Sufferers of serious social anxiety will already be aware of the impact that it has on their daily lives and personal relationships. With social anxiety often causing sufferers to be unable to create and maintain new friendships, romantic relationships, or attend and enjoy social events such as parties, those who have social anxiety will often find themselves feeling confined and reclusive without necessarily wanting to be.
Social anxiety sufferers who are wanting to change and better their lives through the development of friendships and social experiences may have tried previously and found themselves ‘failing’ due to a feeling of panic. Overcoming an anxiety-controlled life is not an easily process, but there are some ways that can help individuals start becoming a more confident and less anxious person in social situations.
Take it One Step at a Time
There is often a conflict over what is the best way to overcome social anxiety without professional help, with some arguing that throwing a socially anxious person into a situation where they experience feelings of extreme anxiety and panic being the best cure. This is not the case though as it can actually lead to an individual becoming even more reluctant to be part of social situations.
In reality, those trying to overcome anxiety alone should take it one step at a time and begin with an increase of attendance of situations that they feel less anxious about. A situation such as a trip to the cinema could be a low pressure experience for someone suffering from social anxiety as it require minimal talk so could be a great starting point to the improvement of confidence and reduction of anxiety.
Trick Yourself into Confidence
When slowly introducing new social experiences, or increasing social activity, a person suffering from anxiety can help trick themselves into confidence by practicing a number of techniques. Spending time creating mantras that can be repeated to oneself to help improve confidence is a great way to help an individual trick themselves into feeling confidence and actually really helps boost confidence.
A simple mantra can consist of basic sentences that are tailored and should include statements such as ‘I am confident’, ‘I am interesting’, and ‘I am a nice person’ to be repeated to oneself in front of a mirror to help increase an individual’s belief in themselves and their abilities.
Try Hypnotherapy
As social anxiety is not always easy to solve, sufferers may want to consider how professional services such as hypnotherapy can help. A professional hypnotherapist can help eliminate some of the feelings of anxiety, discover the reason why an individual feels anxious in particular situations as well as teaching coping techniques.
Attending a hypnotherapy for anxiety session, such as the one offered here, means that an individual receives an instant boost in their confidence that will help them begin to attend and enjoy the social situations that they want to, rather than feel restricted in what they do.
Regardless of how an individual decides to combat their social anxiety, it is important to do so in a way that creates happiness and comfort within oneself rather than punishment and dislike, as negative feelings towards oneself will only further feelings of anxiety and low self-worth.
Beth Stubbings thinks that although the journey to feeling confident and comfortable in social situations can be difficult it is definately worth in as it vastly improves an individual’s quality of life. She would recommend Fix My Mind to those considering hypnotherapy for anxiety.
Arthritis is a serious health matter that is a debilitating burden for millions of people around the world. About 1 in every 5 American adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This disease covers over 100 related conditions that affect the joints and other organs, causing pain, swelling and inflammation.
Arthritis can affect anyone at any time, regardless of age, physical condition or ethnic background. There is no actual diet or miracle food that can cure arthritis; however, there are certain foods and supplements that have been found to be effective in reducing its symptoms. Here are some of the dietary do’s and don’ts that can help you manage arthritis:
Reduce fat
Limited intake of fat helps in reducing the risk of inflammation as well as maintaining a healthy body weight. Healthy diet should include small amounts of unsaturated fat and even lower amount of trans fats or saturated fats. Research has shown that hydrogenated and saturated fats promote inflammation, which can aggravate arthritis. Healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, have been linked to reducing inflammation.
Saturated fats are mostly found in animal products such as red meat, organ meats, cheese, sour cream and whole milk. Trans fats can be found in some packaged foods such as cookies, pastries and margarine. Try to limit the intake of both of these fats to minimize the symptoms of arthritis. Monounsaturated fats, which are also known as “good fat”, can be found in olive oil, nuts and avocados. Consuming reasonable amounts of this fat can help in reducing tenderness of joints, and in some cases, allow an arthritic patient to reduce his arthritic medication because of this food group’s effectiveness in curbing painful symptoms.
Reduce sugar intake
Balancing sugar intake helps in maintaining proper glucose levels in the body. However, too much sugar can cause serious complications, especially to those suffering with arthritis. Sugar is known to increase the body’s acidity level, which elevates the risks of high blood pressure, triggering inflammation. Too much sugar can also weaken the immune system, which can worsen symptoms of fatigue in arthritic patients. If you can’t remove sugar from your diet entirely, try substituting it with alternatives such as agave or honey. You can also replace sugar by using fruits in cereals or desserts.
