
(因為生意好,客人不少,想去坐其他客人的檯)
主動要客人給她坐檯小費
這真的是離譜
才九點多耶?
且自己想先走,還有臉跟客人要坐檯小費??

若mm條件不錯耍點機車個性也就算了
偏偏現在匯x為了衝mm總人數
看起來人多勢眾壯觀
所以mm素質根本沒有去挑選
依照我的看法
至少有一半以上都是豬扒一族
丑的,胖的甚至老的隨便抓都一大把
真的明擺的就是
反正我匯華酒店住房客人來消費的比率很高
大多數都是商務客也不太挑
那就隨便啦~
真的是只有昏倒2字可形容~

美XX

美XX的K房開在匯x五星k房隔壁
其本身酒店因為被評為廣東十家酒店所以住宿生意很不錯
其附設夜總會也就連帶著雞犬同昇的生意還可以

其k房MM數量也不少...平日也至少在250人以上
經過一年多以來的經營
mm人數始終保持在算是大場的規模

硬體部份
美XX的K房包廂裝潢雖新
但有些小地方規劃不良
像部份包廂內
電視跟擺放東西的桌子中間的走道
小的只能一個人過

此外
美怡登的包廂低消比較偏貴
最小最便宜的包廂低消還要680
且空間大概只能容納8-9個人

華X

華x的夜總會生意在開幕時不是很好
因為mm人數少且素質很不好

隨著一年多以來的改善
目前華X的mm人數也終於擠進大場之流
平日至少在250以上
星期四五六一定超過300人

MM人數雖然不少
但憑良心說
美女比率不高...要認真找
然華X的mm配合度相當高
去過的朋友只要眼光放低一點都可以玩的盡興

華X目前的生意還可以
其中一個原因就是華X的mm制服很性感
就是那種透明的可以讓你清楚的看到內衣褲的性感薄紗
現階段2008年4月的CP
只剩下華X夜總會的制服還是薄紗
其他幾間之前是薄紗制服的k房目前都已經換制服了

雄X

七八前年
雄X堪稱是整個東莞赫赫有名的超大場夜總會
當時平日上班的MM超過五百人
遇到假日更有七八百人之譜

時至今日
由於各地的大場夜總會林立
且雄X的硬體設備太差(90年代的裝潢)
消費也偏高
加上MM的管理不嚴謹
故現在的雄X已成了垂首的老獅

雖說目前雄X的包廂在去年2006有新裝潢過
但新裝潢的格調還是跟不上時代
且裝修的幅度有限,感覺上有點便宜行事
且新裝潢的包廂低消變貴
因此也無法吸引新的客人

在今年10月的時候
雄x的經營層終於痛下決心
決定把所有包廂再次大規模翻新
目前也還處於施工的階段
希望不要再像去年那樣換湯不換藥的結果才好

雄X現在的MM還不少
共有11組的媽咪
MM人數平日大概也在兩百五十人以上
假日當然會更多

雄XMM的費用一樣是2-5-8
但有著跟桃X一樣的規定
公司規定每個上台的MM必須點一杯飲料
但更坑人的是
這杯飲料居然要48元(另加10%的服務費,總數是53元)

讓人更覺得離譜的是
桃X是規定MM要點飲料
MM自己不想出錢所以會叫客人出
但若客人不願出的話 MM就自己掏錢買
而雄X就不同了
雄X是規定客人讓MM坐檯就必須點這杯53元的飲料
換言之
光是點MM坐個平抬就要花253元
這真的是變相的坑人不吐骨頭

雄X的酒水也比其他夜總會貴
目前CP其他的夜總會
紅白酒都是買二送一
但雄X卻是買三送一
且媽咪的權利小的可憐
連要媽咪送個小食水果盤
媽咪都說沒權利送要經理才能送...*_*

話說回來
消費雖然貴
但只要MM服務好
那也沒有什麼大礙
畢竟出來玩就是要花錢找樂子
貴一點玩的愉快也無妨

但雄X的MM由於管理者(經理,媽咪)的放任
所以很多MM都沒有一個身為服務者應有的心態
白話一點就是都很 [ 機車 ]
以下舉例說明

曾經有三個在台灣的好朋友來CP一遊
去過了桃X之後
他們想去雄X一遊
事前我已經有跟他們說明雄X的女孩子配合度不佳
但他們因為聽聞雄X的亮女多
仍然想去一探究竟

這三個朋友都是每個都是現代唐伯虎
故個個都點了2-3個女孩坐檯
沒料到是惡夢的開始

三個人總共點了七個女孩坐檯
除了有兩個MM比較上道之外
其他的五個MM
不是在用家鄉話跟姊妹聊天
就是在一個勁的自己唱歌邊吃小食水果

朋友要她們一起玩遊戲
她們還老大似的擺個臉說什麼不會玩不想玩
到底誰是老大啊??
連客人的酒杯沒酒了也不會幫忙到酒
只會幫客人抽煙(不是幫客人點煙 是點煙給自己抽)和做自己的事情
實在是一丁點作小姐的自我認知都沒有
十足十典型的大機車妹

一般在夜總會
不是不會遇見機車妹
只是一口氣遇見五個機車妹組成機車陣線聯盟還真的不容易
那次過後
三個朋友真的切身深刻的體會了 [ 不聽導遊言,機車在眼前 ] 的涵義

新XX

新世紀酒店從開幕以來
住房的客人一直絡繹不絕
在匯X 華X 美XX營業之後才降溫

原本大家預期酒店附設的開幕之後能造就新的夜總會盛況
但夜總會開幕已三年
k房的生意始終吸引不了遊客
倒是吸引了不少喜愛搖頭的哈藥客

目前新XX的mm人數大概在平日200人上下
假日可能會多一點
但mm的素質很糟糕
因為酒店本身定位為HI場
很多客人來此消費都是要HI的
而一坐到HI房裡面顧名思義就是每個人都要HI
一HI就HI到凌晨三四點
不少MM可以每天喝酒但不想每天HI
所以美女比率低的可憐(美女去到哪裡都好上班幹嘛來這裡陪HI辛苦自己)
且由於上班常常要喀一些助興的特殊藥品
容易導致身體走樣
故新XX的mm很多都是沒啥胸部的...:S

君x

君x夜總會一直名不見經傳
但自從今年初重新裝潢了包廂
並舉旗號招了一批mm之後
總算有點夜總會的規模

然君x夜總會本身有其無法做大的理由
就是包廂總數太少...只有40餘間
本身天生條件不良
造就其mm人數無法太多的結果
mm平日在180人上下
假日的話,頂多再多個5.6十人

君x的mm漂亮的也不多
這是中等k房的宿命
因為房間數不多...客人也自然不會太多
漂亮的mm自然會想往生意好的大場去

君x夜總會還有一點不好
因為幾間生意好的大場夜總會酒水都是買二送一
而君x夜總會卻是買三送一...?
這或許是它們本身想要表現本身是間[高級]夜總會的逆向操作吧~

桑拿

常平所有桑拿一般技師的治療費皆為300RMB

一般桑拿房原則上房間只能使用兩個小時
但只要於晚上12點之後過去消費
無論是否有挑選該間桑拿的技師
都可以使用房間到中午12點

當您挑選好桑拿技師之後
大多數的桑拿都是規定在技師幫您沖洗完
徵求您的同意之後通知總機報鐘起鐘
正式開始做服務,服務時間為一個半小時

但也有些桑拿是規定挑選好技師之後馬上報鐘
這種馬上報鐘的時間就是兩個小時(例如匯x桑拿跟君x桑拿目前就是此類模式)

沒去過桑拿的人也許好奇桑拿究竟有什麼樣的服務
簡單說一下
有全身波推(就是用胸部按摩 )
有全身漫遊(用舌頭+嘴)
有毒龍鑽(至少超過5分鐘,而且會鑽的很進去)
有舔腳掌,吸允腳指頭
有馬拉松式的BJ服務
有蜜蜂採蜜(將腳趾頭放進去神秘的禁地)
當然少不了真槍實彈進出口的活塞運動

此外,每間桑拿都有一些不太一樣的服務
例如有的桑拿有特色制服
有的桑拿有花街選秀等
但都只是在上述的幾點大方向的服務之外力求變化而已

另外在離cp車程15分鐘有一間桑拿值得一提
這間cp近郊的桑拿
不但選秀的時候mm可以是真空上陣(身無片褸)
而且還提供空中飛人的服務
技師平均的素質也很不錯
是個能真正體會桑拿服務精髓的好地方

大部分的桑拿技師
在時間之內
都只提供客人一次性的服務療程
但若你想在時間之內做兩次療程的話
也一定是沒問題的
只要你跟技師直接明說就ok了

常平的風月其實跟其他城市大同小異
但由於地點交通的便利性
和從事相關行業的mm人數眾多...選擇性多
所以很多男人就專程來這裡拈花惹草
也因此吸引了許多優質的MM來這裡掙錢
且能讓男人輕鬆輕易的找到喜愛的對象
這也正是CP好玩的地方

看完了以上的簡介
是否您想來CP一遊呢??
如果您確有以上的念頭
請發悄悄話給我或利用以下聯絡方式跟我聯繫

范蠡

范蠡「Fàn Lǐ」(前536-前448年)
  
字少伯,春秋末期的政治家、军事家和经济学家。楚国宛(今河南南阳)人,我国长达五千余年的封建传统,均以“士、农、工、商”为列,士为首,商为末,直至宋朝,尚有商人穿鞋必须着一黑一白之劣规,故范蠡一生虽有辉煌业绩,然终因弃官经商的经历使他无缘与历史名人共同载入史册。
  
公元前四九六年前后入越,辅助勾践廿余年,终于使勾践于公元前四七三年灭吴。范蠡以为大名之下,难以久居,遂乘舟泛海而去。后至齐,父子戮力耕作,致产数十万。齐人闻其贤,使为相。范蠡辞去相职,定居于陶(今山东定陶西北),经商积资巨万,称“陶朱公”。
  
范蠡既能治国用兵,又能齐家保身,是先秦时期罕见的智士,史书概括其平生“与时逐而不责于人”。
  
他出身贫寒,但聪敏睿智、胸藏韬略,年青时,就学富五车,上晓天文、下识地理,满腹经纶,文韬武略,无所不精。然纵有圣人之资,在当时贵胄专权、政治紊乱的楚国,范蠡却不为世人所识。
  
周景王二十四年(公元前496年),吴国和越国发生了槜李之战(今浙江嘉兴),吴王阖闾阵亡,因此两国结怨,连年战乱不休,周景王二十六年(公元前494年),阖闾之子夫差为报父仇与越国在夫椒(今江苏太湖中洞庭山)决战,越王勾践大败,仅剩5000兵卒逃入会稽山,范蠡遂于勾践穷途末路之际投奔吴国,献“卑辞厚礼,乞吴存越”之策。议和后“人待期时,忍其辱,乘其败……”“持满而不溢,则于天同道,上天会佑之;地能万物,人应该节用,这样则获地之赐;扶危定倾,谦卑事之,则与人同道,人可动之。” 他向勾践慨述“越必兴、吴必败”之断言,进谏:“屈身以事吴王,徐图转机。”。被拜为上大夫后,他陪同勾践夫妇在吴国为奴三年,“忍以持志,因而砺坚,君后勿悲,臣与共勉!”
  
