Zamzam Water: The history & Significance

Zamzam Water: The history & significance

Introduction

Allaah has made all living creatures out of water. People require water for almost everything; for agriculture, construction, transportation, and for cooling and heating. But not all water carries the same value and significance? Muslims refer to the water of Zamzam as something revered and unique. They crave this mysterious liquid and love to drink it whenever they can. And for those who managed to go to the Hajj, they return home carrying it for thousands of miles as a prized possession and to give as special gift to their friends and families.

So, what is so special about Zamzam water? In a word: Everything.

There is nothing ordinary about it. The miracle of how it came to being in the middle of the desert, its consistency throughout thousands of years, the beneficial qualities it has, the fact that it never dries up. This water is special.

The fact is, this small 5 ft. deep well is far away from any other source or body of water. It is self-replenishing. It is constantly replenishing itself in order to produce gallons upon gallons of water for consumption of thirsty pilgrims plus the additional amount that is bottled and also the amount that is taken as gifts distributed worldwide to millions. Zamzam water has scientifically been proven to contain healing qualities due to its higher content of Calcium and Magnesium Salts and also the natural fluorides that encompass a germicidal action.

It is also an established scientific fact that pools or water wells tend to grow vegetation such as algae—especially in warm climates. Amazingly this is not the case in the well of Zamzam. It has remained free from biological contaminants.

From the time that Hagar wandered aimlessly through the desert in search of sustenance for her son and herself; to the moment that Ismaa'eel may Allaah exalt his mentionkicked his tiny feet on the sand and the well of Zamzam was born out of the great Mercy of Allaah, Muslims have been drinking from it. What is more fascinating is that it has never once dried up. To Muslims this blessed water is special in significance and history.

A Lofty History

Ibn 'Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with himnarrated that the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )said: "When Ibraaheem (Abraham) had differences with his wife, (because of her jealousy of Haajar, Ismaa’eel’s (Ishmael) mother), he took Ismaa’eel and his mother and went away. They had a water-skin with them containing some water, Ismaa’eel's mother used to drink water from the water-skin so that her milk would increase for her child. When Ibraaheem reached Makkah, he made her sit under a tree and afterwards returned home. Ismaa’eel's mother followed him, and when they reached Kada, she called him from behind, `O Ibraaheem! To whom are you leaving us?' He replied, '(I am leaving you) to Allaah's (Care).' She said, 'I am satisfied to be with Allaah.' She returned to her place and started drinking water from the water-skin, and her milk increased for her child. When the water had all been used up, she said to herself, 'I would better go and look so that I may see somebody.' She ascended the hill of the Safaa and looked, hoping to see somebody, but in vain. When she came down to the valley, she ran till she reached the hill of the Marwah. She ran to and from (between the two hills) many times. Then she said to herself, 'I would better go and see the state of the child,' she went and found it in a state of one on the point of dying. She could not endure to watch her child dying and said (to herself), 'If I go and look, I may find somebody.' She went and ascended the hill of the Safaa and looked for a long while but could not see anybody. Thus she completed seven rounds (of running) between Safaa and Marwah. Again she said (to herself), 'I would better go back and see how the child is doing.' But all of a sudden she heard a voice, and she said to that strange voice, 'Help us if you can offer any help.' It was Gabriel (who had made the voice). Gabriel hit the earth with his heel like this (Ibn 'Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with himhit the earth with his heel to illustrate it), and so the water gushed out. Ismaa’eel's mother was astonished and started digging ... She started drinking from the water and her milk increased for her child..." [Al-Bukhaari]

In another narration of Ibn 'Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with himthe Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )said: "May Allaah be merciful to the mother of Ismaa’eel! If she had left the water of Zamzam (fountain) as it was, (without constructing a basin for keeping the water), it would have been a flowing stream. Jurhum (an ancient Arab tribe) came to Hagar and asked her, 'May we settle at your dwelling?' She said, 'Yes, but you have no right to possess the water.' They agreed." [Al-Bukhaari]

It was thus how the dry and barren valley of Makkah became inhabited.

The Archangel Gabriel unearthed the water of Zamzam such that the life of Ismaa’eel, the great grandfather of Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )maybe saved. Hagar, the wife of Ibraaheem the patriarch, restricted its flow and caused it to become a well. It is located next to the holiest of all holy places: the Ka'bah. Its water was the direct cause of Jurhum's settlement in Makkah, and hence the start of the Makkan era in the human history. No other water can claim this honor.

The Rebirth of Zamzam

With passage of time, the inhabitants of Makkah started to forego the ways of the pious ones. Jurhum, the core of the Makkan population, were driven out of Makkah when they became unjust and tyrannical.

They, being fully aware of the importance of Zamzam, hideously plugged it to deny their conquerors its blessings. Zamzam was not reopened and henceforth was forgotten.

Many generations passed in Makkah with Zamzam in complete oblivion, until Abdul-Muttalib (the paternal grandfather of the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )) resurrected the dead well. Abdul-Muttalib himself was oblivious to Zamzam. With the approaching of the last divine message, a sequence of significant preludes was in order; the rebirth of Zamzam was one.

It so happened that for three consecutive nights, Abdul-Muttalib had a very clear vision about digging a well. During each vision, the name of the well was different and no location was mentioned. On the fourth night, however, both Zamzam and its location were communicated to Abdul-Muttalib so clearly that he attended to the appointed task on the morning of the very fourth night.

To the utter disbelief of the Makkans who ridiculed the seemingly futile attempt at finding water in such an arid place, Abdul-Muttalib found water in an ancient buried well so close to the Ka'bah. And it was only natural that the Makkans claim a share in this, obviously, special well. Abdul-Muttalib gave no concessions and rejected any such claim.

The Makkans and Abdul-Muttalib' s could not negotiate a middle ground, so both parties agreed to seek arbitration. They set out for a priestess whose judgment was accepted by both parties.

On their way, and while crossing the desert, the caravan ran out of water. The companions of Abdul-Muttalib all but gave up any hope of salvation. And when all seemed lost, water sprang out from the ever so small notch that Abdul-Muttalib' s camel made with its pad. Upon seeing this, the Makkans knew that He who saved Abdul-Muttalib from this eminent death on this very journey to settle the very question of Zamzam, had made Abdul-Muttalib the sole heir to this special water. The matter was settled and the family of the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )was ennobled with a mark of clearest distinction.