Reduce phosphorus rich food
Foods that are high in phosphorus can worsen symptoms of arthritis. If consumed excessively, it can lead to loss of calcium in the body,increasing the risk of pain and inflammation. Avoid phosphorus-rich foods like red flesh fish, red meat, processed meat, organ meat — such as kidney and liver — and soft drinks. Red meat also contains omega-6 fatty acids that break down into pro-inflammatory proteins in the body, which can worsen arthritic symptoms.
Limit nightshade vegetable in your diet
Some people who have arthritis tend to experience severe pain and disability if they consume nightshade vegetables. This may be because of a natural substance known as solanine, which inhibits the enzyme cholinesterase, responsible for the flexibility of muscle movement. Vegetables that are considered nightshades include potatoes, peppers, paprika, tomatoes and eggplant.
Increase fiber and reduce refine carbohydrates
Consuming a low-fiber diet can trigger the C-reactive protein that causes systemic inflammation in the body. Refined carbohydrates, such as refined flour, table sugar and white or enriched flour, can aggravate the symptoms of arthritis. Foods with refined carbohydrates include cereals, baked goods, white pasta and white bread. Try to consume as much fiber-enriched foods as possible. This includes oat bran, beans, brown and unpolished rice, almonds and whole grain lentils.
Eat enough omega-3 rich foods
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their heart-boosting benefits, and are also found effective in reducing arthritis pain and joint stiffness. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include cold-water fish such as salmon, herring and tuna. Other excellent sources include flax seeds, canola oil, walnuts, tofu and fish oil supplements.
Increase fruits and vegetable intake
Fruits and vegetable are high in fiber and other essential nutrients, which can help in balancing the overall nutrition of the body. They also contain antioxidants that can help in reducing the inflammation and improve symptoms of arthritis. Fruits and vegetables can also lower the risk of numerous diseases such as dementia, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer and coronary heart disease.
Drink more water
Water is essential in the lubrication and protection of joints. It helps in minimizing the friction between the cartilage surfaces of the joints. Insufficient water intake can result in swelling and stiffness of the joints, which can aggravate arthritic pain.
David Novak an avid health enthusiast, and frequently is featured in regional and national health publications, discussing health, wellness, diet and fitness. He is also a weekly writer for Healthline.
Most people who have never been to a chiropractor before have only a vague idea of what chiropractic care is really about.
It’s only for back pain, right?
It’s the same as going to a masseuse.
All chiropractors do is “crack” your back.
I’ve heard all those myths before, and I think it’s time to dispel them. Chiropractic care has a number of benefits beyond easing back pain (although that is also a benefit that you shouldn’t overlook). Before delving into those benefits, though, let’s briefly look at what chiropractic care actually entails.
So What Is Chiropractic, Anyway?
Chiropractic is a holistic health care practice that involves manipulating a patient’s spinal cord in order to eliminate lower back pain and to help with other existing issues (which we’ll get to in a second). This practice has existed for centuries, but modern chiropractic began gaining recognition in the United States in the late nineteenth century. Over the course of the twentieth century, doctors who practiced chiropractic gained legal recognition in all fifty states.
Students who wish to become doctors of chiropractic usually first complete an undergraduate degree, then must complete another four to five years at an accredited chiropractic school. During this time, they complete at least 4,200 hours of combined classroom, lab, and clinic work. They learn about how to perform spinal adjustments, but they also learn about human anatomy and physiology in order to gain an understanding of how the body functions as a whole. Upon graduation, doctors must pass a national board exam (and sometimes specific state exams) in order to go into practice.
The overall goal of chiropractic is to provide an alternative to medications and surgery whenever possible. By gaining a thorough understanding of the human body’s biomechanics, chiropractors can make adjustments to improve the health of their patients.
Alright, now let’s get into some of the lesser known benefits of chiropractic care, as promised.
The Many Health Benefits of Chiropractic Care
Psychological Benefits
Reduced stress. According to a recent survey by the American Psychological Association, 48% of Americans say stress negatively impacts their personal or professional life, and 77% say they regularly experience physical symptoms of stress. It sounds like at least three quarters of the country could benefit from the stress-reducing effects of chiropractic care. The adjustments that a chiropractor performs can help relax your muscles and reduce your blood pressure (which may have been raised due to stress). Chiropractic care also eases shoulder tension, headaches, and neck pain, which makes you feel “looser” and more relaxed in general.
Helps with insomnia. If you’re someone who spends the night tossing and turning and rarely gets good restorative sleep, chiropractic may be able to help you out. By easing both physical pain and the stress that I mentioned above, chiropractic care relieves two of the main reasons why people struggle to get enough sleep.
