Tag: health

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Health Healthy Living

Why Biltong Can Be A Great Weight Loss Snack

When we talk about weight loss and healthy living, snacks are often a subject of focus, but on the negative. We hear, “Stay off snacks if you want to lose weight.” But it ideally should be, “stay off unhealthy snacks if you want to lose weight and live a healthy lifestyle.” Emphasis on unhealthy. That’s because there are indeed healthy snacks. One healthy snack that has recently gained prominence among Americans is Biltong.

What is biltong?

Biltong is a form of dried, cured meat originating from South Africa. Different kinds of meat sources are used, including beef and game meat. It is sliced into strips before cooking and then drying. It is air-dried.

Due to the preparation process, biltong is typically softer than beef jerky. They are quite similar but are not the same thing.

What makes it the ideal weight-loss snack?

Biltong is one of the healthiest snacks known for weight loss. Its low-fat content of about 3% and high protein content make it great for building healthy muscles while losing weight. But that’s not all.

By snacking on this protein treat, you feel less hungry for some time (protein makes you feel full for longer than carbs). This prevents you from craving food or other unhealthy snacks. So it’s a great treat to chew on between meals to keep you full and increase your protein consumption while losing weight.

What makes it better than other healthy snacks?

Biltong typically contains fewer kilojoules than other snacks such as chocolate and chips. It has only about 75 calories per 25-gram serving. One serving also provides about 50% of your daily protein requirements. That’s significantly better than most snacks you’ll come across.

Additionally, it helps you stay full longer than fruits and vegetables, which are also healthy. Biltong is one snack you wouldn’t be afraid to buy and stock your fridge with.

Should you eat biltong every day?

Although it’s a great snack that can be eaten every day, it should be consumed in moderation.

Is it healthier than jerky?

According to their nutritional facts, biltong is noticeably healthier than beef jerky because it’s typically leaner. Also, while jerky is smoked, the other isn’t, making its flavor more decadent and satisfying.

What are some other health benefits of biltong?

The tiny cured strips are also an excellent source of:

  • Iron
  • Vitamin B12
  • Zinc
  • Creatine

This treat makes for a great post-workout snack to help your muscles develop. It offers a better taste than supplements, so you might want to carefully consider what your next purchase should be.

Top ways to enjoy biltong

Aside from snacking, you can pair it with certain dishes for a wholesome treat. Below are some ideas:

  • Paired with boiled eggs
  • Together with some jacket potato
  • Add to cheesy dishes
  • Baked breakfast goodies
  • Paired with roasted vegetables
  • As droppings in a quiche
  • To spice up a sarmie
  • Salami alternative in pizza
  • As a garnish

Wrapping up

Whether you’re eating it alone or paired with a dish, biltong is a great and healthy keto snack for everyone. But like with everything else, try to keep moderacy in mind.

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Adulting Health Healthy Living Mental Health

How to Support a Loved One Struggling with Addiction

Struggling with Addiction

When someone you care about has an addiction, it can be difficult to know how to support them. You want to help, but you don’t know what to do. If a friend or family member is struggling with addiction, the best thing you can do is offer your love and support. Addiction is a painful and difficult journey for everyone involved. 

You may feel overwhelmed by the situation or scared for your loved one. It’s okay to feel this way; as long as you continue supporting your friend or family member in small ways, they will have a better chance of recovery.

If you’re worried about your loved one’s health or safety, there are many ways that you can help. The most important thing is to check in on them and let them know that they have someone who cares about them. Next, offer to listen and to talk through the issue with them. Finally, if you feel like they need more help or you don’t feel comfortable talking with them anymore, encourage them to speak with an addiction counselor. 

Struggling with Addiction
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What is Addiction?

Addiction is a disease of the mind and body. Addiction can be defined as any behavior that leads to repeated use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances despite their negative consequences. The addicted individual will compulsively pursue substance use though it may cause them harm. They may constantly crave their drug of choice and often be unable to stop using it. 

It’s not uncommon for those around an addict to feel anger, confusion, and frustration with the disease. However, it’s important to know that addiction isn’t a character flaw or moral failing, and there are many things you can do to help someone struggling with addiction. Addiction can be successfully treated, but it requires time and patience. 