It is of paramount importance to mention that Abdul-Muttalib' s possession of Zamzam was not an act of ownership where he would deny its water to others. Being the sole heir to Zamzam meant that Abdul-Muttalib alone was to provide Zamzam water to the pilgrims; no one else (save his family of course) could partake in this most honorable privilege.

Venerable Even Before Islam

After the rebirth of Zamzam on the hands of Abdul-Muttalib, the Makkans accorded Zamzam the veneration it deserved. They used to drink from Zamzam whenever they were about to engage in matter of grave importance.

Al-Haarith Ibn Khaleefah As-Sa'di narrated that Quraysh always commenced their preparation to fend enemies by drinking from Zamzam. This was so customary that one could easily infer the gravity of matters from the collection of pots near Zamzam.

The Makkans realized that Zamzam was blessed water. They sought its blessing in matters of gravity, and many a times it was the difference.

The Location of the Well

The well is located only few paces from the Ka'bah, behind the Maqaam (the stepping stone which Ibraaheem may Allaah exalt his mentionused while building the Ka’bah) to the left. Its location is now clearly marked on the marbles of the Mataaf (the nearly circular open space where the pilgrims circumambulate around the Ka'bah). The well itself was lowered below the ground to facilitate the modernization of water extraction from the well, and to remove all obstacles from the path of Tawaaf.

It is worth mentioning that there are other wells named Zamzam after the original one. Such a well can be found, for example, in Madeenah.

The Names of Zamzam

Like any object of reverence, Zamzam commands both love and respect. In addition to the sublime nature and the loft history of this unique water, its attributes have originated its many names. Some of its names that are related to its sublimity are `blessing' and `blessed'. Another beautiful name is 'Bushra' which signifies glad tidings for the believers.

Its lofty history contributed to its many names, such as 'sanctified' . Another set of names derive from the fact that the Archangel Gabriel (Jibreel) unearthed the water, such as 'Hamzat Jibreel' and 'Wat'at Jibreel', with both names referring to the act of knocking the ground open by the Archangel.

Zamzam's attributes, however, account for most of its names. Some of these attributes were learned from teachings of the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ); others were coined as descriptive names for physical and spiritual attributes of the water. These names include, for example, 'a cure for illness', and 'a food for hunger'. It is also called 'sufficient' , 'beneficent' , and 'pure and sweet'.

The Heavenly Connection

Ibn 'Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with himrelated that when a man drowned in Zamzam much of the water was removed out of the well in order to retrieve the body. After removing the body, Ibn 'Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with himtold the man who was at the bottom of the well to collect water from the wellspring which flows from the direction of the Ka'bah. The source of this wellspring, said Ibn 'Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with himis from Paradise. 'Abdullaah Ibn 'Amr may Allaah be pleased with himcorroborates the same reference to the heavenly connection. This gives Zamzam yet a further distinction whereby this earthly stream is mixed with water from Paradise. This is a most generous gift of Allaah.

A Clear Sign

Al-Masjid Al-Haraam (The Sacred Mosque in Makkah) is the first House of worship appointed for mankind. Along with this appointment, Allaah blessed this sacred place with many signs of distinction. Allaah Says (what means): "Verily, the first House (of worship) appointed for mankind was that at Bakkah (Makkah), full of blessing, and a guidance for Al-'Aalameen (the mankind and jinn). In it are manifest signs (for example), the Maqaam (place) of Ibraaheem (Abraham); whosoever enters it, he attains security..." [Quran 3:96-97]

Zamzam is one of those signs. Chronologically it is the first, for when Ibraaheem, the Patriarch may Allaah exalt his mentionleft his wife and infant son at the barren valley, following Allaah's command, he made a humble request: "O our Lord! I have made some of my offspring to dwell in an uncultivable valley by Your Sacred House (the Ka'bah at Makkah) in order, O our Lord, that they may perform salaah (prayer). So fill some hearts among men with love towards them, and (O Allaah) provide them with fruits so that they may give thanks." [Quran 14:37]. Zamzam was the first among many fruits.

A Perpetual Water

One of the greatest attributes of Zamzam is that it will never dry up. This is a gift from Allaah to Makkah and to its pilgrims. Ibn 'Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with himnarrated that the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )said: "... May Allaah bestow his mercy upon her (Hagar, the mother of Ismaa’eel), had she let go (of the water of Zamzam) it would have become a spring (rather than a well) whose water shall never dry." [Ahmad]

Every year, millions upon millions of pilgrims drink Zamzam water, which has been around for thousands of years. It is fed daily to the Prophet's mosque in Madeenah in large quantities, and is packaged and shipped to millions of Muslims worldwide, without the slightest blemish in its flow. It is the epitome of munificence; the more we drink, the more it gives.

A Friend of the Believer

Ibn 'Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with himnarrated that the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )said: "One difference between us (believers) and the hypocrites is that they could not drink much from Zamzam." [Ibn Maajah]


A Muslim loves Zamzam and drinks it abundantly until he is full, whereas a hypocrite could not. This inability is caused by innate dislike to whatever the believers do in accordance with Allaah's wishes, which, in turn, causes the wretched one to forsake this divine gift for a mere mortal one.

The chemical analysis of Zamzam Water

Dr. Ahmad Abdul-Qaadir Al-Muhandiss indicates that the results of chemical analyses show that Zamzam Water is pure water, without color or smell, has a distinct taste, and its hydrogen exponent is 7.5, indicating that it is alkaline to some extent.


A study conducted in American laboratories showed that traces of thirty elements were identified in Zamzam water by means of energizing neutrons. Some of these elements scored less than 0.01.

After matching up the chemical analysis to international specifications, especially to the specifications of the World Health Organization (WHO), results proved the portability of Zamzam water as well as its beneficial effect on the body health. Additionally, sodium is very high in Zamzam water and the international specifications do not put a limit to the measurement of its composition.

Minerals Percentages Calcium I98 Magnesium 43.7 Chloride 335 Sulfur 37o Iron o.I5 Manganese o.I5 Copper o.I2

This is an Analysis of a study conducted in the laboratory of the Department of Water and Waste Water Treatment, the Western Province, Saudi Arabia (I4oo H.)

