General

What Are My Chances of Having Twins?

Written By: Arch
Arch

If you’re trying to have children, there’s a lot to consider. Adding an extra baby to the equation can make for some tricky budgeting, not to mention doubling the effort you’ll need to put into childcare. So, you’re probably asking yourself “What are my chances of having twins?”

The answer varies, depending on whether you’re talking about identical or non-identical twins, as well as a number of factors, ranging from your genetics to your current lifestyle and beyond.

How Do Twin Pregnancies Occur?

Humanity has long held an interest in twins. They feature in most of the world’s various mythologies, such as the divine siblings Artemis and Apollo from Greek mythology (to pick one pair out of many), or the divine Norse twins Freyr and Freyja. But modern medicine has largely demystified the phenomenon of twin births, and let’s go over the basics.

There are (basically) two types of twin – identical and non-identical (or fraternal).

Identical twins happen when an egg that has been fertilized splits into two separate embryos. This means that they have identical genes inherited from their parents, and so they will be the same sex and look very similar. The scientific term for this is monozygotic twins.

Fraternal twins occur when two eggs are fertilized by two different sperm, and then both successfully implant in the womb. These twins – known as dizygotic twins to scientists – share the same amount of genetic material as any other siblings. So, they can be of different sex, and they can potentially look quite different to one another.

How Common Are Twins?

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), in 2015 33.5 out of every 1000 live births in the US resulted in twins, which means that there is a 3.35% chance to have twins on average. Their latest data from 2017 puts the rate at 3.33%, a very minor drop that is representative of the now slowly declining rate of twin births over the last decade.

However, the likelihood of having twins is still much higher than it was 30 years ago. The CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics reported that the number of twin births increased by over 75% between 1980 and 2009. There are a few potential reasons for this increase, foremost of which is the increase in the use of fertility treatments, as well as improvements in nutrition, and women having children later in their lives.

Fraternal twins are more likely than identical twins. Fraternal twins account for around two-thirds of all multiple pregnancies. Identical twins account for around 0.5% of pregnancies without fertility treatment.

What Makes Twins More Likely?

As we said, not everything regarding twins has been explained yet. Scientists are yet to uncover exactly why identical twins occur.

But there are a number of factors that have been identified that influence the likelihood of having fraternal twins, including:

Fertility Treatments

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine has reported that the most influential factor in the likelihood of having twins is receiving fertility treatments.

If you are undergoing IVF, they will extract a number of eggs, fertilize them with the donor’s sperm, and then implant multiple fertilized embryos (at least two but rarely more) into your womb in order to increase the chance of a viable pregnancy. This, unsurprisingly, increases the likelihood of having twins, as both embryos can potentially survive for the full term. IVF also doubles the likelihood of identical twins over that of the general population.

Alternatively, some fertility drugs stimulate your ovaries in order to encourage them to release eggs. This can sometimes result in two eggs being released at the same time, which can then both be fertilized by your partner’s sperm and so leave you with two bundles of joy.

A History of Twins

The chances of having fraternal twins are also increased if you have a family history of twins. If you have twins on your mother’s side, this means you have a higher likelihood of conceiving twins yourself, as you are more likely to release multiple eggs when you ovulate.

While a history of twins on the father’s side isn’t strongly linked to a higher likelihood of twins, it does mean that the father is likelier to produce plenty of healthy sperm. So, he may be more likely to release enough to fertilize more than one egg.

Your Weight and Height

Women who are heavier are more likely to have fraternal twins, as are women that are taller than the average. There is no firmly established link, but scientists have theorized that this could be related to better nutrition.

Statistics show that overweight and obese women are more likely to struggle with conceiving. But when they do conceive, the odds of twins are higher than average. This is because having extra body fat causes an increase in the production of estrogen, which can lead to the ovaries being overstimulated and releasing more than one egg.

As for height, women who are around 5’5” are more likely to have twins that those who are closer to 5’4”. Again, this is possibly due to nutrition, but the exact causes are unclear.

Your Age

As you pass 30, your body produces more follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). This hormone is vital in the development of your eggs before ovulation, and as you get older more is needed in order to stimulate growth. However, this can sometimes lead to overstimulation, and so result in conceiving twins.

Already Having Children

If you already have children, then your chances for twins are higher. If you already have twins, then it’s even more likely that it will happen again.

Racial background

In the USA, African American women are the most likely to conceive twins, followed by Caucasian women, then Hispanic women, with Asian and Native American women the least likely to have two at a time.

Diet

Some early research has indicated that there may be a link between eating dairy products and a higher chance of twins. Researchers theorize that this could be caused by the growth hormones that are given to the cows that are passed on to the milk.

What Are My Chances of Having Twins?

If you are a skinny, short, young woman who has no twins in her family tree, and you aren’t undergoing a fertility treatment, then your chances are pretty slim. However, you might want to keep in mind the possible need for two cribs if you’re over thirty, carrying a few extra pounds, taller than most, have a few kids already, currently undergoing fertility treatment, or if you have relatives on your mother’s side who are twins.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/multiple.htm
https://www.statista.com/statistics/276017/us-twin-birth-rate/

Click to access db80.pdf


https://web.archive.org/web/20050215204921/
http://www.thetech.org/genetics/ask.php?id=86
https://www.jstor.org/stable/2456218?seq=6#metadata_info_tab_contents

Click to access booklet_multiple_pregnancy_and_birth_twins_triplets_and_high-order_multiples.pdf

 

Health

What are the Most Popular Types of Detox?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Dieting is getting a bad rep, which is unsurprising given that the majority of diets fail. People these days prefer to talk about detoxing and cleansing instead, and many methods have been proposed and publicized in the last forty years. Today’s approach to detoxes started gaining popularity in the 1970s.

There is little to no scientific evidence to support the majority of the “miracle cures” out there. So let’s dig in deeper. What are the most popular types of detox, and do they work?

What Is Detoxing?

Detoxing is generally taken to mean a method you use to remove harmful “toxins” from your bloodstream. It can take the form of a diet or fast, adding certain foods or limiting others, but there are also more literal interpretations such as colon cleansing.

There are many supposed benefits, from weight loss to improved energy levels and better overall health. However, depending on the methods used, the results may be short-lived, and some detoxes can be harmful to your health.

It’s also noteworthy that generally, the “toxins” that detoxing removes are not particularly well-defined. They can include heavy metals, synthetic chemicals, atmospheric pollutants, and so on. But the actual target of each detox method is rarely identified, and how it actually works to remove them from your system is hardly ever defined.

The Real All-Natural Detox

The thing is that your body already has a wide range of processes and organs devoted to removing these harmful elements, and many others, from your body. Toxins are cleansed internally from your system by the healthy operation of your liver, kidneys, and your digestive tract, and they are then removed from your body via sweating, peeing, pooing, and breathing.

The word “healthy” is the important one in that last sentence. The best thing you can do to detoxify your body is to do things that will support and improve the function of the organs that do that specific job.

Food Restriction

Most of the detoxes currently bandied about suggest that certain types of food, or entire food groups, should be removed from your diet to reduce your toxin intake. While this can have a positive effect on your health, it can also cause malnutrition if not done correctly. Like with dieting, food restrictions can be difficult to maintain.

Removing certain food groups from your diet can be beneficial, such as dairy or gluten, but this depends on your personal dietary requirements. You may find that you feel better after removing them from your food intake, but if you’ve also removed a wide range of other foods, it makes it impossible to tell which one was actually having a negative effect on you.

Food restriction can also result in short term weight loss. This is generally because it is coupled with a restricted caloric intake, and relies on burning your body’s stored energy. However, as soon as you return to your normal number of calories, you will likely put the weight straight back on, because your body will replenish its depleted reserves. It can even lead to weight gain compared to your starting point, because your body may try to mitigate future shortages by packing in more energy storage – i.e. fat.

Juice or Smoothie Cleanse

The ultimate form of food restriction – don’t eat any food at all. Rather, replace it with fruit and vegetable juices or smoothies. At least, so the suggestion goes with this popular form of detoxing. A cleanse of this sort can go from anything between three days to three weeks, or even longer in some more extreme examples.

It has similar effects to food restriction, in terms of the reduced caloric intake leading to short term weight loss. Supporters claim that by not eating any solid food, you are allowing your gastrointestinal tract to have some time off digesting. This should allow it to recover from toxins and to improve its function.

Are Juice Cleanses Good for You?

While there are a number of benefits to certain types of fasting, there is no conclusive, peer-reviewed scientific evidence that shows that ‘resting’ your intestines has any health benefits. In fact, you’re likely to be missing out on important nutrients that help the system to function properly.

Generally, liquid-only cleanses are very low on protein, fiber, and fat. This means you will likely feel hungry most of the time, you may end up constipated, and you will potentially have low blood sugar. All this will lead to you feeling tired, and it reduces the effective functioning of your brain. Conversely, fruit juice is also high on the glycemic index, meaning that it will spike your blood sugar levels, and then cause them to drop sharply, which can also make you feel more tired and hungry.

Freshly-made smoothies are likely to be better for you, particularly if they have plenty of vegetables in them, as they contain more fiber, protein, and other important nutrients. But really, you’d be better off adding that smoothie to your daily diet, rather than relying on it as your sole source of nutrition.

Colon Cleanse

While most detoxes focus on what goes in your mouth, one of the other popular methods places its attention on what comes out the other end.

Colon cleansing can involve either cleansing your digestive tract by using laxatives and various supplements, or colonic hydrotherapy, which is where the colon is flushed out with a liquid (normally, but not exclusively, water) in order to manually remove built-up waste.

Neither method is a particularly pleasant approach, and unless your doctor has specifically said it is necessary for your health, they can actually be potentially harmful. There’s a risk of diarrhea, cramping, vomiting, and infection. There is also evidence to show that it may remove helpful bacteria from your colon, which will actually increase the amount of toxins in your bloodstream.

A generally healthier approach is to have a diet that includes plenty of fiber, both soluble and insoluble, which helps to promote regular, effective bowel movements, and so clears out the accumulated undigested food and debris from your colon.

Ways to Support Your Body’s Natural Detox System

Here’s a quick list of ways that have been proven to help improve the function of the liver, kidneys, and other aspects of your inbuilt detox system:

  • Limit your alcohol intake
  • Drink more water
  • Get a good night’s sleep
  • Exercise regularly
  • Eat fewer processed foods, as well as less sugar and salt
  • Add antioxidant-rich foods to your diet
  • Eat prebiotic foods

Demystifying the Detox

Despite what you may have heard from natural healthcare practitioners, there is very little science to support the idea that detoxing actually removes harmful toxins from your system. Now that you know what are the most popular types of detox, you can start to decide for yourself which parts – if any – you want to add to your healthcare regime.

Health

Discover the Causes of Calf Pain

Written By: Arch
Arch

In our fast-paced modern world, anything that slows you down can be a major inconvenience. Your calf muscle is instrumental in the walking process, so any issues with it can leave you limping behind the pack.

Your body is a complex piece of machinery, and with so many moving parts, there’s plenty that can go wrong. Your calf is no exception. The potential causes of calf pain range from the relatively benign, such as a bruise, to the potentially life-threatening, such as DVT.

Most of the causes can be treated with a simple combination of rest, elevation, and painkillers. But if you have any of the following symptoms as well as pain in your calf, you may have developed a more serious condition, and you should go see a doctor:

  • redness, warmth, and tenderness
  • swelling
  • tingling or numbness
  • unusual coolness or pale color in the calf
  • weakness of the leg
  • fluid retention

Other causes of calf pain may not be immediately dangerous, but can still require medical intervention to remedy.

Muscle Strain

Anyone who’s started exercising again after a period of inactivity will be familiar with muscle strains. They normally happen due to overuse, fatigue, and improper use of the muscle. Any exercise that requires a lot from your legs, like running, riding a bike, or swimming, can be the source of your soreness.

The strain itself is caused by the muscle fibers in your calf partially or fully tearing. This generally hurts as bad as it sounds, and you’ll notice a sudden pain in your leg as soon as it happens. It’s likely that it will limit your range of movement and it can hurt even when you’re not using the muscle.

Most strains can be treated by ice, heat, rest, and NSAIDs like ibuprofen. Worse strains might need the attention of a doctor and physiotherapy.

Muscle Cramp

One of an athlete’s mortal enemies, cramping is when your muscles suddenly and painfully contract. Cramps can last for just a few moments, all the way up to several minutes. They are a common condition, with a number of causes, which include:

  • starting new exercises
  • doing more exercise than normal
  • lack of stretching
  • dehydration
  • a loss of electrolytes through sweating
  • prolonged physical activity
  • weak muscles
  • low levels of calcium or magnesium

The best way to treat a cramp is to extend the muscle as soon as possible after the cramp starts, either by standing on it or by lying on your back, extending your leg, and having a friend firmly push your toes towards the ground.

Achilles Tendonitis

Your Achilles tendon is a tough band of fibers that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It is strong, but not very stretchy, and when pushed too far, it can become inflamed or tear. This normally happens when taking on a new exercise regime, or in sports like tennis that require repeated starting and stopping. Make sure to stretch properly, and warm up and cool down before and after exercising, in order to avoid damaging your tendon.

The symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include inflammation, swelling, pain in the back of your leg, and a limited range of motion when you flex your foot.

For most Achilles tendon injuries, you can stick to the R.I.C.E method of treatment: rest, ice, compress, and elevate. You should try to avoid straining it for the first week after the injury, and then do some gentle stretches to encourage it to repair.

If the pain doesn’t go away, or if it gets worse, you should go and talk to a doctor.

Contusion (Bruising)

A contusion, or bruise, is normally the result of a traumatic impact, such as a fall or being hit by something. This causes the capillaries in the surrounding area to burst, and the blood released into the tissues causes the discoloration. Bruising ranges from a vivid purple to a pale yellow as it heals.

The healing process normally happens by itself. But you should consult your physician if you are getting unexplained bruises, or if they keep reappearing in the same place without any injury to cause them.

Arterial Claudication

Arterial claudication is when the arteries that provide blood flow to your legs become narrow or blocked. This is normally noticed as a pain that occurs after a few minutes of walking, and it will not be noticeable when at rest. It should stop within 10 minutes after you stop walking.

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes that results in nerve damage in the legs, feet, arms, and hands.

Other symptoms of DPN include:

  • muscle cramps
  • muscle weakness
  • sharp pain
  • numbness
  • loss of balance and coordination

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) became well-known as the condition that can occur when you take a long-haul flight and don’t move for many hours. However, there are various other factors that can contribute, such as smoking or complications from medication.

It is a blood clot that can occur in the deep veins of your legs and arms, and it can result in severe pain that usually gets worse when standing or walking.

Other symptoms of DVT can include:

  • swelling
  • visible veins
  • skin discoloration
  • tenderness
  • a feeling of warmth in the calf

DVT can be a life-threatening condition, and you should see a doctor if you develop these symptoms.

Prevention

There are three simple steps you can take to avoid most of the causes of calf pain.

  • Stretch thoroughly before and after all exercise. Making sure that your muscles are ready to work out is very important, and it encourages them to repair themselves and grow stronger.
  • Increase your exercise program gradually. Whether you’re just getting back to exercise, or you are adding to an existing workload, a sudden increase in activity is one of the main causes of muscle injury. Also, make sure to warm up and cool down after each workout. Consider some gentle jogging on the spot, to help encourage blood flow and relax your muscles.
  • Drink more water. Dehydration is one of the major causes of muscle cramps, especially in athletes and people living in warmer areas. Add electrolytes to your water to increase the hydration and reduce the chances of cramping.

The Finish Line

Most of the causes of calf pain are due to exercise and overuse, and they can be treated by a combination of rest, ice, elevation, and anti-inflammatory painkillers. However, some of the causes can be more dangerous, so you shouldn’t take pain in your calf lightly, especially if accompanied by the symptoms mentioned above. If the pain doesn’t go away or it gets worse, have a chat with your doctor.

Black Seed Oil – What Does It Do?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Black seed has been used as a remedy for a huge range of ailments for thousands of years. It’s been said to help with nearly everything at one stage or another, from cancer to hay fever, from malaria to obesity. It was found buried alongside the Ancient Egyptian Pharaoh King Tut, and it is described by Islamic literature as “a cure for every disease, but death.”

With such a long history, and considering its massive list of supposedly beneficial effects, it is worth asking about black seed oil: what does it do? Is it worth adding this ancient panacea to your daily regimen? In this article, we will explore the known uses of black seed, both as an oil and in some of its other forms.

What Is Black Seed Oil?

Black seed oil is made from the seeds of a plant called Nigella sativa, which originated in Asia and has since spread to the Middle East and Eastern Europe. It’s also called black caraway, fennel flower, black coriander, black onion seed, among many other names. It is commonly mistaken for black cumin, which it is sometimes used as a substitute for in cooking. The seeds are, appropriately enough, black, though the oil itself is amber colored.

Probably the most well-known use for black seed in cooking is in naan bread, but it also features in other Indian dishes, especially ones from the Bengal area, as well as in Indian five spice (panch phoron). It’s even sometimes used in Polish food, as well as in Middle Eastern cuisine.

What Are the Benefits?

Most of the early research on the potential beneficial effects of using black seed oil was conducted on animals. Some of these results have been contradicted by later studies. So, it’s worth being cautious if you’re looking to use the oil for one of its many supposed positive effects.

There are a few conditions where clinical trials have been conducted on human subjects, with beneficial results.

Diabetes

Black seed oil has been shown to have a positive effect on cholesterol levels, encouraging the “good” HDL type while reducing amounts of the “bad” LDL cholesterol. It may also help with managing blood sugar, as one study showed that it can reduce insulin resistance. The exact mechanisms of how it does this are still being studied, along with most other possible benefits of the plant.

In the study, the subjects were taking capsules with black seed powder in them, so the effects of the oil may not be the same. The results suggested that a dose of 2 grams per day could help supplement hypoglycemic medications for diabetics.

Asthma

Early research has indicated that the use of black seed oil can help asthma sufferers. According to a 2017 study, asthmatics who took the oil daily over the course of a month found that it helped improve their asthma control and general lung functioning, as well as lessening allergic reactions. The subjects of this study were taking 500mg capsules of black seed oil twice a day, although other studies have been performed using smaller doses of oil, as well as of black seed extract.

Obesity

So far, the effects of using the oil have only been researched in women. A 2015 study showed a link between using black seed oil in combination with a low-calorie diet, and reductions in waist circumference, weight, and triglyceride levels. While how this works requires more study to be understood, subjects that took one gram of black seed oil before every meal over the course of eight weeks showed a significant improvement compared to those who only had a placebo.

Allergies

Studies have shown that using black seed oil can potentially help in treating allergies such as acute rhinitis, also known as hay fever. For example, a 2011 study concluded that use of the oil may have helped to reduce the effects of hay fever, including a runny nose, sneezing, nasal itching, and congestion. The study suggested that it should be considered as a treatment in situations where normal medicines need to be avoided.

Other Possible Benefits

More research is needed across the board to confirm the results and to help to understand how black seeds’ beneficial effects work.

The list of different diseases and conditions that could potentially be treated by black seed oil is pretty extensive, but we’ll summarize some of the more important ones for you here.

  • Eczema – has been shown to help when taken orally, but rubbing on the skin doesn’t seem to help
  • Cancer
    • Shown to influence programmed cell death in brain cancer, breast cancer, and leukemia
    • May help to reduce immune system damage during cancer treatment
    • May reduce chances of leukemia returning after treatment
  • Mental performance – improvements were shown in some measures of memory and attention in boys and men
  • Epilepsy – use of black seed extract, but not oil, has been shown to possibly reduce the instance of seizures in children
  • Hepatitis C – taking the oil by mouth daily for three months reduces viral load and lower limb swelling
  • Opioid withdrawal – taking black seed extract three times a day for 12 days may help reduce withdrawal symptoms
  • Osteoarthritis– using oil on the knee for around a month can help ease the pain
  • Rheumatoid arthritis – studies show that black seed oil can improve pain and stiffness in patients who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and are already taking methotrexate

The Bottom Line

Black seed oil has been used for thousands of years by cultures around the world as a folk remedy for ailments from indigestion to malaria, and modern science is finally catching up. Research has shown that using products made from black seeds may have a range of positive effects.

So, it is definitely worth looking into black seed oil. What does it do? It can reduce your cholesterol, help with allergies, help you lose weight, and it even eases asthma symptoms.

But while it seems like the surface has just been scratched on all that this wonder-plant can do, conclusive results are not yet in, so take any claims about it with a pinch of salt.

 

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23543440

https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/neuropsychiatric-effects-of-nigella-sativa-black-seed–a-review-2327-5162-1000209.php?aid=67144

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3642442/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5633670/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21675032

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.5761

https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2015/FO/C5FO00316D#!divAbstract

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20947211

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0196070910001407?via%3Dihub

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24044882

What Causes Blue Balls?

Written By: Arch
Arch

From the first flickers of chemistry to the post-coital glow, sex can be one of the most enjoyable experiences life has to offer. However, not every sexual encounter ends with an eruption of ecstasy, which can lead to problems beyond mere disappointment.

Most sexually active men will eventually encounter a situation where they get all revved up, but then, for whatever reason, they don’t climax. Instead of a rosy glow, many guys end up with a dull ache in their testicles. This unpleasant sensation goes by the slang name of “blue balls,” and it has a few myths and misconceptions circulating about it. So, what causes blue balls, and is there anything that can be done about them?

Blue Balls 101

The medical term for this pain in the sack is EH or EH for short. It specifically refers to the temporary condition that males can suffer when they become sexually aroused without achieving orgasm.

Although you may have heard protestations to the opposite, EH isn’t dangerous, and experiencing it is no excuse for anyone to start getting pushy. You’re not at risk of anything worse than an aching pain. There might also be a slight bluish coloration to your testicles, which is where the condition gets its somewhat unimaginative name from.

How Do You Develop EH?

When a man gets sexually aroused, the blood vessels leading to the penis and testes expand, while the vessels that transport blood away contract. This causes more blood than usual to accumulate in the genitals, and it contributes to both the penis getting stiffer and the balls growing in size.

Generally, the blood flow returns to normal after orgasm or after a decrease in physical arousal. However, when the encounter ends without release, the blood remains trapped, and this can lead to an ache and a feeling of heaviness. The disruption in blood flow can also potentially lend a blue tint to the testes, due to the excess blood being absorbed into the tissues.

Treating the Issue

It’s worth pointing out that there hasn’t been much research or study into EH, so it’s hard to provide a wide range of suggestions in terms of treatment. One case report published in a pediatric journal referred to a teenage boy who reported pain in his testicles for upwards of an hour and a half following a period of sexual stimulation without release.

The good news is that the quickest and simplest solution seems to be very effective – ejaculation during orgasm. This can be the result of sex with a willing partner, or it can be achieved through masturbation. The long and the short of it is that if you bring yourself to a conclusion, the pain will gradually recede.

The other option is to distract yourself from the arousal. You could try applying yourself to your work, listening to some music, or thinking unsexy thoughts. Alternatively, a cold shower can help take you out of the mood, and it can also reduce the blood flow to your crotch, which can relieve the symptoms. Finally, exercise might also be a good choice, as it encourages normal blood flow and can get things moving properly again.

Other Conditions You Should Know About

If the only time you’ve encountered pain in your testicles is during arousal, the chances are that you’re only suffering from EH. However, if you’re in pain regularly, even when not in the mood, then there are a number of other conditions that you might be suffering from, including:

  • epididymitis
  • inflammation
  • infection
  • mumps
  • orchitis
  • diabetic neuropathy
  • kidney stones
  • testicular cancer
  • testicular torsion

In less drastic news, having a pain in the nethers could also be the result of something simpler: your pants might just be too tight. Try taking off those skinny jeans, and see if that makes a difference.

Will You Need to See a Doctor?

Most of the time, having blue balls doesn’t mean you need medical treatment. Your quickest, cheapest, and easiest option is just to take things into your own hands. But if the pain keeps occurring regularly, or if it is causing you issues with your sexual performance, it might be a good idea to have a chat with your doctor, a urologist, or even with a sexual therapist.

What if the pain occurs outside of your sexual activity? In this case, it’s best to talk to your physician.

They’ll be able to help you work out what the cause is. You should be especially vigilant if you notice a lump or growth in size in either of your balls, a general dull ache in your groin, or if you have lower back pain. These could point to something more serious, and they should all be checked out as soon as possible.

In order to maintain your sexual and general health, you should pay attention to the signals your body is sending. If there’s anything to be worried about, it’s best to catch it early.

Give Yourself a Hand

Let’s look at the takeaway – what causes blue balls? When the owner of a set of male genitalia gets sexually excited, this causes increased blood flow to the penis and testicles, and a decrease of blood flow away from the genitals.

The increase in blood causes the penis and testicles to grow in size, and it is normally released from the genitals following an orgasm. But if the man experiences sexual excitement without getting this kind of release, the blood flow can remain restricted. This will potentially cause pain or a feeling of heaviness.

The simple solution is basically to have an orgasm, and the easiest way to do that is to masturbate. While it can certainly be more fun to involve someone else in the process, your partner is by no means obliged to help you to solve this problem. You’re not in any danger, and the pain will go away one way or another.

Don’t panic, and don’t try making any unfounded demands. Just take a hand in your own fate, and everything should be fine.

 

References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11015532

Health

What Is the Average IQ?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Your IQ score is determined by a standardized test. In other words, a wide range of people take the test, and then scores get calculated based on everyone’s performance. When people take the test subsequently, they are compared to the standard, and this places them in certain percentiles of intelligence.

Research shows that around 68% of people have an average IQ. But what is the average IQ determined by? What does IQ actually mean, and what causes a person to be more or less than the average?

What Is IQ?

IQ is short for Intelligence Quotient. It is used as a measure of a person’s intelligence, and their intellectual potential. Various tests can be used to discover what your IQ is. These tests ask you questions designed to challenge your reasoning and problem-solving skills. Your test results are then compared to the average.

The modern interest in intelligence testing in the US comes from the work of French psychologist Alfred Binet. He developed a test that evaluated basic intellectual functions in schoolchildren, as well as an aid in diagnosing mental health disorders. Then, in 1908, Henry Herbert Goddard translated Binet’s intelligence test into English.

While Goddard originally used the test in his work with intellectually disabled children, he introduced the test into public schools by 1911. By 1914, intelligence testing was used as evidence in court.

Testing, Testing…

The subject of IQ is somewhat controversial, as scientists and psychologists have been trying for many years to determine the influence that genetics, socio-economic status, and location have on IQ scores. The methods of testing also sometimes come under fire.

There are many different tests, with their own approaches and ranges of potential IQs. As each test is different, it’s basically meaningless to just say what your IQ score without mentioning which test you’ve taken.

Some of the better-known IQ tests include:

  • Cattell III B
  • Cattell III A Culture Fair
  • Ravens Advanced Matrices
  • Ravens Standard Matrices
  • Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V)
  • Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Adults (WAIS)
  • Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale
  • Differential Ability Scales (DAS)
  • Peabody Individual Achievement Test

Average Is as Average Does

The average score on an IQ test is, by design, 100, with around 68% of people falling within 15 points either side of that score. After testing a wide range of people, scientists standardize the results so that 100 is the average. However, this doesn’t tell the whole story. The actual average IQ varies from country to country, and different studies have had varying results.

According to a 2010 study, the countries with the highest average IQ are:

  • Hong Kong; Singapore – 108
  • South Korea – 106
  • China; Japan; Taiwan – 105
  • Iceland; Switzerland; Macau – 101
  • UK; Austria; Netherlands; Norway; Luxembourg; Liechtenstein – 100

The USA sits at an average of 98. This puts the US in 24th place out of 108 countries and provinces. Other countries with the same score are Australia, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Latvia, and Spain.

According to the same study, the countries with the lowest average IQ are:

  • Kenya; Namibia; South Africa; Tanzania; Zimbabwe – 72
  • Botswana; Ghana; Zambia – 71
  • Nigeria – 69
  • Swaziland – 68
  • Lesotho – 67
  • Mozambique – 64
  • Malawi – 60

It’s also been shown that having an IQ is by no means a guarantee of success in life, where motivation, attitude, and perseverance can make all the difference. Having a genius level score doesn’t mean you’ll translate that into instant success, just as being below the average is no reason to limit your ambitions or accept being mediocre.

The Flynn Effect

One interesting phenomenon in the field of IQ testing is that scores keep getting higher. This is known as the Flynn effect, named for James Flynn, the scientist who discovered it in the 1980s. He noticed that soldiers taking IQ tests in the 80s scored significantly higher than their counterparts that took the same test in the 1950s. Investigation of this effect showed that people’s scores have been consistently improving by between three and ten points every decade.

Because of the way the tests are standardized, this means that a person who scores 100 on an IQ test today would be considered a genius by the standards of the 1900s. Conversely, someone who got an average score 100 years ago would have an equivalent IQ of 70 these days, which is low enough to be considered intellectually disabled.

The reasons for this increase have not been conclusively determined, but scientists think that it is a result of improvements in nutrition, health care, vaccination, and education. The greatest gains have been seen in abstract thinking and reasoning, while improvements in arithmetic and vocabulary have been much smaller. This points to our changing way of life as a driving cause for the increase in overall intelligence.

Look to Your Family Tree

The influence of genetics is one of the most important, and yet controversial, subjects in the field of intelligence testing. The general scientific consensus is that IQ scores are mostly influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. How exactly these interact, and which has more of an effect, is still much debated.

Interestingly, it seems that in poorer families, environmental factors cause most of the differences in IQ scores, and genetic influence is minimal. The opposite seems to be the case in more affluential families, where genetic differences contribute much more to the varying IQ levels.

“The average IQ in America is – and this can be proven mathematically – average.” – P. J. O’Rourke

What is the average IQ? The answer depends on where you are in the world, and which test you are doing. As far as the tests themselves are concerned, the average is 100, and everyone is compared in relation to that score. A score of 85-115 is generally considered to be within the average, as the majority of people fit within this group. If you’re in the top 2%, you’re a genius, according to the tests.

But what this might mean for you will depend on your choices. As Stephen Hawking put it, “People who boast about their IQ are losers.” If you believe your IQ is above average, you can always get in touch with Mensa and find out what steps you can take next.

 

References
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160289610000450?via%3Dihub
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2009/01/assessment
https://ourworldindata.org/intelligence
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.0956-7976.2003.psci_1475.x
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1745691615577701

Health

What Does It Feel Like to Get High on Mushrooms?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, have a long and venerable history. Anthropologists have theorized that certain cave paintings in Algeria represent a hallucinogenic fungus, and these were created between 7,000 and 9,000 years ago. There are similar 6,000-year-old cave paintings in Spain, and a wealth of evidence to show that the ancestors of the Aztecs used them in religious ceremonies.

These days, magic mushrooms are illegal in many countries worldwide, but they are slowly being legalized as time goes by. Brazil, Jamaica, and Vietnam all openly allow their cultivation and sale, while countries such as Portugal and Italy have decriminalized their use.

With scientists starting to recognize certain health benefits that can come from their use, and the states of Colorado and Oregon legalizing them, they are once again becoming one of the more popular hallucinogens available.

So, what does it feel like to get high on mushrooms? What can you expect from a trip? How can you prepare yourself to make sure you have a good trip, and is there anything you can do to avoid a bad one?

A Potted History

The most well documented historical users of magic mushrooms were the Aztecs, who called them teōnanācatl, which directly translated means ‘divine mushrooms.’ They were also known by names like ‘genius mushrooms’ and ‘wonderous mushrooms.’ They were used in rituals and served up at the coronation of Moctezuma II, the Emperor who was in power when the Spanish first arrived in South America.

The Spanish conquistadors were the first to try and stop people from using them, trying to persuade the locals to rather use their Christian rituals and to abandon the fungus. They believed that the Aztecs used the mushrooms to communicate with devils and demons.

Shrooms were popularized in modern times by, among others, the pioneer of psychedelia Timothy Leary, who traveled to Mexico to try them for himself after reading an article about them in Life magazine. Then, in 1971, the United Nations added them to their list of Schedule I drugs, meaning they have a high likelihood of abuse and no medicinal value – neither of which are necessarily true.