三年后归国,他与文种拟定兴越灭吴九术,是越国“十年生聚,十年教训”的策划者和组织者。为了实施灭吴战略,也是九术之一的“美人计”,范蠡亲自跋山涉水,终于在苎萝山浣纱河访到德才貌兼备的巾帼奇女——西施,在历史上谱写了西施深明大义献身吴王,里应外合兴越灭吴的传奇篇章。范蠡事越王勾践二十余年,苦身戮力,卒于灭吴,成就越王霸业,被尊为上将军。
  
“吴王亡身余杭山,越王摆宴姑苏台。”在举国欢庆之时,范蠡急流勇退,遂与西施隐姓埋名、泛舟五湖。
后来,他辗转来到齐国,变姓名为鸱夷子皮,带领儿子和门徒在海边结庐而居。戮力垦荒耕作,兼营副业并经商,没有几年,就积累了数千万家产。他仗义疏财,施善乡梓,范蠡的贤明能干被齐人赏识,齐王把他请进国都临淄,拜为主持政务的相国。他喟然感叹:“居官致于卿相,治家能致千金;对于一个白手起家的布衣来讲,已经到了极点。久受尊名,恐怕不是吉祥的征兆。”于是,才三年,他再次急流勇退,向齐王归还了相印,散尽家财给知交和老乡。
  
一身布衣,范蠡第三次迁徙至陶(今山东定陶西北),在这个居于“天下之中”(陶地东邻齐、鲁;西接秦、郑;北通晋、燕;南连楚、越。)的最佳经商之地,操计然之术(根据时节、气候、民情、风俗等,人弃我取、人取我与,顺其自然、待机而动。)以治产,没出几年,经商积资又成巨富,遂自号陶朱公,当地民众皆尊陶朱公为财神,乃我国道德经商——儒商之鼻祖。
  
史学家司马迁称:“范蠡三迁皆有荣名。”;史书中有语概括其平生:“与时逐而不责于人”;世人誉之:“忠以为国;智以保身;商以致富,成名天下”。

军事宗旨
强则戒骄逸,处安有备;弱则暗图强,待机而动;用兵善乘虚蹈隙,出奇制胜。为后世称道并沿用。

经济思想
“劝农桑,务积谷”、“农末兼营”、“务完物、无息币”、“平粜各物,关市不乏,治国之道也。”、“夏则资皮、冬则资絺、旱则资舟、水则资车,以待乏也。” 等至今对现代的经济建设也有积极的现实意义。
    
陶朱公著有《陶朱公理财十二则》(可能是后人所托),内容如下:
  能识人:知人善恶,赈目不负。
  能用人:因财器便,任事可赖。
  能知机:善贮时宜,不致蚀本。
  能倡率:躬行以率,观感自生。
  能整顿:货物整齐,夺人心目。
  能敏捷:犹豫不决,到老无成。
  能接纳:礼义相交,顾客者众。
  能安业:弃旧迎新,商贾大病。
  能辩论:生财之道,开引其机。
  能办货:置货不拘,获利必多。
  能收帐:勤谨不怠,取讨自多。
  能还帐:多少先后,酌中而行。
  
根据陶朱公的经商思想加工整理而成的《陶朱公生意经》,又称《陶朱公商经》、《陶朱公商训》或《陶朱公经商十八则》,至今仍在定陶一带流传。《陶朱公生意经》内容如下:
  生意要勤快,懒惰百事废。
  用度要节俭,奢华钱财竭。
  价格要证明,含糊争执多。
  赊欠要证人,滥欠血本亏。
  货物要面验,滥入质价减。
  出入要谦慎,潦草错误多。
  用人要方正,歪斜托付难。
  优劣要细分,混淆耗用大。
  货物要修正,散漫查点难。
  期限要约定,马虎失信用。
  买卖要随时,拖延失良机。
  钱财要明慎,糊涂弊端生。
  临事要尽责,委托受害大。
  账目要稽查,懈怠资本滞。
  接纳要谦和,暴躁交易少。
  主心要宁静,妄动误事多。
  说话要规矩,浮躁失事多。
  工作要精细,粗糙出劣品。

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Rolex appeal fades as recession blues hit Singapore

Dec 16 - Suffering from recession blues and looking to offload that new Rolex watch?

Don't turn to us, say second-hand luxury stores in Singapore, who are being swamped with requests from people desperate to sell their luxury goods.

Traditionally resilient during times of economic downturn, more than 70 second hand shops in the city-state are feeling the chill of recession, as the appetite for expensive goods has fallen sharply despite big discounts.

"Rolex prices have been like a reliable currency in the past, but there are signs that even Rolex is hit by this recession wave," said Ngo Han, an avid watch collector.

"New Rolexes are selling at much lower prices than before and that has trickled down to the second-hand market," Ngo said.

Home to the highest density of millionaires in the world, Singapore is a wealth management centre and a shopping destination for the region's wealthy.

UNAFFORDABLE LUXURIES
Second-hand stores that stock luxury goods, such as brand name bags and flatscreen televisions, experienced a boom in the past few years, as rising incomes and the need to upgrade to keep up with fast-changing fashions created a fertile secondary market for designer wares.

But with the city-state becoming the first Asian country to slip into recession this year, customers are changing their habits.

Where once they would have bought Rolexes or Patek Philippes that can cost over S$10,000, , they now opt for models that cost under S$5,000, , shop owners said.

"Business has gone down about 20 to 30 percent. The interest to buy watches is still there, but whether people can afford to buy is another thing," said Alvin Lye of Monster-Time.

His online store, http://www.monster-time.com, carries second hand watches from Breitling, Audemars Piguet, Cartier and Longines.

During lunch hour in Singapore's financial district, people fill up May Fong's second-hand luxury bag store, but few are buying, even with many of the bags going at a 50 percent discount.

"There is definitely a drop in business. People are more conscious spending, even if it's a bargain," Fong said.

TEMPORARY SETBACKS?
Shops that rent, rather than sell, designer goods, are however reporting a spike in rentals despite the recession, suggesting some locals are still keen to get glamorous goods, albeit temporarily.

"New bags are leased out within seconds posted on the website," ex-policeman Tan Ho Ching, who rents out designer bags for about S$125 a week via his online store http://www.thatbagiwant.com, told local press on Sunday.

The recession's impact on workers whose salaries are commission-based, such as property agents, could be a likely explanation for the drop-off in sales.

"These people tend to earn much more during the boom times, and they are also likely to make up a significant portion of the consumers for these luxury goods," said Alvin Liew, an economist with Standard Chartered in Singapore.

However, some watch enthusiasts said they were holding onto their horological investments, keen to turn a profit once the recession lifts.

A recent Reuters poll said Singapore would be the worst performing emerging Asian economy next year, but would see a recovery together with the rest of the region in 2010.

"Watches are better to keep and are better than cash in a recession. They won't drop in value, and after a recession, the value is still there or more," said collector Yeo on online watch forum http://www.swx.com.sg.

Monday, December 15, 2008

5 Biggest Dating Mistakes That Single Men Make

How many times have you gone on what you thought was an amazing date only to find that the person never calls back or doesn't seem interested when you try to book another date?

Dating can be awkward, and everyone makes mistakes. Of course, there are some instances in which the person you like doesn't follow up and it has nothing to do with you (e.g,. an ex comes back into her life...don't you love that?). But often it's simple things we do (or don't do) that prevent us from making a connection.
During the past few years, I've interviewed hundreds of daters and asked them what they were looking for, and it's amazing to hear the same themes. Women have certainly complained to me about the biggest mistakes they feel that men make in dating, so I thought I'd share the secrets. (Don't worry -- I have plenty of material on the mistakes women make, but that's for a future installment.)

1. Men Show Off or Try to Impress Too Much.
Don't offer your resume, your earning potential, and tell us how you'll change our lives the first time we meet you. Instead of talking about yourself the whole night, ask questions! Don't come on too strong right away. Let us figure out if we want to be with you, instead of telling us we do.

2. Men Don't Listen to Us When We're Talking.
We notice if you stop listening to us, if you ask us questions we just answered, or if you keep interrupting us when we're opening up. This drives most women nuts! Unless you're on call, don't check your Blackberry at dinner and don't check out other women.
Focus on the woman across the table from you and listen to what she has to say.

3. Men Aren't Chivalrous.
The lines here are not always clear. We want you to treat us like equals, but we also want you to treat us like women. It's nice when a man picks up the tab or makes sure his date gets home safely. It may be old-fashioned, but a number of women report that dating a gentleman matters.

4. Men Don't Take Initiative.
Men, how many times have you caught yourself saying, "I don't know" or "Whatever you'd like" when planning a date? If you've asked a woman out, a better approach is to give a few fun and creative date options and ask her to pick one.
Initiative doesn't mean ordering for a woman at a restaurant or ordering a woman around! It does mean confidently approaching your date with ideas, passion and interest. It also means you can be flirty and forward, letting her know how amazing you think she looks or how much you want to kiss her.

5. Men Say They'll Call and Then Don't.
It's no surprise that acting like you're going to follow up when you're not bothers most women (and never underestimate the way word travels about you not keeping your word!). Better to end a date by saying, "It was nice to meet you. Have a good night." Don't act like you're going to follow up if you're not. If you've gone out more than a few times, be honest that while you enjoy your date's company, you don't feel a romantic connection. Just remember, communication is usually the way to go with a woman.

There are always exceptions, so I don't believe there are absolute rights and wrongs in dating -- but there are strategies. If you follow these simple steps, you'll be ahead in the dating game. At least you'll get an 'A' for effort.

5 Dating Tactics for Picking Up at a Party

I have a friend who claims to hibernate during the winter because all the couples she sees snuggling up and keeping each other warm make her want to crawl back into bed.

The good news is that the holiday season is one of the best times to meet someone. Chances are you'll be invited to more parties over the next few weeks than the rest of the year, and singles report that parties are one of the greatest places to meet potential dates. The mood is fun and festive and breaking the ice is easier when you know some people in common in the room.
When you're heading out to the parties, remember some of the 'do's' of picking up:

1. DO be impressed by the object of your affection rather than trying to impress him or her with all your stats. People notice when you notice them.
No need to ask 20 questions, but do ask a few open-ended and specific questions (rather than 'yes'/'no' questions), make eye contact and listen. Curiosity is a very attractive quality and a simple way to engage your audience.

2. DO find common ground. What brought you to the party? Chances are you know some people in common in the room. This will help you build connection and trust. When asking the object of your interest questions, figure out some activities, hobbies, or experiences you've shared.

3. DO hang out by the food and drink table when you don't know who to talk to. Ever notice how people congregate in the kitchen at many house parties? Many people approach this area on their own to refill their cups and grab a bite, and it will be easier to start a conversation when they've stepped away from the other guests. Offer to get a drink for the object of your affection and if he or she is standing with a friend, extend the invitation.

4. DO see every person you meet as a potential connection.
Stay open. Sometimes the people you know the least will help you the most. If you chat with someone interesting who is not single, he or she may know someone to introduce you to. Also, do not assume that the shy person in the corner at a party is boring. Take the opportunity to learn about people in the room before you decide if you are interested or not.

5. DO initiate conversation. The general rule of networking is to approach someone who is standing on his or her own or join a conversation with three or more people. In general, it's not a great idea to interrupt two people talking unless you know one. When approaching someone new, always remember to smile.

So fill up your social calendar this holiday season and let the pick ups begin! If you play your cards right, you'll be like my friend and will want to hibernate and crawl into bed this winter...but in this case, it won't be because you're lonely.

10 Turnoffs that Make Great Gals Wave Goodbye

Most guys know from the get-go whether or not they see potential in a woman. There's that inner voice that tells you this is someone worth pursuing.

When the first date ends, you're not even thinking about playing games. You know you want a second date. You wait your standard two days, call to set up that date and get the dreaded voicemail.

You leave a heartfelt message, but after three days it becomes clear this great gal is not calling you back. Where did you go wrong?
Were you the only one feeling sparks over lattes?

Top 10 turnoffs for women
Maybe the answer is to learn the top 10 turnoffs that make great gals wave goodbye. If any of these fictional guys sound like you, it's time to change your approach.

Great Gal Turnoff
#1: Showboat Sammy
Maybe he owns a yacht off the coast of France. Maybe he has a timeshare in the Hamptons. Maybe his annual bonus is bigger than most guys' salaries. That's all well and good, but does it really need to be divulged on the first date?