This is an Analysis of a study conducted in the laboratory of the Department of Water and Waste Water Treatment, the Western Province, Saudi Arabia (I4oo H.)

Zamzam water has also been treated by ultraviolet rays, and microbes have no place to survive in it, which means that Zamzam water preserves its taste and is not a congenial environment for bacteria.

According to various chemical analyses, dry weather make: Zamzam more saline through evaporation, which is, with Allaah's might, good for the human body.

In conclusion, it becomes clear that we should believe in the Prophet's miracles sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )and that he sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )as described by Allaah (what meant): "Nor does he speak of (his own) desire. It is only Inspiration that is inspired." [Quran 53: 3-41]

Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )said: "Zamzam water is a lavish meal and a great healer," and, "Zamzam water is what one intends to drink it for." Thus, it is a Sunnah to Drink Zamzam water, wash with it, and splash it on a sick person.

The Benefits of Drinking Zamzam Water

Ibn 'Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with himsaid: "The people of Makkah used to be the fastest when it comes to sprinting, and the most powerful when it comes to wrestling, but as soon as they stopped drinking Zamzam water, they started to suffer from a disease in their legs."

He also said that the Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )had said: "Zamzam water is what one intends to drink for. When one drinks it to be healed, Allaah heals him; when one drinks it be full, Allaah makes him full; and when one drinks it to quench his thirst, Allaah quenches it." [Ahmad and Ibn Maajah]

There is no doubt that drinking Zamzam water is very beneficial. Thus, dear brothers and sisters! One should drink Zamzam water because it is the best water on earth. Ibn 'Abbaas, may Allah be pleased with him, said that the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )had said: "The best water on earth is Zamzam water".

Ibn Khaytham may Allaah have mercy upon himsaid, "Ibn Wahb may Allaah have mercy upon himcame to us suffering from an illness. We, then, paid him a visit and found out that he had Zamzam water. We said to him, 'If you taste this water, you will find it crude (salty).' Then, he said: 'I'll drink from it till I recover. I swear by the One Who owns my soul that it is in the Book of Allaah, 'Zamzam neither drains nor can by vilified.' It is in the Book of Allaah, `... It is the drink of the pious.' It is in the Book of Allaah, 'Priceless perfume.' It is in the Book of Allaah, ‘It is a lavish meal and a great healer.’ I swear by the One Who owns my soul that if anyone drink his full from it, he recovers.' [Sa'eed Ibn Mansoor and Al-Arzaqi]

All the above proves the authenticity of the narration: "Zamzam water is what one intends to drink for." Additionally, many Islamic scholars drank it and experienced its dazzling effects. For instance, Imaam Abu Haneefah may Allaah have mercy upon himdrank from Zamzam water in order to be a knowledgeable scholar and he became the best among the scholars in his era.

Al-Bakri may Allaah have mercy upon himsaid: "I tried (Zamzam water) and sensed the truth about what had been said about it, and when I drank it, I had no doubt about its amazing effect."

It is also true that Imaam Shaafi'i may Allaah have mercy upon himfelt its tangible results when he drank Zamzam water in order to be a knowledgeable person and a good arrow shooter, fitting nine out of ten targets at a time.

Al-Ajmi may Allaah have mercy upon himsaid that when drinking Zamzam water one should ask for forgiveness from sins, one may say: "O Allaah! It came to my knowledge that your Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )said, 'Zamzam water is what one intends to drink it for.' O Allaah! I am drinking it to forgive me. O Allaah! Forgive me." Besides, when someone drinks it to be healed, it is good to say: "O Allaah! I am drinking it to be healed. O Allaah! Heal me."

The ruling of carrying Zamzam Water outside Makkah

Al-Imaam Al-Faarisi may Allaah have mercy upon himmentioned that it is permissible to carry Zamzam water outside Makkah according to the four juristic schools, and that it is even recommended by Imaam Maalik and Imaam Shaafi'ee may Allaah have mercy upon them.

'Aa'ishah may Allaah be pleased with heralso mentioned that the Prophet, salallaahu alayhi wa sallam, and herself used to do that. [At-Tirmithi] . Abu Hasan may Allaah be pleased with himsaid: "The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )wrote to Suhayl Ibn 'Amr may Allaah be pleased with him: 'If you receive my message at night, do not wait till the morning, and if you receive it in the morning do not wait till night; just immediately send me some Zamzam water.' Then, Suhail's wife with the help of his grandfather, Ayoob Ibn 'Abdullaah, and their maids carried Zamzam water at night…" [Abu Moosaa Al-Madeeni & Al-Azraqi]

Attaa may Allaah have mercy upon himstated that Ka'bah Al-Ahbaar used to carry it to ancient Syria.

'Aa'ishah may Allaah be pleased with hercarried Zamzam in bottles for sick people. The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )also carried it in leather bags and used to pour it on the sick and give it to them as a drink. [Al-Faakihi]

http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/archive/article.php?lang=E&id=138390

Laban (Milk)

Laban (Milk)

Allah said: “And verily, in the cattle, there is a lesson for you. We give you to drink of that which is in their bellies, from between excretions and blood, pure milk; palatable to the drinkers.” (16:66)

Also, Allah said, while describing Paradise: “In it are rivers of water the taste and smell of which are not changed, rivers of milk of which the taste never changes.” (47:15)

In the Sunan, it is also narrated: “Whoever Allah gives some type of food, let him supplicate, ‘O Allah! Bless it for us and grant us what is better.’ Whoever Allah grants some Laban, let him say, ‘O Allah! Bless it for us and grant us more of it,’ for I do not know of a more complete food or drink than milk.’”

Although milk is a simple type of food, it is very natural to the body as it contains three major substances: cheese, fat and water. Cheese is cold and wet and provides good nutrition. The fat contained in the milk regarding warmth and wetness, and it is very beneficial for healthy bodies. The water part contained in milk is hot and wet, and it softens the stomach and provides the body with beneficial moistures. Laban in general is mild regarding warmth and wetness, although there are other opinions in this regard.