If You’re Happy and You Know It, Take Some Shrooms

The first thing to keep in mind is that a mushroom trip is an intense experience. At its best, a trip can have you in fits of giggles, while also opening you up to a greater world of experience and interconnectivity. At their worst, they can leave you nauseous, overwhelmed, anxious, and potentially afraid.

A number of things can influence how your trip will go. Primarily, the dosage is very important – too little, and you’ll barely feel a thing. Too much, and you will spend hours on a ride that you might not enjoy.  It’s suggested that first-timers try taking around one gram of the mushrooms, and then wait around an hour to see how they feel, before potentially taking some more.

The other main influences are the setting in which you take shrooms and the mental state you are in before the trip.

Basically, it’s not a good idea to take them if you’re in a bad mood, or in an unstable mental state, as they enhance the condition you are currently in. A good mood is much more likely to result in a good trip. It also helps a lot to be in a comfortable place, and it’s even better to be out in nature, as highly structured and artificial environments are more likely to trigger a bad trip.

Pack Your Bags, We’re Going on A Trip

Prior to taking them, there are a few things you can do to prepare for the trip ahead. You will likely keep experiencing the effects for around six to eight hours, so you want to be sure that you’re ready for the long haul.

First of all, taking them on an empty stomach enhances their potency, but also increases the likelihood that you will vomit or experience stomach cramps. While this is up to you, if you are taking them for the first time, you might want to line your stomach with a small meal first. That said, if you’re hoping to get more bang for your buck, consider skipping breakfast.

Next, it’s a good idea to have supplies for the trip. Taking mushrooms can result in a marked loss of appetite, but even so, you probably will find that your stomach is rumbling at some point. Simple foods like salted chips can help. It’s worth noting that sugar can lessen the effects of the trip, although pure dark chocolate is said to enhance them. It’s also wise to have a good supply of water, and if you’re going to be out of the house, bring comfortable clothing and something to sit on.

The final part of the preparation is to try to make sure that you’re with a friend who has taken them before, as they will be able to help guide you through the process and can help you feel comfortable with what’s happening. Tripping around people you don’t know, or around people who aren’t also taking shrooms, can be a jarring experience, and it has the potential to make you feel somewhat paranoid.

I Can See the Matrix

The trip itself will usually kick in between fifteen to thirty minutes after you’ve ingested the mushrooms. You may feel a tingling at the back of your head and taste the mushrooms again at the back of your throat. Colors, sounds, and touch will all be more vivid, and potentially quite different to what you are used to. You will likely lose track of the passage of time, and you will feel a sense of euphoria and wonder at the beauty of the world, especially while in nature.

Depending on the species of mushroom, and the dosage, there is a decent chance that you will experience hallucinations, or ‘visuals.’ These can manifest in all sorts of ways, such as seeing bushes transform into dancing starfish, becoming fascinatedly lost in the patterns on your curtains, or even seeing the world moving around you as if everything is breathing.

They affect each person in a different way, and what you see is likely influenced by both what you expect, and by your subconscious mind’s influence.

There’s Not Mushroom for More

What does it feel like to get high on mushrooms? If you’re in a good mood, and in the right place, it can feel wonderful, euphoric, enlightening, and can show you the interconnectedness of all things. If you’re depressed, stressed, or walking around a city, it can make you feel paranoid, anxious, nauseous, and scared.

But this is just a small intro to taking shrooms. Like any drug, it is wise to thoroughly research it before taking the plunge.

 

References:

https://www.talktofrank.com/drug/magic-mushrooms
https://www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs6/6038/index.htm
http://americanmushrooms.com/psilocybin.htm
https://tripsafe.org/how-to-take-shrooms/
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs12231-011-9152-5

Health

Pregnant – How Should Your Steak Be Cooked?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Pregnancy can be a tough time for moms-to-be. There are many things you have to be careful with now that you’re growing a new human inside you, and what you eat is one of the most important ones. Making sure that your little one has the best possible start in life means that you need to be on the ball when it comes to your own health and lifestyle.

Even though the concept of “eating for two” has been debunked, you still may find yourself craving various unexpected foods. Your body is generally pretty good at telling you what it needs. So if your stomach is calling for steak, who are you to argue?

That being said, it’s natural to worry about diseases that can put your baby at risk. So, if you’re pregnant, how should your steak be cooked to ensure the safety of your unborn child?

Raw and Undercooked Meat Is Dangerous

The better you cook any meal, the more likely it is that any harmful microbes will be killed. Meat from any animal has the potential to harbor dangerous microorganisms hidden away in the flesh. Let’s take a look at the dangers you need to look out for.

Listeria is one of the more serious risks to you and your baby. Although it’s quite rare, you are ten times more likely to contract it when you are pregnant.

This bacterial infection can result in stillbirth, miscarriage, and preterm labor. It isn’t just found in meat like steak or poultry, as it can also potentially breed in eggs and milk. It may appear in any food that has come into contact with human or animal feces.

Toxoplasmosis is another rare but potentially dangerous infection. It is caused by a parasite that is most often found in raw and uncooked meat, unpasteurized goat milk, untreated water, soil, and cat feces.

This is normally a fairly harmless infection that doesn’t tend to harm those with a healthy immune system. However, if it is transferred to your unborn child, it can result in what is called congenital toxoplasmosis. This can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or neurological and neurocognitive deficits in your baby.

How to Cook Your Steak

In terms of eating steak, the first thing you should know is that you need to avoid eating rare cooked steak. All the meat you eat needs to be cooked thoroughly, until steaming hot.

The Center for Disease Control recommends that you the minimum safe temperature to cook your steak to is 145°F, and that you should leave it to rest for another 3 minutes after cooking. This is because the meat holds the heat in for some time after you stop cooking, and this waiting period helps ensure that any harmful microorganisms have been killed.

It’s a good idea to invest in a food thermometer if you don’t already have one, so you can be sure that you’re getting your food hot enough to be safe. You need to make sure to insert it into the thickest part of the steak, and be careful not to touch any bone, gristle, or fat. If you check the temperature a few minutes before you think your steak will be done cooking, you can avoid overcooking it.

Cooking your steak until it’s at least medium is a good idea, although medium-well is an even safer bet. Make absolutely sure that there is no pinkness left in the meat, and that the juices don’t contain any blood. Another way to ensure that there’s nothing harmful lurking in the steak is to freeze the meat for at least 24 hours at below -4°F, as this also kills off parasites and bacteria.

Extra Precautions

Cooking your steak thoroughly isn’t the only thing you need to do to reduce the risks to you and your baby. Cross-contamination is a real danger, so you need to make sure to wash all your utensils and surfaces thoroughly after preparing raw meat, or bacteria and parasites can breed there. You should also wash and dry your hands after handling any raw meat to avoid spreading the microorganisms yourself.

In fact, any undercooked meat can be a danger to you and your little one, so make sure you’re cooking everything thoroughly. Otherwise, you can be at risk of contracting Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, as well as Listeria and Toxoplasmosis as previously mentioned. All of these can put your pregnancy at a serious risk.

There’s also a number of foods you should avoid along with undercooked meat. A number of fish species are high in mercury, which can interfere with the development of your baby’s brain and nervous system. King mackerel, bigeye tuna, swordfish, tilefish, marlin, and shark should all be on the avoid list, along with uncooked shellfish like clams and oysters.

Reheat Precooked Meat

Another thing you should be careful with is precooked meats. Foods such as hot dogs, cold cuts, lunch meat, premade sandwiches, and meat spreads can all contain Listeria. If it’s possible, you should reheat them until they are 165°F or steaming hot. For things like meat spreads, pate, and fruit juice, check the label to ensure that they are pasteurized to reduce the risks of infection.

You should also not eat undercooked or raw sprouts, such as mung beans, alfalfa, radish, or clover, as they can also contain Salmonella and E. coli. Make sure to cook them thoroughly first, and they should be safe.

Better Safe Than Sorry

It’s important to be careful with what you eat when you’re expecting. So let’s go over the main points once again.

If you’re pregnant, how should your steak be cooked? At least medium, though medium-well is safer. You need to be sure there are no traces of pinkness or blood left in the meat. Do all you can to reduce your chances of contracting an infection from harmful bacteria and parasites that can be present in the meat. Be sure to wash everything thoroughly, including your hands, and cook your food to the minimum safe temperature.

References

https://www.foodsafety.gov/risk/pregnant/index.html#_Avoid_Undercooked_Meat
https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/charts/mintemp.html
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/foods-to-avoid-pregnant/

General

Are Coffee Enemas Safe?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Constipation can be a painful and frustrating condition, and everyone experiences it occasionally.

There are many different ways to cleanse your colon and obtain regularity. Using an enema may seem quite safe and not too invasive. However, if it’s done incorrectly or with the incorrect ingredients, the results may be dangerous and even life-threatening.

Many people perform enemas using mineral oil, water and salt mixture, or even soapy water. One of the other suggested ways to cleanse your colon is with a coffee enema.

But are coffee enemas safe? Let’s explore the history behind this method, how it is done, and what the results may be.

What Is a Coffee Enema?

Applying a coffee enema means that a mixture of pure, brewed coffee (not the chicory substitute we may find in the shop) is inserted into the rectum with an enema kit, allowing the caffeine mixture to enter the colon. Coffee enemas have seen wide use as alternative medicines. They are said to assist with the production of bile, a natural fluid produced by our bodies to help with digestion. It has also been associated with the production of glutathione, which detoxes the body.

This procedure originated in Germany in the early 1900s and is still used worldwide. Are coffee enemas safe? There are many benefits recorded relating to coffee enemas but also some possible side effects.

Why Use a Coffee Enema?

A coffee enema, like any other enema, may bring relief during constipation. It assists with regular bowel movements and thereby cleanses the colon. But the coffee provides several benefits in addition to the benefits you get from regular enemas.

These enemas are known to boost your immune system as well as your energy levels, which means that your mood and sleeping pattern will be positively affected. Furthermore, a coffee enema assists with the fight against candida and yeast growth, it removes parasites from the bowels, and it also helps treat cancer and depression.

Possible Safety Concerns

The general consensus is that coffee enemas are quite safe. There is little proof that coffee enemas may be dangerous to your health but even the slightest danger should be considered before making a choice about enema use. Always remember to consult your physician before administering an enema to yourself or to anyone else.

  1. Deaths
    Approximately 3 deaths have been recorded which were linked to coffee enemas, and all of them were attributed to bacterial infections or electrolyte imbalance. The causes of these symptoms may have been coffee enemas but the research was not conclusive.It is uncertain whether the conditions came from the coffee itself, or perhaps the procedure or the tools used to administer the enema.It should be stressed that it is imperative that you use clean, pure ground coffee and no other substitute. The beans should be handled with clean hands and should be ground in a clean grinder. When brewing the coffee, make sure that the machine used is clean and mold-free. This will reduce the risk of bacteria contaminating your coffee mixture and entering your body. Be sure to use boiling water to assist in killing any germs.It is also very important to do coffee enemas in moderation and not on a regular basis. To be safe, once a week should be sufficient. Remember that enemas on a regular basis may cause the bowels to become ‘lazy’, which means your body will start to depend on you using enemas to evacuate blockages.Also, remember to replenish your electrolytes to ensure that they remain balanced since coffee draws minerals from your body and therefore may cause an electrolyte imbalance.
  2. Method
    If you are not sure how to administer an enema, it would be best to discuss this with your General Practitioner. Applying an enema incorrectly may cause a tear in the rectal wall or even in the colon itself.It is best to purchase an enema kit from your local pharmacy, which you can reuse as required. Be sure to sterilize the items before and after each use. You should be very careful when administering an enema since the rectum is extremely sensitive. Before inserting the enema kit, it is best to lay down on a soft surface and relax your body. Always use a lubricant on both your rectum and the tip of the bottle. This will ensure that the tip slips in easily and does not pull the skin of the rectum.
  3. Aftereffects
    Coffee enemas may cause bloating and cramping as well as nausea and vomiting. There is also the danger of rectal burns.
  4. Caffeine Sensitivity
    Even when inserting it in your rectum, caffeine still enters your colon, which means your body still draws nutrients and vitamins from the coffee. If you are sensitive to caffeine, your body may react badly, just as when you drink the beverage. The caffeine remains in the bowels, where it moves through the intestinal wall to the liver through the portal vein. So whether the coffee is taken orally or rectally, it will reach your liver eventually.

So How Do I Do It?

To prepare a coffee enema, add approximately 2 tablespoons of ground coffee to one liter of boiling water. The coffee may be brewed through a machine but you have to make sure that the coffee grounds are completely filtered out of the water. It is very important to let the mixture cool down completely before administering the enema, to avoid burning yourself both internally or externally.

It is best to lie down on a soft surface, bench, or on a bed. When using your bed, be sure to cover your bedding with an extra sheet or towel for protection. You can either lie on your back with your feet right next to your bottom or on your right side with both legs to your chest.

Remain as relaxed as possible. Insert the well-lubricated enema device slowly into your rectum and push as much of the fluid into the colon without forcing it. Hold the mixture for about 15 minutes and release. Ensure that you are near the toilet since your bowels may start evacuating almost immediately.

Conclusion – Are Coffee Enemas Safe?

We found that there is no conclusive proof that coffee enemas are unsafe. It seems that any form of danger that has been found can be attributed to human errors. It is however advised to visit a physician before administering any kind of enema. It is also important to handle the mixture with care to avoid bacteria entering the bowels, and always be sure to administer the enema in a safe manner.

 

References:

https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/ask-the-science-based-pharmacist-what-are-the-benefits-of-coffee-enemas/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/315663.php

Click to access Coffee-Enema-Resource-Guide.pdf


https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3603218/

Health

Lip Service: How Contagious Are Cold Sores

Written By: Arch
Arch

If you often get up close and personal when greeting friends and family, you have probably had your fair share of run-ins with cold sores. This begs the question: How contagious are cold sores? We take a look at what exactly cold sores are, how we get them, how to avoid getting them, and how to treat them if they’ve set up shop.

What Is a Cold Sore?

A cold sore, otherwise known as a fever blister, is a collection of tiny fluid-filled blisters on your face, usually on or around your lips. These painful blisters eventually burst, after which a scab is formed. They tend to heal within two to three weeks. Cold sores are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1) and can be spread through close contact with someone who has the virus. This virus, once in the body, usually remains dormant in the system until it is triggered. The virus may awaken and cause a single infection, or it may reoccur several times during a person’s lifetime.

So how contagious are cold sores? Approximately 80% of the world’s population is infected with the HSV-1 virus, so it is clear that this virus is extremely contagious. Cold sores are contagious even when they are not visible and even more so after the blisters have burst, allowing the virus-infected fluids to escape.

How Can I Get It?

The HSV-1 virus is usually contracted at a very young age, from another person through skin-to-skin contact, kissing, sharing utensils, glasses, or water bottles. Cold sores usually occur after the immune system has been weakened (for instance, after a cold or flu) or during cold or dry weather when the dormant virus is awakened.

There is no cure for this virus, so cold sores may return at any time. A cold sore outbreak may also occur or reoccur due to certain triggers. These triggers may differ from person to person but they generally include stress, fever, prolonged sun exposure, or menstruation.

Symptoms of Cold Sores

When a cold sore takes hold, it starts out with a tingling, itching sensation. Shortly afterward, small blisters appear, which eventually burst and create oozing open sores. The fluids oozing from these sores create a crust after which the sores start to heal again. Sometimes cold sores are associated with fever, headaches, a sore throat, muscle pains, or swollen lymph nodes.

How to Avoid Getting a Cold Sore

Some people get outbreaks of this virus often. In these cases, an antiviral medication prescription should be requested from your physician immediately, to avoid further infection or possible serious complications.

To avoid getting cold sores, or at least reduce the risk of an outbreak, you should:

  1. Avoid kissing people on the lips, especially strangers;
  2. Avoid sharing drinking bottles, straws, and utensils;
  3. Use sunscreen or a special lip balm to guard against the sun’s destructive rays;
  4. Avoid scratching or picking at the scabs, especially since the oozing fluid – which comes right after the scabs have been removed – is highly contagious;
  5. Avoid using the same toothbrush you used when the virus started out. Switch out your toothbrush with a new one during the presence of the cold sore, and get a new one again once the cold sore has completely cleared up.

How to Treat It?

As soon as you feel a cold sore coming on, there is little you will be able to do about it. Although you may need to ride it out until the very end, there may be ways to at least shorten the ride and ease the pain in the process:

  1. Aloe Vera
    Apply aloe vera gel to the infected area to prevent a bacterial infection from growing in the open sores.
  2. Licorice Powder
    Mix with water to form a paste and apply to the infected area before going to bed. Keep the mixture on the sores overnight for better results. Licorice has both anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties.
  3. Lysine
    Use this ointment to help prevent infection and to shorten the duration of its presence.
  4. Lemon Tea or Lemon Lip Balm
    Use lemon tea as a compress a few times per day, or apply lemon lip balm. Remember to never share your lip balm with anyone else to avoid the spread of the virus.
  5. Peppermint Oil
    Mix with water and use as a compress. Peppermint oil is a natural remedy which can help kill the virus cells.

Two Final Words of Caution

Should you find yourself on the bad side of the HSV-1 virus, this is most probably the most important information you need to know.

Once you feel that tingling feeling indicating that a cold sore is on its way, steer clear of sexual activity until the sores have cleared up completely. If you engage in sexual activity, you run the risk of causing genital herpes (HSV-2). This happens when the HSV-1 virus comes into contact with the genital area. This is extremely dangerous since there is no cure for genital herpes, it is highly contagious, and the sores are extremely painful.

Furthermore, never kiss a baby when you have cold sores. The baby may contract neonatal herpes. This is extremely dangerous because an infant’s immune system is not as strong as an adult’s, and contracting neonatal herpes may be fatal to the baby. Neonatal herpes is treatable if it is caught and treated early and the virus has not spread to the organs yet. However, once it reaches the organs, there is a 33% chance that the baby may die.

It is clear that cold sores are extremely contagious and you need to be responsible in handling your own illness to ensure that you do not endanger others.

In Conclusion

How contagious are cold sores? After taking a look at how many people around the word carry this virus, it’s clear that cold sores are extremely contagious and they may actually be living in every one of us at this very moment waiting to be triggered. It is imperative that we act responsibly to avoid complications.

 

References:

https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/topics/live-well/2016/01/is-it-a-cold-sore-or-a-fever-blister/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cold-sore/symptoms-causes/syc-20371017
https://www.zovirax.co.uk/about-cold-sores.html
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cold-sores/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/neonatal-herpes/
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/cold-sores

Health

Once Bitten, Twice Shy: How to Stop Mosquito Bites from Itching

Written By: Arch
Arch

There are few things as irritating as trying to sleep with that constant buzzing hovering around your ears. We sometimes spend hours and hours trying to squash mosquitoes, to no avail.

Eventually, we fall asleep and wake up to red bumps all across our bodies, torturing us with a never-ending itch we have no choice but to scratch. It’s important to figure out how to stop mosquito bites from itching and spare yourself the irritation.

Here is all you need to know about mosquitoes, why they enjoy sucking our blood, and why their bite itches so. With this knowledge, you’ll be better prepared to fight this menace.

What Are Mosquitoes?

Considered to be a type of fly, mosquitoes are known for their irritating buzzing and itchy bites. Contrary to popular belief, the mosquito does not actually feed on blood. Both males and females feed on nectar from fruits. However, the females require blood in order for their bodies to produce viable eggs. The blood they drink ensures that they have sufficient protein and iron levels for the production of those eggs.

Mosquitoes are drawn to our body heat, scent, or even the carbon dioxide we exhale. All this helps them to find their prey. When a blood-sucking mosquito lands, she jabs two tubes into your skin. One tube is used to suck the blood, while the second tube is used to inject enzymes into your body to avoid blood clots.

We all know the fact that mosquitoes carry various deadly illnesses and pass them on from one person to another. They have been known to assist in the spread of malaria, the West Nile virus, yellow fever, encephalitis, dengue, and filariasis.

What Causes a Mosquito to Bite You?

Studies have found that some people get bitten much more often than others, and certain people are passed over by mosquitoes completely. These studies found that the reason for this has a lot to do with the odors your body emits. Some people give off a smell that naturally repels mosquitoes or masks the odors they are usually drawn to.

What Makes a Mosquito Bite Itch

The enzymes and saliva injected into your skin while the mosquito is drawing blood trigger a reaction by your immune system. Your body starts producing antibodies to fight this invasion, which causes your cells to release histamines. This causes the blood vessels to swell and a red itchy bump to form, which irritates the nerves.

As soon as you start scratching, however, even more histamines are released. This causes the area to itch even more. But don’t worry – there are a few ways you can find relief.

How to Stop Mosquito Bites from Itching:

As they say, prevention is the best cure. Always try to keep yourself from getting mosquito bites if at all possible. But if they have already taken a bite, try these ways to stop the itch:

  • Calamine Lotion

Try putting calamine lotion on the bumps to help relieve itching.

  • Hydrocortisone

This will also help to lessen itching and it assists in the healing process. Apply at least twice a day.

  • Ice

Apply a block of ice to the itchy bump. This should kill the itch right away.

  • Rubbing Alcohol

Alcohol clears up the proteins from the mosquito’s saliva, which in effect is the reason why you experience itching. But alcohol may dry out your skin, so be sure to apply a bit of lotion after you try this treatment. Perhaps one can choose a lotion that is infused with aloe vera.

  • Antihistamine

An oral antihistamine will basically switch off the histamine response our bodies go for when we get bitten. This will reduce itching.

  • Baking Soda

Known to be quite an effective sunburn cure, baking soda in a bath or even in a little paste will assist with itch relief. Remember that, like alcohol, it may make your skin a bit dry, so be sure to apply lotion as well.

How to Avoid Getting Bitten by a Mosquito

No treatment can defeat the itching entirely, so you should do all you can to avoid getting bitten, or rather stabbed, by mosquitoes. Try to rid your home of them as much as possible. If that is not possible, you can try various ways to at least repel them to keep them at bay. The following methods may help:

  • Eliminate Standing Water

Try to eliminate standing water sources in and around your home. Mosquitoes use water to breed, so limit these breeding pools in order to reduce the number of mosquitoes around the home. Ensure that your drains are unclogged and there are no open pots or bottles that can collect water where they may be able to breed.

  • Window Screen

Install mesh screens over your windows and make sure your existing screens are tear-free.

  • Mosquito Nets

If you have many mosquitoes in your home, install a mosquito net over your bed to ensure they do not enter your sleeping space.

  • Use a Repellent

There are several types of repellents available on the market, such as burning coils, Citronella oils or candles, spray-on repellents, or mosquito repellent sticks.

  • Permethrin

This is also a type of repellent which you can apply to your clothing instead of your skin.

  • Protective Gear

Try to cover your body up as much as the weather permits it, with long sleeves and trousers and even a beanie or balaclava to protect your face.

Protect Yourself

Remember that mosquitoes can do more than leave a harmless, though irritating, red mark.

Mosquitoes are known to spread disease. We can try to limit their presence as much as humanly possible but chances are they will pull a sneak attack on us.

So it’s clear we need to protect ourselves against the diseases that are spread by mosquitoes. Taking an antihistamine will help your body fight the symptoms of a mosquito bite. If you’re planning to go into territories where certain diseases spread by mosquitoes are common, be sure to receive the necessary vaccinations from your local clinic or physician.

 

 

References:

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/invertebrates/group/mosquitoes/
https://www.loc.gov/rr/scitech/mysteries/mosquitoes.html
https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2017/06/23/dont-scratch-that-mosquito-bite/

Health

Why Do We Sneeze?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Sneezing is impossible to avoid. Chances are you have sneezed sometime in the past week or two.

Sometimes we find ourselves feeling a sneeze coming on at the most inconvenient time. For example, you may need to sneeze in a quiet exam room, in the middle of a speech, or right after you took a big bite of your food. It’s coming and you know for a fact there is no way you can stop it. An embarrassing moment indeed, but remember that you are not alone. It is a completely natural thing and there are so many reasons for it.

Why do we sneeze? Let’s take a deep look into what the causes are and how to try to prevent or limit the spread of germs via sneezing. We also take a gander at how fast those sneezes travel and what is traveling along with it!

What’s in a Sneeze?

Exactly why do we sneeze? To figure out the answer, it is important to first know what a sneeze actually is.

Medically known as a sternutation, a sneeze is a sudden involuntary forceful expulsion of air from the body through your nose and/or mouth. A sneeze is triggered when the respiratory epithelium (which lines the nose) is disturbed or irritated, which in turn stimulates the endings of the fifth cranial nerve. This sends a message to your brain, triggering an extremely well-coordinated set of events over several parts of the body working together in perfect unison. Your chest, stomach and throat muscles, together with your diaphragm, vocal cords and even eyelids, work together to create the perfect sneeze.

The usual function of the sneeze is to expel any foreign and unwanted particles from your nasal cavity. Your body expels foreign objects for a very good reason. It is no wonder that a sneeze will carry with it different germs, bacteria, mucus, and various other particles. Studies have shown that a normal sneeze will expel approximately 40,000 different particles from your body.

What Can Cause a Sneeze?

There are several things that may trigger the sneeze reflex. The most common are the following:

  • Allergies

Especially during the changing of the seasons, allergies tend to flare up. There is usually more pollen in the air at these times, which triggers sneezing as the pollen enters the nasal cavity. Furthermore, due to the allergies, blockages of the naval cavity occur, and these may also cause sneezing.

  • Sinusitis / Chronic Sinusitis:

Sinusitis occurs when the cavities which surround the nasal passages become swollen and inflamed. In chronic sinusitis, this inflammation may endure for approximately 12 weeks and it is a product of blocked sinuses. This condition may also trigger several sneezes in a row.

  • Colds & Flu

Once again, blocked sinuses and nasal cavities result in a whole lot of sneezing.

  • Looking at the Sun or Bright Light

This does not happen to everyone, only approximately 1 in 4 people. But if you have found yourself sneezing when you look at a bright light or at the sun, it means you are a photic sneezer. This is a harmless genetic condition, which means you inherited photic sneezing from one or both of your parents.

  • Pepper

Accidentally spilled some pepper or opened the pot too quickly? If you breathed in pepper through your nose, there is an extremely good chance your body is going to want to expel that immediately.

  • Smoke or Dust

Dust particles, as well as smoke, may irritate your nostrils and trigger a sneeze.

How Fast Does a Sneeze Travel?

Ever noticed how some people just let loose when they sneeze, causing everyone around them to duck away?

It has been found that a sneeze can travel up to 200 feet at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. Each sneeze contains thousands of germs and bacteria. As mentioned above, the body expels 40,000 particles with every sneeze.

It’s no wonder that people try so hard to get out of the way of the germ-infested storm. But what can we do to avoid the spread of these germs when sneezing?

Let’s Prevent the Spread

When we sneeze out all these germs, it doesn’t take too long for some of them to grab hold of the next person in line for a cold or the flu. It is therefore imperative that we take care of ourselves – both when we sneeze and when we get sneezed upon.

  1. Be sure to always carry a handkerchief or tissue with you to catch that sneeze before you can spread germs.
  2. Make sure that you throw away used tissues or sterilize your handkerchief often to avoid recontamination.
  3. Carry a hand sanitizer with you at all times and use it often. When you sneeze, you inevitably get some germs on your hands as you handle your tissue. Be sure to kill these microorganisms before they jump ship. It is also helpful to have the sanitizer around in case you get sneezed on.
  4. If you find a sneeze coming on with no tissue in sight, tuck your mouth and nose deep in the crevice of the inside of your arm, and catch it in there. It may seem a bit gross, but it is still much better than having mucus fly around freely not knowing where it might land.
  5. Limit the number of times you kiss others, especially during the winter season. We all have a certain number of germs setting up shop in our mouths, and if you kiss someone who just had a nice sneeze, those germs are right out there waiting to travel back with you.

Conclusion

When trying to figure out how we can prevent the spread of germs while sneezing, it is important to know what a sneeze is and to ask the important question: “Why do we sneeze?”

The rapid expulsion of air and foreign objects from our nose and mouth serves a major function in our health. It is how we quickly get rid of harmful elements, and it also clears the nasal passages. So don’t try to stop sneezes – just make sure to cover your mouth with a tissue every time.

 

References:

https://universityhealthnews.com/daily/eyes-ears-nose-throat/how-far-does-a-sneeze-travel

 

When Is the Best Time to Take an Early Pregnancy Test?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Whichever outcome you’re hoping for, waiting to find out whether you are pregnant can be nerve-racking. While some mothers say that they ‘just knew’ that they have conceived, that’s not the case for the vast majority of women.

The first recorded version of a pregnancy test was used by the Ancient Egyptians, all the way back in 1350 BC. Women who thought they were pregnant would urinate on wheat and barley seeds, and if the seeds grew, it meant that the woman was pregnant – wheat growing meant a boy, while barley indicated a girl. Modern science has even shown that this was a surprisingly effective method, with the urine of a pregnant woman encouraging seed growth in 70% of cases.

These days, most tests promise a 99% accuracy rate, and they take just minutes to return a result. But the earlier you are in your pregnancy, the less accurate the results become. So, when is the best time to take an early pregnancy test? Should you wait until a missed period, or can you find out sooner?

How Pregnancy Tests Work

Every pregnancy test available uses the same method – they detect the presence of the growth hormone called hCG (human chorionic gonadotrophin). This hormone is almost always only produced by the body after the fertilized egg has finished implanting in the wall of the uterus. So even if you have actually conceived, taking the test too early will show a negative result.

The majority of tests on the market come in the form of one or two sticks in a box. You simply pee on the stick, and it will show you the result a few minutes later. The box will tell you what to look out for, so make sure you take a look at the instructions to be sure that you’re doing it right.

You don’t need to do the test first thing in the morning, but it is a good idea to avoid drinking a lot of water or other liquids right before taking it. What you drink can dilute your urine and cause a false negative.

When Is the Right Time to Take the Test?

The most reliably accurate time for you to take a pregnancy test is around the first day of a missed period. At this point, your hCG levels should be at a high enough level to be reliably tested. If you’re not sure exactly when your period is due, you should wait at least 21 days after you had unprotected sex to take the test.

Of course, you can always do it sooner. However, if you try it too early, you’re likelier to receive a false negative, because the egg hasn’t had a chance to implant and so the hCG hormone isn’t being produced yet. The earliest that the egg can implant is six days after ovulation, and the latest is generally 12 days after.

In 85% of pregnancies, implantation occurs between the eighth and tenth day after ovulation. While it can technically occur before, this only happens 0.5% of the time. Plus, it still takes time after the fertilized egg has implanted for hCG levels to rise high enough to provide a reliably positive result on most pregnancy tests. That said, some of the most sensitive tests may be able to detect a pregnancy on the eighth day after ovulation, so it can depend on the product that you are using.

How Sure Can You Be?

If the test says that you are pregnant, it is almost definitely correct. Negative results are less reliable though, as there are a number of reasons that a false negative can occur. Either way, the best thing for you to do is to take a second test a few days later to confirm the result. If you’re still waiting on your period but both tests are negative, it’s a good idea to discuss it with your doctor.

While false positives are rare, they can be caused by a so-called chemical pregnancy. A large number of early pregnancies are miscarried before you even miss your period, and this can result in you getting a positive in your first test, and a negative on the second. It’s not actually a false positive, as you technically were pregnant, but it can result in disappointment for those doing early tests.

There are a few other reasons for false positives. If you’re perimenopausal, you may have elevated levels of hCG in your system when you’re not actually pregnant. Women undergoing fertility treatments that involve hCG can also receive false positives if they take a pregnancy test within 10 days of their last treatment. Finally, shortly before ovulation, your pituitary gland may release hCG, which also has a small chance of giving a false positive.

Make Sure You Get the Most Accurate Results

Even though you’re excited or nervous, and you want to know as soon as possible what’s going on, you should be cautious. Testing too early will mean that your hCG levels won’t have risen high enough to show up on all but the most sensitive of pregnancy tests. If you are determined to find out at the earliest possible time, make sure that the test you are using is the most sensitive one you can find.

As previously mentioned, it’s also a good idea to not drink too much water right before you take the test, as this will dilute your pee and potentially cause a false negative result. You should also make sure to test your urine straight away. If you leave it too long before testing it, it can again cause a negative result.