How to Be There for Someone with an Addiction

It can be difficult to know how to support someone with an addiction. They’re going through a tough time, and you want to help, but you don’t know what to do. If a friend or family member is struggling with addiction, the best thing you can do is offer your love and support. Addiction is a painful and challenging journey for everyone involved.

You may feel overwhelmed by the situation or scared for your loved one. It’s okay to feel this way; as long as you continue supporting your friend or family member in small ways, they will have a better chance of recovery.

How Can an Addiction Counselor Help?

An addiction counselor will be able to help your loved one by providing them with guidance and support. They will be able to take the time to listen to your loved one and give them strategies for how they can stop using drugs. They may also provide referrals for treatment if necessary. There are many options for American Addiction Centers that may be able to help your loved one overcome their addiction.

Your loved one knows best what they need from you, so be open to their needs as well as yours. Remember that each person’s journey is different. Let them know that they are never alone in this process while continuing to offer a listening ear when needed. Above all, remember to love them unconditionally and be there for them when they need you most.

Support a Loved One Struggling with Addiction

Addiction is a complicated and pervasive problem that affects many people and their loved ones. There are many ways to help someone struggling with addiction, but the most important thing you can do is be supportive and encourage them to get professional help if they need it. Remember that with time and patience, addiction can be treated successfully. 

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Health Healthy Living

Quickly Ease Tense Muscles with This Muscle Stimulator Machine

If you suffer from tense muscles, you likely want to find relief. Professional massages can be time-consuming and expensive, and home remedies may not always do the trick. However, you can ease tense muscles using a muscle stimulator machine right at home or while you work.

Before getting started, I want to note that I received this product at no cost in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts on the AUVON muscle stimulator machine are my honest opinions. This post contains affiliate links. It costs you nothing extra, but I may receive a small commission.

Muscle Stimulator Machine
AUVON 24 Modes TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator Machine

Ease Tense Muscles With This AUVON 24 Modes TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator Machine: A Product Review

What It Includes

The AUVON TENS device come with the following:

  • (8) TENS Unit Pads
  • (2) Lead Wires with Cable Ties
  • USB Cable for Charging
  • User Manual
  • Dust Proof Bag
  • Belt Clip

Benefits of the Muscle Stimulator Machine

  • It Relieves Muscle Pain

This muscle stimulator machine relieves muscle pain caused by muscle spasms and tenseness. It can help with back, neck, or knee pain, arrthritis, period pain, injuries, and more. I experience intense back pain, and I haven’t had nearly as many issues since using this product.

  • It Triggers Muscle Contraction

It works by using electrical impulses to trigger muscle contraction. The stimulator can activate muscles used during exercise, promoting increased strength and endurance.

  • Many Options to Choose From

The AUVON TENS muscle stimulator machine has 24 modes to choose from, including steady wave modes. You can use it on many parts of your body, with different options for each area. Plus, you can change the type of stimulation you receive.

  • It Has Time Control

It also has time congrol ranging from ten to 90 minutes of activation. You can also choose to put it on the continuous setting so that it doesn’t shut off until you want it to.

  • It Has Extended Battery Life

The battery seems to last forever. I haven’t had to recharge it in the two weeks I’ve had it, which is handy because I don’t always remember to charge things (oops lol). It didn’t come changed, so I had to change it the first time but not at all since then. The charger can connect to wall chargers, power banks, or laptops, so it’s easy to charge.

  • It Has a Lock Setting

The lock setting ensures you don’t accidentally turn the intensity all the way up. It won’t affect the machine if you bump the buttons, allowing you to use it in any situation.

  • It’s Easy to Learn and Use

The user manual is easy to read, so you can quickly learn how to use the muscle stimulator machine. Plus, once you’ve done it once, it’s a piece of cake after that. I love the simplicity because I was worried it would be difficult to figure out.

Things to Consider

While the device comes with eight pads, you’ll eventually have to buy more. The replacement pads aren’t expensive, but you’ll have to plan so you don’t run out.

