Name That Symptom / Question
Published: June 11, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Hello, I have three questions for you. First, I am not all that overweight but the middle section in my stomach needs some work. I have tried a lot of stuff, but it doesn't seem to work. Do you have any suggestions for exercises for that? Second, my face gets red a lot. I don't get embarrassed much, but all of the sudden I feel my face get red and that embarrasses me. Why does it do that? Is there any thing I can do to help it stop? Third, my hands are sweaty a lot. I heard that if you drink more water it will help it decrease, is it true. Thanks for any info you can give me.
Signed: Teen Girl With Some Questions
Dear Teen Girl With Some Questions,
If you want to sculpt your body the optimum way is through proper nutrition and exercise. The best way to firm your abdominal muscles is to do crunches on a regular basis. Start by lying on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. If the floor is hard use a mat to protect your back. Place your hand behind your head and allow your neck to relax by holding the weight of your head in your hands. Inhale to begin, then while exhaling slowly roll your body into a C-shape. Roll your tailbone away from the floor as your shoulders come up. To protect your lower back, keep it pressed to the floor or exercise mat when you lift your chest shoulders, and head. Perform three sets of 24 repetitions with a 30-second rest between each set.
Having your face turn red is generally referred to as "blushing." Blushing is a normal involuntary reaction that results from dilation of the superficial blood vessels in the face. Researchers have been unable to discover a clear physical reason why some people experience frequent blushing while other do not. Fair skinned people seem to be more aware of their blushing, probably because it is more noticeable. Being self-conscious of your blushing only makes it worse. If you feel your face getting red try and relax and remind yourself that it is normal for some people. Chances are that others do not notice your change in color nearly as much as you think they do.
TeenHealthFX is not aware of any research that indicates drinking more water will help with sweaty hands. If you would like some information on this topic see TeenHealthFX's responses to Sweaty Hands and Hands Sweat.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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