The best way to ensure an accurate result is to wait until at least 12 days after you’ve ovulated, or wait for the first day of your missed period. Even then, you should repeat the test just to be sure. But if you really must know now, the most sensitive test might pick it up on the eighth day after ovulation.

Good Luck!

So, when’s the best time to take an early pregnancy test? Around twelve days after you’ve ovulated, or slightly earlier if you have bought a very sensitive test.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that you should try to balance your expectations against the likelihood of an accurate result. If you don’t mind splashing a bit of extra cash to try and find out as soon as possible, then buy the most sensitive kit you can get your hands on, and try it out. Just remember that you could be setting yourself up for an unnecessary disappointment, and waiting a few more days can greatly help to improve the accuracy of the test.

 

References:

https://history.nih.gov/exhibits/thinblueline/timeline.html

https://www.degruyter.com/view/j/cclm.2011.49.issue-8/cclm.2011.211/cclm.2011.211.xml

Click to access k123567.pdf

https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199906103402304

 

 

 

 

Health

How Often Can You Take Benadryl?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Most people welcome the first signs of summer, but for some, they are the harbinger of a terrible seasonal affliction: hay fever. Luckily, there are many anti-allergy medicines on the market, and Benadryl is one of the best-known examples.

How often can you take Benadryl and when is the right time to take it? This article discusses the safe way to use this popular over-the-counter antihistamine. We also cover the potential side effects and a few other useful facts.

What Is Benadryl?

Benadryl is a brand name for a sedating antihistamine medicine that contains the drug diphenhydramine. It is used to treat allergic symptoms, like hay fever, as well as for relief from the effects of insect bites and stings. Thanks to its sedative properties, it is also sometimes used to treat insomnia.

Benadryl comes in a variety of forms. You can buy it as swallowable or chewable tablets, as capsules, and as a stick, liquid, cream, gel, or spray. It is also available mixed with other drugs as part of Benadryl’s decongestant medicine.

When Should You Use Benadryl?

Benadryl is used to treat a number of symptoms and conditions depending on which product you are using, including:

  • hay fever symptoms such as:
    • Itchy, watery eyes
    • Itching of the nose or throat
    • Sneezing
    • Runny nose
  • cough and cold symptoms such as a runny nose or sneezing
  • insect stings and bites
  • hives
  • eczema

When Should You Not Use Benadryl?

You should be sure to talk to your doctor if any of the following conditions apply to you:

  • you’ve previously had an allergic reaction to diphenhydramine or any other medicines
  • you have lung problems, such as asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
  • you suffer from an illness that creates lots of phlegm
  • you have kidney problems
  • you have liver problems
  • you suffer from a stomach ulcer, a blockage in your stomach or intestines
  • you have trouble urinating
  • you suffer from primary angle closure glaucoma
  • epilepsy or any other health condition that can cause seizures
  • you are intolerant to sugars such as lactose or sorbitol
  • you are pregnant or breastfeeding

How Often Can You Take Benadryl?

BENADRYL Allergy Ultratab Tablets/ Allergy Dye-Free Liqui-Gels/ Allergy Plus Congestion

Age 12+

Take 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours

Ages 6-12

Take 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours

Children’s Chewables

Age 12+

2 to 4 chewable tablets (25 mg to 50 mg) every 4 to 6 hours.

Ages 6-11

1 to 2 chewable tablets (12.5 mg to 25 mg) every 4 to 6 hours.

Children’s Allergy Liquid/ Children’s Dye-Free Allergy Liquid

Ages 6-11

Take 1 to 2 teaspoons (tsp) every 4 to 6 hours.

Children’s Allergy Plus Congestion

Ages 6-11

Take 1 tsp every 4 to 6 hours.

Original Strength Itch Stopping Cream/ Extra Strength Itch Stopping Cream/ Extra Strength Spray/ Extra Strength Itch Relief Stick/ Itch Stopping Gel Extra Strength/ Children’s Itch Cooling Gel

Ages 2+

Apply to affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily or as directed by a doctor.

How to Use Benadryl

Benadryl can be taken with or without food, though you should swallow the tablets and capsules with water. Don’t chew them unless they are the chewable tablets. You shouldn’t drink alcohol while taking Benadryl, as it increases the sedative effects.

The liquid comes with a specially designed dosing cup that you should use to measure your doses. Don’t use a normal kitchen spoon, as you won’t get the correct dosage.

When using the cream or gel, apply it a small amount to the affected area of your skin and gently rub it in. It shouldn’t be used to treat large areas of skin, and make sure to wash your hands after applying it (unless you’re using it on your hands of course). Try not to get any in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

These side effects happing in more than 1% of cases where people take Benadryl:

  • dry mouth
  • dizziness or unsteadiness
  • difficulty concentrating
  • drowsiness

If you are especially bothered by any of these side effects, or they don’t go away, you should tell your doctor.

Less Common Side Effects

  • headache
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • loss of appetite
  • nervousness
  • constipation
  • increased chest congestion
  • muscle weakness
  • excitement (especially in children)

Serious Side Effects

You should tell your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • numbness or pins and needles
  • increased awareness of your heartbeat
  • irregular heartbeat
  • feeling very restless or confused
  • having a seizure

What If I Miss A Dose?

If you forget to take your dose, you should take it the next time you are suffering from the same symptoms, as long as enough time has passed since the last dose. You shouldn’t ever take two doses at the same time, so don’t double up to try and make up for a missed dose.

What If I Take Too Much Benadryl?

Overdosing on Benadryl can be dangerous. You should not take it at the same time as any other products containing diphenhydramine, so don’t use the cream if you’ve already had a tablet, for example.

If you have any of the following symptoms, you may have taken too much:

  • feeling very sleepy
  • feeling very sick
  • blurred eyesight
  • very fast heartbeat

You should also be aware that a serious overdose can lead to you losing consciousness and needing emergency treatment at a hospital, so take the medicine carefully, and consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

Easy Sneezy

Benadryl is a popular over-the-counter medicine used to treat allergies, skin conditions, and even sometimes insomnia, thanks to its sedative qualities. It comes in a wide range of forms. The tablets and capsules can generally be taken every four to six hours, while the creams, gels, spray, and stick should be used no more than 3 or 4 times a day. Remember to avoid using two different Benadryl products at the same time, as this could lead to an overdose of the active ingredient.

 

References

https://www.benadryl.com/benadryl-dosing-guide
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/diphenhydramine/
https://www.medicinenet.com/diphenhydramine/article.htm
https://www.drugbank.ca/drugs/DB01075
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682539.html

How Many Running Steps Are in a Mile?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Chances are that you’re not getting enough exercise. At least, that’s according to a report released by the CDC in 2018. On average, only about 23% of us are actually getting the recommended amount of exercise we need to be doing each week.

The good news is that recent studies have shown that even just a small increase in the amount you exercise each day will have immediate health benefits. The latest figures suggest that it’s enough to take around 10,000 steps at a moderate pace to meet the guidelines.

Though this is just a rough suggestion, it can be a helpful target to aim towards if you’re trying to take a few inches off your waist. If you know how many running steps are in a mile, you can work out how much more exercise you need to be getting enough. Plus, it can save you from buying a fancy pedometer.

Run, Forrest, Run!

Why is exercise so important, anyway? In recent years, scientific evidence has been mounting that regular physical exercise is directly linked with a wide range of health benefits. Also, not exercising enough greatly increases your risks of what researchers call ‘all-cause mortality’. Put plainly, if you don’t get enough exercise, it’s likely to shorten your lifespan.

There are clear links between spending lots of time sitting, and an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and other conditions.

But here’s a piece of good news that’s come from all this new science: by doing just a little more exercise every day, you can positively influence your health. So, if you move about more, and sit around less, you’re already doing wonders for your chances of living a longer life.

I Would Walk 500 Miles

The CDC’s report suggests that the minimum number of steps you should take in a day is around 10,000. Of course, this is just a guideline, and what is best for you will depend on your weight, height, age, and personal fitness levels.

So, if you’re looking to add to your daily exercise, the more steps you do, the more benefits you’ll gain. And what better way to increase your daily number of steps than running? You get more done for the time you spend, and in our busy modern world, that’s always a plus.

Interestingly, the faster you run, the fewer steps you actually take. It’s not necessarily vital to stick to an exact number of steps, but it can be a useful guide to help you to reach your fitness goals. Plus, as mentioned, different body types and sizes work at different paces, with height being one of the main variables. Also, if you’ve got a body type outside of the ‘normal’ range, you’ll find the numbers will change somewhat as well.

With all that out of the way, here is the data you’ve been looking for: how many running steps are in a mile. For those of you that want to calculate things for yourself, the equation used to find the numbers is as follows: Steps per mile = 1,084 + ((143.6 x pace) – (13.5 x height)).

running steps table

You Wanna Live Forever?

Just like eating right, if you’re going to start a new exercise regimen, the most important thing is to do something that you can keep up for the long term. With so many clear benefits to increasing the amount of movement you do per day, it’s definitely worth dusting off the sneakers.

‘Moderate-to-vigorous’ activity, as the CDC puts it, is the most beneficial sort of exercise to the average person. Moderate would be walking at a pace of around 100 steps a minute, while vigorous would be running at the paces mentioned in the table.

In case you’re not convinced, here are a few more of the positive effects that stepping up your step count can provide:

  • For young people, it can improve cardiovascular and bone health, as well as help with cognition and reduce the risk and effects of depression.
  • For adults, it can reduce the chances of contracting eight different forms of cancer. It also reduces the likelihood of suffering from high blood pressure, strokes, heart disease, and depression, and it lessens the risk of contracting type 2 diabetes.
  • For older people, it can help decrease the dangers of falling down, making it both less likely and less damaging when it does happen.
  • For pregnant women, it can reduce the chances of post-partum depression.
  • For everyone, it can help you reach and maintain a healthy body weight. Additionally, it improves bone health and general physical functioning.
  • It can help reduce anxiety and blood pressure for all groups, as well as help you to get a better night’s sleep.
  • It can improve cognition for sufferers of ADHD, MS, Parkinson’s, and dementia (including Alzheimer’s).

There’s a Difference Between Knowing the Path and Walking the Path

Now that you know how many running steps are in a mile, you’ve got another weapon in your arsenal against age, disease, and depression. The most important things to take away, though, are that any increase in your exercise regimen is better than none, and that sitting around all day will make you die sooner. Not only does running improve your health and lifespan, but it can also have a significant positive effect on your mood, as well as on your performance at work and in your personal life. So, break out the pedometer, slap on some sweatbands, and get yourself going today.

 

References

https://www.yamaxx.com/digi/m-magazine/ACSM_Health&FitnessJournal.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3197470/

Click to access nhsr112.pdf


https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/1108396

Health Benefits of Sweating

Written By: Arch
Arch

We, humans, are the only animal on the planet that uses sweating as our primary method of cooling. Only mammals have sweat glands, but other mammals primarily use panting to cool down. There might well be a link between our ability to perspire and our position as the dominant species.

For thousands of years, we’ve been intentionally making ourselves sweat. From the Romans oiling themselves up and wrestling in the sun to the Finnish saunas dating back to the 12th century, we’ve long taken advantage of the positive effects that sweating can bring.

If we’ve been doing it for that long, there’s probably going to be a good reason. So, what are the health benefits of sweating?

Regulates Body Temperature

The primary benefit of sweating is its main function: to help keep your body at the right temperature. This is absolutely vital to your survival. The human body is quite sensitive to extremes of temperature, and our normal body temperature only has a range of less than 2°F (from 97.7 to 99.5 °F).

First and foremost, then, sweating helps to stop you from overheating, using evaporation to transfer heat from your skin to the air around you. It’s less effective when the environment is humid, though a fan can help the water to evaporate off and thus cool you more efficiently.

Removes Heavy Metals from the Body

Thanks to our deleterious modern way of life, the atmosphere and both our food and water supplies are increasingly full of damaging heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. Luckily for us, sweating is one of the main methods the body uses to purge these elements from your system.

It’s pretty effective too. One study showed that patients with toxic levels of mercury in their body had returned to safe levels again after some time spent sweating. Another study showed that sweating is a more effective method for detoxing heavy metals than urination. That makes it especially beneficial for those of us living in an urban environment, where pollution is at its worst.

Helps the Body Remove Other Harmful Chemicals

In a similar fashion to heavy metals, sweating also helps remove other harmful chemicals from your body. For example, BPA, a toxic chemical found in some plastics (such as cheap water bottles), is more effectively purged via sweat than any other method.

Other chemicals like PCBs (a cancer-causing chemical found in older electronic equipment), and PBDEs (a common flame retardant that has been shown to reduce fertility) can only be excreted by sweating. So, don’t give the IT guy a hard time if he’s got a bit of a sheen on – it’s probably extending his lifespan.

Natural Antibiotic

Sweat has quite recently been proven to contain antimicrobial proteins such as dermcidin, which attack harmful bacteria on the skin’s surface. It’s been shown to reduce the chances of getting the flu by a third, and it helps to fight off illnesses like E. coli and HIV. Sweating also reduces the likelihood of infection when you have a cut or graze, and helps keep you healthy.

Exercise and using a sauna, which are two of the main ways for making yourself sweat, also have benefits of their own. They increase your overall health, improve your immune system, and help your body fight off disease and infection.

Reduces the Risk of Kidney Stones

Your body has a finite supply of water, so the more you sweat, the more you need to drink. This is actually good for you, as your kidneys rely on a steady flow of water through them in order to flush out waste products. If your kidneys aren’t getting regular flushing, you’re much more likely to contract kidney stones due to the buildup of sodium and calcium.

This is especially important for people whose lifestyle means that they can’t go to the toilet whenever they want, as well as those who have a diet high in fats and salt, as they are at more of a risk from this agonizing affliction.

Improves Skin Health

Regular sweating helps improve the speed at which new cells are created in your skin, improving its appearance. It also helps your skin to flush out dirt, reducing the likelihood of breaking out in zits. This, combined with the fact that it can encourage the growth of helpful skin bacteria, and that it kills harmful bacteria, means that getting a good sweat on can leave you looking fresh-faced and healthy.

Just don’t forget to shower after you’ve been sweating for a while, and to wash your face occasionally. Otherwise, the dirt will stick around, and your pores will clog up despite your best efforts.

As an extra bonus, perspiration also preserves the skin’s acid mantle, which is another method your body uses to prevent infections by bacteria and other pathogens.

Speeds Recovery

Sweating has been shown to increase the production of Human Growth Hormone, which is instrumental in the repair of damage done to your body, as well as muscle growth. It also encourages blood flow to the skeletal muscles, which reduces the recovery time after illness and injury.

Boosts Sexual Drive and Attraction

There are two types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine. The vast majority of them are eccrine glands, while apocrine glands are found in the armpits and crotch. Sweat from apocrine glands contains pheromones, and a study has shown that men who have been sweating are more attractive to women, as long as they don’t let the sweat linger. The composition of apocrine sweat includes bacteria that can cause body odor if they’re left to multiply.

Do Sweat It!

Despite there being a wide range of antiperspirant products on the market, sweating is actually very good for your body, as long as you maintain your hygiene. Perspiration keeps you cool, keeps you looking young, and keeps you healthy in a number of different ways. Now that you know some of the health benefits of sweating, maybe it’s time to check out the local sauna or to pull on your old running shoes.

 

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507838/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26903134
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3312275/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28373979
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/isrn/2013/483832/
https://phys.org/news/2013-02-scientists-unveil-secrets-important-natural.html#jCp
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3987372/

Health

What Is an Esthetician (And Why You May Need One)

Written By: Arch
Arch

Being the largest and fastest growing organ in your body, our skin deserves to be treated like royalty. We can have cosmetologists to assist with makeup, manicures, and pedicures. Dermatologists assist with serious skin problems and diseases, as well as the actual treatment and rejuvenation of our skin.

Esthetics is the practice of the beautification of the skin by applying techniques to the epidermal layer of the body. It is practiced by estheticians.

Let’s explore what this means for our health and wellbeing. Exactly what is an esthetician?

What Is an Esthetician?

An esthetician is a trained skin care professional who specializes in a field called Esthetics. They perform facial, body, and skin treatments designed to improve and maintain the appearance and health of your skin, as well as battle the elements and environmental hazards effect on your skin.

However, the services performed by these professionals are not limited to only skin treatments and facials but also include skin analysis, as the early detection of possible skin problems or diseases. Estheticians may not be medically trained professionals – and they cannot diagnose or treat medical conditions of the skin – but they provide an important service to the public and they save many lives through early detection of skin cancer.

It is important to differentiate between estheticians, dermatologists, and cosmetologists. Although they may seem quite similar, there is a difference.

Dermatology is a medical profession which specializes in skin problems and diseases. It is practiced by a medically trained professional. Cosmetology essentially means beauty treatments, like facials, manicures, pedicures, and makeup artistry. While an esthetician may provide certain cosmetology services among other services, they specialize in a much more important task – to take care of the health of the skin.

Esthetician Services

Estheticians use an array of different techniques to clean and rejuvenate the skin. This may be done through aromatherapy, exfoliations, or massages. These procedures assist in maintaining the health and appearance of skin and they assist in the battle against aging, spots, and an uneven skin tone. Many of the treatments performed by estheticians are aimed at fighting eczema, acne, rosacea, and dry skin.

They also do temporary hair removal, full body scrubs, exfoliation, massaging, aromatherapy, and mud baths.

Although estheticians do not diagnose or treat skin diseases or medical conditions, one of their most important and valuable services is doing skin analysis in order to identify possible skin problems and health concerns. This acts as a pre-emptive strike against the late discovery of these diseases. If a problem is found, the esthetician will refer their client to a dermatologist or general practitioner.

Other than the above, the following are also services performed by Estheticians:

  1. Skin Condition Treatments (non-medical)
  2. Recommendation of Treatments
  3. Custom Skin Care Routines Tailored for a Specific Client
  4. Chemical Peels
  5. Laser Skin Rejuvenation
  6. Microdermabrasion
  7. Skin Mapping
  8. Laser Resurfacing
  9. Pore Cleansing
  10. Moisturizing Treatments
  11. Acne Treatments
  12. Scalp Massage and Treatments
  13. Light Therapy
  14. Facial Extraction (E.g. Blackheads)
  15. Makeup and Lash Extensions

What an Esthetician Is Not

Esthetics is not a medical practice, and an esthetician is not a doctor, nurse, or a medical professional of any kind. So they cannot diagnose any skin conditions or diseases, they may only refer a client to a medical professional.

Furthermore, estheticians may provide relief and assistance in providing their services after or in conjunction with medical treatments. But their services should never be used instead of medical treatments.

How to Become an Esthetician

To become an esthetician, you need to complete a formal education at an appropriate and registered training institution. In conjunction with this education, on-job-training has to be completed, as well as a written and practical examination. In the United States, an esthetician has to be duly registered and licensed to practice Esthetics. Each state has its own requirements in this regard.

Benefits of Esthetical Services

The services performed by estheticians hold enormous benefits for your body, skin, and general health, including the following:

1. Early Detection

The most important benefit of estheticians’ services is the possible early detection of skin problems. Estheticians are well trained in identifying possible skin problems and diseases, which enables them to refer a client to a medical professional. Early detection of skin cancer can literally mean the difference between life and death.

2. Prevention of Skin Problems

Estheticians may also assist in preventing possible skin problems which may occur should the skin not be treated properly. They can offer treatments with long term effects.

3. Skin Analysis

An esthetician may do an analysis of your skin, or a mapping of the skin, to determine your skin type and ascertain where possible damage to your skin lies. This will enable your esthetician to provide specialized skin care.

4. Professional Advice

At some point, we all find ourselves standing in the health and beauty aisle staring at the beauty products in a daze. The number of beauty products out there is overwhelming, to say the least, especially when you are buying your first skincare regimen. But why spend money on something that might not work when an esthetician can tell you exactly what you need for your specific skin type?

5. Exfoliation and Extraction

While there are many products to use to exfoliate at home, and extracting pimples through pushing, squeezing and pulling may seem like a good idea, having these done professionally it is much safer for the skin.

Squeezing pimples can cause way more damage to your skin than the little spot you see in the mirror. When you squeeze a pimple, you actually push the debris further into the skin which can cause and worsen blemishes and even cause acne scars. It’s safer to have pimples and blackheads removed and treated by an esthetician to avoid damage to your skin.

Exfoliating at home may also cause damage since most exfoliators out there have abrasive properties, while estheticians use non-abrasive products.

6. Anti-Aging Procedures

An esthetician can provide you with anti-aging skin care regimens, as well as preventative treatments that can stop fine lines, wrinkles, sun spots, and sagging.

7. Relax!

While Esthetics is a specialized profession to treat skin problems, it can also ensure relaxation. This is in itself extremely important for your health and wellbeing. Getting treatments which aid in your relaxation lowers your blood pressure, reduces stress, and so on.

In Conclusion

Cosmetology focuses on beauty created by artificial means like makeup and nail polish, while Esthetics focuses on beautifying the skin and body by bringing out its natural glow through an array of safe treatments. Estheticians also play a very important role in identifying possible skin problems early on – this ensures that their clients can either get to their doctor immediately or that they get the appropriate preventative treatment.

It’s easy to see that estheticians have a very important role in our lives. Remember that the prevention of skin problems is much easier than treatment.

 

References:

https://www.estheticianedu.org/careers/
https://www.bellusacademy.edu/blog/what-does-an-esthetician-do/

Health

The Quick Fix: How Long Should It Take to Lose Weight

Written By: Arch
Arch

With all the fad diets, pills and shakes on the market, and obesity running at an all-time high in many countries, it is no wonder that we wish to lose weight in the fastest and easiest possible manner. Losing weight too fast may, however, be counterproductive to your overall weight loss goals and it may also be detrimental to your health. We, therefore, take a look at what exactly is defined as obesity, what rapid weight loss may mean for your health and how long should it take to lose weight?

Healthy Weight Loss

When we opt for a diet, a pill, a shake or some exercise to aid us in our weight loss journey, we tend to choose those products or regimes which advertise a faster result rather than an overall positive result over a longer length of time. This is not only unsafe but not at all sustainable in the long run. It is much safer to lose weight at a slower pace to ensure that you keep off the pounds with no negative effects on your health but how long should it take to lose weight?

While rapid weight loss might seem like the obvious answer, research shows that an average gradual weight loss of approximately 1 to 2 pounds per week is the healthiest and most sustainable for the body. Usually, with products or diets promising rapid weight loss, it becomes impossible to continue the diet after the weight has been dropped because it may be dangerous or even extremely expensive. Losing weight gradually, however, means you have adapted your lifestyle around your diet and you will be much more successful in keeping this weight off even after you stop your diet. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, however. When losing even just a little weight you will immediately start to gain positive health benefits and improvements in cholesterol, blood pressure, and sugar levels. You will also start to feel less pressure on your chest, ankles, and knees,

Am I Even Overweight?

Many women look in the mirror just to see a larger version of themselves staring back at them. This does not in the slightest mean that you are obese or even overweight. It does, however, reflect on how you view yourself. In order to ascertain whether you are indeed overweight and furthermore, obese, you need to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI).

Your Body Mass Index is an approximate measurement of your body fat in relation to your height and weight. To calculate Body Mass Index you divide your weight by the square of your height in meters egg: kg/m2. The number you get from that equation will tell you in which weight category you fall:

If your BMI is less than 18.5 you are regarded as underweight. Between 18.5 and 25, your weight is normal and in relation to your height. From 25 to 30 you are considered to be overweight while a BMI of more than 30 puts you in the obese category.

Is Losing Weight Too Fast Really a Bad Thing?

There exist many diets or pills that will enable you to lose weight extremely fast. This is unfortunately extremely unsafe. Anything that provides a quick fix or instant relief is usually a fad, so try to steer clear of quick diets which promise high weight loss in little time. There is a pretty good chance that it might cause you to be unhealthier coming out of the diet than going in.

Some of the negative effects of losing weight too fast include the following:

1. Losing Water Rather Than Fat

It is extremely hard to burn the number of calories to cause a genuine quick weight loss. Therefore, chances are you may not be losing fat but actually water and lean muscle tissue. This rapid loss of water in your body may actually cause you to dehydrate. This may cause headaches and fatigue and should you proceed with your diet for a longer time, it may cause dysfunction in your kidney as well as kidney stones

2. Excess Skin

When you put on weight your body stretches the skin slowly to allow for the extra fat to be stored. As you lose the weight, the skin slowly returns to its original state (plus a few stretch marks usually). If you rapidly lose weight, your skin does not have time to gradually return to its status quo and therefore becomes excess saggy skin. This could mean that you would require surgery to get rid of the excess skin.

3. Shedding More Hair Than You Usually Do

We shed hair on a daily basis but losing weight too quickly could mean that you are not getting enough of the required nutrients like iron, protein, and zinc. Your body, therefore, needs to distribute what little nutrients it has among your body parts. Unfortunately, hair is one of the least required parts on our bodies and is therefore shed.

4. Slower Metabolism with Practically No Fat Loss

When you choose a diet, you need to choose one aimed at allowing enough calories for your body to burn as fuel. Diets aimed at quick weight loss usually allow very few calories which trick your body into thinking that you are starving. Your body then goes into survival mode, slows your metabolism down and stores the fat to feed on it slowly while you are ‘starving’. The human body truly is an amazing machine.

5. Unbalanced Electrolytes

Although this may seem like a minor issue it is actually one of the worst recorded side effects of rapid weight loss. Electrolytes are required by your body to function correctly. An imbalance, however, means that some of the elements are either too high or too low. This may cause muscle weakness, seizures, an irregular heartbeat and may even result in death if not treated quickly.

Conclusion

Unfortunately, there is no quick fix to losing weight, and losing weight too fast is detrimental to your health. It is very important to choose a diet which will allow you to lose weight at a gradual pace. So rather steer clear of fad diets, pills and shakes and rather opt for a well-balanced healthy diet. To ensure that you lose weight gradually and keep the weight off, it is also important to choose an exercise regime of some form. This will help you lose weight while also strengthening and toning your muscles.

 

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/expert-answers/fast-weight-loss/faq-20058289
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-weight/should-you-lose-weight-fast/
https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/losing_weight/index.html
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm

Entertainment

Top Ideas for Grandmother Names

Written By: Arch
Arch

When Mother’s Day comes around, it’s easy to see that grandmothers are nearly as cherished as mothers are. A popular card caption is: “The only thing better than having you as a mother is my children having you as a Grandmother!”

In many families, grandmothers are the matriarchs who keep everything together. Spending time with them fulfills an extremely important role in a child’s life. For the parents, a grandmother can be a source of help and wisdom when things are spiraling out of control. Grandmothers almost never sigh when having to watch the kids, and that means we can rely on them even when every other plan falls through.

Grandmothers give us more than just treats and fun games during childhood. As we grow and mature, our grandmothers are a safe haven and they can be true confidantes.

It is no wonder that we may want a sweet and loving name to accompany that important role. Sometimes calling her Grandmother just won’t do since she is so much more than that to us.

So to celebrate how great they truly are, let’s look at some ideas for grandmother names and techniques you can use to choose the perfect name for your child’s grandmother.

Some Good Choices:

There are countless names to choose from, and it is absolutely impossible to list them all. Each culture, country, and language has its own set of names and nicknames used to describe grandmothers.

We have nonetheless made a list of a few different ideas for grandmother names. Some of our favorites are explained below:

1. Meemaw or Meema

This adorable name for a grandmother may sound familiar to the TV buffs out there. This name was popularized by Sheldon Cooper in the series The Big Bang Theory. It was a perfect name for Sheldon’s loving and protective grandmother, and it may just be the perfect name for you to use as well. This name is also extremely easy to pronounce from a very young age.

We’re not clear on the etymology of the word. However, you should know that it’s exceptionally popular in the Southern US.

2. Ouma or Oumie

Literally translated as “Old Mother”, this Afrikaans word is used in South Africa to refer to a grandmother. It resonates on the idea that your grandmother is essentially an older version of your mother or a second mother to you. This is also an extremely easy name to learn and pronounce as soon as children begin to speak.

3. Big Momma

Another name made popular through TV, this is the perfect choice for a grandmother who has a little more heft and a great sense of humor. It perfectly explains that she may be a little bigger than usual but also that she has a big heart.

4. Grams/Grammie/Gramma

This is also a very popular choice and it’s used all across the English-speaking world. This shortened version of ‘grandmother’ and ‘grandma’ is easy to pronounce and spell. That makes it an all-time favorite among the kids.

5. Nana / Nanna

Most probably originating from a mispronunciation of the word Grandma, this is also an extremely popular name to use.

6. Geema / G-Ma

This popular name is also derived from ’grandmother’ or ‘grandma’. Again, we especially recommend it for grandmothers who love to laugh.

7. Gan-Gan

Another cute name for any grandmother, this one was made popular by the British royal family. It is also extremely easy to pronounce as soon as your child learns to talk. If it’s good enough for Prince George to call the Queen, it may well be good enough for us to call our grandmothers.

And Here’s the Rest of Our Collection:

Abba Cookie Grandmomma Moomoo
Abuela Damma Granma Mummum
Amma Dodie Grannie Nan
Baba Gabby Honey Nana
Bamaw Gadgy Kitty Nanny
Bamba Gammy Mama Nano
Bama GiGi Mammy Nina
Bambi G-Ma Marmie Nonn
Bammie Grams MawMaw Pippy
BeBe Gramma MayMay Pippa
Bella Grammaw Meme Queen
Belle Grammie Mémère Queenie
Big Momma Grammy Mia Sassy
Birdy Gran Mimi Savta
Bunny Grancy Mommom Sugar
Busia Grandma Mom-mom Sweetie
CeeCee Grandmama Momo Toots
Coco Grandmom Momsy Tootsie

Techniques to Choose the Perfect Grandmother Nickname:

Children usually tend to create names for their grandparents as they learn to talk, and they may not need any help from you. On the other hand, it is often a good choice to decide on a nickname in advance and avoid possible embarrassing names created by a baby’s strange pronunciations. It would also be wise to get some input from Grandmother herself. There’s always a chance she has some pet peeves relating to nicknames.

Here are some tips to ensure you pick a good and suitable name:

1. Listen to What the Other Kids Are Saying

If your kids are not the first grandchildren in the family, listen to what the rest of the grandchildren are calling their grandmother, and consider that name. Uniformity is important, especially among children – plus, it can help your family avoid a lot of confusion during conversations.

You can also draw some inspiration from other families in your community and what they are calling their grandmothers.

2. Easy Names

Since your child will start calling their grandmother this name as soon as they are able to speak, it should be something that is not too hard to pronounce from an early age.

3. Family History

Take a look at what you and your siblings or cousins called your grandmother, or even what your mother called her grandmother. You can always use or adopt those names.

4. Does It Suit Her?

A nickname should most definitely suit the person in question, so do not choose something quirky or humorous when you know that the grandmother is rather quiet or traditional. Also, a plain traditional name may not suffice for the wild and outgoing grandmother.

Conclusion

It is important when choosing a name for a grandmother that she not only approves of the name but that the name is also easily pronounced by the kids. It is also a good idea to choose a name that describes and fits the personality of that grandmother. Remember that this is more than a passing nickname – your children will use the word for years and decades to come.

Health

Gut Stuck in a Rut? The Top Prebiotic Foods

Written By: Arch
Arch

At some point, we have all heard our doctors, nurses, or nutritionists talk about the significance of probiotics. But little is said about prebiotics, though our bodies require prebiotics as much as, if not more than, probiotics. In layman’s terms, prebiotics are the food probiotics feed on.

Both of these support the body in creating and maintaining microorganisms (which includes healthy bacteria) which aid and support the gut with digestion. To ensure that you take in enough prebiotics, it is important to identify the top prebiotic foods.

We take a look at what prebiotics are, what health advantages they have in store for you, and which foods you need to eat to ensure you get more than enough prebiotics in your diet.

What Are Prebiotics?

A prebiotic is a type of fiber that comes from the non-digestible part of certain foods like apple skins, bananas, cabbage or beans. It travels through the small intestine and becomes fermented once it reaches the colon.

Prebiotics act as fuel for probiotics and assist in the nourishment and growth thereof. They also act as a mild laxative and help bowel movements.