#2: Messy Melvin
A-list celebrities can pull off the unkempt look. First-daters need to pay attention to shaving, clothing and bad breath. If the guy can't even put in the effort for a first impression, it doesn't bode well down the road.

#3: Rude Ricky
"Where's our drinks, lady?" If a guy treats the service staff with a lack of respect, a great gal will likely assume he'll do the same to her someday.
The last thing anyone wants is to be talked down to or disrespected.

#4: Cheapie Charlie
There will always be debate about who should pay on a first date. Some guys are traditionalists and want to foot the bill; others expect a 50-50 monetary split. In most cases, offering to pay is the way to go. Let her pick up the tab on a future date.

#5: Still-Married Michael
Marriage, separation and divorce are pretty cut-and-dry terms. If a guy says he's separated when he really means he's cheating on his wife, it's going to cause trouble. Be honest from the get-go and let the dating chips fall where they may.

#6: Hands-On Howie
Guys need to read the signals before assuming hand holding, massaging and other touchy-feely activities have the green light.
Jumping too quickly to any form of intimacy can make any guy seem too aggressive.

#7: Stereotyping Stephen
"Oh, you're one of those types of women." Jumping to conclusions about a date from the way she answers one or two questions is a definite mistake. Let the date unfold before making assumptions about someone you just met.

#8: Distracted David
His cell phone is ringing constantly, he's popping away from the table every 10 minutes, and he keeps interrupting the conversation flow. First dates require focused attention -- that means putting the phone on vibrate, making eye contact and being present.

#9: All-Business Barry
Some guys are great salesmen or outstanding negotiators. But there's a time and place for business and a time and place for leisure. Guys who treat first dates like business transactions will never close the deal.

#10: Nervous Ned
He can't sit still, he's banging his fork on the table, and he won't make eye contact for more than three seconds. Nervous antics are a real turnoff and make a great gal think a guy has something to hide. Work out the nervous kinks before the date starts.

Interpreting Women: What Is She Really Saying?

What is up with women? When they say something, should we take them literally? Ever since there have been men and women, men have been trying to answer these questions.

Relax! I am here to give you the key to interpreting women.
When interacting with women, and especially when meeting a woman for the first time, most men are not aware of the language that takes place on a deeper level.

Don't worry, you are not alone. For years, I also just listened and responded to women -- and ultimately complied with them -- without considering their deeper level of communication. Of course, when I did this, I wasn't very successful with women.
If you want to be successful with women, you need to tune into what they are really saying. This is a simple skill to master, and when you do, you will be amazed at the ways you naturally start to interact differently with women. More important,

you will be amazed at the way women start reacting to you!

Let me illustrate how this works with an all-too-common scenario. I met this attractive woman in the lounge of a fancy restaurant during the dinner hour on a Friday night. I decided that I would like to get to know her better. After a short, playful interaction (three or four minutes), which included talking her into singing "Happy Birthday" to me even though she knew it wasn't my birthday, I asked her for her phone number.

At this crucial juncture, most people make the mistake of thinking that since the interaction went well they can easily get her number. She responded to my request by saying, "Why don't you give me your number?"

Does this sound familiar? We have all been there before. This is where most guys interpret what she says literally, instead of seizing it as an opportunity to interact and truly demonstrate your value. Interpreting her literally and responding with your number puts you in a place in her mind where you quickly blend with every other Tom, Dick and Harry who complied with her simple request. If you make the mistake of responding with your number, in her mind she's already dismissed you because she's instantly visualized having a boring and predictable relationship with you.

Here's what to do
Luckily, there's an easy way to turn this situation around. When she asked for my phone number, I immediately responded using a tone of conviction: "No. I just met you and you think I am going to give you my number? What kind of guy do you think I am?" The look of happy amazement on her face showed me everything I needed to know, so I continued by saying, "Don't assume I am like all the other guys. You may be cute, but you had better be a good person if you hope to get to know me better," and then I shot her a playful smile.

I could tell that I had broken though her wall by her smile. I told her I had to leave and let her know that I enjoyed meeting her. Once she could see that I was going to leave without trying to get anything from her, she volunteered her number. So, I gave her mine as well, and in less than an hour after I left I received this text message:

"Happy B-day David!!! Let me buy U a b-day drink. We are now at Houston's."
So, what did I do? I headed to Houston's for my "birthday drink" and instant connection.

How to keep your power
You can make this scenario work for you by remembering a few key points. By not offering her phone number and instead asking for mine, she was giving me an indirect "no." It will usually be indirect because most women are polite and subtle when they reject us, but it doesn't mean that she isn't attracted and interested. On a deeper level, it just means that she needed help deciding what kind of man I am. She formed her opinion based on how I reacted.

My reaction showed her that I wasn't willing to give her my power despite the fact that she was the best-looking woman in the place. Most of you know that giving your number in this situation is likely a blow-off.

Giving your number here equals giving away your power
Always keep your power.When I responded "no" to her request in a tone of conviction, it was something that she was not used to hearing. I communicated that I am not like other men. It let her know that I am worth getting to know, and I am wise to her game of trying to get my number and blow me off. Saying "no" showed confidence and made her feel an increased level of attraction towards me.

Next time you find yourself in this situation, look beneath the surface for what a woman is really saying. When she challenges you, make sure you keep your power by giving her what she subconsciously craves -- a man who will challenge her back. You will feel better about yourself, and she will feel more attracted to you.

What She Really Wants

Is giving up your seat a show of respect or an act of outdated chauvinism? A panel of actual women tell all!

Our lovely* panel:
Katherine, 29, psychologist, Palo Alto, California
Alyssa, 29, lawyer, Brooklyn
Laura, 33, fashion-magazine editor, New York
Patricia, 53, teacher, Cranston, Rhode Island

ESQ: The scenario: We are walking into a building in front of you. Do we hold the door open?

Katherine: That depends. If you are a step or two ahead of me, I'd expect you to hold the door. If it's more than that, don't bother. If you're far ahead of me, it's like you're waiting and I feel like I have to hurry up.

We are seated on a packed train and you're standing next to us. Do we give up our seat?

Alyssa: I actually think the idea that men should get up for young, healthy women is ridiculous. I'm perfectly capable of standing. I'm not a delicate flower who needs to sit.

Laura: It would kind of freak me out a little bit, like I'm old and infirm and not a sassy young thing anymore.

We think you may be pregnant -- it's hard to tell with those loose dresses. What do we do?

Patricia: In that case, just offer the seat -- without asking when we're due. You don't have to say why you are getting up. Nothing looks worse than a man who makes a pregnant woman stand.

A woman is lugging a large suitcase through the airport. Do we offer to help?

Katherine: I think a good rule of thumb is, if it looks like we're struggling, offer to help -- we'll really appreciate it.

Alyssa: As much as I want to be pro-feminist and able-bodied, if I'm carrying something heavy, help a girl out.

Okay, so we lug the case up a staircase for you. We would love to keep helping, but now we've got our own flight to catch.

Patricia: Helping me up the stairs is plenty. Just exit by asking, "Are you okay with this now?"

Laura: I'd like you to help me take it through security, take my laptop out of the case, put it back in again, take my shoes off, and smuggle in my water. That is modern chivalry. I'd marry that man.

We pass a woman walking down the street, crying. Do we do anything?

Laura: You already feel bad enough if you're crying in the street. It's better if nobody else acknowledges it.

Katherine: If we happen to be standing next to, say, a broken-down car, ask if we need help or if we need to use your phone.

It's late at night and we see you stumbling alone out of a bar, extremely drunk.

Katherine: Call us a cab, or ask if we have any friends who are still inside the bar. Any more and you could seem a little creepy.

We are in a parking lot and see you fighting loudly with a man, probably your boyfriend. Do we intervene?

Patricia: Not unless it gets out of hand. If there's just an argument, respect people's privacy.

Laura: If I were fighting with my boyfriend, I'd be already pissed off. There's chivalry and then there's delusions of being a knight in shining armor. Get lost.

We don't do anything, but then it starts to get physical -- we see him grab you by the arm.

Katherine: If you know you don't stand a chance if you try to pull the guy off, then call the police. And let them know you're watching. Sometimes just the social pressure of knowing that somebody's looking at you or knowing that somebody's calling the police can help.

We are at a bar when we see you being aggressively hit on by David Spade. What now?

Laura: We are more than capable of dispensing with an undesirable man.

Katherine: I would appreciate it if you came over and struck up a conversation with me and gave me an excuse to end the conversation with the other guy, but I'd probably assume you're hitting on me, too.

Dating Etiquette: How to Navigate the First Date

The first date can be a disaster if you do it wrong. From the predate to the follow-up, keep in mind this six-step dating guide on how to do it right.

1. The Predate
Dress for the occasion, but more important, dress to show respect. Reminder: It's still better to overdress.
Easy on the cologne. Avoid novelty ties. Arm yourself with the tools of modern chivalry.

2. The Pickup
Be on time.
Go to the door.
Do not bring flowers -- it's outdated. You may, however, bring a small, thoughtful gift.

3. The Drive
If you're taking a cab, you should open the door for her, give the directions, and pay.
While amusing, avoid that bit where you go and then stop and pretend to drive away without her.
No music -- try talking.
If you find the ensuing silence unbearable, you may put on music, but avoid the following: a) talk radio; b) anything in which R. Kelly describes something overtly about intimacy; c) playlists consisting entirely of songs that feature her name.

4. The Restaurant
Open the door for her. In case of revolving doors, you go first.
Wait until she's seated to take your seat. At fancier joints, it's the waiter's job to help her with her chair, not yours.
Never order for her. And never present a coupon to the waiter while saying, "And the lady will have something of equal or lesser value."
Sharing food: If she suggests it, you're doing it.
Pay. If she offers to help, say something sincere like, "It's my pleasure," not something you think is witty, like, "I'll consider this a down payment for later, if you know what I mean!"

5. The Walk
Walk at her pace.
Tradition dictates that you should walk on the outside of her to avoid puddle splashes and runaway carriages, but feel free to disregard this unless your date takes place in Colonial Williamsburg (not advised).
Offer her your arm. It's chivalrous and also a good way to initiate contact.
Be a man. Make your move. May God be with you.
You're not going inside. Unless she suggests it.

6. Following Up
No texting. Call the next day. Two days, tops.
If she answers the phone, thank her for a great night and schedule a second date.
If you get voice mail, thank her and ask her to call you back.
If she answers the phone "Sam's Pizza" and pretends you've got the wrong number, all bets are off.

Dating Tactic Saves Daters Time and Money

You organize the perfect date: The location is amazing, the atmosphere is romantic, and you're looking good. Unfortunately, the perfect date doesn't pan out: You spend three hours -- and perhaps pick up a costly tab -- with someone you never want to hang out with again. You could have done a lot with three hours... hung out with your family or friends, caught up on your work projects, or spent time with your PVR. You'll never get back the lost hours -- causing you to stay clear of blind dates and online dating.

Don't give up yet. I have a strategy that'll save you from becoming sour if your next first date turns out to be a dud -- or even help you avoid a useless first date completely. It's called the "pre-date."
Pre-date: the initial meeting to see if one wants to book a more substantial date.
A few of my friends insist on using the pre-date as the way to date someone new effectively. So, here are five tips of the date... before the date:

1. Exchange a few words first
Before you book a date, email and/or call your date a few times rather than making an immediate plan solely based on your date's photo and profile.
Before you book a date, email and/or call your date a few times rather than making an immediate plan solely based on your date's photo and profile. You're going to chat with a lot of people online, and you're not going to want to meet them all. After corresponding with someone new a few times, you'll have a good sense if you want to meet in person -- or not.

2. Don't overdo it online
Before meeting, avoid spending several months communicating with your potential partner virtually. According to many online daters who have fallen into this pattern, spending a lot of time chatting before you meet often increases frustration and expectations.