Pain-Related Benefits
Eases neck, arm, and leg pain. As explained earlier, a chiropractor’s goal is to treat the whole body. Therefore, if your pain extends beyond just your back, they’ll look for the source and treat it. Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce or eliminate pain and soreness in your arms, legs, hands, knees, feet, and neck. These are all common areas for pain, and many people suffering from these types of pain avoid going to a chiropractor because they believe that chiropractic care can’t help them.
Ease arthritis pain. Developing rheumatoid arthritis doesn’t mean you have to say good-bye to the active lifestyle you may have previously enjoyed. In fact, the American Chiropractic Association suggests that regular exercise, stretching, and a healthy diet can reduce the symptoms of arthritis for many patients. In addition to making adjustments, a chiropractor can help you come up with an individualized exercise plan that will work with your arthritis and help you reduce your pain.
Blood Flow Benefits
Improve blood circulation. Poor circulation can lead to all kinds of discomfort and health issues, including dizzy spells, numbness in your arms and legs, water retention, headaches, and skin blemishes. If you’re someone who has been suffering from poor blood circulation, chiropractic care may be able to help. By adjusting your alignment, chiropractors can help improve the flow of blood throughout your body. That means they’re improving circulation and (as mentioned once before) helping to lower your blood pressure.
Preventative Measures
Prevent a pinched nerve. If your spine is out of alignment, you may be at risk for crushing or pinching a nerve. If you’ve never experienced that, it involves very intense, acute pain and is best to avoid. Pinched nerves occur when too much pressure from surrounding tissues, such as bones or cartilage, builds up around a nerve root. Chiropractors can identify if there is too much pressure and will make adjustments accordingly.
Avoid sports injuries. One major myth about chiropractic is that it’s only for people of a certain age. However, chiropractic care can benefit athletes of all ages, whether they’re a high school football player, a seasoned marathon runner, or someone who is adopting a new fitness routine in their middle age. If you exercise on a regular basis, you need to avoid muscle tightness and joint pain, as this can lead to more serious injuries. Stretching can help with that to some extent, but if you’re worried that you may be heading for an injury, it might be time to see a chiropractor. Chiropractors can help unlock stiff joints, which will make you feel less tight and will help improve your range of motion the next time you work out. Many professional athletes already seek out chiropractic care. In fact, there’s been such a demand for athletic chiropractic care that there is even a Professional Football Chiropractic Society.
Pain Associated With Disorders
Reduces pain associated with fibromyalgia. An estimated 5 million Americans are affected by fibromyalgia, a disorder that causes muscle pain, soreness, and acute tender points on the body. In addition to the pain associated with fibromyalgia, this disorder can also cause people to lose sleep, experience intense headaches, experience tingling or numbness in their extremities, and have trouble thinking or remembering things clearly. Chiropractic care targets the fibromyalgia pain that is at the center of their patient’s problems while also helping them increase their cervical and lumbar range of motion.
Reduces pain associated with bursitis. Bursae are tiny, fluid-filled sacs that create a cushion and lubrications between tendons, bones, joints, and muscles. Someone who suffers from bursitis is experiencing inflamed bursae, which can lead to pain when moving, tenderness around the inflamed area, and in severe cases, a loss of movement. There are roughly 160 bursae throughout the human body and any one of them can become inflamed, but the most common areas are larger joints like the knee and elbow. Bursitis can gradually sneak up on a person over time due to the overuse of muscles through repetitive motions, so it’s fairly common with athletes. As with other sports injuries, a chiropractor can treat bursitis through spinal and joint manipulation to reduce pain and restore their patient’s range of motion.
Relieves the pain of sciatica. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in your body, reaching all the way from your lower back to your toes. Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is irritated, causing symptoms that can include lower back pain, intense leg and foot pain, numbness, weakness, and a burning sensation. Many people might turn to prescription painkillers to cope with sciatica, but chiropractic care can provide a natural and effective treatment. Sciatica is often caused by a structural issue, such as a misaligned vertebra or a muscle spasm, which a chiropractor will be able to treat through adjustments.
Promote Overall Wellness with Chiropractic Care
When you seek surgery to repair a structural problem like a sports injury, there’s always a risk of complications. Prescription medications for pain also have their own risks, including unpleasant side effects, addiction, and overdosing. Chiropractic care is both a natural and safe method of treatment that can help with many existing problems while preventing future issues.
If you’re still unsure whether your particular problem can be treated with chiropractic care, make an appointment to sit down and talk with a chiropractor in your area. You don’t necessarily have to commit to chiropractic treatment at that time, but by discussing your medical history and lifestyle with your chiropractor, the two of you can work to come up with a holistic treatment plan. A good chiropractor should be able to determine the source of your pain and tell you whether they will be able to effectively treat it. If you’re recovering from an injury or chronic pain, a chiropractor can also recommend exercises to help restore your range of motion.