Prebiotics together with probiotics create a healthy microbiome – in other words, a collection of microorganisms, which assist our bodies in the defense against toxins that enter our bodies.

What Are the Advantages of Prebiotics?

At this point in time, there isn’t enough research on the pros and cons of prebiotics. Their existence is a fairly new discovery. The focus for many years has been probiotics alone, while prebiotics have been put on the backburner.

From the existing research, scientists have deduced that prebiotics holds several advantages for the human body especially in relation to the digestive system.

Researchers say that prebiotics:

  • Assist and Feed Probiotics
  • Increase Immunity
  • Increase Bone Density
  • Assist the Digestive System and Regulate Bowel Movements
  • Improve Mineral Absorption into the Body
  • Protect Against Intestinal Infections and Inflammation
  • Decrease the Risk of Getting Allergies

It Sounds Good, but Are There Any Disadvantages?

At this point in time, as stated above, there is much more research on probiotics than on prebiotics. There is no conclusive evidence yet about prebiotics having any side effects or disadvantages to your health. However, if you decide to take prebiotic supplements and you have a chronic illness, you should speak to your general practitioner first.

Which Are the Top Prebiotic Foods

It is clear that prebiotics do more than just assist our digestion. Our bodies need them, and it’s important to ensure that you take in enough prebiotics every day.

It isn’t difficult to focus your diet on foods that are high in prebiotics, as there is quite a range of prebiotic-rich foods. We will focus on some of the most widely available foods to ensure that you know which are the top prebiotic foods to pick next time you visit the supermarket.

1. Onions, Leeks, and Spring Onions

The onion family is naturally rich in antioxidants and cleans your gut since it is rich in inulin, which also assists in the growth of good bacteria. Leeks are also excellent for your heart and bones due to their high vitamin K content.

2. Chicory Root

Almost 50% of the fiber in chicory root is rich in inulin. It also has antioxidant properties and it promotes the production of bile, which assists in the breakdown of foods and fats.

3. Bananas

Bananas are a great source of vitamins and minerals, as well as good bacteria and dietary fiber.

4. Beans, Soy Beans, and Kidney Beans

Legumes such as beans are extremely high in fiber. They are an excellent source of prebiotics due to their gut bacteria feeding properties.

5. Garlic

Garlic aids metabolism and is a natural source of vitamin B6. It is furthermore rich in inulin and has antibacterial properties as well.

6. Cabbage

Cabbage is jam-packed full of vitamins, minerals, and most importantly, prebiotics.

7. Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds contain a great deal of soluble and insoluble fiber, and this is great for the body. They help the body process the dietary fat you consume, so they are an excellent choice for anyone trying to lose weight. In addition to their prebiotic effect, flaxseeds also help regulate blood sugar.

8. Dried Fruits

Dried fruits like dates and figs are also packed with dietary fiber that assists with digestion and promotes good gut health.

9. Bran, Rye Bread, Cous Cous

Bran and other grains contain natural dietary fibers which help clean the gut. Consuming these foods regularly promotes healthy gut bacteria.

10. Asparagus

High in both prebiotics and anti-oxidants, this vegetable has excellent anti-inflammatory benefits.

11. Apples

Apples are high in pectin which has prebiotic properties. It also has natural anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

12. Cocoa Beans

Consuming cocoa beans is an excellent way to get your gut bacteria back in order. Additionally, you can reduce your cholesterol and help protect your heart.

A Word on Human Breast Milk

When we talk about foods that are naturally rich in prebiotics, it is no surprise that human breast milk should take the top of the list. Breast milk serves as a perfectly balanced meal for the infant, so it is only natural that it should have its fair share of prebiotics in it.

In Conclusion

Although not much research exists around prebiotics, health experts have all come to the conclusion that prebiotics are not only good for your gut health and digestive system – they are a requirement for keeping our intestinal flora healthy and in check. It is therefore important that we make prebiotics a part of our daily diet.

The best way to do this is to find the top prebiotic foods that can make sure our bodies draw the required dietary fibers from those foods. These fibers pass through our intestines and we benefit from the fermentation process they go through. Fermentation helps feed those good bacteria living in our gut, and so they help keep our immune system strong and our bodies healthy.

 

References:

https://www.monash.edu/medicine/ccs/gastroenterology/prebiotic/faq
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/probiotics/faq-20058065
https://www.onegreenplanet.org/natural-health/best-prebiotic-foods-for-optimal-digestive-health/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6041804/

Health

Oh, That Relentless Sweet Tooth! – How to Ignore Sugar Cravings

Written By: Arch
Arch

Some of us consider candy or a bar of chocolate to be a special treat, while others eat desserts a few times a day. Eating sugar-rich foods can become a habit for many reasons, including a shortage of energy or nutrients in the body. Although the euphoric feeling we get from taking that first bite into a candy bar is not something to be ignored, it’s important to control your sugar intake. That means learning how to ignore sugar cravings when they pop up.

Unfortunately, all those delicacies can be quite hard to cut out of your diet. We take a look at everything that comes with sugar cravings and how you can succeed in ignoring them.

But first, we explore a few of the reasons why you might get sugar cravings. Every craving has an underlying cause, and learning about that is the only surefire way to ignore the urge to consume too much sugar.

Why Do I Get Sugar Cravings?

In order to learn how to ignore sugar cravings, we need to establish what the true reason is for their presence in the first place. A craving is usually a message sent by your body to your brain, requesting an intake of sugar because of some deficiency. The myth is that sugar cravings always come from low blood sugar or low energy levels. However, that is not always the case.

Here are only some of the reasons we get sugar cravings:

1. Bad Eating Habits

Eating too many carbs and not enough protein and healthy fats will result in sugar cravings. Your body requires protein and healthy fats for fuel to create energy.

Not eating often enough (or eating too little) can also cause your body to crave sugar as a quick energy source.

If you enjoy salty foods, or you have a high salt intake due to processed foods, you are also bound to crave sugar since your body naturally tries to balance out these intakes.

2. Bacterial Balance

It has been found that the more we eat of certain food groups, the more our bodies crave the same foods. The reason for this is that by eating foods like sugar, for instance, we feed the bacteria that thrive on sugar. In doing so, the healthy bacteria get overpowered by the sugar-thriving bacteria. The more we feed the sugar-thriving bacteria, the more they grow, and so our bodies require more sugar to sustain them.

3. Mineral Deficiency

Although it is not usually the main cause of sugar cravings, a deficiency in minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc may cause imbalances which can lead to sugar cravings. Your body does not actually crave sugar but rather energy or water for hydration. Your brain, however, translates this energy or water deficiency as a sugar deficiency, considering that sugar intake will assist with the replenishment of energy, hydration, and electrolytes.

4. Stress, Depression, and Bad Moods

When we are stressed, our body produces a hormone called cortisol. This hormone raises blood sugar levels and increases appetite. In turn, this causes cravings – and more often than not, it is sugar that we crave.

This also brings about the issue of stress eating, a bad habit that affects many people. Stress eating means that a person overeats during stressful episodes, and the chosen food is usually something unhealthy.

How to Ignore Sugar Cravings

It is becoming clear that, for the most part, sugar cravings come from imbalances in our bodies and daily lives. So is there really something we can do about it? The answer is yes, but we have to address the root cause of the problem.

Here are a few tips on how to ignore sugar cravings for good:

1. Avoid Salty Food

Steer clear of too much salt in your food. This also means avoiding processed and junk foods, which are known for their high levels of sodium. Remember that the more salt you eat, the more sugar you will crave.

2. Increase Your Fat and Protein Intake

Focus on healthy fats like nuts, avocadoes, dark chocolate, fish, etc, and avoid processed foods that are high in carbohydrates and saturated fats. Your body has to work extra hard to create sugar and energy from carbohydrates, and it has a much easier time when you consume natural and healthy fats and proteins.

3. Eat Less but Often

Eat smaller healthy meals but eat more often. This is the best way to ensure that your body has the fuel it needs to function. You should eat approximately 6 to 8 small meals throughout the day.

4. Substitute Your Craving

Find alternative activities to do as soon as you feel the craving coming on. Run around the block, drink a glass of water or munch on a carrot or celery stick. The craving often goes away as soon as you put something in your mouth, so make sure that it’s a healthy snack.

5. Test Those Mineral Levels

Have your mineral levels tested to find out whether you have any deficiencies. If you do, a simple diet change could be all you need to address those issues.

6. Manage Stress

Find the time to manage your stress and moods. Take a good hard look at what you are doing and how you are doing it. Are there any organizational or time management skills you can use to achieve a less stressful environment? Change what you can in order to reduce your stress levels.

7. Keep Sugar out of the House

Satisfying a sugar craving becomes much easier when sugary items are readily available to you. Rid your home from all the unhealthy sweets and treats. Instead, fill your cupboards with healthy alternatives just in case you cannot curb the craving to eat something.

In Conclusion

Our bodies tell us when something is wrong, be it through headaches, fatigue, or even cravings. Cravings should never be ignored unless you know exactly what the underlying cause is. If you’re sure there is no health issue lurking underneath, it is perfectly fine to just ignore those pesky sugar cravings. Always opt for healthy alternatives to sugar, and the cravings will go away in time.

 

References:

https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/patients-families/health-matters/december-2014/sweet-tooth-conquering-your-cravings.aspx
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-break-the-sugar-habit-and-help-your-health-in-the-process

Health

Here’s the 411 on H2O If You’re Pregnant – How Much Water Should You Drink?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Water: – 70% of the earth is covered by it; 60% of the human body is made up of it. Even with that much water in our bodies, we are not able to produce it ourselves, so we still require replenishment on a daily basis, and even more so whilst we are pregnant.

But for those who are pregnant, how much water should you drink? Although the answer may differ from person to person, the general rule of thumb says at least 15% more than the regular daily required intake. Wondering exactly what that is? Keep reading to find out what your body requires to keep your vitals in check.

Water Requirements during Pregnancy

While some hate the taste of water and others adore it, there is consensus on the fact that it is required as much as, or even more than, our bodies require food, especially during pregnancy. Water is an absolute requirement for the human body and all its organs to function properly, and it is a key element in antenatal wellbeing. It assists the body to absorb some of the most important vitamins like vitamins B12 and B6, ascorbic and nicotinic acids, as well as riboflavin. It can assist with the prevention of constipation and urinary tract Infections, which are both very common during pregnancy. It also assists in controlling blood sugar levels during pregnancy to avoid some of the awful side effects of gestational diabetes.

In addition, water is required to create the amniotic fluids in which your baby grows during the gestation process. It also assists with the increase of blood plasma volume which is required to help feed the fetus. Furthermore, after the delivery of the baby, water is required to create breast milk. A dehydrated mother will therefore not be able to produce enough breast milk to feed her baby.

As a general rule, our bodies should be replenished on a daily basis by approximately 65oz (two liters) of water. This intake should be increased by at least 15% while you are carrying a baby.

In order to make an accurate calculation of the exact amount of water to drink during pregnancy, you need to take your weight (in lbs) and multiplies it by 0.5. The answer (in oz) is the amount of water your body requires in regular circumstances and on a daily basis. Add a further 15 to 20% to ascertain exactly what your body requires during pregnancy.

Does It Matter Where My Water Comes From?

When it comes to the health and wellbeing of your unborn baby, you can never be too careful, especially in the first few weeks s of the embryo’s development. Therefore, it is imperative that you drink water that you know for certain as safe.

In recent studies, various results found that both municipal and private well-point water could be unsafe and lead to possible birth defects. The reason for this relates to the chlorine found in unfiltered tap water and contaminants like nitrate, arsenic, and atrazine found in private well water. Although some of the results regarding tap water were approximately every 5 out of 1000 babies or 0.05%, the risk is perhaps too high to take for any parents. So, you might want to err on the side of caution and stick to bottled spring water you know is safe.

Things To Consider To Increase Your Water Intake

It can be tough to drink up to 12 glasses of water every single day, so it is possible to cut some corners here and there to ensure that your body receives the fluids you require:

1. Your Daily Dose

In addition to the normal 8 glasses of water every day, another 1 to 2 glasses is required whilst pregnant, and at least 3 more during the lactation period. You should therefore at least try to drink a minimum of 6 to 8 glasses every day. You can make up the rest from food and the following tips.

2. Avoid Caffeine

Although caffeine drinks are a source of fluids, it unfortunately does the exact opposite of hydrating the body. The presence of caffeine in your system will actually excrete water from your body, so try to avoid it or switch to decaf.

3. Eat Foods High In Water

Eat foods that have high water content like melons, soups, tomatoes, etc. Your body will draw the water from these foods during the digestion process.

4. Add Fruits To Your Water

If you don’t particularly enjoy water, add some sliced fruit to it to create a lightly infused fruity cooler. It will make the taste much easier to tolerate.

5. Add Water To Your Fruit

When having juice, especially the 100% pure pressed kinds, add some extra water to it to lower the sweetness and acidity levels and aid in your water intake.

6. Drink Small Amounts Often

Instead of drinking ounces upon ounces of water at once, rather drink a few sips of water constantly. That way your water intake and blood sugar levels remain constant and you are not faced with the extremely uncomfortable pressure on a full bladder from your baby.

To Conclude

If you’re pregnant, how much water should you drink? The answer to that can be ascertained with an easy calculation; however, as a general rule, a minimum of eight to ten glasses of water is required. Whilst lactating, a further two glasses should be added to the daily intake.

It is not required but is certainly best to avoid unfiltered tap and private well water, and rather replenish your water levels with good clean spring or filtered bottled waters.

Finally, water can also be replenished by eating certain foods, adding water to thick or sweet beverages or avoiding certain beverages like caffeine. Lastly, remember to drink in small amounts but constantly.

 

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1595116/
https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/wellness/how-to-calculate-how-much-water-you-should-drink/
https://vitalrecord.tamhsc.edu/agricultural-compounds-drinking-water-linked-birth-defects/
https://www.naturalhydrationcouncil.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/NHC-Pregnancy-Motherhood-fact-sheet-FINAL.pdf

General

Does Mold Killing Primer or Paint Actually Work?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Most of us have dealt with mold on a few occasions. It can be a frustrating task to clean or treat the mold or mildew spots that appear in your home, and the health concerns are enormous. Even more frustrating than that is the fact that mold is relentless. If it is not treated properly, it will surely return and cause problems all over again.

Mold can easily get into your home and grow on your walls and ceilings. To eradicate mold, mold spores, and mildew, you need to use a proper treatment regime which may include cleaning as well as painting. There are many different paints and primers you can use to treat this exact problem.

But does mold killing primer or paint actually work? Let’s take a look at what mold is, why it is considered to be dangerous for your health, how it can be treated, and whether you should spend money on special paints or primers.

What Is Mold?

Mold is a type of fungus that naturally grows outdoors. It takes part in the decomposition of plant life. Reproduction happens through spores – adult mold releases spores into the air and they get carried by the wind.

It is far too easy for spores to get into our homes. As soon as mold takes hold in a building, it starts reproducing. Dampness or humid temperatures contribute to its rapid growth.

Mildew, a white or black growth, is often found against walls or ceilings. It also damages clothes and fabrics. Mold and mildew can leave marks on fabric or even destroy it.

Mold also creates an unpleasant smell in your home. But the biggest downside of having mold in your home is the damage caused to your and your family’s health.

What Makes It So Dangerous?

What makes mold so dangerous is the mold spores it releases in order to reproduce. The spores become airborne, especially when disturbed by rubbing or cleaning, and they can be breathed into the lungs. When these spores are inhaled, serious lung infections may occur. Black mold spores are especially dangerous and they can cause lasting health conditions.

Furthermore, mold can cause skin and eye irritations. It can worsen or even cause the symptoms of asthma and allergies. It is therefore important that mold is eradicated from the home before it could take a hold on your health. It is also imperative that a mask is worn when working with mold.

What is Mold Killing Paint and Primer and How Does It Work?

Mold killing paint and primer is a fungicidal protective coating that is used to paint over and kill mold. These products contain an antimicrobial to prevent the growth of mold. It can be used in or outside of the home. It will also assist in covering up the smell as well as the stains created by mold.

Since this type of product comes with a built-in pesticide, it may be more expensive than normal PVA paints. So you might wonder: does mold killing primer or paint actually work and is it worth it to pay extra for it?

Unfortunately, little information exists on whether mold killing paints and primers actually work or not. It seems that with a proper pre-treatment, these paints usually do the trick of removing and covering up the mold, as well as stopping it from coming back later.

Here is how you can keep mold at bay with the use of these paints and primers.

How to Treat and Paint Mold Infected Walls or Ceilings:

It is important that you treat the area to be painted first before you start painting. If you neglect that step, the paint might peel off and the mold might return to its former glory. Treating the area also helps the primer work properly.

1. Remove Mold

Before you do anything else, you need to remove the mold or mildew from the walls. Wash the area with warm soapy water. A bleach and water mixture will also do the trick since bleach will assist in killing the mold. Remember to use a mask during this process since mold spores become airborne especially when disturbed. When this happens, you could inhale them without even noticing.

2. Take Care of Damp Areas

Ensure that the infected area is clean and dry and that any underlying structural problem has been taken care of. For example, you might need better insulation or improved plumbing. You should also make sure to scrape off any loose or peeling paint from the walls, as well and treat all the surfaces with a proper filler.

Never skip this step, as the mold is sure to come back if you don’t eradicate it.

3. Primer and Topcoat

Paint at least two coats of the primer to ensure that the mold is completely covered and contained. The first coat should dry within an hour or two, after which it is advised to follow it up with a second coat of the same primer. Follow the primer up with a top coat within 72 hours from primer application.

Some people find it difficult to choose a paint or primer they can trust. For others, the process of treating the moldy area can prove to be a challenge. But remember that you don’t have to do this job alone. There are experts you can hire who have ample experience in getting rid of mold.

Final Thought

While mold is not an unusual occurrence, it is a headache for many of us. It is imperative that mold is eradicated from the home to ensure that the mold spores do not become a health problem for you or your family members.

When mold finds a way onto your walls or ceilings, a proper treatment regime is required. At the very least, you need to clean the area properly and perhaps even cover the area with an appropriate product that treats mold.

Does mold killing primer or paint actually work? When applied properly, these products can help save your home from mold. However, you have to choose the right products, which can be pricey. If you’re not sure where to start, asking for expert help might be the best solution.

 

References:

http://www.ehs.ufl.edu/programs/ih/ieq/mold/
https://extension2.missouri.edu/gh5928

Health

What Are the Rules of Being a Pescatarian?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Pescetarianism is one of the oldest recorded diets in the world, even if the term has only been around for about 25 years. For instance, the ancient Vedic Indians, the ancient Greeks and ancient Romans all espoused a vegetable-based diet that occasionally included fish. Medieval Christian monks also abstained from eating any meat but fish.

When the Vegetarian Society was founded in the UK in 1847, fish was still on the menu. This is largely thanks to Catholicism’s influence on European history and culture, as fish was not considered to be a type of meat by the Church. These days, the Society states that vegetarians don’t eat fish.

Whether for ethical or practical reasons, the history of vegetarianism and pescetarianism are closely linked. But most modern vegetarians and vegans deny that the pescatarian diet fits within their definitions. All that considered, it seems fair to ask: What are the rules of being a pescatarian?

Something Smells Fishy

On the surface, it is simple enough. The Merriam-Webster dictionary definition is ‘a diet [that] includes fish but no other meat’. But, as with almost every modern diet, it really depends on whom you ask.

It’s worth noting that the term pescatarian, also spelled pescetarian, was apparently coined in 1993. It is a combination of the Italian word for fish, pesce, and the well-known term vegetarian. There are many other, slightly less popular terms used for the same concept. For example, some people prefer to identify as pescatarian – a word which takes its root from the Latin word for fish, pisces.

With there being so much discussion about the name alone, it’s not hard to see that there might be some disagreement as to the rules of the practice.

Pescetarianism vs. Vegetarianism: The Current Schools of Thought

Vegetarianism and pescetarianism used to be essentially the same thing. But opinions have diverged and the groups themselves have diversified. Just as there are different approaches to being vegetarian and vegan, there are many categories that pescatarians can fit into.

In the purely scientific sense, the practice is often called pesco-vegetarianism, pulling apart the portmanteau and lumping the diet together with vegetarianism. This is something that contemporary vegetarians often object to, stating that they don’t eat any animal flesh at all.

In practical terms, many pescatarians avoid eating meat and poultry, though they will still eat eggs and dairy products, like most vegetarians. So, it is relatively accurate to say that the average pescatarian is essentially an ovo-lacto vegetarian who also eats seafood.

You also get people who follow a diet closer to veganism, in that they don’t eat any other animal products at all. In other words, they avoid eggs or dairy but they will add fish to their diet in order to meet certain nutritional demands. There is even a term for this, which is growing in popularity: seaganism.

Don’t Tuna Out the Benefits

What you can take away from this is that there are no real hard and fast rules for being a pescatarian. There are a few different paths that you can follow. It can depend on what your reasons are for following a pescatarian diet, such as moral, religious, or health-based motivations.

In terms of the health benefits, the biggest draw for vegetarians to add fish to their diet is the presence of omega-3 rich fatty acids in oily fish such as tuna and salmon.

These fatty acids have been linked to reduced risk factors for heart disease, and they can help with depression and anxiety. They also help fight Alzheimer’s, reduce the risk of cancer, and have many other potential benefits. So, if you are considering changing your diet to move away from eating meat, it might be worth considering going pescatarian.

Pescatarians eat fresh and canned fish alike, and most of them also eat shellfish and shrimp. These foods are protein-rich and low in calories, so they are a good option for anyone trying to lose weight.

Practical Considerations

On the other hand, there are some health concerns you should keep in mind before you take up the pescatarian lifestyle.

Some fish have high levels of mercury, and eating them too often can lead to complications. Avoiding swordfish, bluefish, shark, or king mackerel is a good way to avoid consuming too much mercury. It’s especially important to be mindful of this during pregnancy.

Eel Meat Again, Don’t Know Where, Don’t Know When

The popularity of pescetarianism was often determined by the political or religious conditions in a region. Here is a fascinating example.

One of the longest-lasting pescatarian traditions belongs to the Japanese. In 763, during the Nara period, the Emperor declared that seafood was allowed to be eaten, though consuming wild animals and livestock was still illegal.

For the next 1,200 years, the people of Japan maintained a mostly vegetarian diet, with fish and shellfish reserved for special occasions. This diet is attributed to the spread of Mahayana Buddhism from China to Japan.

But this changed in the mid-1800s, during the Meiji Restoration, when Japan opened up to Western trade. Emperor Meiji ate meat publicly for the first time, and so made it acceptable for the people to eat it again. These days, the amount of meat eaten by the average Japanese person has increased significantly. But seafood is still popular and it is the basis of many traditional dishes.

Keep Clam, and Carry On

Pescatarianism has been around for thousands of years, and it used to be essentially the same thing as being a vegetarian. These days, vegetarians take pains to distinguish themselves from pescatarians, as they maintain that fish is a type of meat, and vegetarians don’t eat meat.

What are the rules of being a pescatarian? Basically, to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, while also adding fish and other seafood to the menu. But really, it is about your health and what works for you morally.

If you are happy eating eggs and dairy along with your fish, then you can. If you’d rather eat nothing but vegetables and fish, that works too, especially if you’re willing to take supplements. Keep in mind that trends change, and the most important consideration is your health and wellbeing.

 

References:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S027795360800097X
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5579641/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3712371/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3976923/

Health

Best Foods for Type 2 Diabetes

Written By: Arch
Arch

You’ve probably heard the old expression: “You are what you eat.” A well-balanced diet and regular exercise can help everyone achieve a longer, healthier life.

But eating well is especially important for people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. This condition can be brought on by unhealthy eating and a lack of exercise, but it can also be controlled with good food choices.

Diabetes has been a recognized disorder since Ancient Egypt, where it was described in hieroglyphics as a condition involving thirst, weight loss, and excessive urination. Egyptian physicians even prescribed a simple treatment for the condition – eating whole grain foods.

But diet tips for diabetes don’t end there. There are many other tasty and nutritious foods that can help regulate your blood-glucose levels. Below we’ll list the best foods for type 2 diabetes, as well as a few to avoid, so you can make the best possible start on your healthier, happier life.

Note: You may notice that some foods are on more than one of the lists – these are especially good to add to your meal plans.

Carbohydrates

Complex, unprocessed carbohydrates that are high in fiber create less of a spike in your blood sugar levels. Fiber can decrease the number of calories absorbed from other foods. It will also make you feel fuller for longer, reducing hunger. Here are some of the best options:

  • Whole grains
    • Whole wheat
    • Whole oats
    • Oatmeal
    • Brown rice
    • Millet
    • Quinoa
    • Buckwheat
    • Amaranth
    • Unsalted popcorn
    • Bulgur
    • Barley
    • Rye
  • Vegetables
    • Broccoli
    • Squashes like pumpkin or zucchini
    • Dark leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, arugula, and chard

You can choose frozen vegetables, raw or lightly steamed. Grilling is also fine but you should avoid deep frying. If you opt for canned veggies, choose products that are low in sodium.

  • Whole fruit

In particular, strawberries have been shown to reduce insulin and cholesterol, and reduce the risk of heart disease, thanks to their high antioxidant content.

Drinking fruit juice isn’t as healthy, even if it’s freshly squeezed. Because of the juicing process, the fibers in whole fruit break down.

  • Beans
    • Kidney
    • Pinto
    • Black
    • Navy
  • Legumes
    • Peas
    • Chickpeas
    • Lentils
  • Ground flax seeds

They are high in lignans, which can decrease the risk of heart disease and improve blood sugar control, and it may even lower the risk of strokes. These seeds are also very high in viscous fiber, which helps your gut health, improves insulin sensitivity, and makes you feel fuller for longer.

  • Ground chia seeds

Chia seeds also contain a great deal of viscous fiber, and they can reduce blood pressure and inflammation.

Protein

Foods that are high in protein can provide you with energy for longer than processed carbs, and they can help you manage your glucose levels. They also leave you feeling satisfied for longer, so you don’t have to worry about hunger pangs. With a high-protein diet, you’ll be less tempted to reach for empty, processed carbs like pretzels or crackers.

Some of the best sources for protein include:

  • Beans
  • Legumes
  • Eggs
  • Seafood
    • Wild salmon
    • Herring
    • Mackerel
    • Tuna
  • Low-fat dairy
    • Greek yogurt
    • Low-calorie cottage cheese
    • Low-fat/non-fat sour cream
    • 1% or skim milk

Make sure to avoid fruity ‘low-fat’ yogurts as they often have too much added sugar. The same is true for many dairy-based desserts.

  • Tofu
  • Lean meats and poultry

Remember to trim the skin from poultry, and keep salt levels to a minimum.

Fats

Fats can slow the absorption of carbohydrates, which can help you manage your blood sugar levels. They don’t have much of an effect on glucose themselves. On the other hand, they can lead to weight gain, so it’s important to consume them in moderation.

  • Polyunsaturated fats
  • Monounsaturated fats
  • Foods rich in vegetable oils
    • Non-hydrogenated margarine
    • Nuts
    • Seeds
      • sunflower
      • safflower
      • rapeseed
    • Avocado

Because this fruit is rich in calories, make sure to practice portion control.

  • Extra-virgin olive oil

Drinks

In the US, sugar-sweetened beverages like soda are among the leading causes of both obesity and type 2 diabetes. Choosing your drinks wisely can make a world of difference to your health and blood sugar levels.

Good alternatives are:

  • Non-flavored water or flavored sparkling water

A slice of lemon can add a bit of extra flavor at the price of just 1 calorie.

  • Sugar free tea, with or without a slice of lemon
  • Coffee
    • Black
    • Use a sugar substitute and low-calorie milk

If drinking alcohol, try to limit it to 14 units per week, and go for low-calorie options such as:

  • Light beer
  • A small glass of wine
  • Non-fruity cocktails
  • Low-calorie liquors
    • Gin
    • Vodka
    • White rum
    • Tequila
    • Cognac

Why Eating Well Can Change Your Life

There are many potential health complications associated with having diabetes. One of the most critical ones is the heightened risk of dying from heart disease. Others include skin conditions, sleep apnea, loss of sight, loss of hearing, kidney failure, neuropathy, and ulcerated feet.

The good news is that studies have shown that the risks of these complications can be lowered by following a healthy lifestyle. Eating well, getting at least 20 minutes of exercise a day, quitting smoking, and getting a full night’s sleep can improve the quality and length of your life. It may even help prevent cancer and osteoporosis.

Change Your Routine Today

Eating well can make you healthier, happier, and longer-lived. Just remember that there’s not much point starting a strict diet if you’re just going to go back to bad habits a week from now.

Unfortunately, statistics show that people often don’t stick to diets. Even when you know all the benefits, it can be difficult to make these changes. The most important thing is to establish new, healthier patterns that you will be able to maintain for the rest of your life.

So, now that you know what the best foods for type 2 diabetes are, you can start planning some delicious, healthful meals that will keep you full throughout the day.

 

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3749019/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2654180/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2862465/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3645500/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3307808/

Health

Fact or Fiction: Will Visine in a Drink Cause Diahhrea?

Written By: Arch
Arch

The movie Wedding Crashers came out in 2005. It was an instant success – and unfortunately, it popularized a dangerous urban legend.

The film contained a scene where Visine was used to prank someone. The victim of the prank got intense diarrhea as a result. In the aftermath of this film, the incorrect use of Visine went viral. Many people today believe that Visine really can be used as a laxative.

Some consume Visine to try to treat their own digestive problems. Others use it the way that was shown in the movie. They prank people, hoping to induce a laxative effect.

But using Visine in this manner in effect poisons the victim. You can also poison yourself should you attempt to use it to treat constipation. Either way, misusing Visine has dire consequences, both medical and legal. So to combat the misinformation, we investigate the question: will Visine in a drink cause diahhrea?

What Exactly Is Visine?

Visine is a commonly known over-the-counter medication. It comes in the form of eye-drops, and it’s used to alleviate red, itchy, and irritated eyes. Used as intended in a topical manner, Visine is harmless and very effective. However, internal consumption is extremely dangerous.

Visine’s main ingredient is a chemical called tetrahydrozoline. This chemical is used in medications to constrict blood vessels. That’s the reason for its use in eye-drops. It alleviates the redness that is caused by swollen blood vessels in the eyes.

It was never meant to be taken orally, and the instructions make this clear.

Unfortunately, people tend to ignore dosage instructions and directions of use as they see fit. But the directions are there for a very important reason: to ensure that the product is being used correctly and in a safe manner.

What Are the Effects of Drinking Visine?

Tetrahydrozoline is not known to cause diarrhea, and the use of Visine in pranks as an explosive laxative is based on false information. It is extremely important for everyone to realize that Visine should not be used other than the way it has been prescribed. What happens if you do misuse it?

Consuming tetrahydrozoline has several unpleasant symptoms, none of which typically include diarrhea. It’s easy to see that ingesting it is in fact poisoning. The symptoms include, but are not limited to:

  • Difficulty or halting of breathing
  • Blurred vision
  • High blood pressure followed by a sudden drop in blood pressure
  • Headaches
  • Seizures
  • In severe cases, falling into a coma.

It’s clear why giving someone Visine to drink should be followed by legal steps against the prankster.

But will Visine in a drink cause diahhrea or not? Like in most cases of medicine misuse, there is a chance of diarrhea or other unexpected symptoms. But no study exists showing that Visine or its active ingredients have a laxative effect. Most probably, the victim will have an intense headache, and they may pass out.

Can Visine Be Deadly?

In 2018, a woman in South Carolina was charged with murdering her husband. She put a large amount of Visine into his drink. It is unclear what her intentions were, but her actions led to her husband’s death.

Smaller doses aren’t deadly but they still have an intensely negative effect on the victim. Many people have been charged and arrested for drugging family members in this way. Some of them said they merely meant to play a prank. Others had revenge in mind, though they didn’t always know what the effects would be.

A Word on Pranks

Putting anything in a person’s drink without their knowledge is both dangerous and legally punishable. There are some other popular pranks that make it seem like drugging someone is funny. The pranksters might be out for revenge or looking to publically humiliate the victim.