3. Pick a hip place to meet
Suggest a few cool meeting places for your initial meeting rather than meeting for coffee in the afternoon on a Sunday, which shows little imagination and isn't the most conducive locale for romantic sparks. A good suggestion is meetingfor a happy-hour drink after work since the prices are usually reasonable and the atmosphere is generally fun.

4. Keep your plan short and simple
Don't make a plan that will last many hours or cost you a lot of money if you've never met your date. Avoid meeting for a formal dinner or watching a performance together. These are great events to enjoy together once you know that you're interested in the person you're out with. If your first date with someone new ends up lasting all night, that's a definite bonus -- but don't plan on it.

5. Break the ice with a dating activity
Remember that many of the best dates are free! Go for a walk in a cool area and check your local listings for fun events or festivals you can enjoy. Doing an activity together is a great way to alleviate tension since it can be awkward to meet someone across a table for the first time.
When you're feeling nervous about experiencing another bad date, remember that early dates are simply designed to see if you have chemistry and want to book a more involved date later. There's no reason to spend tons of money or time with someone you don't know yet.
So before you arrange a full-blown date, try a pre-date!

Dating Guide for 2009: Eight Steps to Finding True Love

2009 can be the year you find the love of your life.
You can create the stuff of your dreams by making a simple shift that changes the way you date this year. You can make a resolution right now, right here as you read this dating guide, to find new love that is better than any relationship you have had before.

For singles, the chances of finding a mate could be better than ever! The average marriage now lasts under seven years, and this means new singles are coming on the scene all the time. In fact, around 16 million people are now using online dating in the U.S. You have a lot of singles to choose from.
So go on, make the affirmation. Something like, "I will find a mate who is just right for me."

Here is an eight-step action plan that can make your resolution a reality in 2009:

1. Prioritize Finding Love.
Imagine if you didn't have a job. Looking for one would be your top priority. You would spend hours searching sites like Yahoo! Hotjobs, calling recruiters, and jumping on any leads.
In contrast, finding love ranks pretty low on your to-do list. You come home from work, run errands, call your friends, watch your favorite show, and maybe spend 15 minutes browsing your online dating site. Most singles are better at planning their weekend than planning their dating life.
Yet study after study has shown that relationships are treasured above all else when we reflect on what has meant the most in our lives. So make finding a mate a top priority.

2. Have a 'New You' Party.
Invite friends over for a New You party where they give you a makeover. Let them go through your clothes, getting rid of unflattering stuff and putting together some hot new looks for you. Find a look that makes you feel great.
Tell your friends you are looking to meet someone special. Email the same message to any other buddies who did not make the party.

3. Work Your Online Dating Site.
Throw out your old photo and profile. Have a friend who is a good photographer take 100 headshots of you in order to get one that looks especially warm, attractive, and inviting. Get some opposite-sex friends to help you pick out the best photo and work on your dating profile.
After you post them, spend at least three hours a week looking around the site, sending and responding to messages, and connecting by phone and in person with people. Block out time in your daily calendar to work the site.

4. Go Where the Odds Are Better.
Sign up for two ongoing classes or activities that interest you and have lots of singles in them. Finance courses, rock climbing, golfing, snowboarding/skiing, and hiking are great for meeting single men. Single women are plentiful at cooking classes, yoga, and spirituality workshops.
Coed city sports teams are great and usually have an even mix of genders. Look into volunteering for a local or national political group. There are many other activities to consider, so search online, or go to www.meetup.com and peruse their groups.

5. Meet New People.
Say hello to three new men or women every day. Assuming you are in a safe or public place, make eye contact, smile, say hi or ask for some help. This is what I call the Marcia Cross Technique. Actress Marcia Cross was in her forties when she met her husband by chatting with him in a flower shop. She now is the ecstatic mother of twin baby girls.
You can start with saying hello to the less threatening types and work your way up to the ones who are "out of your league." You will be surprised how receptive the cuties can be!

6. Date Against Type.
Most singles do not find love with the type of person they imagine for themselves. The guy who wants a petite blonde winds up with a brainy brunette. The woman who dates starving artists marries a rich, balding lawyer. Look at photos and profiles that you would ordinarily take a quick pass on. Try and experiment. You may be very happily surprised!

7. Go for a Second Date.
Even if you are not exactly blown away by a person on the first date, remember to stay open. You cannot know what secret goodies are hidden in someone just by meeting them once. You have to let a potential partner unfold and show you his/her different sides. If there is any connection with this person at all, give it another chance. Love almost always comes in a surprise package.

8. Open the Door.
If you do meet someone and have a really good time, send a quick text or email the next morning to let the person know that the door is open to getting together again. This is especially important for women to do. Write something specific about the date that points to the connection between the two of you or refers to something you both loved.

Now you have your love resolution and plan. Most importantly, commit to the first step and make finding a mate your top priority. Then follow the recommended program to create the love you want in the coming year. Chances are, by next New Year's Eve you'll be kissing the one you want.

Sunday, December 14, 2008

保心靠自己

美国和英国研究人员进行的两项大型研究分别显示,服用维他命C及维他命E未能证实减低心脏病的死亡率,叶酸及维他命B12的保心功效也无法证实。专家认为:要预防心脏病还是多注意自己的饮食,配合有规律的健康生活方式。

心脏是人体重要器官,许多人都很努力预防心脏病的发生,在过去,医学界有很长一段时间相信服用维他命C及维他命E,有助于抵抗氧化物对血管的坏影响,从而减低心血管疾病的病发几率,包括心脏病与中风。

两种抗氧化剂无效
但是,日前在美国心脏学会的学术会议上,美国研究人员公布的一项大型研究报告显示,服用维他命C及维他命E未能证实减低心脏病的死亡率。

这项大型研究为期8年、有超过1万4641人参与,参与者都是医生,平均年龄为64岁。其中5%参与者有冠心病、心绞痛或中风的病历。他们分别被分配服用维他命C、维他命E或是安慰剂(没有药效的假药丸)。

医生们持续服用维他命C、维他命E或是安慰剂8年后,研究人员发现,无论服用维他命C或维他命E,抑或服用安慰剂,发病或死亡个案的数字都差不多,这显示服用维他命C及维他命E这两种抗氧化剂,并不能降低患上心血管疾病的危险几率,也谈不上减低死亡率。

健康饮食包括:用橄榄油取代其他食油来烹调食物。

叶酸及维他命B12也无效
另一方面,过去的研究也显示,叶酸及维他命B12能够改善血管硬化,有助于预防心血管疾病。但另一项大型研究却显示,叶酸及维他命B12的保心功效也无法证实。

由英国研究人员进行的这项临床研究以约1万名曾患心肌梗塞的康复者为对象,研究人员把他们分为两组,一组服用维他命B12及叶酸,另一组服用安慰剂。7年后结果显示,在心血管疾病的病发率上,两组人并没有差别。

保心从日常生活着手
不时有专家提出警告:要预防心脏病还是多注意自己的饮食健康,饮食中少盐、少油,少吃富含动物性脂肪的食物,如肥肉、鸡皮等,同时也可用橄榄油取代其他食油。日常食物可多吃富含omega-3脂肪酸的鱼类,同时也应多吃大蒜、洋葱及其他各种富含抗氧化剂和抗凝血剂的蔬菜水果,以防止动脉阻塞。

过去有研究显示,地中海区居民的心脏病罹患率比美国人要低得多,地中海边缘国家包括西班牙、意大利、希腊、南斯拉夫、叙利亚等地的饮食具有预防心血管疾病的作用。

地中海饮食的特点是含大量谷类、豆类、新鲜蔬果,少吃红肉类,以大量药草香料佐料,不添加防腐剂,以及以橄榄油烹调。专家认为,地中海食物大量的谷类、豆类、新鲜蔬果都是膳食纤维的主要来源,而橄榄油含有丰富油脂酸,为一种单元不饱和脂肪酸,研究证实可提高血液中高密度脂蛋白胆固醇(俗称好胆固醇),同时也能降低低密度脂蛋白胆固醇(俗称坏胆固醇)的浓度。

在一日三餐方面,正确的饮食习惯应该是早餐吃得丰富,摄取较高热量食物。晚餐则应少碰油腻食物,饮食宜清淡,摄取热量不超过全天之30%。专家认为,晚餐吃得过于丰富或油腻,会造成血脂量升高,加上睡眠时人之血液流动较慢,大量血脂易沉积在血管上,会造成动脉硬化、高血压及心脏病。

对于那些有心律不整毛病,而又有喝咖啡习惯的人来说,最好控制喝咖啡的数量,每天不要超过两杯。

但研究人员也提醒大众,除了注意饮食仍是不够的,要预防心脏病,正确的做法是,配合有规律的健康生活方式,多运动、保持心情愉快,才可远离心脏病。

Friday, December 12, 2008

胃酸倒流袭职场白领 七成人有胃食管反流病症状

邓丽君突然离世时,公布的死因,是哮喘;柯受良突然离世时,公布的死因也是哮喘。而今有专家说,击倒邓丽君、柯受良的,可能不是哮喘病,而是胃食管反流病。

何会有如此异议?一则因胃食管反流病症状复杂,常貌似哮喘、鼻炎,有时还极像心绞痛;二则它虽然十分常见,却又让我们十分陌生。一项调查显示,7成以上被访者有胃反酸、“烧心”等胃食管反流病症状,但却有近6成被访者从未听说过此病。

南京市中医院消化科主任金小晶教授介绍,门诊发现,此病发生率现已呈不断上升趋势,而且病者多为脑力劳动者。究其病因,有紧张压力、三餐不定时、肥胖、暴食等,它也是一种“现代文明病”。

病症 胃酸倒流惹祸端
胃食管反流病的根本异常,为食管下端括约肌功能不全,因此造成胃酸、胆汁、消化酶对没有保护的食管黏膜的损害。

1、活门失灵酸倒流
我们吃东西时,食物从嘴,经食道一路下去,在要进入胃时,会通过“食道下端括约肌”,这一片肌肉,是食道与胃之间的一道单向活门。

正常情况下,我们吞咽时,这片肌肉活门就会打开;在食物进入胃里后,这片活门又会关闭起来,以防胃内物质反流。

当肌肉活门无法正常运作时,闭合不严了,就会产生胃里的食物和胃酸逆流进食道的现象。胃酸刺激食管,引起一系列症状。

2、典型症状是烧心
(1)初期症状:嗳气,反酸、反食、打嗝等,容易被忽略。
(2)典型症状:烧心,是胃酸倒流,对食管黏膜的直接刺激引起的。

3、症状复杂易误诊
(1)“心窝”疼误诊为心绞痛
误诊原因:食道和心血管是近邻。
A、个案:有位老太太犯咳嗽、喘息、反酸、烧心等症状足足34年了,后来又犯起了心绞痛,做心导管造影,发现冠状动脉有些狭窄,花了四万多元给冠状动脉植入3枚支架,可是术后没有一点改善,胸口照样疼,喉咙跟柴火烧着似的。再经胃镜检查,确诊为“胃食管反流病”。对症治疗后,胸口再不疼了,咳嗽、喘息、呼吸困难等症状也消失了。

B、分析:为何会“心绞痛”?胃液为消化食物,其酸度很高,如果强酸度的胃液反流,刺激食道,肯定会引起疼痛;久之糜烂溃疡。食道在胸骨的后边,疼痛起来好像心窝疼,易误认为是心肌缺血时的症状——“心绞痛”。

老人心血管总会有所异常,个案中的老太太被确诊为冠心病,在所难免。

(2)“进食咳”误诊为哮喘病
误诊原因:胃酸刺激呼吸道也会引起哮喘。
A、个案:中国血管外科首席专家、中国科学院院士汪忠镐教授,2005年出现不明原因流涕,最初诊断为“过敏性鼻炎”;不久,渐渐出现和睡眠、进食相关的咳嗽、咳痰、气短和呼吸困难,这些属于典型的哮喘症状,被诊断为“支气管哮喘”。

但是,按照哮喘病治疗,病情越来越重,强烈的窒息感让他难以平卧,夜间无法入睡,苦不堪言。汪老坚信自己的病肯定不是哮喘,联想小时候看父亲诊病,很多病人常会提出烧心、反酸,连带咳嗽,而自己现在就是一吃饭就咳嗽,于是到胃肠实验室检查。

尽管胃镜检查没有食管炎,但食管24小时pH监测结果证实:一天一夜之间共发生食管反流220次,远远超出正常水平!他终于明白,困扰自己一年多的致命性呼吸困难,乃是胃食管反流病引起的一种最严重的,会危及生命的呼吸道并发症——喉痉挛!