Milk is best when it has just been milked, and its value decreases by the passage of time thereafter. When it is freshly milked, milk is less cold and, more humid. Sour milk is the opposite. Also, milk is better forty days after the animal has given birth. The best type of milk is the most white in color, as it has a good scent, delicious taste, mildly sweet, less fat and light consistency. It is also best when young healthy animals are milked, especially those that have less meat and which graze in healthy grazing lands. Milk is good and produces red blood, brings wetness to the body and is also a nutritious food. Also, milk helps relive depression, obsession and black bile ailments. When milk is drunk with honey, it will help cleanse the insides of septic materials. Drinking milk with sugar makes the color of the skin fairer. Milk is favorable for the chest, lungs and for those suffering from tuberculosis.

Furthermore milk is not favorable for the head, the stomach, the liver and the spleen. Also, drinking milk excessively is armful for the teeth and the gums, and this is why it is better to rinse the mouth after one drinks it. In the Sahihain, it is narrated that the Prophet, sallahu aleyhi wa sallam, once drank some milk and then asked for some water and rinsed his mouth, saying: “It has fat.”

Milk is not good for those suffering from fever and headaches and is not favorable for the weakness in the head and the brain. Excessive drinking of milk causes darkness in the sight, sight impairment, gout, kidney clogs and swelling in the stomach and the intestines. These side effects will be neutralized when mixing milk with honey, ginger, and so forth, for those who are not used to drinking it.

Sheep Milk

Sheep milk is the most watery, and it has more fat and bad odour than goat or cow milk. Sheep milk produces phlegm and causes white spots or stains on the skin if one drink it on a regular basis. This is why it is better that sheep milk is mixed with water so that its concentration becomes less. Sheep milk quenches the thirst quicker and cools the body faster than other milks.

Goat Milk

Goat milk is mild and light, works as a mild laxative, is wet for dry bodies, and helps cure mouth cankers, dry cough and epistaxis (nosebleeds) . Milk in general is the most beneficial drink for the body due to its nutritional value and closeness to the nature of the body and to the childhood of mankind.

In the Sahihain it is narrated: “The night of the Isra’ (the Prophet journey from Makkah to Jerusalem and then to heaven). The messenger of Allah, sallahu aleyhi wa sallam, was given two cups, one containing milk and the other wine. The Prophet, sallahu aleyhi wa sallam, looked at them and then took the cup of milk. Jibreel said: ‘If you had taken the wine, your followers would have gone astray.’”

Sour goat milk is not digested quickly and produces unfavorable moistures. The hot tempered stomach benefits from goat milk, though, and easily digests it.

Cow Milk

Cow milk provides nutrition for the body and is also a mild laxative. Cow milk is one of the best milks, between sheep milk and goat milk regarding thickness and fat. ‘Abduallah bin Masood narrated that the prophet, sallahu aleyhi wa sallam, once said: “Drink cow milk because it grazes on all types of trees.”

Taken from: "Healing with the Medicine of the Prophet," by Ibn ul-Qayyim

New Year Resolutions - A Muslim Perspective

New Year Resolutions - A Muslim Perspective


Take Benefit of Five Before Five, Your Youth Before Your Old Age, Your Health Before Your Sickness, Your Wealth Before Your Poverty, Your Free Time Before Your Preoccupation, & Your Life Before Your Death.” [Prophet Muhammad (saws)]

New Year’s Resolutions

Every year, as Muslims, we try our hardest to be patient, eat well, pray regularly and make positive life changes during Ramadan. However, as the year progresses it often seems that we forget those promises to ourselves. Whether it is a Muslim new year or western, it is a good time for Muslims to renew the resolutions they made during Ramadan. A list of resolutions should be written down so one can refer to them throughout the year. They should include spiritual, as well as physical and mental practices, for Allah encompasses all of our lives and not just the hours in which we pray. The following is a list of resolutions I often give consulting clients who ask me what they should do to better their spiritual, physical and mental lives:

1-Exercise:

“When My servants ask thee concerning Me, I am indeed close [to them]: I respond to the prayer of every suppliant when he calleth on Me: Let them also, with a will, Listen to My call, and believe in Me: That they may walk in the right way,” (Qur’an 2:186)

As I perform more iridology readings and consultations, I am struck with the vitality I see in one certain group of people. This group includes smokers, people who eat junk food, people who have a family history of disease and people who have stressful lives. So what do they all have in common? Exercise! Their enthusiasm for joining a health club, swimming and sports teams, or their dedication to walking once a day, or taking a Tai Chi or Yoga class on a regular basis, has more than made up for their lack of dedication in other health areas. I do not recommend eating badly or smoking, for doing so will eventually catch up to you, but if you could change just ONE thing in your life it should be to exercise. Keep in mind that exercise can even be as simple as praying five times a day. Many people have compared the benefits of the Muslim prayer with those of yoga.

2. Drink Water:

“We made water essential for every life,” (Qur’an 21:30)

Very few people drink the doctor-recommended eight to ten cups of water a day. Most people drink only three cups of water a day or less. Even worse, many people cancel out what they do drink by drinking coffee, green tea or sodas which cause dehydration in the body. One can solve many health problems simply by drinking eight to ten glasses a day.

3. Give up Bad Habits:

The Prophet said, "Allah has forbidden you ( 1 ) to be undutiful to your mothers (2) to withhold (what you should give) or (3) demand (what you do not deserve), and (4) to bury your daughters alive. And Allah has disliked that (A) you talk too much about others (B), ask too many questions (in religion), or (C) waste your property,” (Bukhari: Volume 8, Book 73, Number 6).

Everyone seems to have a bad habit that harms his or her health. Drinking, smoking and overeating are the most popular. However, there are many other bad habits that are unhealthy as well, such as: drinking excess coffee or colas, eating junk food, harboring bad feelings for people, yelling, gossiping, stealing, lying, cheating, watching too much TV, gambling, and many others. Keep in mind that any activity that is forbidden in Islam is unhealthy. Also keep in mind that any activity that starts to become and addiction (such as television, coffee, a friend and even your job) is also unhealthy. Make a pledge to yourself to identify your addictions and stop them (in the case of alcohol or smoking) or at least reduce them to a healthier level (in the case of indulgent socializing, work and television).

4. Be Positive:

“Give Glad tidings to those who exercise patience when struck with adversity and say, ’indeed we belong to God and to him is our return’ such ones receive blessings and Mercy of their lord, and such are the guided ones,” (Qur’an 2:155).