Some people worry that by committing to one chiropractic treatment, they’ll be stuck going to a chiropractor forever. However, most people find that just a few sessions are enough to significantly reduce their pain and get them back to living a happy and healthy life.
Dr. Bill Davis has more than 15 years of experience in chiropractic. As a chiropractic patient, student, associate doctor, clinic director and now a writer for the chiropractic industry. Dr. Davis has been published in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research, featured in the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association News and is currently writing blog posts and articles for a growing number of chiropractic offices throughout the country. Dr. Davis is a husband and father of 3 and is passionate about all things chiropractic.
What with all that figgy pudding and those over generous gift givers, there’s barely any chance that you’re going to lose any weight over the Christmas holidays so best advice is don’t even bother trying.
This, of course, doesn’t mean that you have to completely give in to all manner of foodie temptations but if you follow a few tried and tested guidelines you’ll be able to have fun whilst still managing to maintain a healthy balance.
Below is a splattering of advice from one who knows and if you’re in training for a marathon or just trying to keep check on your weight over the winter then read on and have a happy Christmas.
A hearty breakfast
A light breakfast maybe considered to be good practice for Christmas day to make space for all that dinner and if you can manage to have poached or boiled eggs, fruit juice, porridge or even muesli then you’ll be at least giving yourself a fighting chance and keeping those hunger pangs at bay until lunchtime. The hungrier we are the more tempting it is to snack and the key to a healthy Xmas is definitely to avoid those tree chocs and bowls of crisps whenever possible.
Healthy snacks
If you really can’t withstand those oh-so-tempting bowls of food that have been strategically placed around the house by well-meaning relatives then why not counteract by adding some snacks of your own. Carrot, cucumber and celery sticks are great to munch on and the more fruit you’re able to consume as opposed to chocolates and sweets then all the better. Snacking isn’t ideal but if you have to then make sure you choose the healthy option and avoid cheese, mayo and fat-filled dips.
Keep the heating low
It’s very easy to sit back and get all cosy when it’s cold outside and from woolly Christmas knitwear to turning the heating up to 11, slobbing about and becoming lethargic is pretty much the norm at this time of year. Best advice is to open a window or better yet, turn that heating off because the warmer you become the less your body will need to work to keep away the cold. Add a few layers or keep moving and before you know it you’ll be saving on energy bills and burning body fat at the same time.
Get outside
If grandma won’t let you turn the heating down for fear of hypothermia then the next best thing is simply to get outside and let your body get to work on heating you up from the inside. Keep your head and feet covered to avoid losing heat but a walk around the block, a kick about with the kids or volunteering to go to the shops for supplies are all great excuses to get out and about and keep you healthy and active in the process.
Keep active indoors
Of course, you don’t have to be outside to be active and any one who’s experienced a Christmas with kids will certainly understand that there’s never a moment to sit down and ‘chill out’. Parlour games such as charades and pin the tail on the donkey are both great fun and require a certain amount of energy to play and if you’ve got kids around then simply watch what they do and join in the fun and games. Keeping active is the key to staying healthy over a hectic time of year and if you can act as silly as a three year old then you’ll be fending off the fat in no time at all.
Stay out of the kitchen
Those tantalising smells and Christmas songs emanating from the kitchen are often too much to withstand and the adage: ‘the closer you are to the kitchen the less chance of going hungry’ is certainly true over Xmas. Keep out at all costs and if you have to cook then do your best to have some healthy snacks on the go to help you avoid peeling off that crispy skin or tucking into a cheeky mince pie and brandy butter.
Have an aim in mind
At the end of the day, it’s down to you to be strong and introduce a modicum of will-power to help you beat the temptations of Christmas. Having something to keep fit and healthy for, such as: a marathon, beach holiday or adventure holiday with Trek America, will no doubt give you the strength to withstand the offer of more food from generous in-laws and if you can stick to a healthy plan this winter then you’ll be raring to go in the New Year – good luck!
Chris is in training for the Brighton marathon and eyeing Christmas with a modicum of fear and trepidation.
Asthma can be a deadly disease, triggered by the smallest of reasons. People suffering from asthma have to be extra careful to avoid attacks. They can’t function in an environment that is even the least bit polluted. This can stifle their freedom. However, they have a right to feel safe at home. If you can’t stop worrying about asthma attacks at home, then where can you? It’s up to the loved ones to ensure a safe environment for people suffering from asthma. Here are a few tips to help you do that.