有专家称邓丽君、柯受良就是死于此病,原因是:普通哮喘多为支气管痉挛,因为并没有堵塞所有的气道,需要长时间的持续状态才可能致人于死;胃食管反流病引起的哮喘,主要表现为喉气管痉挛(声门紧闭),可以在短时间引起患者窒息而死。

B、分析:胃酸倒流为何会引起呼吸道症状?因为呼吸道和食管有共同的开口,反流至食管的胃酸可进一步向上冲,形成细微或雾状物质,被喷入喉头,吸入气管、支气管和肺部。

食管和咽部受到反流胃酸的刺激,会引起喉头和支气管痉挛而发生哮喘;气管黏膜经受不起胃酸的侵袭会出现慢性炎症;吸入肺部,可引起肺炎,久之则导致肺间质纤维化和肺源性心脏病。

所以,患者如果出现咳嗽、咽炎或哮喘,并伴有“烧心、反流”等症状,一定要及早去医院胃食管反流病门诊治疗;如果并没有胃部不适,但“哮喘”、“心绞痛”、“慢性咽炎”、“慢性支气管炎”久治不愈,或治疗后病症没有改善,也要警惕是否是“胃酸倒流”。

(3)食管外表现症状多
胃酸上冲,到达咽部、鼻腔、中耳等部位,从而出现咳嗽、咳痰、喉部发紧、喘息、鼻炎、中耳炎等食管外的表现。据介绍,张国荣生前曾因胃酸倒流而伤及喉咙,其喉咙被严重灼伤,一度影响了歌唱事业。

4、食道癌变几率高
金小晶主任呼吁患者不要轻视此病,因为食道细胞长时间被胃酸刺激,可能发生癌变;国外研究发现,每星期出现一次胃痛、胃灼热或胃酸倒流等症状的人士,罹患食道腺癌的几率比一般人高出将近8倍。

病因 生活方式埋祸根
1、饱餐一顿倒头睡
A、个案:某报记者工作3年来,从不吃早餐,起身洗把脸就跑去采访,早中餐合并一起吃,下午5时赶稿期间饿了,匆忙吃个简餐,交稿后总在晚9、10点左右,约上三五同事吃完消夜回家,倒头就睡。自感身体越来越差,最近犯起了胃病。

B、分析:医学界认为,近年来“胃酸倒流”的案例之所以不断增多,有个原因是:人们的生活越来越紧张忙碌、饮食不定时,晚饭吃得太迟,或是有吃消夜的习惯,饱食一顿后倒头大睡。

三餐不定时,易让胃功能紊乱;而经常在睡觉前两小时吃东西,会造成胃下垂,致使食管括约肌松弛,导致胃酸倒流。如果工作要求必须如此,最好“高枕无忧”。

2、压力增大人疲倦
A、个案1:记者节期间,有个调查发现,84.2%的记者有疲倦感;72.1%的记者反映工作压力大。
个案2:人非常生气的时候会打嗝。

B、分析:研究发现,患者反流症状、心理因素、植物神经功能之间互相影响、互为因果,而植物神经功能紊乱可能是中间环节。原因是人长期处于精神紧张、忧虑或抑郁状态,负面情绪对大脑皮层产生不良的刺激,使得丘脑下中枢的调节作用减弱或丧失,引起植物神经功能紊乱。

食管括约肌的收缩和舒张,受植物神经支配,如果植物神经功能紊乱了,食管括约肌这活门的开关闭合必然随之发生异常。

调查发现,约40%胃反流患者的植物神经功能异常。

3、为求灵感常抽烟
A、个案:一位年轻记者,写稿时,每隔一会儿就要出去抽两支烟,说抽烟能给自己灵感。最近口里常常莫名其妙地冒出很多酸水,而且不时感到胃疼、胃胀。

B、分析:研究发现,抽烟促进并加重胃食管反流病症,因为抽烟可减少食管括约肌内压力;长期大量吸烟还可使幽门括约肌松弛,十二指肠液反流。

4、体重超标人肥胖
香港中文大学医学院研究发现:肥胖或体重超标的人在用餐后,胃食道压力较常人高出一倍;下食道括约肌松弛次数比体重标准者平均多5次;腰围越大,括约肌松弛程度越严重。
肥胖者食量较大,食物堆积在胃内会让胃压上升,当胃气谷峰上升到括约肌时,就好像“崩堤”一样,导致胃酸倒流。

5、暴饮暴食胃压升
即使是身形瘦削的人,若拥有不良饮食习惯,例如吃得太急(15分钟吃完一大碟面)、经常吃夜宵、暴饮暴食及经常吃零食等,均可引致胃压上升,增加胃酸倒流风险。

在竞争环境中拼搏的朋友,享受时尚生活的朋友,要千万警惕胃食管反流病。

胃酸倒流(就是烧心)应该怎么治?要注意什么?

烧心指的是心窝部烧灼感,或火辣辣的感觉。有人以为烧心是心脏病的症状,其实,烧心是常见的消化道症状。在我国一般人群中,3%~4%的人出现过或常有烧心。

要想知道烧心是怎么回事,先要了解胃的有关结构和胃酸。胃通过贲门和食管连接,食管下端的肌肉有一高压环带称为食管下端括约肌,就像袖口的松紧带,平时括约肌紧缩食管下端,咽下的食物饮料可以顺利“通关”进入胃内。正常情况下,胃内消化或贮存的食物和胃液,是不会倒(逆)行进入食管的。

胃酸是胃黏膜细胞生产的盐酸,浓度在0.1%左右。胃酸和胃蛋白酶等,共同对食物中的蛋白质进行初步消化。胃本身不怕被胃酸消化,这是因为它拥有3~4层物质构成的保护系统。正常胃蠕动之所以能将消化物推向十二指肠而不会逆行入食管,原因之一是胃的推动方向是向前而不是向后,更重要的是食管下端括约肌在那儿严密把关——只许进胃不许倒流。

一旦因各种疾病如溃疡病、胆病,以及手术、药物等作用,导致括约肌压力下降关闭不严,或者胃的推进方向反了——向后方倒推,再加上食管不能将返上来的胃酸、食物及时往下推回胃中,问题就发生了。
食管的衬里(医学上称为黏膜)属复层鳞状上皮,经不住酸的侵蚀。食管黏膜一旦受到酸的侵蚀、消化,通过神经反射就会出现烧心症状。所以说有烧心就意味着有胃向食管的反流,轻者影响患者生活质量,重者可引起食管炎、食管溃疡甚至出血,这些都是食管癌的危险因素。久之也可发生食管狭窄而致吞咽不利。

有烧心症状的朋友应去医院详细检查,接受系统治疗才是上策,而且越早越好。烧心虽然不象心脏病那样会威胁到您的生命,但是当您吃完晚饭,想舒舒服服的斜卧在沙发里看看自己喜欢的电视节目时,上腹部那烧灼的感觉和那一股股往上涌的酸水,使您不得不直挺着身子端坐起来,再有趣的节目相信您也会索然无味.

要想避免烧心首先要注意平日的饮食,避免进食过快,同时尽量少进食或不进食某些的食物,如茶、咖啡、油炸食品、糖果、辣椒、烈性酒等,不过即便能引起您烧心的食物不在上面提到的范围内,您也应当避免进食这种食物。其次在饭后不要马上卧床或弯腰,也不要马上开始剧烈的运动,明智的选择是饭后30分钟后进行一次轻松的散步,既可帮助消化,又可减轻烧心的症状。

如果上面的办法还不起作用的话,您还可以选用一些抗酸药物如:碳酸钙片、氢氧化铝凝胶等,这些药物可以中和胃的胃酸,很快地消除烧心的症状会,但是如果长期服用这些药物,会造成便秘或腹泻;如果您经常有严重的烧心,或者症状严重且持续存在的话,不要仅仅认为是上了年纪或吃得不合适,去接受医生的检查才是您最明智地选择。

胃酸反流和食道癌关系有多大

香港中文大学内科及药物治疗学系系主任及部门主管沈祖尧教授日前指出胃酸长期倒流到食道如果不治疗可引致食道癌
  
专家说胃酸倒流患者会有持续胸口灼热唾液分泌增多等情况长期可会令食道受损发炎及流血甚至令细胞组织改变而引致食道癌沈教授指出香港近年患上胃酸倒流的人数不断增多简单的生活习惯改变减轻胃酸倒流的症状如睡前勿用膳减肥睡觉时垫高头部戒烟少进食刺激食道的食物等但同时亦需要药物的辅助治疗他认为导致胃酸倒流增多的原因目前医学界有效地治疗胃炎而控制了胃炎后胃部却产生更多的胃酸形成胃酸倒流

小满时 暖胃寒 节后2招快速疏通肠胃:  
过年总是皆大欢喜,免不了美食佳肴,杯酒尽欢,这时总有人忘记了要保持节制。饮食过量、生活作息紊乱,身体最先发出警报的就是消化系统。所以,节后健康调整,首先从调整肠胃入手。  
28岁的小黄今年春节带着新婚妻子回老家,在亲戚朋友连续几天的轮番宴请下,年轻力壮的小黄也觉得吃不消了:腹胀、恶心、没有食欲,每天饭后胃部隐隐作痛。撑了几天回到广州才去医院检查,发现已经得了慢性胃炎……   

胃酸过多食疗方6则
早上起来漱口时总感觉反胃:  
虽然看似和你的咽喉没有毛病,但这个症状确实是由于你的咽喉受到刺激所产生的反应,和你的胃没有关系,只能说是咽喉有炎症,从而导致你的胃有了反胃的反应。反胃只能算是个联锁反应。如果你平时吸烟,且不注意保护,还有你的生活环境或工作环境中的气体有损害咽喉的气体成分的话,是很容易得咽喉炎的,不是咽炎就是喉炎。如果经常如此,建议去医生那儿检查.