But doing that is always extremely dangerous. Even if the drug used is harmless (unlike Vicine), it may induce an allergic reaction in the victim. Or the drug might react badly with other medication that a person is taking. There is simply no way to predict how the victim’s body will react if you put something in their drink.

Safe Laxatives That Work

Consuming Visine as an alternative to a normal laxative is not just ineffective. It can be detrimental to your health. There’s no reason to rely on urban legends when there are many medically proven ways to relieve constipation.

For example, the following natural remedies can assist in the alleviation of constipation symptoms:

1. Senna

This natural product works like a charm in the treatment of constipation. You may buy it in tablet form, but drinking it in the form of a tea will also clear up constipation in no time. But senna should never be used during pregnancy or lactation, as it has been linked with birth abnormalities.

2. Epsom Salt

Taking Epsom salt with water is also a quick remedy for constipation, although the taste is awful. Simply mix two to six teaspoons of Epsom salt with water and drink.

3. Pear, Prune, or Mango Juice

Most fruits will cause a light form of diarrhea when eaten in excess. But a surefire way to alleviate constipation is prune juice. You need to make sure that the juice is pure prune juice and not diluted with water or other juices. Diluted prune juice will not be nearly as potent as pure pressed juice.

4. Castor Oil

This traditional remedy for constipation really works. Mix approximately 15 ml of Castor oil with a glass of juice to make it easier to swallow. The effects are almost immediate.

5. Milk of Magnesia

Milk of magnesia is another natural product, used in a dosage of approximately 15 ml on a glass of water. Constipation should be alleviated within a day thereafter.

In Conclusion

Will Visine in a drink cause diahhrea? Probably not, but it will cause many other serious health problems.

Visine can have a detrimental and lasting effect on a person’s health and wellbeing. In spite of popular misconceptions, countless recorded cases show that the ingestion of Visine amounts to being poisoned. This misuse of the medication can result in the person slipping into a coma, or even worse than that.

It is therefore advised to stick to what we know and love Visine for: a cure for red, dry, and itchy eyes.

 

References:

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002590.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4252297/

Health

How to Faint

Written By: Arch
Arch

Fainting, or passing out, is usually a natural occurrence due to a lack of oxygen reaching the brain. As soon as the brain experiences a lack of oxygen, loss of consciousness occurs. Fainting may also be brought on intentionally by restricting the blood flow to the brain, causing this lack of oxygen.

It is very important to know exactly what happens to your body and your brain when you faint. This article explains the process of fainting, and it also explains how to faint on purpose. But doing so may become dangerous, so we also cover how to fake a faint convincingly.

What Happens To Your Brain and Body When You Faint

It is very common for people to faint for various different reasons which may include heat exhaustion, low blood pressure, standing for too long, or standing up too quickly, to name a few. Another reason may be that it was simply brought on intentionally. It is, however, extremely important that you know exactly how to faint before attempting it, to ensure that you do not injure yourself or someone else.

First, you need to understand exactly what happens to your body when you pass out.

Decreased Blood Flow

Either your blood pressure drops or your heart rate slows down, causing the blood flow to the brain to suddenly decrease, which in turn decreases the oxygen flowing to the brain. It is important to note that when the brain is deprived of oxygen, it could result in brain damage, disability, or even death.

If the brain is without oxygen for only 3 minutes, brain damage is extremely likely to occur. After 5 minutes, death is imminent.

Loss of Consciousness

Fainting comes with loss of consciousness, and this isn’t always immediate. Some experience slurred speech, as well as loss of vision or blurred vision, before they pass out.

Falling

Loss of consciousness usually results in the body going limp, causing the person to fall down hard and suddenly. If you feel you are about to faint, or you’re planning to do it on purpose, steer clear of any sharp objects or furniture which may cause you injury.

Quick Recovery

Fainting does not usually last very long and is followed by a quick recovery. However, most people still feel tired and disorientated for a few minutes after waking. Ensure that you lie down for a few minutes after waking with your feet higher than your heart to assist the blood flow back to your heart and brain.

Knowing How to Faint

To ensure that you do not hurt yourself or someone else, it is important that you learn how to faint correctly if you are adamant to try it. Here are a few tried and tested ways to faint. Always have someone with you in case something goes wrong and be careful when attempting any of these since it could be very dangerous:

Hyperventilation and Other Breathing Pattern Changes

There are different ways to achieve fainting through hyperventilation like breathing in and out very quickly until you feel lightheaded. You can also put your head between your legs, taking approximately 10 deep breaths and standing up quickly. This causes your blood pressure to drop. You then need to put your thumb in your mouth and push your breath hard towards your thumb without allowing the breath to escape your mouth.

Holding Your Breath

By holding your breath, you can deprive your body of oxygen. Your body will go numb and you will feel lightheaded. But this will not work if you are unable to hold your breath for a long time.

Skip Taking Your Blood Pressure Medication

Changes in your blood pressure often result in fainting. If you regularly take blood pressure drugs, stop using them in time for your fainting spell.

Starvation

Starving yourself may also result in fainting due to low blood pressure caused by the lack of nutrients. Note that this can have negative long-term effects on the body. It also isn’t convenient because you can’t time it precisely.

How to Pretend to Faint

Over the years, people have induced fainting in various ways, and it can be extremely dangerous to do so. For example, some attempted it by using chloroform. In the movies, people often knock each other out by applying chloroform to a piece of cloth. But attempting to do so will cause a sharp headache, and fainting isn’t always guaranteed. Inhaling high dosages is lethal, so don’t attempt this method.

Inhaling smoke into your lungs and keeping it there without exhaling for a length of time will cause you to faint. However, experimenting with smoke inhalation can easily be fatal. It can permanently affect the health of your respiratory system. The same goes for any attempts to cut off your airflow by choking yourself.

With all that taken into consideration, it is plain to see that fainting on purpose is a bad idea. Instead, you can fake it convincingly if you need to get out of an unpleasant situation.

Here is how to fake fainting without arousing suspicion:

Set the Scene

Before people pass out, they usually feel some unpleasant symptoms first. Don’t pretend to faint mid-sentence. Instead, you should slow down your movements, and tell the people around you that you feel dizzy or unwell. It’s not necessary to draw much attention to it but do make it clear you’re feeling sick.

Choose the Right Location

Like with real fainting, there is a risk of injury or even death if you fall in the wrong place. Find a spot that is safe for falling. You may want to sit on a chair before you pretend to pass out.

Fall

Fall off the chair in a safe way, landing on the backside of your thighs. If you’re standing up, fall to your knees first.

Lie Still, But Not Rigid

When people faint, others can still move their limbs, etc. Go limp and lie still for a short while.

“Wake Up” Slowly

Pretend to regain consciousness. People who fainted don’t usually know what happened. You can slowly open your eyes, take deep breaths, and ask for help standing up.

In Conclusion

In learning how to faint, it is important to know how dangerous and detrimental to your health it may be to bring it on by yourself. You should always be very careful not to hurt yourself or others while doing this. Fake fainting is the safer option, and nobody will be able to tell the difference.

 

References:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/whats-happening-when-you-faint-2-201601118969
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=56&contentid=1636<
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3074272/

Health

To Uber or Not to Uber? How Much Is an Ambulance Ride

Written By: Arch
Arch

With prices rising on a daily basis and our income not seeing the same steep climb, unforeseen circumstances like sudden medical expenses are a headache for most middle and low-income families.

To make sure you have the funds for possible medical expenses, it is important to know how much is an ambulance ride. Unplanned medical expenses can mean an emergency situation requiring the use of an ambulance. Take a look at these estimates to make sure you have enough money put aside for this situation.

Planning Your Budget

Due to the fact that income is currently not at all in line with the steep rise in monthly expenses, not everyone has the means to afford health insurance. This, unfortunately, means that unexpected medical bills will have to be paid out of pocket, and usually up front.

If that is the case for you, you have to do careful budgeting for medical expenses. How much is an ambulance ride? The answer to this question will obviously differ from country to country and even city to city. When the patient has to pay for the service, it can be ridiculously expensive.

Ambulance Costs in America

In the United States, using the ambulance typically isn’t free. Some cities are able to cover the costs of ambulances through taxes. However, with no insurance and no help from your city, you may be in for a chilling ride once you receive that bill.

The average cost for an ambulance ride usually ranges between $375.00 to $1200.00 depending on the type of emergency and the treatment required. On top of that, the ride is billed by the mile as well, ranging anything from $9.00 to $20.00 per mile.

Many people have complained of receiving bills of over $2500.00 and even bills as high as $18,000.00.

But How Can I Afford That?

Facing a bill that is likely to be more than your monthly income may be daunting. Take a look at these tips that may help you out of this tight spot.

Don’t Ignore It

Whatever you do, do not ignore the bill. It will only lead to more costs and interest. The problem will surely not go away.

Check If It’s Correct

As soon as you receive your bill, check the medical codes to ensure that the medical attention you received is in fact what you are being billed for. If you are unsure, call the ambulance service provider and go through each code with them. Ask them to correct any errors there might be.

Do Your Research

Check whether other ambulance services in your area would have charged you a similar fee. If their fees differ vastly from the company who billed you, you may be able to appeal to the company for a reduction or discount.

There are other discounts as well. You may be able to get 20% off if you pay the bill within a certain timeframe.

Start Paying Immediately

Start paying off your bill immediately, even while you are negotiating. The chances that the bill will be written off completely are next to nothing. Therefore, you should start repaying it in installments right away.

Talk to Your Health Insurance

If you have health insurance, it is important that you check to make sure that they have compensated the ambulance company correctly.

If you have insurance but received a bill, research your options. In some states, it’s illegal for hospitals to demand more money for this service than what is covered by health insurance.

Check All Your Other Insurances

It helps to check all the insurances you might have other than health insurance. Vehicle or life insurance may have an ambulance benefit you didn’t even know about. Be sure to call all of your insurances to make sure you are not missing out on something.

Arrange a Payment Plan

After you have done the above, arrange an affordable payment plan with the ambulance service. They will usually be cooperative, as they have many clients in a similar situation.

Do I Really Need an Ambulance?

Taking the astronomical cost of ambulance rides into account, many people wonder if they can avoid an ambulance ride. The answer depends on your circumstances.

Non-Emergency

If you’re not in any immediate danger, and you can move freely, it is perfectly fine to call a Lyft, an Uber, or a cab. You can also get someone you trust to drive you to the hospital. For example, pregnant women who are about to go into labor (without any complications) don’t generally need an ambulance.

On the other hand, you should avoid driving if you are unwell or if you’re going into labor.

Emergency Situations

Ambulances are for emergency situations where every minute counts. This includes seizures, choking, stroke symptoms, sharp chest pains, and more. Since ambulances can use sirens and cross speed limits, they can get you to the hospital very quickly.

But some argue that it can be faster to have someone drive you. Even Uber can be quicker if you find a driver who is in your neighborhood. All this may be true, but it ignores an important fact.

Ambulances arrive with a team of medical professionals. They can help keep the patient in a stable condition, and they can administer some drugs or first aid. Taking this into account, it is always better to call an ambulance for emergencies.

Situations Where the Patient Can’t Be Moved

Here is another consideration. Sometimes, people can’t be safely moved after an injury. Call 911 and follow all their instructions. It may be necessary to wait for an ambulance to arrive, with experts who can move the patient without causing damage.

The Takeaway

To make sure that you are prepared for any unforeseen circumstances, it is important to know is the cost of an ambulance ride. Prices may start around $375 and may run up to thousands of dollars depending on distance and type of treatment.

If you think your bill is too high, you can always approach the ambulance service and ask for clarification. Before you start paying the bill, make sure all your insurances have done their bit to contribute to the fees.

 

References:

https://www.londonambulance.nhs.uk/calling-us/when-to-call-999/advice-if-you-are-due-to-give-birth/
https://health.costhelper.com/ambulance.html

The Ever Ticking Time Bomb – How Many People Die a Day?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Stories about escape and survival can act as an inspiration. People are able to survive natural disasters, accidents, attacks, health issues, and mental health issues. But not everyone is so lucky.

There are a million ways to die, but how many people die a day? What are the major causes of death and how do we improve our chances for a long life?

It is not uncommon to wonder about this. People want to know exactly when their time is up. However, knowing all the statistics about mortality rates won’t give us a definitive answer. All we can do is steer clear from dangerous situations and make lifestyle choices that promote our health and wellbeing.

Here is where the numbers can help. You can take a look at the statistics and ascertain all the main reasons causes of death. By doing so, you can learn what changes you need to make in your everyday life.

Crunching The Numbers: How Many People Die A Day Worldwide

More than 150,000 people die each day worldwide, while the daily birthrate is approximately 360,000. This means that for every death that is recorded, more than two births are recorded alongside it. If you feel ever feel stricken by grief or fear, remembering those births can be a source of comfort.

Knowing how many people die a day lets researchers estimate population growth. It also helps experts pinpoint the factors necessary to sustain all these extra lives coming into the world.

Main Cause Of Deaths Around The World

Sometimes, we need to see the numbers in order to realize that we need to make better choices. The top 10 causes of deaths around the world are the following:

1. Ischaemic Heart Disease

At the top of the list, being responsible for nearly 9 million deaths per year is ischaemic heart disease, which is the narrowing of the arteries. It is usually caused by excess fat accumulating in the blood vessels. This causes blood flow and oxygen to be restricted to the heart, resulting in a heart attack.

Although this may happen to anyone, the main risk factors are obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. To avoid becoming one of this statistic, make sure to control your weight.

2. Stroke

The second cause of death worldwide is a stroke. This happens when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, causing the death of brain cells, which in turn may lead to disability, brain damage, or even death. People who had a stroke can suffer paralysis in their face or on one side of their body. This may be temporary or permanent.

Genes play a factor in your chances of having a stroke. But the odds are also influenced by lifestyle choices such as smoking or inactivity.

3. Lower Respiratory Infections

The third health condition on the list is also the most frequent cause of death in infants. It includes the flu, bronchitis, or pneumonia. Timely vaccination can reduce the risk of these infections.

4. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

One of the leading causes of death among smokers is COPD, which includes the disease emphysema. This disease is not exclusive to smokers, but affects them in the largest part.

Emphysema commonly occurs in males and can be hereditary. But choosing a smoke-free lifestyle will lower your chances of developing this condition.

5. Lung Cancer

Another disease largely claiming the lives of smokers, is lung cancer. This disease accounts for over 1.6 million deaths each year, of which more than 80% are smokers.

6. Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease that affects many people, and it claims slightly less than 1.6 million lives each year. Many of its symptoms can be treated, and lifestyle changes can help people avoid type 2 diabetes. It is strongly linked with obesity.

7. Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Causing a gradual loss of cognitive function, these neurodegenerative diseases claim more than one and a half million lives each year. Prevention is still being researched, but there are a few ways you can mitigate the risk of developing these conditions.

A healthy diet and regular exercise are the best places to start. It’s also important to stimulate the mind and stay socially active when you get older. Since the conditions are often connected to head trauma, people of every age should be careful to avoid head injuries.

8. Cholera

A disease which first-world countries rarely have to worry about, cholera is very common in Africa. This disease takes the lives of nearly 1.4 million people each year, of which more than a third are children. But many of these deaths can be prevented by improving the quality of drinking water and sanitation in a region.

9. Tuberculosis (TB)

Although TB has been treated well since the early 1400s, a third of the world’s population is still affected by it, and the disease kills nearly 1.3 million people each year. It is highly contagious, and TB patients need to avoid contact with crowds. Vaccinations can help prevent this dangerous illness.

10. Road Accidents

Unfortunately, even when you are in good health, the unforeseen event of a road accident may occur. Road accidents account for approximately 1.4 million deaths worldwide. This is one of the reasons why countries spend so much money on road safety campaigns. While you can’t always prevent trouble, avoiding drunk driving is a must, and you should also take care to rest enough during long trips.

In Conclusion

Thousands of people die each day for reasons that could have been avoided. Most daily deaths are attributed to health issues. The lives we lead impact our life expectancy in many ways.

We need to choose a healthy lifestyle to improve our chances. Healthier living also means a more balanced and fulfilled life, so don’t delay making changes in your habits.

If it helps you stay optimistic, think of it this way. Lives are lost to create space for the lives gained. Whilst 150,000 people lose their lives on a daily basis, the world gains more than 360,000 new residents each day.

 

References:

https://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs310/en/index2.html
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/leading-causes-of-death.htm
https://www.ecology.com/birth-death-rates/
https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/research_progress/prevention

How Bold Is Mold? Can Mold Just Be Wiped Off?

Written By: Arch
Arch

At some point or another, we all encountered mold. It may appear in the shower, on the ceiling of a closed room, or on a slice of bread that we forgot in the bread bin. Mold is a part of our everyday life and can happen in any home, no matter how clean.

But can mold just be wiped off, or do you need to clean it more thoroughly? We look into this question, as well as any health concerns that accompany mold.

Can Mold Just Be Wiped Off?

The quick and easy answer to that question is “No”. But to answer it properly, we need to explain where the problem comes from.

Mold is a type of fungus that naturally grows outdoors and assists with the decomposition of leaves and trees. Mold spores, the seeds that assist in its production, are released into the air, and they can travel into our homes.

When mold is combined with dampness and humidity, it starts growing. Rooms with poor circulation are especially prone to this. In order to eradicate mold growth, these environmental conditions need to be changed.

Mildew is one form of mold, and it is white and powdery. Other forms of mold can be gray, black, or green. Some varieties are extremely toxic, but all forms of mold have a detrimental effect on your health. It can also disintegrate and discolor fabrics or leave behind a nasty odor.

The Effects of Mold and Mildew on Your Health:

Mold and mildew pose several different risks, but the most concerning of them all is the risk to your health. Inhaling mold spores can be detrimental to a person’s respiratory system. Here are the main health concerns when it comes to mold and mildew:

1. Irritation

The most basic and least dangerous effect mold may have on your body is the irritation it might cause you. This irritation ranges from your eyes, throat, skin, to your nose or even your lungs being affected. Breathing in small amounts of mold, or even touching it may result in irritation, skin rash, shortness of breath and even in some more severe cases, fever.

Simple over-the-counter medication should alleviate the symptoms. If the mold found its way into your eyes, immediately wash it out with clean water and contact your General Practitioner.

2. Asthma And Allergies

In more severe cases, being exposed to mold or breathing in the spores may cause an allergic reaction, especially if the mold is cleaned or disturbed in any way. The spores can worsen a person’s asthma symptoms.

It is important that your General Practitioner is notified that you have been exposed to mold in, so that they can prescribe antifungal medication or inhalers.

3. Lung Infection

When exposed to mold or mildew for an extended period of time, serious lung infections may occur. In such a case, visit your General Practitioner for antifungal medication. Our bodies possess the required antibodies to fight off mold. But with exposure to large quantities of it, your immune system isn’t able to fight off the attack.

How to Prevent Mold and Mildew

To ensure that your home stays free of mold and mildew, take care of any moisture problems. Moisture assisted by the summer heat creates a humid environment perfect for growing mold. This may mean that a professional is required to take care of the underlying issue that is causing the moisture – for instance, a leaking pipe.

Should you require further means to extract the moisture from your house, there are several chemicals you can use. If an unpleasant odor is present, leave charcoal or bicarbonate of soda out.

Once the moisture problem has been solved, invest in a dehumidifier or even an air conditioner, ensuring that the warm moisture-infused air stays outside. The constant circulation of air in every room also helps avoid mold growth.

How to Properly Clean Mold and Mildew

It is inevitable that mold and mildew may be present in our lives at one point or another but the effect thereof may be detrimental to your health. The important question is – how do we make sure this mold and mildew does not affect our health and is eradicated as soon as it shows its head? Can mold just be wiped off or does it require a deep clean? Take a look at these helpful tips:

1. Wear a Mask

Before diving into the cleaning part, be sure to wear a mask, bandanna, or cloth over your mouth and nose to avoid breathing in any mold spores that get released as you clean.

2. Check Your Surface

To ascertain what exactly needs to be done, it is important to know exactly what surface you are working with. Every surface requires a different form of cleaning, a different detergent, and different post-cleaning care. Here are a few surfaces and some basic ways to clean each one:

  • Tiles

Clean tiles with warm water and a bleach solution to ensure the mold is killed on the first contact.

  • Fabrics

To clean mold or mildew from fabrics, wash them thoroughly with detergent and scrub the stains with a soft brush. Leave the clothing item in the sun to dry.

If any mold or mildew is still present, a bleach solution should be used, or you can go for a mixture of lemon juice or vinegar mixed with salt. Rub the mixture into the fabric, and leave it in the sun to bleach. Ensure that the fabrics are tested for colorfastness beforehand.

  • Wood

In order to clean a wooden surface, wash it thoroughly with a detergent and warm water. Apply heat to the area to ensure that the moisture is extracted from the wood. Should the mold return, it may be wise to replace that portion of the wood.

  • Ceiling Board

A moldy ceiling must be washed with a bleach and warm water mixture, treated with antifungal treatment from the top side, and repainted with a mold-free paint or road paint. You may have considerable expenses if you find mold on the ceiling boards.

3. Stop the Growth Before It Starts

As soon as you notice a moldy spot, wash the area immediately with warm water and some form of detergent. If it is a surface which cannot stain, a bleach detergent can ensure that the mold is not only removed but killed as well.

Final Thought

Mold can’t just be wiped off. In fact, doing so will actually assist mold growth since the dampness remains. It is imperative that the mold is properly cleaned or scrubbed away and that the area is dried thoroughly. Make sure that all moist-ridden areas in your home are properly treated by a professional to avoid the regrowth of mold.

 

References:

http://www.ehs.ufl.edu/programs/ih/ieq/mold/
https://extension2.missouri.edu/gh5928
http://www2.furman.edu/studentlife/housing/services/Pages/mold.aspx

Health

The Science of Human Breathing – How Many Breaths per Minute Is Average for an Adult?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Your respiratory rate, or the number of breaths per minute, is one of the four vital signs. The others are blood pressure, body temperature, and pulse. Each vital sign, including the respiratory rate, is associated with a number or range which is considered normal/healthy.

With this in mind, you should know that the measurements may vary depending on a person’s sex, weight, age, and a few other factors. In this article, we’ll answer the question of how many breaths per minute is average for an adult. Then, we will outline the causes of a higher or lower respiratory rate.

Children’s normal respiratory rate differs from adults, and the article explores this as well.

Breathing 101

As you inhale, oxygen goes into your lungs and moves to your organs. Exhaling releases carbon dioxide from your body, allowing for an optimal balance between the two gasses. But how many breaths per minute is average for an adult to reach this balance?

Assuming you are resting and in perfect health, the normal adult breathing rate ranges from 12 to 20 breaths every 60 seconds. At this tempo, your body releases carbon dioxide as soon as it gets produced. A lower or higher number may indicate a breathing disorder or an underlying health issue.

Children’s Respiratory Rate

Children’s average respiratory rate keeps changing until they reach adulthood. Infants (up to 12 months old) have a normal respiratory rate of between 30 and 60 breaths per minute. Toddlers (no more than 3 years old) take between 24 and 40 breaths in a minute.

The numbers are similar for preschoolers (3 – 6 years of age) and they range between 22 and 34 breaths every 60 seconds. Until they reach their teens, schoolchildren usually take 18 to 30 breaths every minute. The number drops to between 12 and 16 for teens (12 -18 years of age).

Measuring the Respiratory Rate

Determining the number of breaths per minute is pretty straightforward even if you are not a medical professional. However, there are a few things you should know to ensure you get the right number.

First, the respiratory rate needs to be measured while a person is resting. This means you should avoid taking their respiratory rate immediately after physical activity, and that includes walking.

Additionally, people may inadvertently change their breathing pattern if they know it’s being measured. Due to this, it’s best to discretely observe and count the breaths without notifying your loved one. Ask them to do the same for you if you’re interested in your own breathing pattern.

Nurses sometimes employ a neat trick and pretend to be taking the patient’s pulse or other vitals while they are actually measuring the respiratory rate. To get the right number, you should closely look at the person’s chest movement and use a stopwatch.

Indicators to Look for

If a person is uncomfortable, his or her respiratory rate is likely to increase. Look for a tightening in the neck while taking the measurement, since it may indicate a respiratory disruption. Wheezing or other strange sounds usually show that there’s an underlying condition that affects the breathing apparatus.

What Does the Measurement Show?

Simply put, the respiratory rate shows how frequently one’s brain sends a signal to tell the body it’s time to breathe. The brain relays the signal more frequently if there’s a high carbon dioxide level or low oxygen level.

For example, an infection may heighten the carbon dioxide production, even though oxygen levels are normal. To release excess gas, the brain pushes the body to breathe more.

However, there are certain narcotic medications that can disrupt normal brain signals. They might numb the brain’s responses, causing a person to breathe less frequently. Hyperventilation, or an extremely high breathing rate, might be triggered by pain or severe anxiety.

Causes of Abnormal Respiration Rate

Under normal circumstances, the brain automatically regulates breathing as a response to physical activity, excitement, or fear. The rate quickly reverts to normal once a person calms down or rests. But there are a few medical conditions that can cause people to regularly breathe faster or slower.

High Respiration

  1. Cardiovascular problems– Your heart cannot get a sufficient amount of oxygen if it is pumping irregularly. This leads to a higher respiration rate.
  2. Dehydration – As your body tries to supply a sufficient amount of energy to dehydrated cells, your breathing becomes faster.
  3. Fever – A raised bodily temperature impacts the respiration rate. By making you breathe more, your brain attempts to help you deal with the excess heat.
  4. Lung diseases – Needless to say, different respiratory conditions like COPD, pneumonia, and asthma speed up the breathing pattern.

Low Respiration

  1. Substance abuse – Narcotics (illegal or medical) can significantly lower the respiration. In some cases, an overdose can cause a person to stop breathing altogether and may lead to death.
  2. Sleep apnea – People who suffer from this sleep condition experience episodes of low and high respiration.
  3. Alcohol – Excessive consumption of alcohol is yet another self-inflicted cause of low respiration.
  4. Metabolic processes – To balance out any abnormal metabolic activity, the brain might tell your body to slow down your breathing.
  5. Brain damage – A stroke or other forms of brain damage can also result in low respiration.

Note: Feeling short of breath (dyspneic) may or may not be associated with abnormal respiratory rate.

When Is the Time to See a Doctor?

Mild changes in the respiratory pattern are no cause for concern. But if you’re experiencing hyper- or hypoventilation accompanied by other symptoms (like fatigue, a sore throat, or a fever), you should seek medical help.

Should the symptoms include bluish skin, gurgling while breathing, or chest pain, a visit to the emergency room is a must. The same goes when the breathing rate becomes dangerously low.

Take a Deep Breath and Relax

In this day and age, stress is among the most common factors that can cause a perfectly healthy individual to struggle with breathing. On the bright side, you should be able to deal with an abnormal stress-induced respiratory rate with simple relaxation exercises.

 

References:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10881-vital-signs

Click to access assmttools.pdf


https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007198.htm
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ams2.252

Health

How Do Lice Look – Growth, Morphology, and Treatment

Written By: Arch
Arch

Albeit annoying and sometimes hard to get rid of, lice are completely harmless. No need to worry or feel embarrassed if you or your children contract them. That said, they are highly contagious and spread fast unless treated in time. This is one of the reasons lice epidemics happen at nurseries, schools, and daycares.

How do lice look and are you likely to contract them?

Unfortunately, there are up to 12 million lice infestation cases every year in the US alone. Women and girls tend to be more susceptible to them, but this doesn’t mean men or boys are immune.

Recognizing them isn’t too difficult. The following sections should help you understand how to spot lice and treat them as well.

What Are Lice?

Pediculus humanus capitis, or the head louse, is an ectoparasite that thrives on the human head/hair. An adult louse has six legs which allow it to easily attach to the human head. The legs are also stumpy and short, which is why a louse cannot walk on flat surfaces or jump. This parasite doesn’t have wings.

Head lice affect only humans. Other kinds of lice, like Pediculus schaeffi, infect chimpanzees, and there are also species that target birds, other mammals, or different human body parts.

To spot head lice in a timely manner, you should know more about their development and morphology.

How Do Lice Look – Different Growth Stages

Head lice have three development stages. They start as nits or eggs and then go into the nymph stage before they reach full maturity (usually in a week or so). Each developmental stage has a different appearance.

Nits (Lice Eggs)

Before a louse egg hatches, it looks like a small brown (sometimes yellow or tan) dot on a hair. They usually hatch within two weeks, and the nit looks clear or white after hatching. It remains on the hair.

In most cases, the female louse positions the eggs near the scalp. However, this may vary in different climates because the embryo development depends on the temperature. For example, a female louse might lay the eggs 6 or more inches down the hair in warm climates. On the other hand, the eggs appear about 5mm from the scalp in cold weather.

The female secretes a special glue which contains keratin-like proteins to firmly attach to the hair. It is one of the reasons why the eggs are hard to remove.

A single female louse can lay up to four eggs per day. The eggs are oval and roughly 0.8mm long, and there is a miniature cap on top, which is breached once the louse hatches.

Nymphs

When lice hatch, they go through three molting stages before they reach full maturity. However, it can be quite tricky to spot the difference between a mature and a nymph louse because the metamorphosis process is subtle.

Size is the only visible difference. Adult lice have a longer abdomen compared to nymphs and it increases with each molting stage.

Some eggs might fail to hatch, especially if the humidity is not favorable. As nymphs have a voracious appetite (they feed on human blood), some may overeat and rupture their gut. This means that nymph mortality is very high during the first few days of their life.

Mature Lice

Mature head lice are 2.5 to 3.0mm long and quite flat. Their body is composed of the head, thorax, and abdomen. The sections of the thorax are fused together but they are clearly distinguishable from the abdomen and the head. Adult lice are grey but the color may differ depending on the environment and their abdomen appears reddish after feeding.

A fully-grown louse has a pair of eyes and antennae, which extend from its head. The lice mouth is perfectly designed for sucking blood and piercing the skin. But unless a louse is feeding, the piercing and sucking parts stay retracted within the mouth.

Both male and female lice have 6 legs which extend from the thorax. On male lice, the first pair of legs is a bit bigger to allow for easier copulation. All adult lice have a claw on each leg, which allows them to firmly hold onto the host’s hair. Despite the fact that lice cannot walk or jump, they are capable of climbing really fast and moving from one host to the other.

As for the abdomen, there are seven sections you might be able to distinguish. The last one contains the anus and genitals, and the first six have a pair of breathing spiracles each.

Interesting Fact: Female lice a bit larger than the males.

Other Lice Symptoms

In addition to the visible nits or lice, the infestation comes with a few other symptoms. Those affected usually experience a tickling sensation because the lice move around the head. This may cause itchiness and sores from excessive scratching.

It is not uncommon to feel irritated or have trouble sleeping, especially with children affected by lice. If any of these symptoms occur, wet your child’s hair and part it with a fine-toothed comb to check for lice. You should be able to see the miniature insect moving around and the nits appear to be cemented to the hair.

Treatment Options

When it comes to treatment, you can go for over-the-counter (OTC) shampoos or prescription medication. The OTC shampoos usually contain permethrin and pyrethrin, which effectively kill the lice after a few applications.

Prescription medications include benzyl alcohol lotion, malathion, or lindane shampoo. These medications are rubbed into the scalp/ hair and left for a few minutes before rinsing. The application itself is not challenging. But you need to follow the prescription instructions to the T to avoid eye and skin irritation.

In the case of infestation, it is also important to thoroughly wash the clothes that might be infected. The same goes for pillowcases, linen, or any other fabric that might come in contact with lice.

There’s a Scratch for Evey Itch

It is a common misconception that lice prefer dirty hair. In fact, they’d rather infect perfectly clean hair and scalp. Prevention isn’t always possible.

The good news is that is quite easy to spot them when you know what to look for. In the early (nit) stages, lice eggs might look the same as dandruff or common dirt. But unlike dandruff or dirt, lice cannot be easily combed out.

If you are not sure whether it’s lice or not, you should consult with a doctor, especially if there are other signs of infection, such as itching.

 

References:

https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/head-lice.html
https://www.headlice.org/faq/louse.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/head-lice/symptoms-causes/syc-20356180
https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/epi.html

Health

Emergency Birth Control Usage and Dangers – How Effective Is Plan B

Written By: Arch
Arch

The morning-after pill, also known as Plan B, is one of the most widespread ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy in case of an emergency. It delivers results if your usual contraception method fails. But exactly how effective is Plan B? Are there any hidden dangers?