Keep Your House Clean
Ensuring an allergen free environment starts with keeping a clean house. When it comes to asthma, cleanliness is truly next to godliness. Keep your curtains clean, because that’s where most of the dust mites are found. If you can, avoid curtains altogether, instead opt for window blinds. Vacuum your carpets daily or they’ll release dust clouds every time people walk across them. Hardwood flooring is a better alternative, if you’re thinking about a home improvement project. When it comes to keeping your loved ones safe, it’s worth the cost.
Avoid Aerosol Products
When you have someone suffering from asthma living in the house, you don’t go around spraying air freshener. Have some common sense. Avoid aerosol products altogether or you’ll have to resuscitate the patient every time you spray it. Sometimes even scented candles can be deadly. You never know when a romantic evening can turn into a visit to the doctor. Avoid using scented detergents or cleaning products either. It’ll save you money and keep the patient safe. So it’s a win-win. Consult a doctor to get a detailed list of things you should avoid using in the house.
Beware of Pets
Pets may be cute and cuddly, but they can induce asthma attacks in patients. Put them up for adoption, or your four legged friend might be the reason for your affliction. If you decide to keep them anyway you’ll have to pay special attention to them. First of all they should be kept away from patients. All your cleaning efforts will be futile if your pet keeps spreading dander everywhere. Give your pet a bath every week, so this doesn’t happen. If you have an animal cage, keep it in a separate room. It can be quite unsanitary due to animal droppings.
Maintain a Smoke Free Environment
Smoking doesn’t just kill the person with a cigarette in his mouth; it also kills people in the vicinity. If you want to poison your lungs, you’re welcome to do so, but do it outside the house. Asthma patients have enough to worry about without you blowing smoke on their face. However, when it comes to smoke, no one can outmatch a fireplace. Opt for central heating instead of lighting a fire during winter. It’ll also make Santa Claus happy. He won’t have to worry about climbing down your chimney. It’ll keep the air clean for people suffering from asthma.
Install an Air Filtration System
Clean air is a necessity for asthmatics to breathe easy, the cleaner the better. In a home environment you don’t really have control over the air you breathe. It can be polluted in so many different ways. If you have a loved one with a serious case of asthma, install a HEPA filtration system in your house. It’s meant to purify the air in medical centers and laboratories, so you can imagine how powerful it is. If you really care about your loved one, you should definitely get it. It’ll keep the air ultra pure, which you can breathe in without a worry.
It’s important to keep the home environment safe for asthmatics. At home they shouldn’t have to worry about exhaust fumes and dust clouds. The tips mentioned here not only benefits asthmatics, but also the average home owner. These days you can’t step outside your house without inhaling polluted air. Prolonged exposure to it can cause respiratory disorders. Until mankind switches to green energy, it is advisable to use these tips to keep your home environment safe. Your lungs should be able to rest at home, after taking a beating throughout the day. They deserve better, because your life depends on them.
The author of this article is Ronald Tipton. He is a part of the team at Airepure, a company that specializes in HEPA filtration systems. Ronald loves playing tennis and often takes part in local amateur tournaments.
Everyone wants their teeth to be white forever. That means you will have to be careful because it’s easy to ruin them by eating certain things. You don’t want end up in the dentist’s chair having your teeth ripped from your mouth because you spent many years slowly destroying them.
It’s time you found out what food and drink is most likely to cause you the most trouble. In future you should think very carefully about what you put in your mouth. You only get one set of teeth and if you want to buy new ones they are very expensive.
Dreaded dried fruit
You might think dried fruit is healthy because it’s just fruit, but it’s terrible for your teeth. Think about how much sugar is contained in fruit. When it’s dried it is nice and sticky, so when you eat it a lot of sugar is going to be sticking to your teeth. It will also help to feed the bacteria inside your mouth which can lead to erosion.
Hard candy
I’m guessing you already knew hard candy wasn’t the best type of food in the world for your teeth. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to work out that solid sugar is going to mess your mouth up. The sugar will stick to your teeth and it will take ages to dissolve because the candy is so hard. If you do eat any you should brush your teeth after you’ve finished.
Any kind of popcorn
It’s not even the type of popcorn you eat that causes problems. You might love sweet popcorn and it’s not great for your teeth, but as soon as you brush them the sugar will disappear. The real problem is the kernels that get stuck in between your teeth and inside your gums. If you don’t get rid of them when you floss you will end up with cavities because of the buildup of bacteria.
Sour citrus fruits
Lemons and oranges taste great, but they are full of acid and sugar. That doesn’t mean you can’t eat them because you only need to rinse your mouth out with water once you’re done. The people who will suffer the most are the ones who like to bite on slices of lemons or oranges. You are literally bathing your teeth in a bath of acid which can’t be too good for them.