Start cultivating a positive attitude. There is a mountain of physical and medical evidence now to support that a positive attitude can work miracles. One reason could be that a positive attitude influences the thymus gland, which in turn strengthens the immune system.

5. Start Using Tonic Foods:

“Ye people, eat of what is on earth, lawful and wholesome,” (Qur’an 2:168).

Even if the rest of your diet is miserable, the addition of some simple "super foods" can supercharge it. Add some alfalfa sprouts to your salads often, use raw honey on your crackers or bread in the morning, eat sesame (found in Zaa’tar), sunflower and flax seeds regularly and start snacking on sheets of dried seaweed. All of the foods mentioned above contain a dense concentration of nutrients and serve the body in the same way vitamins do.

6. Sleep:

“Lo! your Lord is Allah Who created the heavens and the earth in six Days, then mounted He the Throne. He covereth the night with the day, which is in haste to follow it, and hath made the sun and the moon and the stars subservient by His command. His verily is all creation and commandment blessed be Allah, the Lord of the Worlds!” (Qur’an 7:54).

Allah created nighttime for a reason, but it is amazing how few people use that time to actually sleep. In fact, many research studies show that lack of sleep can exacerbate almost any health problem from hypoglycemia and diabetes to pain and mental illness. Even missing an hour of sleep on a regular basis can harm your health.

7. Pray More:

A man who was stung by a scorpion was brought to the Prophet [peace be upon him]. He said: Had he said the word: "I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He created, "he would not have been stung, or he said, "It would not have harmed him,” (Bukhari: Book 28, Number 3890).

“And when I sicken, God heals me,” (26:80 Qur’an).

There are entire sects and groups of people who do not use conventional medicine at all, but, rather, use prayer as medicine. Even the Prophet himself used prayer alone as medicine in many instances. In addition, many new studies have found that prayer does have healing effects - for the prayer as well as the prayed for.

8. Keep Good Company:

“The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Allah has cursed wine, its drinker, its server, its seller, its buyer, its presser, the one for whom it is pressed, the one who conveys it, and the one to whom it is conveyed,” (Bukhari: Book 26, Number 3666).

In many cases in the Qur’an and Hadith it is mentioned that you do not actually have to perform a bad act to be affected by it. Muslims are encouraged to “hang out” with people they would like to emulate and not with those that are a bad influence on them. This influence, in fact, can come in many forms. Do you hang out with friends that drink, smoke or consume too much coffee? Does your office always have donuts available for breakfast and your local grocer always have goodies on sale? Start hanging out with people who have the good habits of eating well and start shopping in stores that offer healthier whole grain and organic foods. Reduce time spent with people or in places that are a bad influence.

9. Use Natural Healing:

“God never inflicts a disease unless he makes a cure for it...” (Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad related by Abu Hurairah)

The Prophet himself used natural healing in his community. In fact, Allah HAS created a cure for every disease - so go see a natural health care practitioner and get evaluated.

10. Laugh More, Yell Less:

Allah's Apostle said, "The strong is not the one who overcomes the people by his strength, but the strong is the one who controls himself while in anger,” (Bukhari: Volume 8, Book 73, Number 135).

Laughing, instead of yelling, has enormous healing potential. Tell jokes to your children, listen to comedy on radio or television, buy comedy tapes, and read the comics in the newspaper. Laughing has been found to have therapeutic qualities, as illustrated by Robin Williams in the film “Patch Williams”. On the other hand, anger has been found to reduce immune system function.

Many American meat exporters obtain halal certificate fraudulently

Many American meat exporters obtain halal certificate fraudulently

By Nadia Saleem, Staff Reporter
November 13, 2008

Dubai: Ninety-five per cent of American food items found in supermarket shelves in the UAE and some other Gulf countries are not halal even though they may be certified as such, an industry specialist said at the Halal World Expo in Abu Dhabi .

Jalel Aossey, director of Midamar, a US-based international supplier of halal food and foodservice equipment, said that there is a significant flow of non-halal food items in the region from meat-supplying countries, and the Gulf countries need tougher regulations to stop that flow.

"On one side you have producers who genuinely don't know what they have to comply with because of a lack of education from the industry. But you also have companies and exporters that are deliberately defrauding governments and consumers by not complying with regulations because they don't want to pay the fees and the transition costs to make halal products," Aossey said.

Corrupt certifiers

Nearly 1.8 billion Muslims around the world as well as some non-Muslims are fuelling the halal food industry, generating sales of $2.1 trillion annually, according to recent reports. The attractive halal food industry is drawing many dubious players.

"Corrupt certifiers get a taste for the money generated producing "paper halal certificates" for companies without actually performing any work," Aossey said.

On regulatory measures, Aossey said, "People have to realise that it is not impossible, and that it's not too costly to put the correct halal standards in place here. There's a big misconception about how difficult this process is."
Noor Al Deen Abdullah, executive director of Kasehdia, a communications and consultancy company in Malaysia , and publishers of The Halal Food Journal earlier told Gulf News, "The global halal industry is still in its infancy because huge awareness is required, especially in the Middle East ."

The major producing nations are Australia, New Zealand , Brazil and Canada , Abdullah said, from where halal and non-halal meat is supplied.
Aossey said that inspection teams can be sent to the various countries where food is being produced to allow it to be inspected, at that country's cost. "This is nothing when you consider the huge dollar volume of food products exported to the UAE and other Gulf countries."

In the UAE, 80 per cent of imported food is said to be halal, coming from countries such as Brazil and Australia .

Facts: What is halal meat?

Halal (or permissible) in Islam is the meat of animals that have been slaughtered reciting the name of Allah on them and all the blood has been drained from the carcass.

Additional criterion that make meat halal are that the animal should not be dead prior to slaughter, since carrion is forbidden and that the animal is from those that are allowed according to Islamic teachings.

http://www.gulfnews .com/business/ General/10259492 .html

Cattle Stun Gun May Heighten "Madcow'" Risk

Cattle stun gun may heighten "madcow'" risk

By: Leila Corcoran


Broadcasted on BICNews 25 July 1997

WASHINGTON (Reuter) - A stun gun used on cattle before slaughter can send brain tissue scattering throughout the animal, which could provide a route for madcow disease to spread to humans, a consumer group said Thursday.