治胃酸过多食疗方6则

党参馄炖
配方:生姜10克制半夏15克黄连5克党参20克干姜10克甘草5克大枣10克猪瘦肉250克面粉500克素油50克盐6克豆粉适量
  制作:
  1将党参干姜制半夏黄连干姜甘草大枣放入铝锅内加水适量用武火烧沸文火煎煮15分钟滤去渣留汁待用
  2猪肉洗净剁成泥;素油炼熟干姜切成末再把猪肉泥豆粉姜末拌成馅待用
  3将面粉放面板上用药液将面粉揉成面团用擀面杖擀成薄皮切成馄饨皮大小备用
  4如常规包成馄饨煮熟即成
  食法:每日1次每次吃馄饨100克正餐食用
  功效:补脾胃祛瘀滞对胃酸过多之胸闷嗳气胃部膨满患者尤佳
  
七物鸡汤
配方:党参15克制半夏10克生姜10克黄连5克干姜10克甘草5克大枣10克鸡肉500克料酒10克葱15克胡椒粉3克盐6克鸡精6克
  制作:
  1把上7味药物洗净放入盆内;鸡肉洗净切成4厘米的块;葱切成段
  2将7味药物用纱布袋装好扎紧口与鸡肉同放炖锅内加水适量放入料酒葱胡椒粉置武火上烧沸再用文火炖煮40分钟加入盐搅匀即成
  食法:每日1次每次吃鸡肉50克喝汤佐餐食用
  功效:健脾胃益气血对胃酸过多胃功减退患者尤佳
  
旋覆花炖鱼头
配方:旋覆花15克代赭石15克人参15克半夏10克制甘草5克生姜10克大枣3鱼头1只料酒10克味精3克胡椒3克
  制作:
  1将上7味药物洗净放入纱布袋内扎紧口放锅内加入水适量置武火上烧沸再用文火煎煮20分钟去渣留药液待用
  2将鱼头洗净切成4大块放入炖锅内加入料酒胡椒放入药液置武火上烧沸再用文火炖20分钟加入味精即成
  食法:每日1次每次吃鱼头50克喝汤佐餐食用或单食
  功效:补元气健脾胃益气血对胃酸过多腹部无力嗳气胸闷患者尤佳
  
复元汤
配方:怀山药50克肉苁蓉20克菟丝子10克葱白3根胡桃肉2大米100克瘦羊肉500克羊脊骨1具生姜20克料酒20克八角3克盐6克
  制作:
  1将羊脊骨砍成数节用清水洗净后一起放入沸水锅内汆去血水再洗净;将怀山药等药物用纱布袋装好扎口;生姜葱白拍破;羊肉切成4厘米长2厘米宽的条
  2将上食物药包同时下入铝锅内加入清水适量置武火上烧沸打去浮沫放入料酒调酒再用文火继续炖至熟为止
  3将肉汤装碗后用胡椒食盐调好味即成
  食法:每日1次每次吃羊肉50克喝汤佐餐食用
  功效:暖脾胃益中气对胃酸过多虚劳羸瘦腰膝腹部无力患者食用尤佳
  
地黄甜鸡
配方:生地黄250克龙眼肉30克红枣5母鸡1只饴糖150克
  制作:
  1将鸡宰杀后去毛桩内脏及爪洗干净有背部颈骨剖至尾部再洗净血水放入沸水锅中煮3分钟捞起
  2将生地黄洗净后切成0.5厘米见方的颗粒;龙眼肉撕碎与生地黄混合均匀再掺入饴糖调理后一起塞入鸡腹内将鸡腹部向下放入蒸盆中红枣去核洗净放鸡身上注入米汤用湿棉封闭盆口上笼用武火蒸2小时即可
  食法:每日1次每次吃鸡肉50克既可佐餐又可单食
  功效:健脾胃补虚损止呕吐对胃酸过多身重乏力食少恶心呕吐患者食用尤佳
  
冰糖蒸莲子
配方:干莲子300克冰糖150克猪网油1张(约200平方厘米)棉纸1张
  制作:
  1铝锅内注入热水(淹过莲子为度)加碱12克置中火上下入莲子用刷把反复搓刷待莲衣脱尽后迅速离火用温水冲洗干净切去两头用牙签捅出莲心
  2将加工后的莲子放入蒸盆内加清水适量上笼用武火蒸1小时取出另用碗铺上猪网油将莲子整齐地码网油上冰糖捣碎撒上面用温纸封口再入笼蒸烂莲子
  3.取出盛莲子容器揭去棉纸滗出原汁加蜂蜜倒莲子蘸上汁即成
  食法:每日1次每次吃莲子50克既可佐餐又可单食
  功效:补脾固肠养心益胃对胃酸多心烦失眠患者尤佳

胃酸反流和食道癌关系有多大
小满时 暖胃寒:食疗    
再过三日为廿四节气的“小满”。《月令七十二候集解》中说:“四月中,小满者,物至于此小得盈满。”小满是指麦类等夏熟作物,即将饱满,但还没有完全成熟可收割,从这日起植物呈现欣欣向荣的景象。  “立夏小满初夏到,气温显著升得高。南方雨水很充沛,北方风大雨水少。”这首节气歌最能反映此节气的气候特点了。在我们南方,气温正一日比一日升高,同时可能因去年入秋后雨量特别小,故今夏的雨量特别多。因此这段时间的养生除了祛湿外,还要适时饮用一些驱风、暖胃的

早上起来漱口时总感觉反胃 什么食物会引起饭后胀气:  
天津读者刘先生:我每次吃饭后都觉得胃里有股气在顶着,很不舒服,请问这是什么原因,应该吃点什么来缓解这种情况呢?    
中国中医科学院博士庄乾竹:从西医的角度来说,饭后胃里胀气和胃肠功能减弱有关,一般老年人常出现这种情况,有些患有慢性胃炎的年轻人也可能发生。从中医的角度来说,脾胃消化功能不好,和肝有一定的关系,人在情绪不好的时候,肝的疏泄功能减弱,也会导致饭后胀气。  西医解决胀气的办法是建议吃点吗丁啉等药物;中医则建议大家从食物上来

胃酸倒流可致食道癌

香港中文大学内科及药物治疗学系系主任及部门主管沈祖尧教授日前指出胃酸长期倒流到食道如果不治疗可引致食道癌

专家说胃酸倒流患者会有持续胸口灼热唾液分泌增多等情况长期可会令食道受损发炎及流血甚至令细胞组织改变而引致食道癌沈教授指出香港近年患上胃酸倒流的人数不断增多简单的生活习惯改变减轻胃酸倒流的症状如睡前勿用膳减肥睡觉时垫高头部戒烟少进食刺激食道的食物等但同时亦需要药物的辅助治疗他认为导致胃酸倒流增多的原因目前医学界有效地治疗胃炎而控制了胃炎后胃部却产生更多的胃酸形成胃酸倒流

“拧紧”生产胃酸的“笼头” 胃经常泛酸为什么呢:  
胃泛酸是一种常见的消化道症状,并非都是胃有毛病。当.胃酸过多时,酸性分泌物会刺激胃粘膜,引起泛酸,让人有烧心的感觉。

造成胃酸过多和泛酸的原因很多,主要有两种:   
(1)生理性泛酸。当精神紧张、过度疲劳、情绪不佳时,大脑皮质功能紊乱,不能很好地管辖胃酸分泌的神经,促使胃酸分泌增多;饮食不当,如过甜、过咸、过辣、过酸、过冷、过烫的食物都可刺激胃酸分泌增加;而某些粗粮、红薯、马铃薯等含多量淀粉、糖、酸等,会刺激胃产生大量胃酸,况且不易消化的食物.

反胃的其他疗法:  
1.针灸疗法取脾俞、胃俞、中脘、章门、关元、足三里等穴,针刺可用平补平泻法,可加灸。  
2.预防调护  注意调节饮食,戒烟酒刺激之品,保持心情舒畅。  
得病后饮食宜清淡流质,避免粗硬食物,药汁宜浓缩,空腹服

烟和盐容易导致胃酸倒流

瑞典研究人员发现,吸烟和过多摄入食盐容易使人患“胃食管反流疾病”,胃酸会反流至食管,即俗称的胃酸倒流。

胃酸倒流主要症状是胃灼热,即“烧心”,病情严重可能导致食道癌。瑞典斯德哥尔摩卡罗琳医院M·尼尔松博士说,他们对3153名胃酸倒流症状患者和4.021万名无“烧心”症状的人进行了研究。结果发现,吸烟与胃酸倒流存在联系,烟龄越长,患胃酸倒流风险越高。与不吸烟者相比,烟龄在1至5年的烟民患病几率高20%,烟龄超过20年的烟民患病几率高70%。

此外,研究还发现,吃盐过多也是诱发胃酸倒流的因素。日常饮食中摄入过多食盐的人与其他人相比,患病几率高70%以上。每月吃咸鱼或咸肉两次以上的人患病几率比其他人高一倍。对此,研究人员建议,多吃纤维食物、加强身体锻炼可有效防止胃酸倒流。

Fast facts about GERD

Click on the links below to find answers to some common questions about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

What is GERD?
GERD is GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease or Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease, depending on whether the US or UK spelling is used. According to the Montreal Definition of GERD, which was developed recently by a group of experts from around the world, it is a condition that develops when the reflux of stomach contents causes troublesome symptoms and/or complications.

The most common complication of GERD is reflux esophagitis.
What is reflux esophagitis?
Reflux esophagitis is an inflammation of the esophagus caused by the reflux of gastric acid and pepsin into the esophagus. The severity of reflux esophagitis is graded according to the endoscopic appearance of the esophageal mucosa.

In the Los Angeles (LA) Classification system, which has been used in the studies with Nexium®(esomeprazole), the severity of esophagitis is graded by the presence and extent of mucosal breaks. The classification ranges from LA grade A (mild esophagitis) to LA grade D (very severe esophagitis).

What is the main cause of GERD?
Contrary to common belief, lifestyle factors do not play a major role in the development of GERD. In the majority of people with reflux disease, the dominant mechanism of symptom production is through contact of the esophageal mucosa with gastric acid and pepsin.

Normally, the stomach contents are prevented from refluxing into the esophagus by a ring of muscle, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This acts as a one-way valve, which allows food to enter the stomach but not to exit the same way. Sometimes the LES is not completely effective and allows the stomach contents back into the esophagus, where gastric acid and pepsin can cause irritation to the esophageal mucosa. Damage to the esophagus caused by gastric acid and pepsin refluxing through the LES is usually minimised through a number of mucosal defence systems. However, when these mechanisms are impaired or overwhelmed, GERD symptoms may result.

What are the most common symptoms of GERD?
Heartburn and acid regurgitation are the characteristic symptoms of GERD. Heartburn can be defined as a burning sensation in the retrosternal area (behind the breastbone), or as a burning feeling rising from the stomach or lower chest up towards the neck.
In some cases, stomach acid may be regurgitated into the mouth, causing an unpleasant sour taste. Other, less common, symptoms include noncardiac chest pain, dysphagia (or difficulty in swallowing) or extra-esophageal symptoms such as chronic cough or hoarseness.

Doesn’t everyone suffer from heartburn from time to time?
Almost everyone experiences heartburn from time to time, especially after a large meal. However, if heartburn is troublesome enough to affect a patient’s well-being (for example, by making it difficult to sleep or painful to take exercise), this may indicate GERD.

In the recent Montreal Definition, GERD is defined as a condition that develops when the reflux of stomach contents causes troublesome symptoms and/or complications.

Reflux symptoms that are not troublesome should not be diagnosed as GERD.

How common is GERD?
More than one in 10 adults in Europe and North America has heartburn or acid regurgitation at least once a week.

In Asia, daily or weekly heartburn or acid regurgitation affects up to one in 20 adults.
Furthermore, many patients suffer the symptoms of GERD for years. By the time they do consult, most will already have tried lifestyle changes and antacids and found them inadequate. Some will already have taken prescription therapies that have proved unsatisfactory and may feel frustrated that their recurring symptoms will not go away.

Could GERD develop into complications?
Yes. In up to one half of GERD patients consulting in primary care, refluxed gastric juices have caused visible damage to the esophagus, known as reflux esophagitis. Repeated esophageal damage can, in some cases, lead to the development of Barrett’s esophagus, a pre-malignant change thought to lead to esophageal adenocarcinoma. Barrett’s esophagus is found in one in 10 symptomatic GERD patients.

However, it is not possible to identify which patients have esophagitis or Barrett’s esophagus by looking at the severity of symptoms.

How can GERD be diagnosed?
CloseThe typical GERD syndrome can be diagnosed on the basis of persistent and troublesome symptoms, particularly heartburn and acid regurgitation. International experts agree that patients have GERD when they suffer from troublesome reflux symptoms that adversely affect their everyday life.

Reflux symptoms are likely to indicate GERD when they are mild and frequent (several times a week) or moderate or severe and less frequent (for example, once a week).
However, it is the patient who should decide whether their GERD symptoms are troublesome. Any patient who presents with alarm symptoms, such as dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing), vomiting, bleeding and anaemia, abdominal mass or unexplained weight loss, should undergo further investigation.