Sugary soda
This is another one you know you shouldn’t be touching with a 10ft bargepole, but you do because you’re addicted to it. That is the only way to explain why someone would enjoy drinking a bottle of sugar. If you’re going to keep drinking it you should definitely use a straw and you won’t end up with lots on your teeth.
Alcoholic drinks
Alcohol is not good for you because of the effect it has on your mouth. You stop producing enough salvia which is what helps wash away food particles in the first place. It’s alright to drink on a night out, but just remember to drink water in between each beer or wine. Alcoholics are going to end up with the most trouble because their mouth will always be dryer than usual.
Starchy food
Can you guess what the problem is with food like potato chips and white bread? It can get stuck inside your teeth easily. It needs to be taken out once you’ve finished your meal otherwise it’s going to feed the bacteria that makes up plaque. You should always have some tooth floss lying around and it will take you a few minutes to clean your teeth after each meal.
Today’s guest author is Dr. Diana Hall, a dentist based in Australia. She is well versed with the new laser dentistry techniques. She is an avid blogger and shares valuable tips on dental care and hygiene in her articles.
People think certain foods are healthy, but I want them to know they’re not as healthy as they think.
I’m sure you love the fact food companies provide you with tasty food, but how would you feel if certain foods weren’t as healthy as you first thought? There are a large number of foods we eat because they’re deemed healthy, but we’re going to look at some of the ones that are actually a little evil. You can still eat them, but first you should know the truth.
Pasta
When you walk into the supermarket you might see pasta salad on the shelf and how can anything associated with salad be unhealthy? People rave about Mediterranean cuisine being healthy and pasta is a staple of the diet. At the end of the day it’s simply processed food which doesn’t offer your body much at all. Carbohydrates might be cheap and they will fill you up when you’re hungry, but people are overweight because they eat too much of them.
Ketchup
It’s hard to believe ketchup was close to being classified as a vegetable in the US. Maybe that is part of the reason why everyone thinks it’s healthy. Another reason is because it contains tomatoes, but you will find a lot more than that inside your ketchup bottle. The reason it’s very unhealthy is due to the fact it’s full of sugar. Just because something is sweet doesn’t mean you should be eating it.
Soy sauce
Soy sauce is delicious and it can add some flavor to many different dishes, but you shouldn’t use a lot of it because it’s not the best condiment in the world. Don’t be fooled by the fat free claim even though it might sound nice. The problem with soy sauce is the very high salt content which isn’t too great for your body. It’s easy to resist putting too much salt on your food, but when it’s hidden inside a sauce you don’t even know you’re consuming it.
Fruit juice
How many gallons of fruit juice have you drunk over the years? Most people have a glass every morning when they’re eating breakfast. Drinking lots of fruit juice is the same as tilting your head back and pouring a packet of sugar into your mouth. Even though it contains vitamins and minerals it’s packed full of calories, so if you still want some fruit at breakfast time you should pick up an apple or an orange from the fruit bowl.
Brown bread
White bread isn’t great for you, but I’m sure you already knew that. It’s laughable when people turn around and tell you brown bread is different because at the end of the day it’s basically the same thing. Let’s forget everything that is good about brown bread and instead we’ll concentrate on what is bad about it. Brown bread is nothing but processed carbohydrates and we already know we eat far too much of it.
Vegetable oil
Vegetables are great and you should eat them every day. Your mom probably taught you that when you were young, but she wasn’t talking about vegetable oil. It’s only popular because it’s cheap, but it’s definitely not healthy. Luckily there are healthier options out there and the best one you can choose is coconut oil. I think we’ve reaffirmed the fact you can’t always assume something about a particular food because of its name.
You’re being tricked
If you knew the truth about how companies played tricks with your mind you would end up with a headache. We’ve not even mentioned healthy cereals or fat-free yogurt and I’m sure there are many more bad foods out there. If you cut down on the foods we’ve spoken about today it will improve your diet.
The author of this post, Amy Jackson, works at Sugar Tree, providers of cake decorating tools. A tech enthusiast, she is always on the lookout for the latest gadgets to hit the marketplace.
A lot of people seem to think exercise is a young person’s game, but it’s simply not true and should be doing everything within your power to stay as healthy as possible no matter what age you are. There are actually a few very good reasons why you must keep exercising even if you don’t want a cover model body anymore. We’re going to take a look at them today and I hope some of these reasons convince you to start moving more from now on.
Thrive in old age
Once you reach a certain age the body begins to go downhill. Maybe you’ve already started to experience it at the moment, but once you start exercising you will begin to see something magical happening. Instead of slowing down the aging process it can even wind back the clock in some cases. It means you will be able to thrive in old age, whereas at the moment you might only be able to survive. You don’t want to get to the stage where you can’t even walk without help.