There have been no documented cases of madcow disease, or bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), in the United States , but the consumers group said the use of stun guns posed a potentially deadly risk in Europe .

``These new discoveries mean that some of the steaks and hamburgers Amercans eat today may contain small bits of brain matter,'' said David Schardt, nutritionist at the Center for Science in the Public Interest.

``Now, since BSE has not been detected here, there is no known risk at this time. But where BSE does exist in cattle, such meat with specks of brain tissue in it could be a deadly meal,'' he said.

In an unusual news conference, the Washington-based consumer watchdog group was joined by meat industry representatives who said they planned to sponsor a study on stunning methods later in the year.

``If a problem is found either with stunning in general or with particular methods or machinery, we will move swiftly to address it,'' said Janet Collins, a vice president at the American Meat Institute, an industry trade group.

Brain tissue and spinal cord are the most infectious part of an animal with BSE, which eats deadly holes in an infected animal's brain. A world panic over beef was triggered after an outbreak of the disease among British herds in the late 1980s.

Scientists remain unsure whether madcow disease can be transmitted to humans, but say they are concerned about an inexplicable rise in the number of cases of Creutzfeldt- Jakob disease, an incurable brain disease in humans.

BSE has never been detected in U.S. cattle herds and federal health officials have erected a series of ``firewalls' ' against it, including banning feeding ruminant by-products -- parts of other farm animals -- to cattle, a practice believed to have spread BSE in Britain.

Before cattle are slaughtered, they are stunned with a shot to the head to make them unconscious and to protect workers. Stunning is required by law so the animal feels no pain when it dies.

The Center for Science in the Public Interest said recent research at Texas A&M University and by Canada 's Food Inspection Agency found a method called pneumatic stunning delivered a force so explosive that it splattered brain tissue throughout a cow's system.

``Our research shows that it's possible that microscopic particles of brain matter can be circulated to the lungs, liver and maybe other sites,'' Tam Garland, a research veterinarian at Texas A&M said in CSPI's July newsletter. ``The implications are frightening. ''



Some 30 to 40 percent of American cattle are stunned by pneumatic guns, which fire a metal bolt into a cow's brain followed by a pulverizing burst of 150 pounds of air pressure.

The method is popular at larger U.S. meat plants because it renders cattle insensible longer than other techniques, erasing concerns the animals might revive before they are killed and cause havoc in a long processing line. Pneumatic guns are not used widely abroad.

Meat industry officials said they started considering a study on stunning methods several months ago after learning of the research. They said they planned to tap U.S. and Canadian government officials for advice on how to conduct the study and hoped to have results by the end of the year.

``No one wants the U.S. to remain BSE free more than the nation's one million beef producers,'' said Gary Weber of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association.

� Copyright 1997, Reuters News Service

Islamic vs. Western slaughter

Islamic vs. Western slaughter
(Scientific results)

Al Shaddad Bin Aous has quoted this tradition of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H.) "God calls for mercy in everything, so be merciful when you kill and when you slaughter, sharpen your blade to relieve its pain".

Many allegations have been made that Islamic slaughter is not humane to animals. However, Professor Schultz and his colleague Dr. Hazim of the Hanover University, Germany, proved through an experiment, using an Electro encephalograph (EEG) and Electro Cardiogram (ECG) that *Islamic slaughter is THE humane method of slaughter* and captive bolt stunning, practiced by the Western method, causes severe pain to the animal. The results surprised many.


Experimental Details:

1. Several electrodes were surgically implanted at various points of the skull of all animals, touching the surface of the brain.

2. The animals were allowed to recover for several weeks.

3. Some animals were slaughtered by making a swift, deep incision with a sharp knife on the neck cutting the jugular Veins and carotid Arteries of both sides; as also the trachea and esophagus-Halal Method.

4. Some animals were stunned using a captive bolt pistol - humane slaughter by the western method.

5. During the experiment, EEG and ECG were recorded on all animals to record the condition of the brain and heart during the course of slaughter and stunning Results and Discussion:


I. Halal Method

1. The first three seconds from the time of Islamic slaughter as recorded on the EEG did not show any change from the graph before slaughter, thus indicating that the animal did not feel any pain during or immediately after the incision.

2. For the following 3 seconds, the EEG recorded a condition of deep sleep - unconsciousness. This is due to a large quantity of blood gushing out from the body.

3. After the above mentioned 6 seconds, the EEG recorded zero level, showing no feeling of pain at all.

4. As the brain message ( EEG ) dropped to zero level, the heart was still pounding and the body convulsing vigorously (a reflex action of the spinal cord) driving maximum blood from the body: resulting in hygienic meat for the consumer.


II Western method by C.B.P. Stunning

1. The animals were apparently unconscious soon after stunning.
2. EEG showed severe pain immediately after stunning.
3. The hearts of the animal stunned by C.B.P. stopped beating earlier as compared to those of the animals slaughtered according to the Halal method resulting in the retention of more blood in the meat. This in turn is unhygienic for the consumer.

Ashraf Dabayeh
Dept. of Civil Eng. (Ext. 3844)
University of Waterloo

"And among His (God's) Signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the difference of your languages and colors. Surely, in that are signs for people of sound knowledge." {The Qur'an 30:22}

Miswak: A trusted formula for oral hygiene

Miswak: A trusted formula for oral hygiene
M. Ghazanfar Ali Khan I Arab News



A group of dentists at the King Saud University (KSU) have studied the medicinal properties of the miswak (teeth cleaning sticks) commonly used in Arab and Asian countries, and have concluded that "the beneficial effects of miswak for oral hygiene and dental health of a person using miswak are equal to, if not greater than, those who use toothbrush and paste.

The research identified 19 natural substances found in miswak that benefit dental health.

According to the research, the miswak contains a number of natural antiseptics that kill harmful microorganisms in the mouth; tannic acids that protect the gums from disease; and aromatic oils that increase salivation.

The study said that "the miswak's bristles are parallel to the handle rather than perpendicular, and it can reach more easily between the teeth, where a conventional toothbrush often fails to reach."

The study has termed miswak as "an oral hygiene tool" for one and all. According to the study, "the miswak has many medicinal properties and can fight plaque, gum line recession, tooth wear, gingivitis, and periodontal pocket depths."