  • The Dust Proof Bag Doesn’t Offer Much Protection

The probes on the machine can bend while in the bag, so you shouldn’t rely on it. I keep mine in the original box, which is small and easy to store.

  • You Can’t Have It On Two Different Settings

This machine has two leads so you can stimulate multiple muscles at one time. However, both leads must be on the same setting. I’d like to see a machine with the option to have two different settings going simultaneously.

  • It Isn’t Safe For Everyone

The product listing includes a legal disclaimer that it isn’t safe for everyone. If you have a defibrillator, pacemaker, or implanted metallic or electronic devices, you shouldn’t use it. Additionally, if you are pregnant or in labor, it’s not recommended. There are others who shouldn’t use it, too, so be sure to check out the disclaimer.

AUVON 24 Modes TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator Machine

The AUVON TENS muscle stimulator machine can help ease tense muscles and helps with your workout. While I was given this product in exchange for an honest review, I’d definitely buy it if I had known about it before.

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Mental Health Parenting

One In Six US Kids Now Has A Mental Illness. Here Are The Signs

A recent analysis showed that a whopping one in six US children now has a mental illness, the highest figure ever recorded. And it’s not just down to improved diagnostics. While there are more diseases listed in the DSM-5 than ever before, careful research shows that the trends we’re witnessing today are part of a broader deterioration in the health of kids under the age of 18. 

As a parent, these trends can be worrying. We don’t want our kids to get caught up in it and have to deal with a life of mental health problems. Unfortunately, though, these days they are difficult to ignore. 

North Kansas City Schools, an organization committed to supporting kids, is doing what it can to provide some relief. It is pushing for increased mental health services for young people so they can develop into healthy, positive, and productive members of society.

The problems are real, though, the organization says. Kids are experiencing depression, bullying, anxiety, and substance abuse at an alarming rate.

So what are the signs that parents should be on the lookout for in their children that might indicate emerging mental health problems?

Mental Illness
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Signs of Mental Illness In Kids

Regularly Getting Involved In Fights

If your kids regularly get involved in fights, it could be a sign of mental health issues. However, if they are on the receiving end of aggression, they are at higher risk of PTSD, depression, and other symptoms associated with physical bullying. If they are actively trying to attack other children, then it might indicate a psychiatric problem that needs addressing as soon as possible.

Repeated Use Of Substances

No child should be consuming alcohol or drugs, but it happens regularly, particularly during the teenage years. Kids begin experimenting and find themselves wrapped up in situations they don’t want to be in.

However, if a child regularly uses these substances, it could indicate a mental health issue. They may be trying to escape the pain they feel by putting alcohol or drugs in their body.

Not Eating

Not eating is another common sign of a mental health issue. Children will sometimes reject food to make themselves feel more powerful. They may also do it if they have body image issues or want to harm themselves. 

Overwhelming Fears Without An External Cause

It’s normal for children to feel fearful when confronted with a real threat to their health and wellbeing. However, if you notice that they seem to get scared for no reason, it might be a symptom of a psychiatric disorder. Worried parents should go to a psychiatrist for a proper evaluation. 

Difficulty Concentrating

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Trouble focusing on a particular task is another common sign of mental health issues. If you notice that your child seems to be constantly dozing off or daydreaming when they should be learning, then they may have ADHD. Again, you’ll need to take them to a specialist to confirm this. 

Drastic Changes In Personality Signifies Mental Illness In Kids

Lastly, you may notice drastic changes in your child’s personality. If this happens, it could indicate a severe psychiatric episode.

How to Help Your Child Cope With Mental Illness

If your child has a mental illness, you can help them cope. You can get through it together, and it’s best to involve your family in the process. Here are some of the ways you can help them cope:

  • Listen to what your child is telling you, and don’t try to convince them of anything else.
  • Remind them that you’re on a team as you get through the hard times
  • Remember that you might need outside help for them
  • Ask your child what they need to feel safer
  • Reassure them that you’re not going anywhere
  • Set boundaries
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Health Healthy Living

What is Capsular Contracture and How Can it be Treated?