In most cases, Plan B pills are completely safe to use. However, they might cause some side effects, as the pills affect the hormonal balance.

Some women feel anxious before taking the pill and the aftermath may leave them saddened, worried, or even shameful. These are just some of the reasons why you should get better acquainted with Plan B and how it works.

Plan B – Definition and Active Ingredients

Plan B is a progestin-only contraception pill which should be exclusively used in emergency cases. It stops or delays the ovarian egg release, and so prevents unwanted pregnancy. This pill contains the same ingredients as regular birth control medications. But the dose is much higher.

To be precise, one pill has 1.5mg of levonorgestrel, which is a common ingredient in other day-after contraception as well. It’s important to note that Plan B doesn’t affect the ability to conceive in the long run, if properly taken.

The pill shouldn’t be confused with abortion tablets or with common birth control. The high levels of levonorgestrel make it unsuitable for regular intake. It’s also important to remember that Plan B doesn’t protect from any STDs.

Things You Should Know about Levonorgestrel

Being the main Plan B active ingredient, levonorgestrel is responsible for preventing unwanted pregnancy. This hormonal medication appears in other day-after pills like Take Action, My Way, Next Choice One Dose, etc.

The effects of levonorgestrel depend on where the woman is in her reproductive cycle. It either prevents/delays ovulation or stops fertilization. In some cases, the medication changes the uterus lining, making it impossible for a fertilized egg to get implanted.

That said, it does not affect fetus development after an egg gets fertilized and implanted into the uterus. In other words, the pill doesn’t work for pregnant women.

How Effective Is Plan B?

The effectiveness of this emergency contraception varies based on the time you take it. In general, most levonorgestrel-based pills are up to 89% effective if you take them less than 72 hours after the unprotected intercourse.

According to the manufacturer, these pills are 95% effective when taken 24 hours after intercourse. Nevertheless, this emergency contraception might work up to 5 days after. The effectiveness drops to about 40% in this case.

Some researchers speculate that the pill’s effectiveness might be lower than indicated on the label. More studies might be needed to determine the exact percentage. But even taking that into account, Plan B is still one of the most effective methods of emergency contraception.

How to Take Plan B?

Like other levonorgestrel-based forms of contraception, Plan B is an over-the-counter medication. It can be easily obtained at any drugstore and the buyer doesn’t need proof of age or a prescription. Since it is most effective immediately after intercourse, you might consider keeping the pills in the medicine cabinet, just in case.

Just take the pill with some water or juice as soon as you suspect something went wrong, and it will do its magic. However, there are certain precautions you should know about.

Although safe, you shouldn’t take the pill if you suspect you were pregnant before the unprotected intercourse. The same goes for women who recently experienced menstrual bleeding much greater than usual. In rare cases, women might also be sensitive to levonorgestrel and have an allergic reaction.

There is a chance Plan B may react with other prescription and non-prescription drugs, food supplements, or vitamins. This is true for barbiturates, some HIV and seizure medications, and herbal remedies (particularly ones with St. John’s wort).

To avoid side effects or poor efficiency, it’s advisable to consult with a physician or a pharmacist.

What Are the Side Effects?

Most women can take Plan B without experiencing any negative effects. However, it is not uncommon for women to feel fatigued. Breast tenderness and light nausea are possible as well.

More serious symptoms may include dizziness, abdominal pain, menstrual changes, and vomiting. If the vomiting occurs a couple of hours after taking the pill, immediately consult with a gynecologist about repeating the dose.

Some vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods is normal after taking Plan B, but you should see a doctor if the bleeding becomes excessive. Levonorgestrel, the main active ingredient, is also known to cause a lighter or heavier period than usual. This is usually nothing to worry about.

However, women who experience persistent abdominal pain a few weeks after taking the pill should seek immediate medical help. Luckily, these cases are quite rare and they’re usually the result of other underlying conditions which might be triggered by Plan B.

Note: Unless a woman gets a period 3 weeks after taking the pill, she should still do a pregnancy test.

Prevention Is the Best Cure

The importance of proper contraception cannot be overstated. And again, resort to taking Plan B or any other emergency contraceptive only when absolutely necessary.

For the most optimal protection, it’s advisable to combine condoms and regular birth-control pills. This way, you are safe from unwanted pregnancy and also guard your body against common STDs. You can also resort to the pull-out method even when your partner is wearing a condom and you are on a pill.

Regular contraceptive medication is, of course, prescribed by your gynecologist. Self-medication isn’t safe, in spite of the fact some pills might be available over-the-counter. Remember, each woman reacts differently to the hormonal ingredients in regular contraceptive pills.

Congratulations, You Are Not Pregnant

When all is said and done, emergency contraceptives are there to provide the necessary help when you need it most.

It is best to take the pill the day after you had unprotected sex. But you shouldn’t take Plan B with other contraceptives. When in doubt, it’s best to get in touch with your doctor. Your reproductive health is of the utmost importance, so you should make sure you have trustworthy guidance.

 

References:

https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a610021.html
https://nccih.nih.gov/health/stjohnswort/sjw-and-depression.htm
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/morning-after-pill-emergency-contraception/whats-plan-b-morning-after-pill
https://ec.princeton.edu/questions/eceffect.html
https://ec.princeton.edu/questions/ec-review.pdf#page=3
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/morning-after-pill/about/pac-20394730

Health

Does Honey Work as a Face Wash For Acne?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Acne is a very common skin condition which can affect anyone. However, teens and adolescents have a higher chance of getting acne than adults because of hormones changes that happen at this age. The older you are, the less likely you are to get acne.

This skin condition can be caused by many factors, including stress, an unhealthy diet, and even air and water pollution. There are many ways of treating acne, both natural and medicinal. Natural ingredients are often a better choice because they don’t dry out the skin or cause side effects.

Honey is thought to be very good for your skin. Does honey work as a face wash for acne? The short answer is yes, and this article will cover all the benefits honey provides for your skin.

Benefits of Using Honey against Acne

Bees make honey out of glucose and fructose, and it contains vitamins, proteins, amino acids, minerals, and enzymes.  People have always used honey to treat various ailments, and they discovered that it’s very beneficial for the skin – you may have heard that Cleopatra bathed in honey and milk.

It can be used to treat burns, infections, rashes, psoriasis, and dandruff. This is why you can find honey on the list of ingredients for many skincare products.

It is used against acne because of its antibacterial properties. It serves as a natural antibiotic, killing bacteria that multiply in the skin pores.

You get acne when your pores containing hair follicles get clogged with dead cells and sebum, which is an oily substance your skin produces for lubrication. The bacteria feed on the sebum and multiply, causing pimples to appear.

The chemical properties of honey allow it to be efficient against bacteria. Some of the reasons for this are:

  • Bacteria cannot grow in an acidic environment, which is why the amino acids of honey are helpful.
  • Bees use propolis for building hives but it also has many health benefits. It can be used to kill bacteria, fungi, and many other harmful microorganisms.
  • Bacterial cells have difficulty reproducing because of the high quantity of sugars in honey, which puts pressure on them.
  • Unpasteurized honey speeds up the regeneration of skin cells and it soothes burns and rashes. It also removes dead and dry skin and uncovers the new skin which was previously stuck beneath. In other words, honey has exfoliating properties.

How to Prepare a Honey Face Mask at Home

Before you begin making a mask, consider which type of honey to use. You can use regular honey, bought at a farmers’ market, a local store, or directly from a honeybee farmer in your area. This type of honey is not bad if you want to consume it too. You can eat a spoonful a day to prevent diseases and even allergies.

On the other hand, there are medicinal types of honey which you can find in health foods stores and pharmacies. They are purified, and mostly without additives. These are often put in skincare products. The most common brands are Revamil and Manuka honey.

Does honey work as a face wash for acne? It does, and here is how to apply honey to your face step by step:

  • Mix two tablespoons of honey and a teaspoon of cinnamon into a paste.
  • Test if the mixture causes an allergic reaction by applying a tiny amount on the back of your hand. Leave it on for ten minutes and see if your skin becomes irritated, swollen or red. If that is not the case, you are good to go.
  • Cover your entire face with this paste, using your fingers or a cotton swab. Make sure your hands are clean if you are applying it manually.
  • Leave it on for half an hour. Then rinse it with room temperature water.
  • Do not leave the mask overnight. It is safer to remove it because honey is sticky and it can bind dust and other particles to your skin, which can cause an even worse breakout of acne.

If you do not like covering your entire face with honey, you can use this paste for spot treatment, only applying it to the areas of your skin that are affected by acne. Just cover the pimples with honey, and rinse it off after 30 minutes.

You can also use honey as a cleanser. Just use a tiny amount of honey mixed with some drops of water to massage your face gently. Do it for several minutes before rinsing it with warm water.

Side Effects of Honey Face Wash

You should not use honey masks if you are allergic to bee venom and pollen. Most people do not get allergic reactions from honey but you should double-check with a patch test prior to applying it. Side effects from allergies can manifest in the form of rashes, itching, burning, swelling, and gasping for air.

Other Ingredients You Can Pair with Honey

In case you are wondering why you should add cinnamon to your face mask, it is because it shares some great properties with honey. Cinnamon kills bacteria and other microbes, stopping them from multiplying. It also makes the skin smoother because it reduces pores.

Other helpful ingredients include green tea extract, tea tree oil, and alpha hydroxyl acids. All of them help with suppressing the growth of bacteria in your skin and unclogging the pores.

Bee Acne Free

Now that you know about the natural remedies which are beneficial in the battle against acne, you can use them to your advantage and prevent any future breakouts. You can cleanse your face with a honey solution once or twice a day, or use it to treat specific existing spots.  Also, eating a tablespoon of honey each day can serve as a good precaution against skin problems.

In case the natural way does not seem to be working, or you have a severe acne breakout, you can visit your doctor and ask for a professional opinion. There is a variety of oral and topical medications, but they may dry out your skin so use them cautiously.

 

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3611628/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5661189/
https://www.acneauthority.org/honey-for-acne/

Health

What Is VO2 Max?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Everyone knows that keeping fit is a good idea. There are plenty of proven health benefits to a healthier, more active lifestyle. But how can you work out just how fit you are?

Well, that’s what VO2 max is for. And what is VO2 max? Read on and find out why it is so important to your health!

Full Steam Ahead

VO2 max, also known as maximal aerobic capacity or peak oxygen uptake, is the measurement used to express your highest possible rate of oxygen consumption while exercising. It is the most reliable method for measuring cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), and can be used as an indicator of your overall fitness.

The name itself is made up of three parts: “V” is for volume, “O2” is for oxygen, and “max” is for maximum. VO2 max can be measured in two ways: as a relative rate, for example in milliliters of oxygen per kilogram of body mass per minute (mL/(kg·min) – something of a mouthful!); or as an absolute rate, such as in liters of oxygen per minute (L/min).

The relative rate is used in the field of endurance sports, where it is used to measure athletes’ comparative performances. It is only of limited use though, because a 2013 study published in the Journal of Experimental Biology showed that VO2 max doesn’t necessarily change in line with body mass. This means it needs to be subjected to the mercies of statistical analysis rather than being an accurate measure on its own merits.

Gotta Push Those Numbers Up

So, how do you find out what your VO2 max is? The most accurate method used during athletic and clinical tests involves hooking you up to sensors while you are on a treadmill or exercise bike. The intensity of the exercise is increased over time, and they measure your breathing rate and how much oxygen and carbon dioxide you are breathing in and out.

Eventually, you will reach your VO2 max when the amount of oxygen you consume stops going up despite the increasing physical workload. Essentially, they push you to your limit, then give you a number to tell you what it is.

Finding out your exact VO2 max isn’t always possible, or even a good idea for those with certain health conditions, as it involves such intense exercise. Fortunately, there is a range of ways to estimate it, including using the ratio between your resting and maximum heart rates, and the multi-stage fitness test (a.k.a. the dreaded beep test). Some modern fitness devices compare how much exercise you’ve done to factors like your age, height, weight and gender to find an estimate.

Give Me Your Digits

Now that you know what VO2 max is, and some of the ways that it can be determined, you’re likely wondering where you stand on the scale. Well, the average guy who hasn’t done any training will be sitting at around 35–40mL/(kg·min), while an average girl will be around 27–31mL/(kg·min). These numbers can be improved by training, though they will sadly but inevitably fall with age.

These fitness levels pale in comparison to elite athletes, mind you. The fittest runners are clocking in at 85mL/(kg·min) for the men, and around 77mL/(kg·min) for the women. The highest relative VO2 max is thought to have been recorded by Norwegian cyclist Oskar Svendsen when he was 18 years old. He managed an incredible 97.5mL/(kg·min).

Fit as a Fiddle

What makes knowing your VO2 max so useful? According to a statement published by the American Heart Association in 2016, it is the most accurate way of assessing cardiorespiratory fitness. This is important to measure, because your fitness level has been shown to have clear links to your risks of contracting a range of diseases, and even to how long you might live.

In 2002, a six-year study among over 6000 US veterans came to that conclusion. Their relative VO2 max levels were compared to their age and other risk factors, and then their death rates were recorded. The least fit subjects, apparently healthy participants and those with cardiovascular disease alike, were four times more likely to die than the fittest subjects.

According to the study, your level of CRF is a more accurate predictor of your risk of death than other known factors like obesity, having diabetes or high cholesterol, or being a smoker.

Live Longer, and Prosper

Now some good news: even the smallest improvement in your fitness can significantly improve your chances of a longer life. The American Heart Association’s statement indicated that just a minor improvement in fitness that should be achievable by the average person can increase your odds for survival by 10 to 25 percent.

Even better for the less sporty among us, the biggest benefits to be gained by upping your fitness are seen at the lower end of the scale. So, the less fit you are, the less you have to do to be improving your life. It’s good to know that you don’t have to be athletic to see returns from more exercise.

That’s no excuse to be lazy though. There are clear links between lower levels of fitness and increased chances of heart disease and overall likelihood of death. The fittest folks, meanwhile, were proven to live longer, and healthier lives, at lower risks of diseases and certain cancers. Maybe it’s time to unretire those old running shoes.

Hitting the Wall, and How It Can Help You

So, what is VO2 max? Simply put, it’s a way of measuring exactly how much oxygen you can pump through your system while exercising. It’s used to measure exactly how fit you are.

Your level of CRF is a reflection of how good your body is at getting oxygen out of the air and into your muscles. It is a very important indicator of your overall bodily health, and can be used to predict your chances of death.

High levels of fitness are linked to longer life and reduced chances of heart disease and cancer. In the least fit people, just a small improvement can massively help their chances for survival. If you want to live a longer, healthier life, you might want to consider how you can raise your fitness level, because every small bit helps.

 

References:

https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa011858
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000461

Health

Tips for Women Shaving Your Face

Written By: Arch
Arch

The thought of a woman shaving her face isn’t nearly as unusual as it was five years ago. With proponents across large swathes of the fashion world, from dermatologists to skin care vloggers, shaving your face is no longer just the province of the boys. There’s a range of potential benefits, including smoother skin, less hair left over, and easier to apply makeup.

Unlike most guys, though, the ladies weren’t taught by their dads the best path to a smoother chin. That’s why we’ve put together our top tips for women shaving your face, along with a bit of myth-busting for good measure.

A Distinct Lack of Yetis

First of all, let’s talk about the woolly mammoth in the room. Everyone knows that when you shave, the hair grows back thicker and coarser, right? Except that no, it actually doesn’t. Over the course of two studies, the first back in 1928 and the second in 1970, scientists determined that there is no connection between repeated shaving and increased length or width of hair growth.

Hair that is growing back after a shave might look thicker, but that’s because it has been cut along the thickest part of it. Uncut hair naturally tapers to a fine point, so it might appear finer, but the science has been in for a long time. It might also appear darker at first, but that’s because it hasn’t been lightened by sun exposure.

Also, it makes sense when you think about it. If this myth was true, we’d have a lot more guys looking like they’ve just lost their best friend Wilson at sea. There’d also be plenty of ladies who wouldn’t look out of place hanging out with Mr Tumnus.

Come and Visit Your Good Friend, Sweeny

How about those benefits, then? Well, in terms of smoother looking skin, shaving can be a good way to go. The action of the blade scraping across your skin has an exfoliating effect. This isn’t the same as a spa-bought dermaplaning though, which is more about exfoliation than hair removal.

Beauty experts and fashion bloggers agree that their foundation went on much more smoothly after shaving. Your skin is more evenly textured, and the smoother base means products are more easily absorbed. It might be a good idea to wait a bit before applying though, as your skin will be more sensitive after shaving.

Different Strokes for Different Folks

There are a number of options available to the novice face shaver, and opinions are split as to which works best. Everyone’s skin reacts differently to different treatments and products, so you may have to experiment a bit to find what works best for you.

Some veterans of the skin care field swear by men’s razors. They have specially designed handles and square heads which are more suited to the contours of your face. The blades are also tightly packed and sharply angled, which means that they provide a closer shave.

Other fashionistas prefer to use single-bladed eyebrow razors, with the one made by Tinkle coming in as the firm favorite. Look for a razor with a curved head, as it should be easier to work with.

Our Top Tips for Women When Shaving the Face

Do a Test Patch First

Before you commit to the whole shebang, test how your skin will react. Pick a small, easy-to-reach part of your face, like your side-burn area, and give your chosen method a try. If a few days pass and you haven’t developed any razor burn, ingrown hairs or whiteheads, you should be good to go.

Use a Clean, Sharp Razor

Shaving any area of your skin causes tiny cuts, so making sure your blade is clean is a no-brainer. Using a sharp razor helps to make sure that the blade spends its time cutting hair rather than your soon-to-be-smooth face.

Don’t use the same razor on your legs and face. It’ll be dulled from use, and probably not as clean as you’d think. Also, don’t shave if you have an active acne breakout, you might make it worse, and it could get infected.

Dry Shave (If You’re Using an Eyebrow Razor)

Some beauticians recommend using a cleanser before shaving, and then to dry your face thoroughly. Others have found that using an oil beforehand can help reduce redness and itching afterward.

In terms of technique, the method is fairly simple, though finding your own style might take some practice. Pull the skin taut, hold your razor at a 45-degree angle against your skin, then shave downward in short strokes. There are a number of YouTube tutorials out there too that can point you in the right direction.

Wet Shave (If  You’re Using a Men’s Razor)

There are a lot of options, but whatever product you choose, it’s a good idea to lubricate your face before shaving with a men’s razor. You could try using olive oil or a non-foaming cream. Either way, protecting your face against the aggressively angled blades will help to prevent any nicks and reduce irritation.

Shaving in the shower might also make things easier for you. The moisture and heat in the air will make the hairs stand up more, which should result in an easier shave.

Always Shave with the Grain

You should always make sure to shave in the same direction that the hair is growing. Shaving in the opposite direction increases the likelihood of irritation and cuts. Just one or two strokes should be enough.

Post-Shave Pampering

What you do after putting down the razor can make or break the shave. Rinse your skin with cold water when you’ve finished shaving to help reduce any inflammation and irritation. It will also reduce bleeding if you’ve picked up any nicks or cuts.

Afterward, apply a gentle moisturizer. You’ve just removed a layer of dead skin from your face; it’s earned a little love. Keep in mind that any products that don’t normally sting might do after shaving. We’re looking at you, Menthol.

Shave Consistently

Shaving is not a one-time deal. For the best results, you’ll have to be willing to keep up a regular routine. Once or twice a week seems to work for most women, though everyone’s hair grows back at different speeds. If you let it grow out, you might get stubble, which can take a few days for the sun to lighten.

The Cutting Edge of Beauty

With dermatologists, models, actresses, and beauty bloggers aplenty raving about the benefits, shaving your face could be the final piece of your face-care puzzle. It exfoliates your skin, removes hairs not caught by lasers and creams, and even helps your makeup to go on more smoothly.

Just make sure to follow our tips for women shaving your face, and you’ll be on the road to smoother, more radiant skin.

 

References:

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ar.1090370405
https://www.jidonline.org/article/S0022-202X(15)47888-1/pdf

Health

What Is Intrinsic Motivation?

Written By: Arch
Arch

When was the last time you did something just for the fun of it? Have you stopped to smell the roses recently, painted a picture, or had an extra-long bath just because? If so, you were acting under the influence of what psychologists call ‘intrinsic motivation’.

So, what is intrinsic motivation? How can you tell what’s driving you, and what are some ways to harness this for your benefit?

For the Love of It

Psychologists have been studying the concept of intrinsic motivation since the 1970s. In a nutshell, if you do something because you want to, it is intrinsically motivated. If you do something because of some external reason, like a reward or punishment, then it is extrinsically motivated.

So, if you are reading a book for pleasure or planting a garden because you love nature, you are doing it because of an internal desire. You aren’t doing it for praise, and you don’t expect an external reward. You are doing it purely for the enjoyment of it.

If intrinsic motivation is “art for art’s sake”, then extrinsic motivation is “because you said so”. If you read that book because it was a homework assignment, or you were trying to grow the biggest veg to win a competition, then you were doing it because of an external reason.

Go with the Flow

Have you ever noticed that time flies when you’re having fun? Then you might well have been in what psychologists call the ‘flow state’. This is when you are so focused on an enjoyable, intrinsically motivated, productive experience that you lose all notion of your physical needs or the passage of time.

Musicians get into the groove, sports stars get in the zone, and artists end up covered in paint and looking a bit confused as to how exactly it is 3am now. There are also plenty of parallels with religious and spiritual traditions, with Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and certain yogic traditions all having similar concepts.

What’s the Use?

Intrinsic motivation is of the most value and interest to teachers, parents, and employers. In schools, studies have shown that students who feel intrinsically motivated to study perform better in the classroom. In the workplace, employers are always looking for better ways to improve the quality of their staff’s work. And every parent wants to know how to get their kids to brush their teeth without being reminded twice a day.

However, if someone doesn’t want to learn, you can’t force them to. Some employees just have a bad work ethic or lack the necessary skills. Certain kids will just never eat that broccoli. An understanding of intrinsic motivation is only really of use in the context of a wider knowledge of the matter at hand. It’s not going to solve all your problems, but it might help to solve some of them!

Self-Determination Theory

Now to get into the nitty-gritty. According to a paper written by two of the leading researchers in the field and printed in the American Psychologist journal in the year 2000, there are three building blocks to fostering intrinsic motivation: the needs for competency, autonomy, and relatedness.

If you are doing something that you are skilled in and feel like you can improve those skills, it will meet your need for competence. If you feel like your choices matter and that you have a say in what you are doing, then you will feel autonomy. If you are doing it in a supportive environment and understand why you are doing it, then your need for relatedness will be met.

If these needs are met by an activity, you are much more likely to be intrinsically motivated to do it again in the future. On the other side of the coin, the paper’s results indicated that students with teachers that were ‘controlling’ rather than autonomy-supporting showed less initiative and learned less effectively. Plus, we all know both the satisfaction of being good at something and the despair of not being able to get the hang of a new task.

For the Greater Good

How to encourage intrinsic motivation is one of the more hotly debated topics in the field. According to the authors of the 2000 paper, it helps to first recognize that there are two different types of external motivation.

They argue that there is a difference between a student who does their homework willingly, in the knowledge that it will go towards bettering their career, and one who does it to avoid a telling off. In the same vein, doing something unpleasant but necessary because you’ll feel better for having done it is a different thing to doing it because your partner asked you to.

If an action is done for some sort of external reward or punishment, at the behest of someone else, and doesn’t promote autonomy, they refer to it as ‘externally regulated’. If something is done with an eye towards feelings of personal pride and self-worth, or even to avoid feeling anxiety or guilt, they call it ‘introjected regulation’.

Learning to Love It

These findings suggest that there are two key areas to focus on when trying to encourage intrinsic motivation.

Firstly, address the natural needs for feeling skillful, in control, and connected. If a student or employee feels that what they are doing has value and their choices make a difference, and they feel supported in what they do, they will want to keep doing it.

Next, consider how you can foster in them an understanding of how what they are doing fits into the bigger picture. Encourage initiative-taking, and provide positive criticism and constructive feedback. If you can help them to see how what they are doing benefits them, then they will start to do it for themselves.

Art for Art’s Sake

So, to recap, what is intrinsic motivation? It’s the term psychologists use to refer to when you do something purely for the enjoyment of it. It is the opposite of extrinsic motivation, which is when you do something because of an external reason, like a reward or punishment. Teachers want to foster it in their students, employers that encourage it have happier workers, and kids with parents that understand it might just eat their broccoli after all.

 

References:

http://users.telenet.be/cr32258/Ryan_and_Deci_2000.pdf

Click to access MakingLearningFun-ATaxonomyOfIntrinsicMotivationsForLearning.pdf


http://www.pyoudeyer.com/epirob08OudeyerKaplan.pdf

Health

How Long Does It Take for Diflucan To Work?

Written By: Arch
Arch

With over 3.5 million prescriptions in the US per year, there’s a good chance that your path will eventually cross with Diflucan. Also known by the generic name fluconazole, this antifungal medication is regularly used to treat a wide range of fungal infections, from athlete’s foot to thrush.

In this article, we will cover the most pertinent information about the drug, so you can have a better idea of what you are taking. How long does it take for Diflucan to work? What conditions can it help with? What are the side effects? Read on to find out the answers to these and other important questions.

What is Diflucan?

Diflucan was first patented by Pfizer in 1981 under the generic name fluconazole, and it first came into commercial use in the UK in 1988.

It is what is called an azole antifungal. These work by inhibiting an important enzyme in the fungus, which in turn stops the production of ergosterol in the fungus’ cells. Ergosterol is the fungal version of cholesterol, vital to building and maintaining cell membranes. Without it, fungal growth is reduced or stopped.

In most doses, Diflucan is fungistatic, meaning that it prevents funguses from growing. Depending on the dose and the type of fungus being treated, it can also act as a fungicide, which means that it actually kills the fungus outright. For normal people, it’s usually up to your immune system to overcome the fungal infection after the growth is stopped.

What is Diflucan Used to Treat?

Diflucan is prescribed to treat a number of different types of fungal infection. These include:

  • Athlete’s foot
  • Thrush
  • Ringworm
  • Candida fungus infections in the mouth, skin, nails or vagina
  • Yeast infection in the vagina and vulva
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Candidiasis
  • Histoplasmosis
  • Fungal meningitis

It can also be used in a preventive capacity in cases where there is a heightened risk of infection, such as in patients who are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and people with AIDS.

How Do You Take Diflucan?

First and foremost, you should carefully follow your doctor’s instructions in terms of the dosage and frequency.

Diflucan comes in capsules of 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, and 200mg strengths. It is also available as an oral suspension in 350mg and 1400mg versions, and when dissolved in water each milliliter contains 10mg and 40mg respectively. It also comes as an injection in volumes of 100mL and 200mL, with each milliliter containing 2mg of the drug.

Dosages vary depending on the type of infection you are trying to treat. For example, first-time vaginal infections are usually only treated with one pill, whereas other infections can require a longer period of use. Your doctor may tell you to double up on your first dose. Dosages generally range from 50mg to 400mg. Kids shouldn’t exceed 600mg in one day.

It is very important to keep taking the medication for as long as your doctor instructed, even if your symptoms have improved. The original infection might not actually be gone yet. Plus, you put yourself at risk of reinfection by certain strains of the fungus that are resistant to medication.

How Long Does It Take for Diflucan To Work?

For the majority of conditions that Diflucan is used to treat, a course of at least two weeks is necessary. The drug usually begins to work the same day that you take it, generally within one or two hours.

However, depending on what it is being used to treat, it can take three days for your symptoms to start to improve. As mentioned, antifungals are often used to contain the growth of fungus and your immune system is supposed to do the rest about the infection. It can be at least a week before the symptoms disappear, but again, it can be longer depending on your condition.

Side Effects

Diflucan has a range of potential side effects. The most common ones are:

  • Rashes
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Elevated liver enzymes

Less common side effects include:

  • QT prolongation
  • Torsades de pointes
  • Hair loss
  • Allergic reactions
  • Constipation
  • Angioedema
  • Cholestasis
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Liver failure
  • Hepatitis
  • Hypertriglyceridemia
  • Hypokalemia
  • Jaundice
  • Leukopenia
  • Pale skin
  • Seizures
  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome
  • Taste perversion
  • Thrombocytopenia
  • Toxic epidermal necrolysis

Reasons to Not Take Diflucan

There are a number of conditions that call for the use of this medication, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. If in any doubt, consult your physician and mention your pre-existing condition.

Pregnant women should not take Diflucan, as the FDA has stated that taking high doses of the medication during the first trimester has been linked with a specific range of birth defects. Breastfeeding mothers should also refrain from this medicine, as it is secreted in breast milk.

Patients with hypersensitivity and those at risk of complications related to a prolonged QT interval should also avoid using the drug.

Drug Interactions

There is also an extensive number of negative drug interactions that can occur when using this medication. Diflucan should not be taken in conjunction with the following medicines:

  • Astemizole
  • Terfenadine
  • Asunaprevir
  • Lomitapide
  • Naloxegol (> 12.5mg)
  • Erythromycin
  • Anagrelide
  • Ranolazine (> 500mg bid)
  • Avanafil (> 50mg)
  • Flibanserin
  • Fluvastatin (> 20mg bid)
  • Domperidone
  • Amifampridine
  • Dronedarone
  • Artemether-lumefantrine
  • Vardenafil (> 5mg)
  • Sertindole
  • Droperidol
  • Levomethadyl
  • Sparfloxacin
  • Halofantrine
  • Bepridil
  • Disopyramide
  • Quinidine
  • Pimozide
  • Cisapride

This list is merely of drugs with potentially the most dangerous interactions with Diflucan. There are many more that the medication can interact with. Check the label, and inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications before accepting a prescription for this drug.

Freeing Yourself from Fungus

Diflucan is Pfizer’s brand name for the antifungal drug fluconazole. It is regularly prescribed to treat yeast infections, candida, athlete’s foot, ringworm, and many other fungal infections. It is very important to take it for the full period as prescribed, or else you risk the infection returning and becoming resistant to medications.

How long does it take for Diflucan to work? The drug gets to work within two hours of taking it, but it can take at least three days for your symptoms to start getting better. It will usually take at least a week for symptoms to go away. The antifungal stops the growth of fungus but it’s up to your body to recover from the infection.

 

References:

https://www.drugs.com/mtm/fluconazole.html
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3774-5052/diflucan-oral/fluconazole-oral/details
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3774-5052/diflucan-oral/fluconazole-oral/details/list-conditions
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3774-5052/diflucan-oral/fluconazole-oral/details/list-interaction-medication
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a690002.html
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/fluconazole
https://clincalc.com/DrugStats/Top300Drugs.aspx
https://reference.medscape.com/drug/diflucan-fluconazole-342587
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/019949s051lbl.pdf

Health

How to Control & Regulate Breathing

Written By: Arch
Arch

When you inhale, your blood cells get oxygen for use in metabolism, of which one of the waste products is carbon dioxide, which is released when you breathe out (along with oxygen, minus whatever amount that you were able to use). People usually do not pay much attention to breathing, but this can be a mistake.

The balance of carbon dioxide and oxygen exchange can be disturbed if one’s breathing is not right. This can lead to an imbalance of your physical, mental and emotional state. Furthermore, it can progress to sleeping disorders, anxiety, depression, panic attacks and many other physical and mental ailments.

Continue reading to find out how to control & regulate breathing, the benefits of proper breathing, as well as some simple breathing exercises that may be beneficial to perform daily.

The Breathing Apparatus

Everyone knows that the lungs are the main organ used for breathing, but there is a lot more going on inside. The lungs get air with oxygen into our body with the assistance of blood vessels, and they also dispose of carbon dioxide carried in the blood vessels.

The air travels through the body’s airways, which consist of the following body parts:

  • Mouth
  • Nose and its cavities
  • Larynx
  • Bronchial tubes and branches
  • Trachea

Besides the lungs, there are muscles which we use for breathing. These muscles adjacent to the lungs help them contract and expand. Those muscles are:

  • Intercostal muscles
  • Diaphragm
  • Muscles surrounding the collarbone and the neck
  • Abdominal muscles

The diaphragm is the primary breathing muscle. It is located below the lungs and separates the abdominal cavity from the chest cavity. When you breathe in, the diaphragm narrows and creates room for the lungs to spread out inside the chest.