The study also concluded that the miswak releases fresh sap and silica that acts as an abrasive material for the removal of stains and buildup.

The KSU's research has been supported and substantiated by another research work done by Abdul Al-Shareif of the Ministry of Agriculture.

According to Al-Shareif, miswaks contain anti-mouth ulcer substances and antiseptics.

"In addition to the substances that prevent teeth carries, gum bleeding, mouth cancer and putrefaction, miswak has another ingredient that strengthens the gum and prevents teeth from coloring."

Al-Shareif said that a number of Saudi farmers have been planting miswaks for business.

The two studies have proved that the miswaks also release a substance that soothes toothaches.

He said that the use of miswaks might also improve appetite and regulate peristaltic movements of the gastrointestinal tract. "In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the use of miswak way back in 1986, but stated that further research was needed to document the effects," said Aziza Al-Mubarik, a KSU dentist, while referring to the widespread use of miswak, which is more common during Ramadan in Saudi Arabia and many other Arab and Muslim countries.

Asked why one should prefer miswak, Dr. Rahi Al-Badr, a local physician, said miswaks have many medicinal properties including scents, painkiller substances and sodium bicarbonate, which are widely used in the production of different kinds of toothpastes.

On the growing sales of miswak especially during Ramadan, Mubarak Al-Arifi, a miswak seller in Riyadh , said: "Miswak sales has gone up in Ramadan, especially in Makkah and Madinah, where the sales have increased up by nearly 300 to 500 percent."

"Miswaks have a big market in Saudi Arabia and users can find these sticks nowadays in every nook and corner of the city, on roadsides, on pavements, or even in stores that sell Islamic books and cassettes," said Al-Arifi, 65, who has always used miswak and has never visited dentists all his life.

On miswak sales, Karim Bandhu, a Bangladeshi salesman, who sits in front of a mosque in Rawdah district of Riyadh, said: "This is our season and we do brisk business in Ramadan. For me, it is fun, praying and talking to people, while selling miswaks."

The best source of miswak is the root of arak tree, which is called Salvadora persica in botanical terms. The arak trees are grown in Saudi Arabia , Sudan , Southern Egypt, Chad and eastern parts of India .

In other parts of the Muslim world, where the arak tree is not found, other trees are used for the same purpose. Strips of bark are used in Morocco and branches of the neem tree are often used in India .

Two kinds of miswak are sold in Yemen , spicy and bland ones, said miswak seller, Mohammed Al-Hassan, a Yemeni national. Many Muslims use the miswak to follow the recommendations of Prophet Muhammad, (peace be upon him), who said, "Siwak cleanses the mouth and pleases Allah".

Asked about the use of miswak among women in Saudi Arabia , Zurwa Jameel, a young Pakistani girl, said, "I use miswak during Ramadan because the use of toothpaste during Ramadan nullifies fasting." "I have seen Saudi and non-Saudi Muslim women using miswaks more commonly than Asians or European Muslims," she said.

Advantages of miswak

• The reward of Salaah (prayers) is multiplied 70 times, when miswak is used before prayers.

• Miswak strengthens gums and prevents tooth decay.

• Miswak assists in eliminating toothaches and prevents further increase of decay which has already set in.

• Miswak creates a fragrance in the mouth, keeping it fresh.

• Miswak is a cure for illness.

• Miswak eliminates bad odors and improves sense of taste.

• Miswak sharpens memory.

• Miswak is a cure for headaches.

• Miswak creates luster (noor) on the face of the one who continuously uses it.

• Miswak causes teeth to glow.

• Miswak strengthens eyesight.

• Miswak assists in digestion.

• Miswak clears the voice.

Times when usage of miswak is Sunnah:

1. For the recitation of the Qur'an.

2. For the recitation of Hadith.

3. When the mouth emits an odor.

4. For the learning or teaching of virtues of Islam.

5. For making Dhikrullah (Remembrance of Allah, meditation).

6. After entering ones home.

7. Before entering any good gathering.

8. When experiencing pangs of hunger and thirst.

9. After the signs of death are evident.

10. At the time of Sahur

11. Before meals.

12. Before undertaking a journey.

13. On returning from a journey.

14. Before sleeping.

15. After leaving the bed in morning.

What After Ramadan?

What After Ramadan?
Adapted from "Wa maadha ba`da Ramadaan", by Dar Al-Watan (120)

AlHamdulillahi wa kafaa, was-Salatu was-salamu `alaa `ibaadihi-lladheena Stafaa

We leave the blessed month of Ramadan, its beautiful days and its fragrant nights. We leave the month of the Qur'an, taqwa, patience, jihad, mercy, forgiveness and freedom from hellfire…

Have we fulfilled the requirements of taqwa and graduated from the Ramadan school with the diploma of the god-fearing?

Have we fought our souls and desires and defeated them, or have we been overtaken by our customs and blind imitations?

Have we performed our actions in a way that fulfills the conditions for receiving mercy, forgiveness and release from the Fire?

Many questions and numerous thoughts come to the heart of the sincere Muslim, who asks and answers with truthfulness.
What Have We Gained From Ramadan?

Ramadan is a school of iman and a 'stop to recharge one's spiritual batteries' - to acquire one's provision for the rest of the year...

For when will one take a lesson and change for better if not in the month of Ramadan?

The noble month is a true school of transformation in which we change our actions, habits and manners that are in variance with the Law of Allah 'azza wa jall. “Verily, Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” [Ar-Ra`d, 11]

If you are from those who benefited from Ramadan, fulfilled the requirements of taqwa, truly fasted the month, prayed in it with truthfulness, and strove against you soul, then praise and thank Allah, and ask Him for steadfastness upon it until you meet your death.

Be not like one who has sewn a shirt and then destroyed it... Have you seen one who sewed a shirt or thawb, so when she looked at it, she liked it. Then she destroyed it pulling a thread by thread for no reason. What would people say about such a person?! Or have you seen one who earns a fortune trading throughout the day, then when the night comes, he throws away all that he earned, dirham by dirham. What would people say about such a person?!

This is the condition of one who returns to sinning and evildoing after Ramadan and leaves obedience and righteous actions. So after he was favored with the blessing of obedience and enjoyment of communicating with Allah he returned to the blaze of sins and evil actions. How evil are the people who know Allah only in Ramadan!