Sometimes, no matter how experienced the professional is, complications might arise. Capsular contracture is a result of one such unusual complication. Capsular contracture is an immune system’s response to foreign implants in the human body. In some patients, post-breast implants, the scar tissue becomes extremely hard and starts contracting around the implants. Capsular contracture can lead to severe pain in the breast, discomfort and can distort the aesthetics of the implants and the breast.

Generally, patients prone to developing thick scars, have delicate immune systems, or have autoimmune diseases are often advised to choose less intrusive forms of cosmetic treatment. This article will educate you about Capsular contracture, its symptoms, and treatment options.

Capsular Contracture
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The Symptoms of Capsular Contracture

The seriousness of the Capsular contracture is rated under the grading system:

  • Grade 1: The scar tissue that forms around the breast does not tamper with the shape, size, or texture. During this phase, the breast look natural as they show no symptoms
  • Grade 2: During this phase, the breast might feel firm to the touch but appears normal.
  • Grade 3: This phase is when it starts showing the signs of obvious symptoms. During this phase, the breasts will appear and feel unusual. However, this grade does not cause any pain.
  • Grade 4: During this phase, the breasts become deformed and firm. The patient might face soreness and severe pain during this phase.

Treatment 

Some surgical treatments that a patient can consider to rectify capsular contracture include:

Capsulectomy 

Capsulectomy is a breast revision by Dr. Michelle Lee in which the implants and the thick scar tissue capsule that surrounds the implant are removed. They insert a new implant made from dermal matrix material, a substitute produced mostly using collagen. Collagen provides an extra layer of protection to the body against the capsule of scar tissues that might develop after the surgery.

Open Capsulotomy 

During an open capsulotomy procedure, the plastic surgeon creates a small slit around the implant, to remove the skin tissue capsules. This procedure provides the implants with some more room to move. Sometimes, when necessary, the professionals also remove the implant to replace it with a new one.

Autologous Reconstruction 

During Autologous reconstruction, after removing the implants, the surgeon takes tissues from another part of the body such as the buttocks or belly to reconstruct the breast. The advantage of this procedure is it terminates the chances of recurrence of capsular contracture. One must remember that Autologous reconstruction is a lengthy process and takes time to recover.

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is not a condition that occurs due to implants, and the causes of this condition vary from patient to patient. This condition is not dangerous but can alter the appearance of the breast and affects a patient mentally and emotionally. People must analyze the potential side effects before signing up for cosmetic treatment.

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Health Healthy Living Mental Health

4 Practical Ways to Practice Good Personal Hygiene

You’d be surprised at the number of germs and viruses you encounter every day. They can linger on your body and compromise your health. According to a recent study, individuals come into contact with close to 60,000 types of germs each day, although 1 to 2% can be dangerous. This fact is why knowing the best practices to keep yourself clean and healthy is useful. Here is how to create a good personal hygiene routine to keep your body clean and healthy. 

How You Can Practice Good Personal Hygiene

1. Freshen Up Daily 

Good Personal Hygiene
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Based on your personal preferences, you can decide how often you shower. However, most people prefer to clean up at least once each day. Showering with soap can help remove any oils, dead skin cells, and bacteria on your body. Consider washing your hair with shampoo every week to eliminate buildup and remove the oily residue that can irritate your skin. Regular showering can also remove odor-causing bacteria and always leave you smelling and feeling fresh. 

2. Brush Twice and Floss at Least Once Each Day 

Brushing your teeth twice every day and flossing at least once a day can help prevent cavities and remove plaque from coating the teeth. Likewise, brushing can stimulate your gum to keep healthy and protect against gum diseases. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice every day using fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes every time. Brushing alone wouldn’t be sufficient to remove food particles that may get stuck in between teeth— which is what flossing does. You can also consider teeth whitening to remove discoloration caused by the pigments in the food and drinks you consume. 