Fight off diseases
If you stay healthy it will also mean your body finds it easier to fight off horrible diseases. Some medicine and a little rest might mean they don’t stick around, but do you really want to fight diseases in the first place? You won’t even be hit by most of them if your body can stop them from becoming a problem. Life isn’t fun when you’re always sick because you’ll be too weak to enjoy yourself and you will also be in pain on a constant basis.
Save lots of money
Unless you’re a millionaire with a huge savings account you will need a lot of money when you’re older. Even if you have the best insurance in the world you might need to pay for certain things. If you don’t get sick often you will have a lot more money because you won’t need to waste any on something that could easily have been prevented. When you retire you can use your money to enjoy yourself, or if you don’t spend everything you will have more money to leave to your family.
Your lovely family
I bet your family love you more than anything else in the world, so they will want you to be healthy when you’re older. If you aren’t in good health you won’t be able to throw the grand kids about and they’ll remember you as the old person who sat around watching TV all day. You might not even get to see them because you could be dead before they arrive. The only way you’ll be able to enjoy your family as much as possible when you get older is by staying fit and healthy.
Better mental health
People are afraid to admit they have anything wrong with their mind, but we’re slowly starting to realize it affects more and more of us on a daily basis. Suffering from mental health issues is just as horrible as suffering from physical health issues. If you have a healthy body you have a much better chance of keeping your mind healthy. It’s painful to watch someone losing their mental stability and I’m positive it’s not something you want to suffer from when you get older.
Worse than death
If you ask someone who is struggling with health in their old age they will tell you it’s worse than death. I bet they would do anything for the power to go back and change their life. Their opportunity has sailed away, but you still have control over your destiny so please do everything possible to stay healthy.
This article is authored by Christine Thomas, an intern at Serene Day Spa and Beauty, renowned providers of spa packages in Perth. Christine loves to knit for her little kids, Sam and Lily whenever she has time.
With all that starchy food and sugary drinks that you’ve been consuming, you’re not only adding unnecessary fat to your body, but you’re also putting your mouth at risk to all sorts of bacteria, infections, and diseases. However, following a stringent oral hygiene is pretty simple and as long as you’re careful about what you eat, it is certainly possible to eat your way to a healthier mouth. Mentioned below are 6 awesome foods that will help keep your teeth and gums as healthy as ever.
Carrots, apples, and celery
There is a reason why crunchy fruits and veggies like apples, carrots and celery are hailed as “nature’s toothbrushes”. Munching on these fruits and vegetables increases the production of saliva, which helps neutralize the effect of bacteria in your mouth, and gives your mouth a fresh, cleansed feeling. These foods create a toothbrush-like effect, since they help wash away plaque and stains from teeth. Eating an apple can also help you get rid of food particles that might be stuck onto your gums or dental crevices. Moreover, apples also act as a natural scrub for your tongue and teeth, thereby proving effective for brightening your teeth, and fighting bad breath!
Green Tea
It’s time to go green for healthier teeth! Yes, there are some terrific ways in which green tea can benefit your overall oral health. We’re all aware that green tea is armed with anti-oxidants that help flush out toxins from the body, but perhaps something that you didn’t know is that green tea contains compounds that control gum inflammation and combat bacterial infection. Green tea lowers the acidity of saliva and plaque, thereby preventing cavities, and also controls gum diseases. What’s more, green tea is also known to fight bad breath by killing microbes that make our mouths stink. Need any more reasons to switch to green tea from black tea?
Onions
Okay, so this might not seem like the best option to you, but let’s face the fact – raw onions are packed with antibacterial properties that can effectively wipe out bacteria that cause gum diseases and cavities. After knowing this, you might want add a slice or two of raw onion to your meals if you really care about your pearly whites. However, don’t forget to fix the killer breath you might end up with after eating raw onions!
Milk and cheese
Most foods that we eat contain acids that eat away at our teeth. So here’s another reason why you should not be compromising on your daily glass of milk.Low-fat dairy products such as milk and cheese are rich sources of calcium, and can actually help in killing bacteria and reducing the acid in your mouth that threaten tooth enamel. Besides, the calcium helps your teeth get stronger, and also protects your teeth from periodontal diseases. You’ve got to admit it, nothing gets better that cheese or a glass full of milk to satisfy your hunger, without contributing to tooth decay.