My dear ones,

Falling short in one's commitment to Islam after Ramadan is manifested in many ways, including:

1 – Men leaving the five prayers in congregation, after they filled mosques for Taraweeh prayers, thus going to the masjid for recommended prayers and leaving obligatory ones.

2 – Return to musical entertainment, forbidden films, women displaying their adornment beyond that which ordinarily appears thereof, free mixing etc.

This is not thankfulness for blessings and favors, nor is it the sign of acceptance of one's actions, rather this is opposition to favors and absence of thankfulness.

These are from signs of one's deeds not being accepted – and Allah's refuge is sought – for one who truly fasts rejoices on the occasion of `eid, praises his Lord for helping him complete the fast, and remains fearful that Allah may not accept his fasting, just as the Salaf would continue asking for acceptance of their actions in Ramadan for six months after it.

From signs that one's deeds are accepted is that he or she has improved in his or her obedience to Allah `azza wa jall. “And remember when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]…” [Ibrahim, 7] Increase you in good, faith and righteous actions. So if the servant is truly thankful to his Lord, you will see him guided to more obedience and distanced from sinfulness. Thankfulness is leaving sins, as the early Muslims said.

“And worship your Lord until there comes you to the certainty [i.e. death].” [al-Hijr, 99]

The Muslim must continuously be in the state of obedience of Allah, firm upon His Sharee`ah, steadfast upon His Deen, so that he or she is not of those who worship Allah only during one month or only in one place. Rather, the believer knows that the Lord of Ramadan is also the Lord of other months, and that He is the Lord of all times and places, so he is steadfast upon the Sharee`ah of Allah until he meets Him while He is pleased with him. Allah ta`ala said, “So remain on a right course as you have been commanded, [you] and those who have turned back with you [to Allah].” [Hud, 112] And, “So take a straight course to Him and seek His forgiveness.” [Fussilat, 6] And the Prophet, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, said, “Say 'I believe in Allah', then be steadfast.” [Muslim]

-- If the fasting in Ramadan has ended, then there remains voluntary fasting, such as fasting six days in Shawwal, on Mondays and Thursdays, the three days in the middle of the month, the days of `Aashoora and `Arafat, and others.

-- If standing in prayer at night during Ramadan has ended, then there remains voluntary night prayer throughout the year. “They used to sleep but little of the night.” [Adh-Dhaariyaat, 17]

-- If the charity in Ramadan and zakat ul-fitr have ended, then there is the obligatory Zakat, and also there are many other open doors to charity, voluntary actions and jihad.

-- Reading of the Qur'an and contemplating it is not only for Ramadan, rather it is for all times.

Righteous actions are for all times and all places, so strive – O my brother and sister – and beware of laziness. And remember that it is not allowed for us to leave the obligatory actions or delay them, such as the five daily prayers on time, in congregation etc.

And do not fall into forbidden actions, such as forbidden sayings, food and drinks, or by looking at or listening to what is forbidden.

Be steadfast and upright upon the Deen of Allah at all times, for you do not know when you'll meet the Angel of Death. Beware of him taking you while you are in a state of sin. “O Allah, Who turns the hearts, keep our hearts steadfast upon Your Deen.”

I ask Allah to accept from us and you our fasting, our prayers and other righteous actions, that our condition after Ramadan be a better one, that the state of our Ummah improves, that we are granted honour and that we truly turn to our Lord…Ameen

Diet Soda Now Linked to Heart Disease

Diet Soda Now Linked to Heart Disease

(CNN) -- People who drink one or more soft drinks a day have a more than 50 percent higher risk of developing the heart disease precursor metabolic syndrome than people who drink less than one soda a day, a new study has found. And it didn't matter if it was a regular soda or a diet soda.

Metabolic syndrome is a constellation of health problems -- high waist circumference, high blood pressure, low levels of "good" cholesterol, " and other health problems -- that have been strongly linked to developing heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

The study, in the American Heart Association journal Circulation, looked at more than 6,000 healthy people, who showed no signs of metabolic syndrome, and then followed up. After four years, 53 percent of people who drank an average of one or more soft drinks per day developed metabolic syndrome. Those who drank one or more diet soft drinks a day were at a 44 percent higher risk.

"The point is that the risk is high no matter how many soft drinks one consumes and no matter what type of soft drink one consumes," said Dr. Ramachandran S. Vasan, associate professor of medicine at Boston University School of Medicine and one of the study authors. "This adds to what we already know about how soft drinks may be associated with weight gain and metabolic risk."

The American Beverage Association took issue with the study, saying that the study proves no link between soft drinks and increased risk of heart disease.

The ABA added, "The assertions made could apply to any caloric product -- if you over consume any food or beverage with calories, there are health consequences. " ABA also said that it is "scientifically implausible" that diet soft drinks, which have no calories, cause weight gain or elevated blood pressure.

Study authors caution that they are not suggesting a direct link between soft drinks and heart disease. They stress that the association they found is between soft drinks and metabolic disease, and hesitate to speculate beyond that. They say more study is needed into why sodas are implicated in metabolic syndrome.

The American Heart Association responded to criticism of the study with a statement. "It is important to note that the study does not show that soft drinks cause risk factors for heart disease. It does show that the people studied who drank soft drinks were more likely to develop risk factors for heart disease."

------------ -----

Diet Soda Now Linked to Heart Disease

Eating two or more servings a day of red meat increases your risk of metabolic syndrome by 25 percent, compared to those who have two servings of red meat each week, a new study found.

Drinking diet soda also increased the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of risk factors such as excessive fat around your waist, high cholesterol, high blood sugar and high blood pressure, all of which can raise your risk of heart disease and diabetes.

The researchers examined the diets of over 9,500 people between the ages of 45 and 64. They were categorized into two groups: a "western-pattern diet" that included processed meat, fried foods and red meat, or a "prudent-pattern diet" that included more fruits and vegetables, poultry and fish.

They concluded that lots of meat, fried foods and diet soda increase your risk of heart disease.

Sources:

* Reuters January 22, 2008

* Circulation February 2008;117:754- 761

Computers and Male Infertility

Careful, lads, that laptop might burn your genes
By Sam Lister
Scientists have linked portable computers and male infertility

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2-1395183,00.html