3. Get Good Sleep 

Sleep hygiene entails having good sleeping habits. Good sleep hygiene is vital for your physical and mental health and improving your overall life quality. However, many things, including your daytime behaviors and what you do before bedtime, can affect how well you sleep. For instance, your evening routines, food and drinks, and other activities play a role in your sleeping abilities. Many experts recommend a consistent sleep schedule, creating and sticking to a relaxing bedtime routine, regularly exercising, and limiting your screen time before bed. It can also be helpful to limit your caffeine intake and create the ideal environment to promote good sleep. 

4. Ensure Regular Checkups

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Years ago, people visited the hospital only when they felt unwell or dying. Preventative care is more common as many people are educated and empowered about personal health. Individuals now seek medical advice to lower their risk of diseases and infections to live healthier lifestyles. Meanwhile, several medical experts have stressed the importance of regular checkups for staying on top of your health. This way, you can stay on top of your health and avoid expensive and time-consuming medical treatments and procedures. 

How Can You Practice Good Personal Hygiene?

The CDC has emphasized the importance of maintaining strong personal hygiene since anything less can impact your physical, mental and emotional self. The tips mentioned above can help build a good hygiene routine for yourself and your loved ones.

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Adulting Health Healthy Living

6 of the Best Treatment for Loss of Volume in Your Face as You Age

One thing that differentiates an old face from a young one is the loss of volume in your face. As we age, our skin loses its natural plumpness and firmness. The skin on our face may cave in at the cheeks, temples, and under the eye.

All these changes result from the loss of collagen, elastin, and fat cells in our faces. Consequently, the skin becomes lax because of the loss of support. Thankfully, several advanced procedures can counter the natural progression and restore volume and support to the face. Here are some of the best treatments for loss of facial volume.

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Best Treatment for Loss of Volume in Your Face

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

Dermal fillers with hyaluronic acid do a neat job rejuvenating the face and restoring volume. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) based fillers fill in the hollows and wrinkles, restoring the youthful glow. They can also augment the jawline and cheeks, undoing aging effects.

Biostimulatory Injectables

Biostimulatory injectables help increase face volume by inducing collagen production. With increased collagen production, you can strengthen the skin structure and correct any effects of volume loss like skin laxity. These injectables may not have the immediate results like those of Hyaluronic Acid fillers, but the impacts start to be noticeable after a few sessions.

Micro-needling

In this procedure, a doctor rolls tiny needles across the epidermis. That stimulates new collagen production. A huge plus is that the treatment is a minimally invasive option for eliminating wrinkles, fine lines, enlarged pores, and other textural issues. For even better results, couple micro-needling with radiofrequency (RF) or platelet-rich plasma (PRP). These treatments boost the revitalizing benefits further.

Fat Grafting

Fat grafting can happen in tandem with face lifting. With grafting, fat is transferred from other body areas then reinjected to the face to restore the lost volume.

A doctor might inject fat to laugh lines and cheeks to counter volume loss further. Ensure you only seek help from a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area. If you are in Florida, you can consider getting facial rejuvenation by Dr. Hilton Becker to restore youthful firmness and correct fine lines and wrinkles. The bottom line is that you should pick the right expert to avoid issues cropping up after the procedure.

Radiofrequency Skin Tightening

Loss of volume mainly occurs when there isn’t enough fat to support the skin. You could do radiofrequency skin tightening to counter skin laxity stemming from volume loss. In this treatment, a doctor will employ RF heat technology to encourage collagen production in the skin. The result is a tightening and lifting effect that translates to smooth and firm skin.

Rhytidectomy

Also known as a facelift, this procedure is the Midas touch for restoring the youthful glow. A facelift surgery addresses displaced fat and sagging skin. A facelift should restore fat in various face areas that have sunken due to age.

Loss of Volume in Your Face

There are multiple options for restoring volume to the face. That said, prevention is always better than cure. Making a few tweaks to your lifestyle like eating healthily, taking skin supplements, reducing sun exposure, and managing stress will prevent volume loss on the cheeks and face. You could also boost your skin and tissue quality by incorporating skin products and treatment into your skincare regimen.

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Health Healthy Living Parenting

3 Safe and Effective Ways to Treat Headaches During Pregnancy

Headaches during pregnancy are tricky because you can’t take just any pain reliever to ease the pain. It’s an aspect of pregnancy that many women don’t think about until they’re in the midst of a painful headache and find themselves unsure of what to do.