Yogurt
Yes, you do brush, rinse, and floss to keep your pearly whites intact, but have you tried yogurt? As bizarre as it may sound, a proven fact is that yogurt eaters are less susceptible to gum diseases and dental decay. Apparently yogurt is a powerful source of calcium, phosphate, and vitamin D, which help protect your teeth and gums. Yogurt is also known to greatly reduce bad breath causing compounds such as hydrogen sulphide, and even balance your mouth’s PH level, preventing bacteria from thriving. Lack of calcium could erode your teeth, forcing you to go for dental procedures like dental implants. So save yourself the hassle and the expense, and just dig into a delicious bowl of yogurt!
Oranges
We all love oranges for the tangy citrusy flavor it gives out. However, there’s one more reason why you should love oranges all the more – oranges help keep your teeth and gums healthy! You’ll be surprised to know that citrus fruits like oranges help keep teeth and gums healthy by strengthening the connective tissue and the blood vessels. This also includes the connective tissue that strongly holds your teeth in your jaw. Citrus fruits also happen to be a powerful source of vitamin C, which helps in reducing gum inflammation, and prevents or slows the risk of getting gingivitis. So the next time you treat yourself to a fruit bowl, make sure there are plenty of oranges, grape fruits, and other citrus regulars in there!
Author Bio:
This article has been authored by Joseph McCain. Joseph is an intern at West Lakes Dental, a reputed clinic for dental implants in Adelaide. Joseph loves music and takes keen interest in collecting old music records.
To relax after a hard day’s work or to reward one’s self after hitting the gym, many people turn to alcohol in its various forms: wine, beer, or mixed drinks. Alcohol has become a part of our lifestyle as a way to let loose, de-stress, and be social. For this reason, our body seems to a crave cold refreshing alcoholic beverage after a tough day.
But before you reach for that ice cold beer, you should consider the negative impact of alcohol on your health and fitness, especially if you are trying to lose weight. Keep in mind that drinking alcohol, especially binge drinking, can have negative effects on your weight loss. Binge drinking will not only result in possible legal problems, such as DUI charges, but it can also result in health and weight loss problems.
Want To Lose Weight? Ditch The Booze
Staying sober also has other benefits aside from staying out of legal trouble. It also helps you stay on track with your weight loss plan.
Alcohol contains empty calories and it does not have nutritional value. Instead, it is a toxin that can result in health complications if not consumed in moderation. Every gram of alcohol you consume counts for 7.1 calories, but since you burn up some of those, the total calorie per gram stored in your body is around 5.7. Keep in mind that your body cannot store alcohol; therefore, it must metabolize it immediately. Unfortunately, metabolizing alcoholic beverages can damage other metabolic process.
This means that your body won’t be able to metabolize the sugar and fat contained in the alcoholic drink efficiently. Binge drinking will cause your metabolism to slow down, contributing to weight gain. The empty calories found in the alcohol can also contribute to weight gain. To avoid gaining weight, the University of Michigan Integrative Medicine says you should limit your alcohol intake to two drinks per day.
Controlling the amount of alcohol you consume is not only beneficial for your weight loss. Those who avoid binge drinking live healthier lives because they are less likely to suffer from health complications, injuries, or get into an alcohol-related traffic accident, says Suhre Law & Associates.
Other negative effects of alcohol include:
Reduced Muscle Growth: Alcohol impairs protein synthesis, which is vital for the development of muscles. To avoid muscle loss, avoid drinking alcohol after a hard workout. Choose to drink water instead, and keep track of your alcohol intake.
Heart Health: There are instances wherein moderate alcohol intake can result in certain health benefits. Dr. Sanjay Gupta said in an interview for “Time” magazine that moderate drinking affects the body by increasing the levels of healthy cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease. However, binge drinking is harmful to overall health and fitness. Moderation is the secret to a healthy lifestyle.
How To Cut Down On Alcohol
Curb Your Drinking Habits: You should control your drinking urges. You should set goals, such as avoid drinking when stressed or sad. If possible, try to limit alcohol intake by scheduling five alcohol-free days every week. During the days where you can drink alcohol, make sure to leave your car at home or assign a designated driver.
Don’t Drink Without Having Anything To Eat: You should have a full stomach before you start drinking. A full stomach slows down the alcohol absorption.
Hydrate By Drinking Water: You should quench your thirst with water. Otherwise, you will be drowning a full can of soft drinks or alcoholic beverages.
Do Other Things: If you are at a party and you are tempted to drink, you should do other things. For instance, you can hit the dance floor, volunteer to be in charge of the music, or play a game of pool. Doing so will prevent you from excessive drinking due to boredom or peer pressure.
This guest post is written by Kris Bennette a health enthusiast and blogger. In this article, she discusses the negative effects of alcohol intake to a person’s health and fitness.