What impact does GERD have on patients’ lives?
The pain and discomfort caused by GERD disrupt patients’ everyday lives. GERD interferes with:
– physical activity (e.g. manual work, housework, gardening and sport), because symptoms are often worse during physical exertion.
– social occasions (e.g. eating with family and friends), because symptoms are worse during and after meals.

– sleep, because symptoms are often worse when lying down.
– work, because symptoms disturb sleep, causing daytime tiredness.

Patients with persistent GERD symptoms may also be anxious about their possible long-term effects.

Are there any clinical instruments to help in understanding GERD patients’ symptoms?

The GERD Impact Scale (GIS) is a useful tool that can be used after a GERD diagnosis to assess the symptom burden in patients with GERD, and the implications of those symptoms for their lives. The GIS is a validated one-page questionnaire that asks GERD patients about their symptoms and how they affect their everyday lives. In order to obtain a clear understanding of the impact of GERD symptoms, you can ask newly diagnosed patients to complete the questionnaire during their initial consultation. Those with an established GERD diagnosis can complete it in the waiting room or pharmacy when they consult for a repeat prescription and, by comparing the newly completed form with their original one, the physician can assess the effectiveness of the treatment they are being given. It will therefore help to identify patients who need more effective treatment due to uncontrolled symptoms.

Why is effective acid control important in GERD?
Excess acid in the esophagus is potentially damaging. In addition, the activity of pepsin within the gastric juice is pH-dependent, and declines rapidly when the pH is raised above 4.

Below pH 4, increased acid and pepsin activity can cause damage to the esophageal mucosa and trigger symptoms. It is well established that:
– the frequency of reflux symptoms is directly related to the time that the esophageal pH is below 4.
– the proportion of patients with reflux esophagitis healed after 8 weeks of therapy is directly related to the proportion of time during the 24-hour period for which the intragastric pH is maintained above 4.

The critical threshold for acid control in GERD is therefore to maintain the intragastric pH, and hence the pH of the refluxed gastric contents in the esophagus, above 4.

How should GERD be treated?

For effective management of GERD, the key aim of treatment is to maintain the stomach contents above pH 4 for as long as possible, in order to provide freedom from GERD symptoms and esophageal damage.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have proven to be the most effective medication for maintaining pH control and are recommended in international guidelines on the management of GERD as first-line treatment for patients with GERD.

However, GERD is a chronic condition and the majority of patients will suffer a symptomatic relapse within 2–3 months of cessation of the initial therapy.

Most patients with GERD therefore require long-term management, and international guidelines recommend a ‘step down’ from the initial healing dose of PPI in order to maintain freedom from symptoms and esophagitis.
. Freedom from symptoms during long-term treatment is a good predictor of the absence of esophagitis.

Why is freedom from GERD symptoms so important for the patient?
For the patient, rapid relief of symptoms is very important for their well-being. Furthermore, patients with persistent, recurring symptoms, need an effective solution that can provide enduring relief. Effective prescription treatment for GERD helps patients to lead more normal everyday lives by:
– improving sleep dysfunction

Acid Reflux links

"After Searching for Over Fifty Years, I Cured My Reflux Acid and Heartburn forever in Just 2 Days Using a few Secret Techniques and Natural Treatments that Jeff Martin Taught me!"

Please stop using prescription and over-the-counter drugs to treat acid reflux and heartburn. They don't cure acid reflux disease and the side effects of these drugs could actually cause many other serious health problems and even shorten your life span.

My Story
For a long as I can remember, I had been suffering from Heartburn. As a small boy, my dear mother would give me pieces of a block of Milk of Magnesia to stop that burning in my chest, which she told me, was heartburn.

As I grew older, I started to take the tablet form of the Phillip’s Milk of Magnesia to ensure some measure of relief from this sometimes-intense pain of heartburn.

The search for a Cure
As a teenager, there was cause for me to take a Barium X-ray to check to see what was causing that constant pain in my chest. This is a procedure where you take a chest x-ray while you swallowed a chalky tasting barium liquid. The diagnosis was that I was born with a condition where the entrance to my stomach from my esophagus was controlled by a malfunctioning sphincter muscle causing it not to close properly, thus allowing acid from the stomach to flow quite freely into my esophagus.

These are images of the end of the esophagus. There is a specialized muscle here which acts like a valve and which is called the lower esophageal sphincter. It remains closed most of the time, only opening to allow swallowed food and liquid to be swept through into the stomach. When you belch, the air pressure in the stomach overcomes the pressure of the valve and the air you have swallowed bursts up the esophagus past this valve.

When someone suffers from Acid Reflux Disease the sphincter muscles is weakened making it surrender to very little backward pressure or it remains open all the time. In each case acid from the stomach easily finds its way up into the esophagus burning the soft tissues of the esophagus thus causing the pain of heartburn.

At the age of 43, after using every antacid ever invented, I still did not find a cure or permanent relief from my acid reflux pains. The pains became a constant torture, and the fear that my condition had progressed into something more serious always lurked in my mind.

This fear led me to sought expert assistance from a gastroenterologist. He suggested an esophagoscopy, which entails the pushing of a tube, which has a camera and a light at its end down my esophagus and into my stomach. The technician then takes pictures of any possible abnormality in the esophagus or the stomach. I must confess that this was not a pleasant procedure. Many times it is done just using local anesthetic.

I had a few of these procedures done at different intervals in my life to relieve the mental burden that the acute pains that I was living with had not developed into something more serious. To my relief none of the procedures found any significant damage or changes in the cells of the two organs under investigation.

The last esophagoscopy was as recently as three years ago, the day after I turned 50 years. The both investigations discovered an organism called H.pylori that causes bloating and the regurgitation of stomach acid back up into the esophagus. This bacteria, I discovered is also the culprit behind peptic ulcers and stomach cancer.

To kill this bacteria I had to undergo a prolong treatment of antibiotics and the ingestion of Acid Blockers like Nexium and Zantax.

The doctor advised me not to take these medications for more than eight weeks, but without any clear reason why I should not, I actually prolonged the treatment a long time after the advisable duration. The reason being, these drugs gave me quick relief from the pain caused by the reflux acid.

I thank God that up to this day I have not seen any problems occurring from this abuse. This is scary, now that I know the dangers to which I had exposed myself.

All this time, I was seeking solutions. Instinctively, I suspected that popping acid blockers from as early as Tagamet to the new kid on the block, Proton-Pump Inhibitors such as Nexium, was not good because they worked by interfering with the natural way my stomach should function.

Through my research and trial and error, I at last found the solution for my acid reflux problem, even with a defective sphincter muscles. For the past two years, I have not had one serious attack of acid indigestion or heartburn. The pain is gone. I was able to stop heartburn.

Acid Reflux Disease is Treatable
I have reached a point where I can now say that it is possible to treat and control acid reflux disease. I cannot change my physical problem with the sphincter muscles of my esophagus, but I do not have the problem with heartburn any more.

The point is, now I know how to control it.

The good thing is that this control does not come with the risk to life and limb by causing you to use prescription or over-the-counter drugs which side effects can create more problems than they solve.

I know that you are a sufferer of Acid Reflux disease, and like me, before my liberation from this problem, you are desperately seeking relief from heartburn. As I said before a solution did not come easy, it took a lot of research and trial and error. During all that time, I was risking my health and life by using drugs that had the potential to do me harm without curing my problem.

It took me several years and thousands of dollars to find a system of natural treatments and techniques that brought me permanent relief to my heartburn. The smarter thing that you should do is to find someone who has already beaten this disease and has a system in place for managing Acid Reflux disease and curing heartburn.

Finding a System of Treatments that Works
From my research, I found the best and most comprehensive treatment in a manuscript written by Jeff Martin. He tells you what you need to do to treat your reflux acid problem. He will expose you to the right system that will covered quite clearly the most effective techniques and treatments to manage and heal acid reflux disease or cure heartburn.

I am telling this story because I want to contribute to stop heartburn in the millions of sufferers worldwide.

No More Heartburn
Why should you live a life of pain and uncertainty when there is the knowledge available to treat and cure the effects of reflux acid and heartburn?

The knowledge is in Jeff Martin’s book “Heartburn No More – Cure Acid Reflux Holistically”. What is more important, Mr. Martin was like you now, an Acid Reflux sufferer for many years before he developed his system for the treatment and cure of Acid Reflux and heartburn.

What is also unique about Jeff’s system is that he gives the readers of his book a 24-hour support system. You can contact Jeff at anytime day or night to get updates or ask him relevant questions concerning your problems with heartburn.

I have been researching natural cures for Acid Reflux and Heartburn most of my life and I was impressed by the new data on natural treatments that Jeff's system introduced. They are the most simple but effective methods of treatment that I ever encountered.

Anyone seriously seeking an end to heartburn or Acid Reflux disease would want to put these procedures into practice to ensure a certain cure for these ailments.

His book was certainly an eye opener for me. As a sufferer who is now free from pain and anxiety, I endorse his methods and treatments as being the most effective ways to cure Acid Reflux Disease. They worked for me even with my own physically defected esophagus sphincter muscle. I know they would certainly work for you.

I no longer have to remember to take my acid blockers or Proton-Pump Inhibitors everyday to get just 12 hour relief from heartburn.

I no longer stock antacids in the glove compartment of my car.

I no longer have to live in fear of my condition advancing into something more serious as cancer or ulcers.

I am now free to eat what I want without the fear of acid indigestion or heartburn.

No longer do I have to get up in the middle of the night with the bitter taste of refluxed stomach contents in my mouth and a pain in my chest.

I no longer pass on the spicy foods when I go out to dinner.

All the bloating, belching, and embarrassing passing of wind are eliminated.

No more visits to the gastroenterologist. I am now saving money, as you would know, specialist treatment is very expensive.

No more waiting with bated breath for the results of the esophagoscopy, which I performed every few years, just to make sure everything was okay.

And the best of all is that the burning and pain in my chest are now gone forever.

Yes my life has change for the better.

It changed because I was not afraid to invest in information and act on the information. Finding the information is just part of the solution. The real challenge is to ACT.

The Choice is Yours
There are many people making claims out there. I can also tell you that there is a large amount of misleading information which can make the problem worst. Finding the right information, this will take a lot of time and effort to put together. Jeff has already cured himself of this debilitating disease, Acid Reflux. He has documented his system so that his methods could be duplicated over and over again without failure. He is now teaching those who want a cure for their problems and who are willing to make a positive change to their life of pain.

We know the cost of Acid Blockers are expensive and we know they are dangerous.

We know antacids that contain aluminum can do irreparable damage to the brain and is a cause of Alzheimer disease and myriads of problems.

We know that at times we want a quick fix, even if it is not permanent.

We also now know that heartburn can be licked without risking our health.

And you know today where to find all the information you will ever need to stop that pain in the chest forever.

The fact is that people are dying prematurely because of the side effects of drugs that only treat the symptoms of heartburn.

If you found a way to stop that burning pain in your chest and the anxiety of not knowing whether that pain has progressed into something more serious such as cancer or ulcers, would you spend less than fifty dollars to treat yourself?

What is your answer?
I spent thousands of dollars over a period of 50yrs before I found a cure for my indigestion problems. You are lucky. You don't have to wait so long or invest so much money to find your cure for your reflux acid problems. You can get that information immediately and be free of that heartburn forever in just 2 days. Or you can continue searching for free information that does not give you a workable system to treat and cure your reflux acid problems.

What will it be?
Would you stop your journey now or continue searching for a cure that you have already found?

That decision is yours.
Many of us will spend lots of money on other things and neglect to invest in our health. As far as I am concern my health and well-being comes first. That is why I spent the time and money to find the way to heal myself of my heartburn problems forever.

I say without apologies, “It is foolish if you know where to find the information to stop the pain of heartburn safely and you continue using prescription and over-the-counter drugs, endangering yourself and shortening your life span, for the sake of an instant relief!

If I am speaking to you, please stop this risky practice now.
Read Jeff Martin's book and end the pain of reflux acid and heartburn forever.”