If you’re pregnant and experience severe headaches, know you’re not alone. Studies show that more than 39% of women experience headaches during pregnancy. There are different types of head pain you may experience, including:

  • Tension headaches
  • Migraine headaches
  • Cluster headaches
  • Sinus headaches

Medical experts say that women often experience tension headaches during the first trimester due to the fluctuation of hormones. However, by the second trimester, the pain decreases because the hormones are steadily high.

However, if you experience chronic pain during your pregnancy, don’t panic. Here we will discuss some of the best and safe tips to cure your pain during your pregnancy.

How to Treat Headaches During Pregnancy
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How to Treat Headaches During Pregnancy

Track Your Triggers

During pregnancy, you have to be careful about choosing the proper diet. While some foods are healthy, they have the potential to trigger your pain. For example, cutting down on cheese can be your best bet. It is rich in protein, but it can also trigger migraines.

Aged cheeses are high in tyramine- a natural chemical found in some foods. Tyramine trigger migraines by constricting and dilating blood vessels.

Therefore, medical experts emphasize following the below diets:

  • Eat vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, kale, etc.
  • Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, chia seeds, walnuts, etc.
  • Limit sodium to less than 2300 mg/day.

Making a few changes in your diet may help you reduce severe migraines.

Go For Natural Remedies

Most women prefer to take painkillers to cure migraine and head pain during pregnancy. Remember, not all medications are safe – some medicines contain drugs that may cross the placenta and reach the fetus and cause damage. The possible effects include developmental delay, intellectual disability, and birth defects.

For that reason, opting for natural remedies can be your wise move. Natural remedies may help prevent migraine attacks or at least help reduce their severity and duration.

  • Acupuncture – This is one of the best natural remedies for headaches used for various therapeutic purposes. Your practitioner will insert needles into your body to address migraines in this process.
  • Apply Lavender Oil – Lavender oil can be inhaled or diluted with a carrier oil and applied in small amounts to your temples.
  • Yoga: This age-old technique improves anxiety, releases tension in migraine-trigger areas, and improves vascular health.

These natural remedies are safe for you and your baby. However, if these remedies don’t work, it is wise to consult a doctor.

Use A Cold Compress

During pregnancy, migraine occurs when blood vessels expand in the head. A cold compress tightens the blood vessels and shrinks the cells, relieving the pain.

You can use an ice pack to make a cold compress at home. All you need is a clean towel and a bowl of cold water. Put the towel in water and squeeze out extra water. Lie down and place the towel on your forehead and eyes, and press it gently.

Treat Headaches During Pregnancy

A headache is something that makes you uncomfortable at any time. But, it can be a significant source of inconvenience, especially when you are pregnant.

To sum it up, follow the tips mentioned above to get instant relief from headaches. However, if your pain gets worse, consult a doctor immediately.

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Health Healthy Living Mental Health

3 Important Things Your Body Is Telling You About Your Diet

Do you ever feel a little off after eating? Maybe a bit bloated, or you have an upset stomach? Maybe you’ve been experiencing more acid reflux lately, and you’re not sure why? Well, these could all be things your body is telling you about your diet. It’s a sign that your diet isn’t quite right for you, and your body wants you to know about it! 

Each sign can mean something different, and it’s best to know their possible causes before making any changes to your diet. Let’s go through some of the most common warnings your body will send you about what you’re eating. 

Your Body Is Telling You Things
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What Your Body Is Telling You About Your Diet

You’re Missing Out on Vitamins

Being vitamin deficient is surprisingly common. Thanks to just how many people take supplements, the signs are simple to spot and address. If your mouth cracks in the corners, it’s a sign that you’re B Vitamin deficient or that your iron levels are low. Bleeding gums can be a sign of Vitamin D deficiency, and if you have poor vision during the night, it could be that you have low levels of Vitamin A.

However, simply eating more greens, as well as more iron-rich meats, and even just a few more eggs now and then, can help tackle all of these issues in the long term.  