The intercostal muscles have the same function as the diaphragm, except they make room in the chest in a different manner. They contract when you breathe in while moving the rib cage and allowing the lungs to expand.

If your respiratory system is doing its job as intended, it will allow you to breathe properly and use your lung capacity to the fullest.

How to Control & Regulate Breathing Using the Diaphragm

It is important to know how to control & regulate breathing using your diaphragm so that you can reap all its benefits. Diaphragmatic breathing performed on a regular basis can bring you the following benefits:

  • You will need lower amounts of oxygen
  • You will make your diaphragm stronger
  • You will need to use less energy and effort in order to breathe properly
  • You will breathe at a slower rate which also makes the process easier

There are many breathing exercises you can do at home that improve the way you use your diaphragm. They are very simple techniques which take less than 30 minutes a day, but if you do them regularly, you will see the results very soon.

If you are new to breathing exercises, limit yourself to between five and ten minutes at first, up to four times a day. It may seem difficult and tiring in the beginning, but that is because you are not used to diaphragmatic breathing.

Once you get the hang of it, you will realize it is a better and easier way to breathe. When you see improvement, feel free to increase the duration of these exercises.

 Diaphragm Breathing in a Seated Position

  1. Bend your knees while sitting in a relaxed and cozy position.
  2. Make sure your head, neck and shoulders are relaxed.
  3. Observe how your diaphragm moves by placing one hand below the rib cage and the other one on the upper part of the chest.
  4. Feel your stomach with your hand as you breathe in gently through the nose.
  5. Steadily hold your hand on the chest.
  6. Use your abdominal muscles to exhale. Keep holding the hand still when you breathe out with pursed lips, making a “whoosh” sound.
  7. Keep breathing this way until you have reached the set time limit or when you start to feel tired.

Diaphragm Breathing While Lying Down

  1. Bend your knees as you’re lying on the back.
  2. For additional support, put pillows under your knees and head.
  3. Again, use your hands to follow the diaphragm’s movement, one hand below the rib cage and the other on the upper chest.
  4. Feel your stomach expand, pressing your hand while you slowly breathe in through your nose.
  5. Rest your hand on your chest, keeping it still.
  6. Purse your lips, making a whoosh sound when you exhale. Make sure your stomach muscles are engaged while exhaling.
  7. Continue breathing this way until the time is up or until you feel discomfort.

Additional Tips for Improvement of Your Breathing

Do you want to learn how to control & regulate breathing? Here are some tips to help you improve the way you breathe:

  • Maintain proper posture – If you always carry a good posture, your chest and the thoracic part of your spine will have the flexibility to expand to their full potential. You will also be able to completely expand your diaphragm and rib cage. The frontal part of your body will have an increased range of motion too. All of this will not only let you breathe better but also help you in other activities, such as working out.
  • Make sure to stretch – Become tension-free by doing some resistance or flexibility exercises. You can do any activities that include movement, stretching or even get a massage.
  • Other things you can do – Eating a healthy diet is always a good start. You can meditate if you find it helpful; many people pair it with breathing exercises. Get plenty of sleep but also mind your sleeping position.

Breathe in Breathe out

If you are in control of your breathing, you will breathe more easily and with less effort. Breathing exercises can calm you and help you with your daily activities. If you are doing it right, your breath should make very little or no sound.

If you use breathing exercises on a daily basis, you can achieve great improvement in your overall lung capacity. For the best results, always maintain a good posture.

 

References:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/relaxation-techniques-breath-control-helps-quell-errant-stress-response
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-and-diseases/protecting-your-lungs/breathing-exercises.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3141212

Health

How to Catch a Cold on Purpose

Written By: Arch
Arch

Do you like having a cold? What a silly question, of course you do. Everyone loves having a runny nose and sneezing all the time, lying in bed all day feeling feverish and weak.

Do you remember when you were a kid and feigned sickness so you could skip school? You wish you could have read this article back then and you’d have known how to catch a cold on purpose.

Jokes aside, if you are not a masochist and just want to get better or prevent a cold, you can find useful information below. Just do the complete opposite if you’re looking to catch a cold.

What Is the Common Cold?

Before you catch a cold, maybe it would be best to know as much as you can about it. Over 200 types of viruses can cause the common cold, which manifests in minor throat and nose infections. Almost 50% of all colds are caused by different types of rhinoviruses.

The duration depends on the age and medical condition of the patient. Older people and children are more prone to developing a severe type of cold and complications.

Younger children may get the common cold up to 12 times a year, while adults only get it two to four times a year. Of course, there are just average numbers which may or may not apply to you. Do not be jealous if someone gets a cold more often than you.

You are in luck because the common cold is very contagious. In most cases, it spreads through fluid droplets which contain cold viruses. If you get in contact with such a droplet, you will likely catch a cold.

Symptoms of a Cold

Common cold symptoms are similar to flu symptoms, but the flu usually feels worse and lasts longer. After the cold viruses get all cozy in your body, which can take a day or two, you will start to feel the following symptoms:

  • Your nose will be runny all the time. Do not blow your nostrils all the time if you do not want your skin to get irritated.
  • Obstructed breathing canals
  • Constant sneezing
  • Impairment of the senses of smell and/or taste
  • Irritated throat, often accompanied by coughing
  • Low fever
  • Mild headaches
  • Voice changes, deeper and raspy

While the previously mentioned symptoms are common, here are some rare ones:

  • Prolonged fatigue
  • Low appetite
  • Shivers
  • Pink eye
  • Aches in various muscles

When a person is dealing with a cold, sometimes it’s possible for bacteria to infect the sinuses and ears as well. These are called secondary bacterial infections, which are easy to treat it with antibiotics unless the patient is severely immunocompromised.

Sometimes you may come in contact with cold viruses without even knowing it because you don’t feel any symptoms. This is not uncommon and it has to do with the autoimmune system. It can be a sign of good overall health.

What Can Cause a Cold?

Except for the aforementioned group of rhinoviruses, a cold can be caused by the following viruses:

  • Human metapneumovirus
  • Human respiratory syncytial virus
  • Human parainfluenza virus
  • Coronaviruses adenovirus
  • Various enteroviruses

You get a cold when the viruses overcome your immune system. The thing that stands in the way of the viruses is mucus, a gooey fluid made in the membranes of the throat, mouth, and nose. The mucus functions by capturing anything bad that you inhale, like bacteria, viruses or dust.

Once the mucus fails, the viruses penetrate cells and override it, multiplying and attacking adjacent cells.

Who Is at Risk?

People who are more likely to get a cold fall into the following categories:

  • Young children, aged six or under
  • People whose immune system is undeveloped or weakened.
  • People who smoke.
  • Elderly people and older adults over the age of 60.

You are more likely to catch a cold during the fall or winter. Kids are at a higher risk because they go to school, which is a great breeding ground for viruses. Being near an infected person greatly increases the chances of getting a cold.

How to Catch a Cold on Purpose

Finally, you’ve reached the most interesting part of the article. If you are wondering how to catch a cold on purpose, you will soon get some answers. Because there are so many groups of viruses that can cause the common cold, there is no effective vaccine for it. That is great news, but here are some pro tips and tricks on how to ensure you get infected:

  1. Do not ever wash your hands – Try to avoid washing your hands whenever possible, especially before eating or after making contact with others. Germs and viruses are most commonly spread by touch – what better way to get infected than receiving a firm handshake?
  2. Do not clean your home – On a side note, maybe it is for the best if you do not wash anything. Especially the surfaces in your bathroom and kitchen.
  3. Eat yummy junk food and avoid vitamins – Fruit and vegetables contain plenty of vitamins which are good for the immune system. Make sure to avoid eating them at all costs. Eat greasy, processed fast food instead, which can make you more vulnerable to cold viruses.
  4. Invite your sick friends or colleagues over – Whenever you find out any of your friends have a cold, make sure to invite them over for some fun activity. It’s recommended that you tell them the truth of what you’re trying to accomplish. But you can dress it up by saying that you’re trying to share the suffering of those less fortunate, perhaps as taught by your religion or something.
  5. Do not use tissues or handkerchiefs – This should be self-explanatory. Only nerds use those and wash their hands after sneezing in them.

Got Any Spare Cold

Now you know all about the common cold and the ways you can get infected. It is up to you to decide whether to follow the instructions to catch a cold or do the opposite and avoid it.

Hopefully you had fun reading this article while learning about the world’s most common type of infection.

 

References:

https://www.lung.org/lung-health-and-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/influenza/facts-about-the-common-cold.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/symptoms-causes/syc-20351605
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000678.htm

How to Treat a Swollen Vagina Lip

Written By: Arch
Arch

Vagina lips are the common term for labia. They are on the outside of the vagina, also called vulva. Their purpose is to protect the vagina, urethra, and clitoris from any possible harm. Swollen vagina lips can be caused by cysts, infections, or allergies.

The labia consist of labia minora, the internal part of the skin which precedes the vagina, and labia majora, which is on the exterior part of the vagina. The inner and the outer labia are often different in size, which varies for every woman.

Read on if you want to know how to treat a swollen vagina lip and reverse its course before the pain and swelling become too much to handle.

Other Symptoms

Besides the swelling of labia, some other symptoms can indicate the underlying cause of your infection or other problem:

  • Persistent pain, especially when urinating or having intercourse
  • Inflammation or redness of the skin
  • Itching or burning sensation in the private area
  • Bad smell coming from the vagina
  • Vaginal discharge
  • One or more bumps on the vagina lips

Causes of Vagina Lip Swelling

The tissue of the labia is very tender. Both labia majora and labia minora can easily become swollen due to that, and here are some of the most common causes:

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, also referred to as trich, is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that affects many women of childbearing age. It is a parasitic infection and you are at higher risk of getting it if you have multiple sexual partners or a history of sexually transmitted infections.

Symptoms very often go unnoticed, which leaves the affected person completely unaware. However, if the symptoms do show up, you can experience swelling, very bad odor, yellow vaginal discharge, itching or irritated vulva, inflammation and urinal pain.

Yeast Infection

Most women, up to 75%, will have at least one yeast infection during their lifetime. The worst part is the infection can return. Candida is the most common cause of yeast overgrowth. The symptoms are swelling, vaginal itching, inflammation, and thick white discharge.

You are at a higher risk of yeast infections if you are pregnant, you have untreated diabetes, and if your immune system is not functioning properly. Some medicine also puts you at risk. This includes oral birth control pills, antibiotics and some steroids.

Bacterial Vaginosis

Same as yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis is also caused by multiplication of bacteria in your private parts. This occurs when the bad bacteria defeat the good bacteria. Around one-third of women of childbearing age get infected by bacterial vaginosis.

There are often no symptoms. However, they may include vaginal lip swelling, rotten fishy odor, gray or green vaginal discharge, and itchiness.

Bartholin’s Cyst

The Bartholin’s glands can be found on both sides of the vaginal opening. If they get blocked, then cysts may appear. Around 2% of women will experience this problem. It is common if you are in your 20s and the risk decreases with age.

Bartholin’s glands help with lubrication of the vagina releasing moisture. Women mostly do not even notice the cyst until it is too late and infected. If it comes to that, the skin surrounding the vagina and its lips can feel sore and sensitive. In some cases, the cyst also becomes filled with pus.

Allergies

If your labia are swollen but it is not caused by an infection, you may be having an allergic reaction to something. Your vaginal lips can be irritated by some soap or detergent fragrances, latex condoms, and maybe the fabric of your lingerie. Other symptoms are burning sensation and redness.

Sexual Contact

If you are having sexual intercourse without enough lubricant, it may lead to the swelling of vagina lips. This is due to friction, which can seriously irritate or even damage your vagina. Make sure to use a proper amount of lubrication while having sex.

How to Treat a Swollen Vagina Lip

How to treat a swollen vagina lip? There are many ways to do it, depending on the underlying medical condition you have. Let’s go over some medical interventions and then some tips for home care.

Medical Solutions

Buying over-the-counter antibiotics is a good start if the cause of your vaginal swelling is a bacterial infection. The previously mentioned trichomoniasis and bacterial vaginosis are the most common ones.

Antibiotics may also help with Bartholin’s cysts, but if it does not prove to be enough, surgical removal or drainage may be needed. No need to panic though, these cysts sometimes do not need any treatment

Antifungal medications, be it OTC or prescribed, are used to battle yeast infections. They come in the form of pills and gels.

Labia swelling as a result of sexual intercourse or some allergy can be treated with some steroid creams.

Prevention and Home Care

Here are some tips for treating your labia swelling at home, and even better, ways to prevent it:

  • Avoid using douches. They can interfere with the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina.
  • Consult your medical practitioner about using different types of birth control if you are allergic to spermicide or latex.
  • Use plenty of lubricant during intercourse. If it still hurts, refrain from it for some time.
  • Wear comfortable clothes, especially underwear. Tight clothes can add to the development of fungi and bacteria.
  • Stop using certain soaps and feminine products if you think you are allergic to them.
  • Put a cold compress on the labia a few times a day to help with the swelling.
  • Consume natural probiotics such as kefir and yogurt.

Enough with the Swelling

Swollen vagina lips are not always a cause for panic. If there are no other symptoms, like strong odor, discharge and burning, you can relax. The presence of these symptoms can be a warning and you should visit your doctor if you notice them.

 

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vaginitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354707
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000897.htm
https://helpyourback.org/health/swollen-vaginal-lips/

Health

Difference Between Fast and Slow Twitch Muscle Fibers

Written By: Arch
Arch

If you are a fan of sports or fitness, you have probably heard of people having different types of muscle fiber. Some even say that athletes that have slow or fast muscle fibers may have an advantage in some sport due to the specific type of muscle fiber.

This advantage comes from the different response to training techniques. If they are properly targeted, these fibers can make your muscles extremely efficient and powerful.

This article goes over the difference between fast and slow twitch muscle fibers, describing their specific types and the techniques for training all of these types.

How Do Muscles Work

Muscles have many great functions. They allow internal organs to operate and they allow the movement of all body parts. Muscles make up almost 40% of your total mass. You have more than 600 muscles in your body, which are all built from a sort of elastic tissue.

Muscles are fueled by food, or adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to be precise. The metabolic process produces ATP which is further transformed into mechanical energy by muscle cells.

Every muscle is made up of thousands and thousands of tiny muscle fibers. These muscle fibers are made of small strands of fibrils. If you are wondering about their size, muscle fibers are only 40mm long.

Muscle Types

Muscles are divided into cardiac muscles, smooth muscles and skeletal muscles:

Cardiac Muscles

This type of muscles is only found in the heart and their function is heartbeat regulation. They work non-stop, and they do it automatically. Cardiac muscles cause the heart to fill up with blood by relaxing and they make it squeeze out blood by contracting.

Smooth Muscles

Smooth muscles are in charge of bowel movement, these are named visceral muscles. They also regulate the movements of the arteries, hollow organs, heart and stomach. You can also find these muscles in the bronchi, bladder walls, and skin. Like cardiac muscles, they work automatically, without our knowledge or control.

Skeletal Muscles

Humans use skeletal muscles to control the limbs and external body parts. They shape the body while covering the skeleton. Each skeletal muscle in the body has a twin muscle on the opposite side.

Your body has around 320 bilateral muscle pairs. Movement is carried out by contraction of one muscle and expansion of its par. Muscles are connected or attached to the bones via tendons. Our joints are stable because the tendons extend over them.

You move skeletal muscles consciously, unlike the previous muscle types which move automatically. You can also see most of these movements. The motion is made by skeletal muscle contractions, and it can be movement of the fingers, arms, head, eyes, mouth (as in talking) and legs (as in running and walking).

Skeletal muscles are in charge of keeping a good posture. Also, they prevent joints from dislocating, and they even control our facial expressions. Finally, skeletal muscles are involved in maintaining body temperature by releasing heat after their contractions and relaxations.

Types of Muscle Fiber

Skeletal muscles contain lots of muscle fiber called myocytes, made up of many myofibrils. Myofibrils are protein strands (myosin and actin) which are responsible for muscle contractions. Muscles get shorter when they contract, which is a result of myofibrils grabbing and pulling each other.

Muscle fibers can be divided into two basic types, slow twitch muscle fibers (also known as type 1) and (type 2) fast twitch muscle fibers. Muscle fibers type 2 can be divided even further into types 2a and 2b.

The difference between fast and slow twitch muscle fibers is in their ability to impact the muscle response to various types of physical activity. Every type of muscle fibers contracts in its own manner, which is what makes it special. The ratio of slow and fast muscle fibers is determined by genetics, but usually, they are 50-50 even.

Slow Twitch Muscle Fibers

Slow twitch muscle fibers are great for prolonged muscle contractions because they are better at generating ATP fuel with oxygen use. This means that they can maintain the force for a longer period of time, but the amount of force is not that great.

These slow twitch fibers are activated first during muscle contraction because their point of activation is very low. Fast twitch fibers are only activated if the type 1 cannot generate enough force necessary for some activity.

If you do regular endurance training, you can improve the density of mitochondria, the organelles that are responsible for making ATP in an oxidative reaction. In turn, you will generate more adenosine triphosphate.

You can find a lot of slow twitch fibers in the tonic muscles which are in charge of posture maintenance.

Fast Twitch Muscle Fibers

Fast twitch muscle fibers are more suited for producing shorter bursts of speed or strength because they get fuel from anaerobic metabolism. The amount of force they produce is greater than slow fibers, but fast muscle fibers also fatigue faster.

Type 2a fibers are also called intermediate fast twitch muscle fibers because they depend on both energy sources and anaerobic and aerobic metabolisms.

Type 2b fibers are the standard fast twitch muscle fibers as previously mentioned.

Fast twitch fibers have a high density in the phasic muscles that are used to generate movement. These fibers can affect muscle size and definition. It is no coincidence that power and strength exercises increase their density.

Final Advice for Training both Fast and Slow Twitch Fibers

Fast twitch fibers are better for sports that require explosive and strong movements. A good way to engage them is resistance training with lots of weight. Perform the exercises with fewer repetitions but higher weights. Rest for around 90 seconds between reps.

Slow twitch fibers are better for sports which require endurance. Use lighter weights for resistance training but at higher repetitions. You can also practice circuit training with minimal rest to engage these fibers. Your body weight is enough for this type of exercise if you do many reps.

 

References:

https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/professional/expert-articles/5714/slow-twitch-vs-fast-twitch-muscle-fibers
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4039363/

Should You Avoid Mineral Oil?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Mineral oil has been used for over a century worldwide for a huge range of purposes. It works as an industrial lubricant, a food additive, a hydraulic fluid, as an ingredient in many cosmetic products, and even as a laxative. With mineral oil having such a ubiquitous presence in modern life, and considering where it comes from, there’s no wonder that people have concerns. So, should you avoid mineral oil?

Well, the answer to that question very much depends on what the oil is being used for, and most importantly, how refined it is. Let’s have a look at how it is made, the different uses for mineral oil, and if using it puts you at risk.

How Is Mineral Oil Made?

Mineral oil is produced as part of the process of refining crude oil. At a refinery, crude oil is first pumped into large holding tanks, where it separates from solid contaminants like rock and sand, and from any water present. This part of the process is called sedimentation.

Next, the oil goes through fractional distillation. The distillation column is heated to around 700°F, and then the different components of the oil vaporize and subsequently cool down again to a liquid at different temperatures. This allows various products to be separated at different stages of the column.

Next, these products undergo different forms of filtering and processing to remove other contaminants and impurities. This is the stage that determines the grade of the mineral oil. The highest grades of mineral oil are some of the most intensively purified products from the entire refining process.

What Is Mineral Oil Used For?

Industrial Applications

Low-grade mineral oil has many applications. It is used as a lubricant base for a variety of products that undergo further refinement. It is added to engine oils, gear and transmission fluids, metalworking oils, rust-preventative oils, and lots of other types of industrial oils.

Previous studies have shown that these less pure mineral oils were a cause of cancer in a number of people that were exposed to them professionally. It is believed that one group of the potential contaminants, called polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), is the main carcinogen present in the oil.

However, modern refining processes specifically filter out PAHs, even in lower-grade mineral oil. While there are still some potential health concerns to be considered when working with them, especially when inhaling them in the form of a mist, there is no conclusive evidence to show that mineral oils themselves are directly carcinogenic.

Pharmaceutical Applications

Pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil is the most refined and purified form, and is entirely non-toxic. The main medical use for mineral oil is as a laxative. It works by lining your intestines, which stops water from being absorbed by your body. This in turn softens your stool, which allows it to pass through more easily.

While some people have reported having allergic reactions to mineral oil, this is quite rare. Otherwise, the only reported side effect is that it may leak from your rectum when used in high doses, which can in turn lead to irritation and itching as it can trap harmful bacteria against your skin.

Cosmetic Applications

Mineral oil has been used as a part of lots of different cosmetic products since the late 1800s. The use of crude oil increased exponentially over the ensuing years, and soon petroleum-based products became a cheap and popular ingredient.

It sees use in skin care products, hair care products, bath oils, baby oils, sun cream, and makeup, among many others. However, there has been a growing trend in recent years of people insisting that ‘all-natural’ products are inherently better for you. Many people and websites have shared information based on older studies that have since been superseded by modern practices and research. Thanks to this, there is quite a bit of confusion as to what effects mineral oil can have.

Does Mineral Oil Cause Acne?

The term comedogenic is used to refer to any substance that can block your pores and thus act as a cause for acne. One early study indicated that mineral oil was mildly comedogenic, but these results were based on tests conducted on rabbits. A follow-up study found conflicting results between their human and rabbit subjects, as the rabbits’ skin was much more sensitive.

This prompted the American Academy of Dermatology to propose guidelines to interpret these differences. They concluded that substances that were mildly comedogenic in animal tests were unlikely to have the same effect on humans.

In fact, subsequent research has shown that mineral oil has no comedogenic effect on human subjects. In other words, no, it doesn’t cause you to break out in acne. The only evidence to the contrary is based on animal studies that aren’t actually applicable to humans.

Does Using Mineral Oil on Your Skin Cause Cancer?

Thanks to the extensive refining process that mineral oil is subjected to, there are no cancer-causing PAHs present in your cosmetics. In fact, even in the USA, where many products are less rigorously regulated than in some other countries, the refining and use of mineral oil is carefully controlled.

Importantly, mineral oil has been proven to not penetrate your skin, which means you don’t have to worry about absorbing unwanted chemicals. It is actually less likely than certain vegetable oils to cause irritation for this reason, which can be helpful for people with sensitive skin.

The only real cause for concern in terms of cosmetics is if there has been some sort of error in the manufacturing process. This sort of mishap could cause harmful contaminants to remain in the oil. This is a very rare occurrence, though of course it is impossible to rule out entirely.

Does Mineral Oil Cause Your Skin to Prematurely Age?

There are a number of articles circulating online that insist that topically applied mineral oil will draw moisture up from inside your skin. They maintain that this can have a harmful effect on your skin’s health, and will cause it to age prematurely.

The truth is that mineral oil is hydrophobic. This means that it actually repels water, rather than attracting it. This property has been shown to actually help to keep skin moisturized, as the water is trapped there and can’t evaporate away.

Like most other oils, using mineral oil on your skin has been shown to help it maintain moisture, which in turn improves elasticity and makes your skin feel softer. Plus, as mentioned before, it’s less likely to cause irritation on sensitive skin than some vegetable oils.

What Does This Mean for You?

Mineral oil has been used for a long time for a lot of different uses. Historically, refining processes were less advanced than they are now, and lower-grade oils were proven to potentially cause cancer in people that were exposed to them in the workplace.

Nowadays, the refining process has itself been refined, and so mineral oil is now proven to be non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, and safe for human use. So, should you avoid mineral oil? All the evidence says that no, there is no need to stop using mineral oil-based products in your day to day life. Just don’t swallow your motor oil, and you’ll be fine!

 

References:

http://www.madehow.com/Volume-1/Lubricating-Oil.html
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/mineral-oil
https://www.chemicalsafetyfacts.org/mineral-oil/
https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/roc/content/profiles//mineraloils.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21970597
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-63474/mineral-oil-chondrus-oral/details
https://cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/mineral-oil

Does Mia Khalifa Have HIV?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Mia Khalifa is a Lebanese-born ex-pornographic actress, sports commentator and social media personality who shot to global fame in October 2014. She quickly became known as the “hijab porn star”, following a video released by the Bang Bros pornographic film studio, in which she wore the traditional Muslim head covering during a threesome.

Like many people in the public eye, she became the subject of rumors and speculation. She also caused a significant amount of controversy in her home country as a result of the video that made her famous. One of the more enduring rumors was that she had contracted HIV, despite only working in the industry for around three months. So, does Mia Khalifa have HIV? Read on to find out the truth, and plenty more besides!

Who Is Mia Khalifa?

Early Life

Mia Khalifa was born on February 10, 1993, in Beirut, the capital of Lebanon. The daughter of very conservative Catholic parents, she studied at a French private school, where she learned how to speak English.

She and her family emigrated to the USA on January 1, 2001. They left to escape the widespread unrest and disruption following the South Lebanon conflict, a 15-year war between Israeli-backed Christian militias and Muslim insurgents supported by Iran-based militant group Hezbollah.

Her family settled in Montgomery County, Maryland, where she attended high school and played lacrosse. She was bullied for being, as she put it, “the darkest and weirdest girl there.” This worsened following September 11, with classmates calling her a terrorist. She later attended Massanutten Military Academy in Woodstock, Virginia, where her parents sent her after catching her smoking marijuana. During this period, she developed a love for both World of Warcraft and American sports, and chased after boys who were out of her league.

Becoming a Porn Star

Khalifa graduated early from the University of Texas El-Paso in December 2013, majoring in history. While at college, she made ends meet by working as a bartender and doing low-level modeling work. She also appeared on a local Spanish-language version of Deal Or No Deal. She got married in 2011, a subject she is reluctant to talk about, other than to say that she separated from her husband in 2014, and that they divorced in 2016.

Her first entry into the world of pornography came in 2012 when she posted a series of nude pictures to Reddit’s Gone Wild subreddit group. She apparently returned to Reddit in 2014, this time on a subreddit devoted to cuckolding, shortly before her ‘discovery’.

Having moved to Miami in 2013, she says that she was approached by a man, who she recounts said to her: “Hey, I don’t mean to be a creep, but if you are ever interested in nude modeling, here’s my card.”

Sudden Stardom

In October 2014, Khalifa’s first pornographic video was posted online to Scoreland, the blog run by a porn studio called Score. Shortly afterward, she shot a video produced by Bang Bros, in which she and her ‘stepmother’ wore hijabs while having sex with her ‘boyfriend’. The video was released in November of the same year.

This turned out to be both well-timed, and hugely controversial. In a time when Islamic extremism and terrorism was all over Western media, and the Islamic State (IS, also known as Daesh) was a focus of US foreign policy, her video seems to have capitalized on the zeitgeist of the time. It swiftly gained her a huge level of popularity, as well as censure from religious leaders.

Her video rapidly gained over 1.5 million views on Pornhub, the most visited porn video sharing website in the United States. On December 28th, Pornhub announced that she was their Number 1 ranked performer, being the most searched actress of the year.

Controversy And Death Threats

A few days after this announcement, the Lebanese Examiner posted a story on their website which stated that she was causing an uproar in her home country. This was apparently the result of the combination of the religious headwear worn and her tattoos. These include the first line of the Lebanese national anthem and the symbol of the Lebanese Forces, a conservative Christian political party.

Over the next few days, searches related to her on Pornhub increased five-fold. This sudden fame brought her increasing criticism from her home country, and brought her to the attention of IS and its supporters.

She received numerous death threats, including a photoshopped image of her in an orange jumpsuit, alluding to videos in which prisoners had been executed by IS militants. Her Twitter account was also allegedly hacked by IS, who posted propaganda on it. Despite this, she also received supportive messages from many people in Lebanon. Interestingly, over a quarter of the subsequent searches for her on Pornhub originated from Lebanon, and from its neighbors Syria and Jordan.

Moving On From Porn

After just three months of working in the porn industry, Khalifa realized that it wasn’t for her. Two weeks after signing a long-term deal with Bang Bros’ parent company, she realized that she had made a mistake and submitted her resignation.

She spent time working as a bookkeeper and a paralegal, but her fame hadn’t waned. She was still widely recognized, drawing both attention and criticism despite attempts to change her appearance.

She began her transition into the world of social media, opening up a YouTube account, a Twitter page, and a Twitch account. She appeared on a number of web-based series, including as a sports commentator on Complex’s Out Of Bounds for one season.

HIV Rumors

In January 2017, a website called The No Chill published an entirely fabricated story claiming that Khalifa had been diagnosed with HIV. By April, the rumor found its way to Twitter, where the fake news story quickly went viral.

On April 20, 2017, Khalifa went on record in an interview on the website Total Frat Move to state that she had definitely not been diagnosed as HIV positive. She also posted a link to the interview from her personal verified Twitter account.

In her own words: “The site that posted this incredibly fake “interview” with me is less credible than those ads on porn sites for hot girls in your area who are dying to meet you. I’m not sure what they have to gain from this bullshit other than publicity, but they definitely got that. I wasn’t even going to make a statement acknowledging this trash, but because it has gotten so much exposure, it feels necessary.”

The Bottom Line

Mia Khalifa garnered an incredible amount of attention over the course of her three-month-long pornographic career. After wearing a hijab during a threesome, she was criticized by religious leaders, her Twitter account was hacked by IS, and she received numerous death threats. As Pornhub’s Number 1 performer of 2014, she was the center of a whirlwind of rumor.

But does Mia Khalifa have HIV? No, she doesn’t. As she put it in 2017: “In case it isn’t clear already: no, I am not HIV positive. I get laid way less often than you’d think. The closest thing to intimacy in my life right now is when my roommate is washing her sheets and sleeps in my bed with me.”

 

References:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/article/30721981/mia-khalifa-a-lebanon-born-porn-star-is-getting-scary-death-threats
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/pornhub-star-mia-khalifa-receives-death-threats-after-being-ranked-sites-number-one-adult-actress-9962293.html
https://twitter.com/miakhalifa

Can A Watermelon Seed Grow In Your Stomach

Written By: Arch
Arch

With spring upon us and summer just around the corner, watermelons will soon be back in the limelight. But as you enjoy the sweet, juicy fruit, you might end up worrying about that disturbing threat you heard as a kid: “Don’t swallow the seeds, or a watermelon will grow in your stomach!”

But how much truth is there to this warning? Can a watermelon seed grow in your stomach?

What Do Seeds Need to Grow?

There are three simple things that any seed needs to start growing, or germinating: the right temperature, a source of water, and a good place to grow. How do they know when to grow, and which way to go, is somewhat more complicated.

Seeds use a process known as geotaxis to sense the direction in which gravity is pulling them, and orientate their shoot and roots accordingly. Once the shoot breaks the surface of the soil, they start growing towards the nearest light source, which is known as phototaxis.

The process by which the seeds know when to start growing is programmed at the genetic level, although scientists are still studying exactly how this works.

What Are the Conditions in Your Stomach?

Simply put, the inside of your stomach is not a good place for a plant to start growing. It is dark, but more importantly, it is filled with a variety of acids and enzymes specifically produced to break down organic matter.

The main component of your gastric juice, as this mixture is sometimes known, is hydrochloric acid. This acid is so strong it can melt through metal, and a seed would have little chance of surviving long enough to germinate.

Even worse for the seed’s chances, your stomach regularly opens and closes the passageway to your intestines, known as the gastric sphincter. So, if the seed was somehow able to avoid being dissolved by the corrosive soup it was sloshing about in, it would also have to stop itself from being flushed out into your colon.

So, Can A Watermelon Seed Grow in Your Stomach?

After reading this, you’ve probably worked out the answer for yourself by now. No, there is effectively no chance that a watermelon seed, or any other seed for that matter, would be able to survive in your stomach for long enough to start to grow. This regularly shared warning is very much a myth.

Where Did the Myth Come From?