Please STOP using quick fixes and deal permanently with your Reflux Acid problems using simple techniques and natural treatments.

Like me, you will find all the information you need to know to stop heartburn forever in Jeff Martin's book, “Heartburn No More – Cure Acid Reflux Holistically”. Most people get results in just 2 days after putting what they learn from Jeff's book into practice.
At times in our lives, we reach cross-roads and someone will come along and point the way to the right direction. This could be your defining moment if you are serious about putting an end to the nagging problem call heartburn.

I do not know about you, but a life without the effects of reflux acid is worth living, more than a life of pain and uncertainty.

I wish you freedom from the burning and pain of reflux acid.

Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a more serious form of gastroesophageal reflux (GER), which is common. GER occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) opens spontaneously, for varying periods of time, or does not close properly and stomach contents rise up into the esophagus. GER is also called acid reflux or acid regurgitation, because digestive juices—called acids—rise up with the food. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The LES is a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts like a valve between the esophagus and stomach.

When acid reflux occurs, food or fluid can be tasted in the back of the mouth. When refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus it may cause a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn or acid indigestion. Occasional GER is common and does not necessarily mean one has GERD. Persistent reflux that occurs more than twice a week is considered GERD, and it can eventually lead to more serious health problems. People of all ages can have GERD.

What are the symptoms of GERD?
The main symptom of GERD in adults is frequent heartburn, also called acid indigestion—burning-type pain in the lower part of the mid-chest, behind the breast bone, and in the mid-abdomen. Most children under 12 years with GERD, and some adults, have GERD without heartburn. Instead, they may experience a dry cough, asthma symptoms, or trouble swallowing.

What causes GERD?
The reason some people develop GERD is still unclear. However, research shows that in people with GERD, the LES relaxes while the rest of the esophagus is working. Anatomical abnormalities such as a hiatal hernia may also contribute to GERD. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach and the LES move above the diaphragm, the muscle wall that separates the stomach from the chest. Normally, the diaphragm helps the LES keep acid from rising up into the esophagus. When a hiatal hernia is present, acid reflux can occur more easily. A hiatal hernia can occur in people of any age and is most often a normal finding in otherwise healthy people over age 50. Most of the time, a hiatal hernia produces no symptoms.

Other factors that may contribute to GERD include
obesity
pregnancy
smoking

Common foods that can worsen reflux symptoms include
citrus fruits
chocolate
drinks with caffeine or alcohol
fatty and fried foods
garlic and onions
mint flavorings
spicy foods
tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, salsa, chili, and pizza

What is GERD in children?
Distinguishing between normal, physiologic reflux and GERD in children is important. Most infants with GER are happy and healthy even if they frequently spit up or vomit, and babies usually outgrow GER by their first birthday. Reflux that continues past 1 year of age may be GERD. Studies show GERD is common and may be overlooked in infants and children. For example, GERD can present as repeated regurgitation, nausea, heartburn, coughing, laryngitis, or respiratory problems like wheezing, asthma, or pneumonia. Infants and young children may demonstrate irritability or arching of the back, often during or immediately after feedings. Infants with GERD may refuse to feed and experience poor growth.

Talk with your child’s health care provider if reflux-related symptoms occur regularly and cause your child discomfort. Your health care provider may recommend simple strategies for avoiding reflux, such as burping the infant several times during feeding or keeping the infant in an upright position for 30 minutes after feeding.

If your child is older, your health care provider may recommend that your child eat small, frequent meals and avoid the following foods:
sodas that contain caffeine
chocolate
peppermint
spicy foods
acidic foods like oranges, tomatoes, and pizza
fried and fatty foods
Avoiding food 2 to 3 hours before bed may also help. Your health care provider may recommend raising the head of your child’s bed with wood blocks secured under the bedposts. Just using extra pillows will not help. If these changes do not work, your health care provider may prescribe medicine for your child. In rare cases, a child may need surgery. For information about GER in infants, children, and adolescents, see the Gastroesophageal Reflux in Infants and Gastroesophageal Reflux in Children and Adolescents fact sheets from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

How is GERD treated?
See your health care provider if you have had symptoms of GERD and have been using antacids or other over-the-counter reflux medications for more than 2 weeks. Your health care provider may refer you to a gastroenterologist, a doctor who treats diseases of the stomach and intestines. Depending on the severity of your GERD, treatment may involve one or more of the following lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery.

Lifestyle Changes
If you smoke, stop.
Avoid foods and beverages that worsen symptoms.
Lose weight if needed.
Eat small, frequent meals.
Wear loose-fitting clothes.
Avoid lying down for 3 hours after a meal.
Raise the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches by securing wood blocks under the bedposts. Just using extra pillows will not help.
Medications
Your health care provider may recommend over-the-counter antacids or medications that stop acid production or help the muscles that empty your stomach. You can buy many of these medications without a prescription. However, see your health care provider before starting or adding a medication.

Antacids, such as Alka-Seltzer, Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids, and Riopan, are usually the first drugs recommended to relieve heartburn and other mild GERD symptoms. Many brands on the market use different combinations of three basic salts—magnesium, calcium, and aluminum—with hydroxide or bicarbonate ions to neutralize the acid in your stomach. Antacids, however, can have side effects. Magnesium salt can lead to diarrhea, and aluminum salt may cause constipation. Aluminum and magnesium salts are often combined in a single product to balance these effects.

Calcium carbonate antacids, such as Tums, Titralac, and Alka-2, can also be a supplemental source of calcium. They can cause constipation as well.

Foaming agents, such as Gaviscon, work by covering your stomach contents with foam to prevent reflux.

H2 blockers, such as cimetidine (Tagamet HB), famotidine (Pepcid AC), nizatidine (Axid AR), and ranitidine (Zantac 75), decrease acid production. They are available in prescription strength and over-the-counter strength. These drugs provide short-term relief and are effective for about half of those who have GERD symptoms.

Proton pump inhibitors include omeprazole (Prilosec, Zegerid), lansoprazole (Prevacid), pantoprazole (Protonix), rabeprazole (Aciphex), and esomeprazole (Nexium), which are available by prescription. Prilosec is also available in over-the-counter strength. Proton pump inhibitors are more effective than H2 blockers and can relieve symptoms and heal the esophageal lining in almost everyone who has GERD.

Prokinetics help strengthen the LES and make the stomach empty faster. This group includes bethanechol (Urecholine) and metoclopramide (Reglan). Metoclopramide also improves muscle action in the digestive tract. Prokinetics have frequent side effects that limit their usefulness—fatigue, sleepiness, depression, anxiety, and problems with physical movement.

Because drugs work in different ways, combinations of medications may help control symptoms. People who get heartburn after eating may take both antacids and H2 blockers. The antacids work first to neutralize the acid in the stomach, and then the H2 blockers act on acid production. By the time the antacid stops working, the H2 blocker will have stopped acid production. Your health care provider is the best source of information about how to use medications for GERD.

What if GERD symptoms persist?
If your symptoms do not improve with lifestyle changes or medications, you may need additional tests.

Barium swallow radiograph uses x rays to help spot abnormalities such as a hiatal hernia and other structural or anatomical problems of the esophagus. With this test, you drink a solution and then x rays are taken. The test will not detect mild irritation, although strictures—narrowing of the esophagus—and ulcers can be observed.

Upper endoscopy is more accurate than a barium swallow radiograph and may be performed in a hospital or a doctor’s office. The doctor may spray your throat to numb it and then, after lightly sedating you, will slide a thin, flexible plastic tube with a light and lens on the end called an endoscope down your throat. Acting as a tiny camera, the endoscope allows the doctor to see the surface of the esophagus and search for abnormalities. If you have had moderate to severe symptoms and this procedure reveals injury to the esophagus, usually no other tests are needed to confirm GERD.

The doctor also may perform a biopsy. Tiny tweezers, called forceps, are passed through the endoscope and allow the doctor to remove small pieces of tissue from your esophagus. The tissue is then viewed with a microscope to look for damage caused by acid reflux and to rule out other problems if infection or abnormal growths are not found.

pH monitoring examination involves the doctor either inserting a small tube into the esophagus or clipping a tiny device to the esophagus that will stay there for 24 to 48 hours. While you go about your normal activities, the device measures when and how much acid comes up into your esophagus. This test can be useful if combined with a carefully completed diary—recording when, what, and amounts the person eats—which allows the doctor to see correlations between symptoms and reflux episodes. The procedure is sometimes helpful in detecting whether respiratory symptoms, including wheezing and coughing, are triggered by reflux.

A completely accurate diagnostic test for GERD does not exist, and tests have not consistently shown that acid exposure to the lower esophagus directly correlates with damage to the lining.

Surgery
Surgery is an option when medicine and lifestyle changes do not help to manage GERD symptoms. Surgery may also be a reasonable alternative to a lifetime of drugs and discomfort.

Fundoplication is the standard surgical treatment for GERD. Usually a specific type of this procedure, called Nissen fundoplication, is performed. During the Nissen fundoplication, the upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the LES to strengthen the sphincter, prevent acid reflux, and repair a hiatal hernia.

The Nissen fundoplication may be performed using a laparoscope, an instrument that is inserted through tiny incisions in the abdomen. The doctor then uses small instruments that hold a camera to look at the abdomen and pelvis. When performed by experienced surgeons, laparoscopic fundoplication is safe and effective in people of all ages, including infants. The procedure is reported to have the same results as the standard fundoplication, and people can leave the hospital in 1 to 3 days and return to work in 2 to 3 weeks.

Endoscopic techniques used to treat chronic heartburn include the Bard EndoCinch system, NDO Plicator, and the Stretta system. These techniques require the use of an endoscope to perform the anti-reflux operation. The EndoCinch and NDO Plicator systems involve putting stitches in the LES to create pleats that help strengthen the muscle. The Stretta system uses electrodes to create tiny burns on the LES. When the burns heal, the scar tissue helps toughen the muscle. The longterm effects of these three procedures are unknown.

What are the long-term complications of GERD?
Chronic GERD that is untreated can cause serious complications. Inflammation of the esophagus from refluxed stomach acid can damage the lining and cause bleeding or ulcers—also called esophagitis. Scars from tissue damage can lead to strictures—narrowing of the esophagus—that make swallowing difficult. Some people develop Barrett’s esophagus, in which cells in the esophageal lining take on an abnormal shape and color. Over time, the cells can lead to esophageal cancer, which is often fatal. Persons with GERD and its complications should be monitored closely by a physician.

Studies have shown that GERD may worsen or contribute to asthma, chronic cough, and pulmonary fibrosis.

For information about Barrett’s esophagus, see the Barrett’s Esophagus fact sheet from the NIDDK.

Points to Remember
Frequent heartburn, also called acid indigestion, is the most common symptom of GERD in adults. Anyone experiencing heartburn twice a week or more may have GERD.

You can have GERD without having heartburn. Your symptoms could include a dry cough, asthma symptoms, or trouble swallowing.

If you have been using antacids for more than 2 weeks, it is time to see your health care provider. Most doctors can treat GERD. Your health care provider may refer you to a gastroenterologist, a doctor who treats diseases of the stomach and intestines.

Health care providers usually recommend lifestyle and dietary changes to relieve symptoms of GERD. Many people with GERD also need medication. Surgery may be considered as a treatment option.

Most infants with GER are healthy even though they may frequently spit up or vomit. Most infants outgrow GER by their first birthday. Reflux that continues past 1 year of age may be GERD.

The persistence of GER along with other symptoms—arching and irritability in infants, or abdominal and chest pain in older children—is GERD. GERD is the outcome of frequent and persistent GER in infants and children and may cause repeated vomiting, coughing, and respiratory problems.

Hope through Research
The reasons certain people develop GERD and others do not remain unknown. Several factors may be involved, and research is under way to explore risk factors for developing GERD and the role of GERD in other conditions such as asthma and laryngitis.