You Need to Drink More Water

Had a few headaches recently? Maybe your muscles cramp a lot more than usual after exercise? If your mouth feels dry and your lips crack easily, these are all signs that you’re not drinking enough. You can solve the problem by taking in more water day by day.

But how much water is good for you? It depends on the person, but experts recommend at least two liters of water per day for good hydration. This amount is especially true if you enjoy salt in your diet or are on your feet for long periods. Make sure you’ve got a bottle of water somewhere nearby, too. Take a swig every 20 minutes or so – it’s a good way to form the habit!

You’re Intolerant to Something

Food intolerances are more common than you might realize. Even if you’ve never been allergic to something before, there’s a good chance you’ve developed an intolerance. If you like to eat a lot of cheese, for example, you might just one day find you cannot digest it anymore. And the same goes for both gluten and wheat intolerances.

But what does a food intolerance look like? According to gastroenterologists, it can be anything from a small stomach ache to persistent constipation or diarrhea. If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms for a short period now, it’s worth talking to your doctor. You can express your concerns and rule out a potential intolerance from your system. 

Your Body Is Telling You Things About Your Diet

Feeling a bit rough? Your body has a lot to say about your diet! Don’t ignore the signs so that you can live the healthiest life possible.

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Adulting Health Healthy Living Women

What Are The Common Symptoms Of Menopause?

menopause symptoms, menopause, womens health

While dealing with monthly menstruation can seem like a challenge for many women, transitioning out of this phase also has some trials. The majority of women are familiar with the symptoms of PMS and even crippling abdominal cramps, but do you know the symptoms that signal the onset of menopause? Approximately 8 out of 10 women experience menopause before and after their menstrual cycle ceases. Understanding menopausal symptoms and how to deal with them can help make the transition smoothly.

menopause symptoms, menopause, womens health
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Menopause Symptoms: Different for Everyone

There is no particular set of symptoms that every menstruating person may experience. Did you know women can also experience abdominal pain as the period reaches the end stages? Hence it’s necessary to know how to relieve period cramps for such cases. It can be different for everyone, varying on a scale from mild symptoms that don’t cause much discomfort to extremities that hinder a person’s day-to-day life. Other symptoms can differ from physical, mental, and emotional effects, leaving a substantial impact on this time in your life. 

  • Common symptoms include:
  • Hot flashes where short and heavy bursts of heat are felt on the face, neck, back, and chest, which can make the skin appear flushed and sweaty
  • Night sweats where hot flashes caused at night can lead to excessive sweating
  • Insomnia and difficulty falling asleep
  • A reduced libido
  • Memory loss or lowered memory retention and concentration.
  • The discomfort experienced during sexual intercourse and vaginal dryness
  • Frequent headaches
  • Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
  • Heart palpitations
  • Joint pain and reduced muscle mass
  • Frequent Urinary Tract Infections

Dealing with Menopausal Symptoms

Dealing with hot flashes and night sweats

If you or someone you know is dealing with regular hot flashes, it can be an uncomfortable experience. However, the steps below can provide menopause hot flash relief:

  • Wear light cotton clothes
  • Use an ice pack to cool down
  • Keep the bedroom cool before sleeping
  • Exercise regularly
  • Avoid overly spicy foods, alcohol, or cigarettes

Dealing with mood swings

Some menstruating people experience severe mood swings, depression, and anxiety during the transition into menopause.

Taking a gentle approach to help themselves regulate their mood by resting plenty, exercising, meditating, and including vitamins like B12 can help. They can also take psychological help to deal with the overwhelming emotions that sometimes occur. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is seen as an effective treatment path for irregular mood shifts.

Considering Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT compensates for the hormones depleted during the menopause transition. The majority of the symptoms result from low estrogen levels, which HRT replaces along with progesterone that will protect the womb lining. HRT has proven to show highly effective results at alleviating symptoms of menopause and is prescribed in the form of skin patches, implants, oral tablets, or topical gels.

Common Symptoms Of Menopause

When you know what a person experiences during their transition into menopause, you can prepare for the changes to come. You can also be ready to remedy the symptoms quickly without suffering too much discomfort.