Similar to the old favorite of sending your new employee out to find a tin of elbow grease, this myth has been around for a good while. It’s probably impossible to work out exactly where it got started, though it is possible to guess how the myth became so widespread.

Back in 1992, there was an episode of the children’s TV show “Rugrats” called “The Inside Story”. In that episode, Chuckie, one of the program’s toddler protagonists, panics after being told the myth by his friend’s grandfather as he is in the process of eating a slice of watermelon, seeds and all.

The gang then go on an exciting adventure inside Chuckie’s body, inspired by the Sci-Fi classic “Fantastic Voyage”, in order to save him before the fruit starts to grow. There’s a good chance that this is the source of the myth’s modern popularity.

Is Swallowing Watermelon Seeds Bad for You?

Not at all! The raw seeds are not toxic, and they definitely won’t be growing in your stomach. You can swallow as many as you want without worrying at all.

Scientists have even debunked another related seed-swallowing myth. They conducted a study which showed that the risk of the seeds getting caught in your appendix is very low. It only occurred in one case out of the entire study, which was 0.05% of the people taking part.

That said, there are actually a number of nutritional benefits to be gained from eating the seeds after roasting or sprouting. You might want to think about hanging on to them after finishing your fruity treat, rather than just throwing them away or spitting them out at your unsuspecting friends.

Nutritional Benefits of Watermelon Seeds

First of all, roasted watermelon seeds can make a tasty snack, and work well as an alternative to potato chips and other less healthy treats. They are crunchy, low in calories compared to those chips, and taste great with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of olive oil. Try a handful mixed in with your next salad for a flavorsome extra crunch.

Even better, they are rich in magnesium, iron, several B vitamins, and healthy fats. The plentiful iron content is especially good news for vegetarians and vegans!

However, to reap the best nutritional rewards from eating the seeds, you should try sprouting them. While roasting the seeds can reduce the nutritional content, sprouting actually increases the benefits. Plus, once they’re sprouted and dried, watermelon seeds are an excellent source of protein.

How to Roast Watermelon Seeds

First rinse the seeds, drain the water, and then pat them dry. Spread the seeds on a baking sheet, and heat your oven to 325°F. Pop the tray in for fifteen to twenty minutes, and wait for the seeds to turn crispy and golden brown. Alternatively, you can toss the seeds with some olive oil and salt, and then toast them in a skillet.

How to Sprout Watermelon Seeds

Soak the seeds overnight in a jar, such as a 1-quart mason jar, and cover the neck with a cheesecloth, secured with a rubber band. This allows for air circulation and water drainage. Keep the jar somewhere warm.

In the morning, drain the water through the cloth, pour some more in, and swish the seeds around to rinse them, then drain it again. You’ll want to keep the seeds moist, so rinse again two or three times a day. It should take just a few days for the sprouts to become visible.

Next, dry the sprouted seeds in a dehydrator, an oven, or even just direct sunlight. Once dried, your homemade, healthy, and nutritious little snacks are ready to be enjoyed.

The Easy-to-Swallow Truth

So, to recap, can a watermelon seed grow in your stomach?

Contrary to popular belief, and despite what your dastardly relatives may have said to terrify you at your family BBQ, no. There is no chance of a watermelon seed sprouting in your stomach. Now you can enjoy this refreshing fruit with peace of mind! You can even keep the seeds for an extra nutrient boost to your diet, if you’re up to roasting or sprouting them yourself.

 

References:

https://www.watermelon.org/
http://www.mbgnet.net/bioplants/grow.html
https://www.sciencefocus.com/nature/how-do-seeds-know-which-way-to-grow/
https://www.pnas.org/content/early/2011/05/17/1100958108.abstract
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1392861/pdf/jphysiol01461-0025.pdf
https://www.eatthismuch.com/food/nutrition/sprouted-watermelon-seeds,528475
https://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/nut-and-seed-products/3147/2
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3609170/

Health

The Top Prebiotic Foods

Written By: Arch
Arch

Prebiotic foods are well regarded for their beneficial health effects. They promote the growth of helpful bacteria in your digestive system, which can increase mineral uptake and help reduce your chances of contracting certain types of cancer. So, what are the top prebiotic foods, and how do they help your gut to do its job?

What Does ‘Prebiotic’ Mean?

The definition of prebiotic food has changed since the term was first introduced in 1995. Originally, it referred to non-digestible ingredients that stimulated the growth of beneficial bacteria in the large intestine.

As more studies were conducted and showed the potential positive effects on the entire digestive system, the definition was expanded in 2017 by the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP).

The ISAPP’s current definition for a prebiotic is a substrate that host microorganisms selectively utilize for their benefits. In other words, they are food for the good bacteria in your gut, which can help to make you healthier. All of the currently recognized prebiotic foods are also sources of dietary fiber, but this is not always true the other way around.

How Do Prebiotics Work?

Prebiotics can’t be digested by the enzymes in your stomach and intestines, so they serve as a food source for the helpful bacteria in your microbiome (the collective term for the microbes that live inside your body). These helpful bacteria include those in the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus genera.

The microbes ferment the indigestible fiber, which breaks it down into a form that they can consume. They are then able to grow their population and be more active. This in turn improves their positive effects on your body. Because each type of bacteria prefers different sources of prebiotics, it’s helpful to include a variety of prebiotic foods as part of a balanced diet.

What Are the Different Types of Prebiotics?

There are a number of sources of prebiotics. When you are food shopping, look for these ingredients on the labels:

  • Fructooligosaccharides
  • Galactooligosaccharides
  • Inulin
  • Maltodextrin
  • Wheat dextrin
  • Acacia gum
  • Arabinose
  • Lactulose

What Are the Health Benefits of Prebiotic Foods?

There are a number of established positive effects to be gained from eating prebiotics. These include:

  • Modifying the glycemic index – less pronounced blood glucose spikes after eating is especially helpful for diabetics;
  • Increased calcium and magnesium uptake – this improves the health and strength of your bones, which is of particular benefit to osteoporosis patients;
  • Enhanced bacterial fermentation in the colon – this improves the regularity of bowel movements and reduces the risk of contracting colorectal cancers.
  • Reduced likelihood of diarrhea – this one speaks for itself!

Researchers are also looking into further potential health benefits, which include:

  • Improvements to your immune system – more helpful bacteria and fewer harmful ones in your microbiome can lead to better overall health;
  • Feeling fuller for longer – useful for managing your weight, and for tackling obesity;
  • Managing gut diseases – there are possible benefits for sufferers of Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Top 10 Prebiotic Foods

There are a number of sources of prebiotics easily available from your local markets, grocery stores, health food stores, and even from your own garden. Here’s our list of the top prebiotic foods:

#1 – Chicory Root – 65% Prebiotic Fiber

By far the best source of prebiotics by weight, chicory root is often added to yogurts, energy bars, bread, breakfast cereals, and in dietary supplements. It has also been used as a caffeine-free coffee substitute for many years, thanks to its coffee-like flavor. You can most easily find it as roasted granules, which you can add to your coffee or use in a variety of recipes.

#2 – Jerusalem Artichoke – 32%

Despite the name, Jerusalem artichokes are actually a species of sunflower, and they’re not from Jerusalem. The tuber, which is the part you’ll want to use, looks more like ginger root but tastes very similar to an artichoke heart. They are great when roasted, and go well in salads and soups. They are also an excellent source of dietary potassium and iron.

#3 – Dandelion Greens – 24%

Yes, those weeds in your garden are the third best way to add prebiotics to your diets. They can be sautéed, steamed, blanched, or brewed up as an herbal tea, and are again good in a salad or soup. Make sure to wash them well if you get them from the garden, or if you prefer you can buy them fresh.

#4 – Raw Garlic – 18%

While cooked garlic can go with virtually any type of cuisine, raw garlic can be a little trickier to work with. There are still plenty of ways to add it to your food though, like putting it in salad dressings, guacamole, salsa, or mincing it up and mixing it into your mashed potatoes. Raw garlic also has a range of other healthy properties, so if you can handle the strong flavor it’s a good addition to your diet.

#5 – Raw Leek – 12%

The onion’s longer, less intensely flavored cousin, leeks can make a tangy addition to your salads, as well as being a vital part of vichyssoise (French leek and potato soup, served cold). Also works well as a garnish, and as an alternative to onions in various recipes to give them an unexpected twist.

#6 – Raw Onion – 9%

Almost everyone loves the smell of cooking onions, but eating them raw can give your food a spicy kick while giving you the benefits of a prebiotic food. Tasty as an ingredient in a fresh salad, a sandwich, as part of your salad dressing, mixed in with sauces and dips, or in gazpacho soup. You can also try mixing them into cooked sides to give the dish an extra zing.

#7 – Raw Asparagus – 5%

Any seasoning that you would normally put on your cooked asparagus will also go well when eating it raw. You can go with the standard companions of pepper and lemon juice, or you can enjoy it as part of a salad with a Parmesan-based dressing. Tastier when very fresh, and the thicker the stems the better.

#8 – Wheat Bran – 5%

You can add wheat bran to many of your favorite baking recipes, like muffins, pancakes, bread, and waffles. You can also add a few tablespoons to soups and stews, on top of your morning bowl of cereal, or mixed in with your yogurt.

#9 – Wheat Flour – 5%

Wheat flour can replace half of the white flour in any recipe. It can also be used when thickening sauces, and when breading fish and meat.

#10 – Banana – 1%

Last on the list, banana has only 1% prebiotic fiber compared to chicory root’s 65%, but it is also an excellent source of potassium. Other than just peeling and eating it, you could try mixing it in with your cereal or yogurt, or making some wheat flour-based banana bread.

So, Should I Add Prebiotic Food to My Diet?

With a number of confirmed health benefits, and many more still being discovered, prebiotic foods can not only help you to get your recommended daily intake of dietary fiber, they can make you an all-around heartier human. By encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria in your gut, you’ll reduce your risk of cancer, absorb more minerals from your food, and you’ll end up with a healthier, happier tummy.

 

References:

https://isappscience.org/prebiotics/
https://www.nature.com/articles/nrgastro.2017.75
https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/129/7/1407S/4722578
http://www.ift.org/food-technology/past-issues/2010/march/columns/nutraceuticals.aspx
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3705355/
https://foodinsight.org/functional-foods-fact-sheet-probiotics-and-prebiotics/
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/microbiome/

Health

How Long Does Ibuprofen Last and How Should I Use It?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Ibuprofen is one of the most commonly used painkillers today. It has a wide variety of clinical uses and is readily available over the counter in pharmacies and shops the world over, as well as in prescription form. Doctors prescribe it for a multitude of ailments, using it to treat fever, osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis, and even to help close holes in the hearts of premature babies. It sees day-to-day usage for relief from sports injuries, menstrual cramps, headaches, and inflammation.

However, despite its widespread use, ibuprofen has a number of side effects and should not be used by people with a range of medical conditions without checking with their doctor first. This leads to many people wondering exactly how it works and whether it is the right medication for them. One of the biggest questions is how long does ibuprofen last? This, and other important questions, will be answered below to help you make an informed decision about its use.

What Is Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) discovered in 1961 and first marketed in 1969 in the UK. Its discovery was the result of an effort to find a safer alternative to aspirin. The medication has since been recognized by the World Health Organization with an entry on their List of Essential Medicines, a guideline for the medications necessary for a country to have a fully functioning healthcare system.

It works by inhibiting the synthesis of two enzymes in the body, COX-1 and COX-2. These enzymes lead to the production of prostaglandins, compounds which can cause inflammation, pain, and fever. However, as with other NSAIDs, the inhibition of COX-1 can also lead to eventual gastro-intestinal issues, along with the other potential side effects of the drug.

Despite these possible issues, ibuprofen is the most widely used and safest available NSAID, and is especially valued for its fever-reducing and painkilling properties. It can be found in a number of forms, such as pills, capsules, gels, and sprays, and is often combined with other drugs as a part of cold and flu medicines.

How Long Does Ibuprofen Last?

The effects of a single dose of ibuprofen can be felt for up to four to six hours, depending on your metabolism, the size of the dosage, and the form it was taken in. The drug remains in your system for around 24 hours, though the effects will be greatly reduced after six hours, which is why it is usually taken in multiple doses over the course of a day.

How Quickly Does Ibuprofen Start to Work?

The answer to this question depends on what symptoms you are taking the medicine for and in what form you take it.

The most common methods of taking ibuprofen are as a pill, capsule, or syrup. You should start to feel the effects within 20-30 minutes of swallowing, with the medicine taking between one and two hours to reach its full effect. From this point, the effects will start to reduce, and after four to six hours they will be much weaker. If you are rubbing ibuprofen on your skin in the form of a cream, gel, or spray, it can take as long as one or two days for it to start working fully.

It takes much longer for its anti-inflammatory properties to fully kick in, usually up to two or three weeks. For this reason, and because of the risks associated with prolonged usage, it is generally not used to treat problems that are mainly caused by inflammation.

When Should I Take Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen has a number of uses, mostly as a painkiller and for reducing fever. It is a good choice for relief from mild to moderate pain, such as for headaches, migraines, toothaches, and period pains. It also works well at reducing fever, for example if you are suffering from the flu or another illness.

It can be used to ease the pain and swelling caused by sprains and strains, most often as a result of sports injuries. However, doctors recommend waiting a day or two before taking ibuprofen in these cases as it might slow the healing process. Ibuprofen also works well to reduce discomfort and pain related to arthritis.

How Should I Take Ibuprofen?

The right dosage depends on your age and the severity of your symptoms. For both grown-ups and kids though, there are a few things to remember when taking ibuprofen.

It is best to take it with or after a meal or with a glass of milk. Otherwise, you are much more likely to have an upset stomach. If you are taking it for longer than a day, you should take it at the same time each day. You should take the lowest possible dose for as short a time as possible, and if the highest recommended dose isn’t alleviating your symptoms, you should definitely not have any more. Speak to your doctor instead.

Dosages for Adults

The usual recommended non-prescription dose for an adult is one or two times 200mg every four to six hours. Your doctor may recommend that you take a larger dose of up to 600mg if necessary, but otherwise, it is better for your long-term health to stick to those guidelines.

If you are in constant pain all day long, your doctor may also prescribe slow-release ibuprofen. In that case, you should take it either once a day in the evening, or twice a day with 10-12 hours in between the doses.

Dosages for Children

For children, the weight and age are important considerations as the recommendation can range from 50mg to up to 400mg. A useful rule of thumb is that you should give between 5-10mg for every kilogram (2.2lbs) that the child weighs. Children under the age of six months should not be given ibuprofen.

If in any doubt, refer to the instructions that come with the medicine or talk to your doctor.

Potential Side Effects

Ibuprofen, like all NSAIDs, has a range of possible negative effects. The most common include nausea, constipation or diarrhea, and indigestion. It can also occasionally cause headaches, dizziness, bloating, and a rash. More severe reactions may include raised blood pressure, a stomach ulcer, kidney failure, or black poos and/or bloody vomit (usually a sign of bleeding in your stomach). If you have a severe or lasting reaction, you should consult your doctor.

These are only some of a laundry-list of potential side effects, so if you start to feel unwell after taking the medicine, you should immediately talk to your doctor.

Interactions with Other Drugs and Food

Ibuprofen can be safely taken alongside paracetamol, but it is not recommended to take it with other NSAIDs such as aspirin or naproxen. It can also interact unpredictably with various medications, such as certain antidepressants, diuretics, beta-blockers, warfarin, lithium, and methotrexate. If you are already taking medication, it would be a good idea to check with your doctor to avoid any issues.

Luckily, there are no specific drinks or foods that you should avoid while taking ibuprofen. It can safely be taken alongside a moderate amount of alcohol, though excessive drinking can increase the likelihood of an irritated stomach.

Taking Ibuprofen with Pre-Existing Conditions

If you have ever had an allergic reaction, such as wheezing, a runny nose, or a rash after taking ibuprofen or other NSAIDs, you should avoid taking it again. You should also avoid it if you are pregnant, or trying to get pregnant, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

If you have ever had any of the following conditions, you should check with your doctor first to ensure that taking ibuprofen is safe for you:

  • Stomach ulcers
  • Heart disease or failure
  • Liver problems
  • Kidney problems
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Shingles
  • Any illness that increases your chance of bleeding.

If you are over 65 years old, taking ibuprofen can also increase your chances of getting a stomach ulcer, so again, it is best to check first.

So, Is Ibuprofen Right for Me?

As one of the safest and most widely used painkillers, in most cases, ibuprofen can be a good choice to alleviate your symptoms. With only a short 20- to 30-minute wait for it to kick in, and up to four to six hours’ worth of effectiveness, it can help relieve painful headaches and toothaches, make periods more bearable, and get you to work despite a pounding hangover.

Keep in mind that there are a range of conditions that ibuprofen doesn’t go well with, as well as a number of medications to avoid combining it with. Still, with the instant relief ibuprofen provides, you should find yourself feeling better pretty quickly, at least for a few hours.

 

References:

https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/ibuprofen
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682159.html
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000772.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3191627/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ibuprofen/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nsaids/
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ibuprofen-for-adults/
https://beta.nhs.uk/medicines/ibuprofen-for-children/

Health

Why Does My Poop Float?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Although the topic is a little yucky, especially for ones with a weak stomach, let’s talk about stools and what can they tell us about our health. Every detail matters and it can tell you if there is something wrong with you. This includes the odor of your stool, how consistent it is, and its color as well.

Why does my poop float? This is a good question because there can be an underlying problem which presents itself in floating stools. In most cases, there is no cause for concern, as it doesn’t directly indicate any illness or disease. Usually, it is caused by your diet and can be fixed easily, or it will revert back to normal on its own.

The Usual Suspects

The most common reasons for floating stools are bad absorption of nutrients from food, known as malabsorption, and having too much gas in the stool, which reduces the density of the stool and makes it float.

The body needs to fully absorb and digest the nutrients from the gastrointestinal tract. Not doing so causes bad absorption of nutrients, and digestion is facilitated by intestinal bacteria.

They usually digest polysaccharides and sugars, creating additional gas in the process. The gas consists of methane and hydrogen. If the lower intestine carries the load and digests most of the food, all the excess gas will have to find a way out. It can be released in the form of floating poop or flatulence, commonly known as passing the wind or farting.

Another cause for malabsorption can be diarrhea because it makes the intestines contract in higher frequencies and move stool along too fast. If malabsorption is severe, the floating stool will also be very greasy and it may smell horrendous.

Malabsorption can also occur due to a gastrointestinal tract infection. These infections can be a result of bacterial or viral infections. In most cases, they go away on their own.

Finally, malabsorption can be caused by lactose intolerance. Lactose is a sugar present in all dairy products. People who are intolerant to lactose cannot digest It. When they consume dairy products, it can lead to diarrhea or gassy and floating stools.

Foods that Cause Poop to Float

Foods that make you gassy usually make your stool float. They usually have a lot of fiber, sugar, lactose or starch. Here are some of those foods:

  • All types of soda, energy drinks, and flavored water. The so-called sports drinks are not that healthy despite their name.
  • All sorts of legumes (beans, lentils, peas, peanuts) make you gassy.
  • Cabbage also makes you pass wind one way or the other.
  • Dairy products – all sorts of milk, cheese and yogurts, especially the full-fat types, can interact with your digestion, especially if you are lactose intolerant.

Diseases Can Cause Poop to Float as Well

Why does my poop float? In case you are wondering, you should know that most of the time there isn’t any cause for alarm if you notice you have floating poop, but in some scenarios, it can a good tell that something is wrong with you. Here are some of the diseases which come to mind when you have floating poop:

  • Short bowel syndrome – This condition is associated with malabsorption; it happens when your body has trouble with nutrient absorption. Sometimes short bowel syndrome is caused by missing part of the small intestine, whether it was removed during surgery or a genetic flaw. Other cause can be an intestinal disease.
  • Cystic fibrosis – This disease is inherited and often turns out to be fatal. Cystic fibrosis makes your digestive tract and your lungs produce a lot of thick mucus. If the mucus gets to the pancreas the result is improper nutrient absorption, accompanied by poop that floats. Unfortunately, this disease has no cure. Some medications can help to reduce the symptoms of the disease, floating poop included.
  • Celiac disease – This is an autoimmune disease which causes your immune system to attack the lining of your small intestine if you eat gluten. Nowadays gluten has a very bad reputation and this is one of the reasons for it. Celiac disease has no cure, but you can easily get rid of the symptoms by staying away from products which contain gluten. Read the label on wheat products, as they are usually full of gluten.

The following genetic diseases can cause your poop to float, but they are really rare:

  • Disaccharides deficiency is a disease which causes you to have less or no enzymes used for breaking down various types of starch and sugar.
  • Bassen-Kornzweig syndrome is a type of genetic disease that makes your intestines unable to absorb fats.
  • Biliary atresia makes it harder for intestines to absorb fat, even though they can still do it. It affects the development of bile ducts.

Treatment

As previously mentioned, the problem with floating stool often resolves itself without any medical intervention. Any necessary treatment will be dependent on the underlying cause of your stool situation. Thus, the treatments are different. If you have a bacterial infection, you will likely be prescribed antibiotics. In the case of diarrhea, there is some medication for slowing down the contraction of your intestines.

This problem usually has to do with your diet as well, so be prepared to adjust your diet according to the doctor’s recommendation.

Prevention

Floating poop is often caused by consuming food which can be problematic and cause excessive gases. Avoid such food, especially lactose if you are intolerant, and you should be in the clear. Also, keep track of bowel movements and try to figure out what caused your stool to float based on what you previously ate.

Hook, Line, and Sinker

If you’ve stuck around till here, you should have all the necessary advice to keep your stool grounded. If you suspect that your floating stool is a symptom of illness, it is best to get in touch with your primary care physician right away.

 

References:

https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/floating-stools-%E2%80%94-what-do-they-say-about-my-health
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25966670
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/5-things-your-poop-can-tell-you-about-your-health
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003128.htm

Health

How Long Does Percocet Stay in Your System?

Written By: Arch
Arch

Percocet is a pain relief prescription medication which is used when weaker pain relievers fail. It is a combination of oxycodone, which is a narcotic analgesic, and acetaminophen or Tylenol, which is not addictive and added to the concoction to reduce dependency.

People who are in dire need of pain relief are prescribed extended release Percocet.  How Long Does Percocet Stay in Your System? Whether it’s because you’re trying to ace a drug test, or trying to avoid an overdose or potential drug interactions with other medicines, it’d behoove you to find out.

Read on and you will learn everything you need to know about Percocet use.

Oxycodone Risk Factors

Oxycodone affects the central nervous system in order to feel less pain. Prolonged use of oxycodone can lead to mental and physical addiction. However, if you are in a lot of pain, you should not refrain from taking pain relief medications for any extended period of time just for fear of addiction.

If you use the medicine solely for that purpose, you should not form a mental dependence. On the other hand, physical dependency can cause side effects because of early withdrawal. To avoid withdrawals, your dosage should be gradually reduced until your treatment is complete.

If you increase the dosage, you can experience some very serious side effects, like severe breathing problems. This can also happen when you’re just starting your treatment, especially during the first three days. Take extra caution if you have a medical history of breathing problems such as asthma or chronic bronchitis.

Oxycodone Interactions

You should not ever combine oxycodone with other opioids, medications for allergies or cold that are known to cause drowsiness (go for the non-drowsy variety), benzodiazepines or alcohol. The results of these combinations can be devastating; the worst-case scenarios are coma and death, but also it can make you heavily sedated and hinder your ability to breathe.

Pay close attention to your other medications, such as antifungals and antibiotics. Some of them can increase the effects of oxycodone (Percocet, Oxycontin, etc.). After a course of antifungals or antibiotics, their traces can still be found in your body so you might not want to Percocet during that time.

The easiest way to ensure you are safe is to report everything to your doctor, including any medication you are using, be it prescribed or OTC medication. Also, tell them if you’re using any dietary supplements and herbs. Finally, inform the doctor if you are starting to feel addicted to Percocet or if it doesn’t relieve your pain.

Acetaminophen Risk Factors

Acetaminophen is better known as Tylenol in this part of the world. It is usually harmless but you must have heard of people trying to commit suicide by downing a whole bottle of it. Extended use of acetaminophen can also cause permanent damage to the liver.

Refrain from taking more than 4 grams of acetaminophen a day to avoid liver damage. Again, it is best to check the dosage with your medical practitioner and tell him or her about all the other medication you are using. Percocet usually contains 325 milligrams of acetaminophen per pill.

How long is Percocet in Your System?

Every medication stays in our bodies for a different amount of time. There are many factors which have an impact on this, such as:

  • Age
  • Hydration levels
  • Metabolism
  • Usage period and frequency
  • Kidney and liver functions
  • Body weight and fat percentage
  • Other medication in use

So, how long does Percocet stay in your system? Percocet should not stay in your bloodstream for longer than 24 hours, but it can stay in your urine and saliva up to four days. Keep that in mind if you have to take a drug test for work.

Get a doctor’s paper so that you can inform your employers (if you’re legally prescribed). If you’re using it recreationally, don’t use it for at least a week before the drug test just to be safe. Don’t mess with those flushing systems that claim to rid your body of all recreational drugs (they might not work). Better yet, you might want to think about quitting. It’s the only reliable way to beat a surprise drug test.

On the other hand, Percocet may stay in your hair for up to 3 months.

Percocet Half-Life

Just like nuclear materials, half-life refers to the average amount of time required for the first half of the dose to leave your system. A few half-lives would have to pass before the drug is totally out of your system. Knowing these times can save you from an overdose.

Immediate-release oxycodone has a half-life of around 200 minutes. You process it in the kidneys and out through urination. For the extended-release version of oxycodone, the half-life is around 250 minutes or more.

Percocet also contains acetaminophen whose half-life in the bloodstream is between 75 and 300 minutes. It can vary depending on your liver function and if you have had more than 4000 mg of it.

Percocet Withdrawal

Remember that you should gradually reduce your Percocet dosage instead of stopping it abruptly, which can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. Let your medical practitioner guide you on this process.

The withdrawal symptoms of Percocet include:

  • Fatigue
  • Uncontrollable sweating
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Digestion problems including diarrhea and vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Shallow breaths
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Heart rate changes

Overdose from Percocet

Extended-release pills should be swallowed whole. Or it’d be like taking immediate-release pills.

If you think that you’ve taken more than 4 grams of acetaminophen over the course of the day, notify your medical practitioner right away, even if you’re feeling well at the moment.

You might be having a Percocet overdose if you are experiencing some of the following symptoms:

  • Lightheadedness and fainting
  • Breathing issues, like gasping for air or slow breathing
  • Severe fatigue
  • Pupil dilation changes
  • Cold and blue skin
  • Falling unconscious or into a coma

Use but Don’t Abuse

If you are feeling lasting and unbearable pain, drugs are there to relieve it. You can use Percocet as it’s intended with the guidance of a doctor. Follow his or her guidelines for a speedy recovery.

Any extended use is not recommended unless a doctor assures you otherwise. Even then, know that the current opioid epidemic often starts with Percocet. It’s easy for a Percocet user to start using stronger and stronger painkillers.

How Long Does Percocet Stay in Your System?

 

References:

https://prescription-drug.addictionblog.org/how-long-does-percocet-stay-in-your-system/
https://americanaddictioncenters.org/percocet-treatment/how-long-in-system
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/oxycodone-and-acetaminophen-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20074000

Health

The Best Breathing Exercises for Anxiety

Written By: Arch
Arch

Breathing is not just a process which allows our bodies to take oxygen. If used right, breathing can be a wonderful tool for relaxation of both the muscles and the mind. You can combine it with some other techniques for stress relief, such as yoga and meditation, to get the best out of both.

You can choose from a variety of different breathing techniques, which are very easy and simple, to fight stress and improve your health. Everybody knows you should take deep breaths, but what are the best breathing exercises for anxiety?

Read on and you will find out all about these techniques and the benefits of their regular use.

The Benefits of Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises beat many alternatives, at least when it comes to acute stress reduction. Why should one go to therapy with an expensive, on-the-clock therapist or pay a hefty price for treatment at the massage clinic or a luxurious spa, when they can reduce stress on their own?

These breathing exercises do not take much time to learn, and once you do, you can further perfect them and tailor them to your own liking. It is great that you can use them pretty much anywhere. So, if you get into a stressful situation, you can control your breathing to keep stress in check or even deescalate an otherwise dire outcome.

Even chronic stress can be effectively soothed with some breathing methods by reversing the stress response of a person. In the case of people who are under chronic stress, breathing exercises can take some time to be effective, but otherwise, they usually show instant results.

People who are not affected by chronic stress can also develop this problem if their stress response is not reversed. You should not wait for these symptoms to develop; it is better to prevent the damage than to heal it. Chronic stress can cause severe issues and should not be taken lightly.

Taking the time to slow down your breath and inhale in deep, rhythmic fashion lets you enter a state of tranquility which calms the nerves and raises your body temperature. Also, these breathing techniques are a way to reduce blood pressure, relax your muscles, remove the toxins from your body with less effort, and improve the oxygen flow in your body.

Additionally, if all the previously mentioned benefits were not enough, here are some of the ailments which can be avoided or diminished just by practicing the right breathing technique:

  • All sorts of headaches
  • Various sleep disorders including restless leg syndrome, insomnia, etc.
  • Anxiety, depression, and many other stress disorders and phobias
  • Short attention span and inability to concentrate
  • Feeling burned out and fatigued
  • Panic attacks and hyperventilating

Best Breathing Exercises for Anxiety and Stress Reduction

There is a plethora of breathing techniques for relaxation you can find online and the proponents of each technique will tell you theirs is the best. You will not find biased information here, but you will find out about the best breathing exercises for anxiety which are approved by medical experts and health organizations.

Most people think that relaxation comes when you indulge in your favorite activities such as watching the TV, reading a book, or working on your hobby. However, these activities do nothing but distract us from stressful thoughts.

Activating the natural relaxation response in our bodies is the correct way to eliminate stress and all the harmful effects which accompany it. Dr. Herbert Benson is the one who came up with the relaxation response. He claims that this is a physical state of deep rest which affects our emotional response as well as a physical response to stress.

The American Institute of Stress stated that focused abdominal breathing is the best way to trigger this response. If you breathe through your abdomen about half an hour a day, you are guaranteed to reduce anxiety and stress.

Abdominal breathing, belly breathing, or diaphragmatic breathing is the body’s intended way of breathing. Taking short breaths through the chest should not be your go-to form of breathing, unless you area under a lot of physical stress, say during a workout and briefly afterward.

If you breathe deeply, you are giving more oxygen to your brain and stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, a division of the autonomic nervous system which helps you to feel calm and relaxed.

The Quieting Response

This method combines deep breathing with visualization to prevent stress response as soon as possible. The best of it, you can do it in just six seconds.

  • Use your mouth and your eyes to smile inwardly and exert the tension from your shoulders. Nearly everyone keeps these muscles tense, which is why this is an excellent muscle release.
  • Activate your imagination and think that you have holes in your soles. Breathe in deeply, visualizing hot air which flows through those holes, up to your legs and abdomen until it fills your lungs.
  • As the hot air moves through each muscle, relax those muscles one by one.
  • Reverse the process of visualization when you exhale, as if the air is leaving through the same holes in your soles.
  • You can repeat this whenever you have the urge to become free of stress.

This breathing technique is endorsed by the American Institute of Stress.

Roll Breathing

This breathing technique can assist with developing better use of the lungs and it can accustom you to rhythmic breathing. If you are new to it, you should lie down on your back and keep the knees bent.

  • Put one hand on your chest and the other one on your belly. Pay attention to your hands moving while breathing.
  • Practice breathing in a manner which fills your lower lungs, making the belly hand go up, while the chest hand stays still.
  • Breathe in through the nose and out from the mouth ten times.
  • After this, breathe the same way, but fill your upper chest as well. Make a whoosh sound when you exhale.
  • Keep doing this for between 3 and 5 minutes.

Air In, Stress Out

Diaphragmatic breathing comes with many benefits. Most of all, it activates the natural stress response and brings instant relaxation. You can use it on a daily basis and practice it in stressful situations to equip your body for a powerful counterattack.

 

References:

https://www.stress.org/take-a-deep-breath
https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/4-breathing-techniques-for-better-health
https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/uz2255
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/9445-diaphragmatic-breathing