Published on: 24 January 2018
Last Updated on: 29 May 2021
With our busiest schedules to follow, we often get reluctant about hitting the gym or following a proper diet plan. Nobody has the kind of time to spend hours pampering themselves. The good news is health and fitness is not all about investing too much time in cooking healthy meals and working out at the gym, it is much more.
Even the littlest healthy habits and avoidance of unhealthy habits can improve your overall lifestyle and turn you into a healthier YOU.
Want to know what such habits are and how you can add them to your daily routine? They might not sound very new, but they are exactly the ones you usually miss out on. So, here is a reminder for you to follow them for a healthy and happy life. Read through and thank me later!
How to Stay Healthy and Fit Despite a Hectic Schedule:
Carry a Water Bottle:
We all are aware of the fact that drinking 7 to 8 glasses of water is necessary for healthier skin and body. However, most of us get reluctant about it because it is way out of our reach and we are too busy to fetch a glass for ourselves.
Therefore, I would suggest you carry a medium-size water bottle wherever you go and finish it at least twice to hydrate your body well. Drinking water is not only best for hydrating the body but it also helps flush out any toxins prevailing inside the body.
Stay Socially Active:
By staying socially active, I do not mean to stay updated with and connected to social media. It means taking time out for catching up with old friends in person and making new friends as well. Put all the gadgets away and spend some quality time with your family on the weekend.
Staying socially active helps us relax and give us immense emotional strength. It is great for mental health and wellbeing.
Get Rid of All Kinds of Addiction:
If you are addicted to anything in your life, either it is some high-quality weed, video games or smoking cigarettes, try to get rid of it. It is tough, I know. However, where there is a will, there surely is away.
Telling yourself to avoid something takes you closer to it. Therefore, instead of doing that, just distract your mind by engaging in better and healthier activities whenever you feel the need for it. You will gradually be able to get rid of it without even knowing it.
Proper and Uninterrupted Sleep:
With all the smartphones and wireless gadgets in our room beeping every other minute, going deep into sleep has nearly become impossible. We all are so addicted to checking every notification immediately that we do not even keep our phones silent while going to bed. As a result, we end up staying up till late and feeling restless throughout the day.
If you want a healthier lifestyle, start turning your phone on silent mode before you go to bed and put all your devices away at least half an hour before you go to sleep. If you want something to do in that spare time before you doze off, take a good book to read while sipping on chamomile tea.
Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.
Did you know that every day your body is sending complex chemical messengers called hormones to regulate its systems?
Often times, we think our hormones negatively, but these natural compounds are essential to the health of both men and women.
The most common types of hormones include cortisol, melatonin, progesterone, testosterone, estrogen, adrenaline, and insulin. Without any of these, our bodies wouldn't be able to function properly.
Hormones can impact everything from digestive health to mental health, and they are intimately involved in the reproductive cycle.
As important as they are, dysfunction can easily occur at different points in the production and circulation of hormones. It is vital to understand how to combat these issues in a natural way.
Read on to learn more about the endocrine system's inner workings, as well as natural ways to balance hormones.
How the Endocrine System Works:
The endocrine system is essentially made up of several glands that produce the different types of hormones found in your body.
To name the major ones, these are the pituitary, pineal, thymus, thyroid, adrenal glands and pancreas. The testes and ovaries are also involved, depending on your sex.
Understanding the basis of this system can help you understand what can go wrong, and how to promote better hormone health.
Firstly, there are key ingredients that are needed to produce hormones. These include fats, proteins, and various nutrients.
As well, toxins can disrupt hormones by either mimicking them or suppressing their production in some form.
All and all, the entire endocrine system works in unison to promote the normal functioning of your body. Even the slightest imbalance can lead to symptoms.
Signs of Hormone Imbalance:
There are a few keys signs of hormone imbalance to be aware of, as both a male and female.
In women, problems around the menstrual cycle are often the most obvious sign of an imbalance.
Infertility, irregular periods, skin issues, and premenstrual syndrome can all signify issues with the endocrine system.
Additional symptoms that can manifest in both sexes include fatigue, anxiety, depression, low libido, insomnia, digestive issues, hair loss, and weight problems.
Natural Ways to Balance Hormones:
With the impact that hormones can have on the body, promoting their balance in your daily routine is essential.
Natural options are much more favorable than synthetic ones such as birth control or other artificial hormone medications.
These do not get to the root of your health issues. They merely cover them up, and symptoms can get worse or more can occur in the meantime.
As an alternative to treatments that do not get to the bottom of your problems, here are eight natural ways to balance hormones.
1. Avoid Endocrine Disruptors:
Endocrine disruptors are abundant in our industrialized world. These are chemicals and compounds that interfere with hormonal processes in the endocrine system.
A few well-known endocrine disruptors include BPA, dioxin, phthalates, and certain pesticides.
The items we use in our homes can often contribute to our overall toxin load, and switching over to healthier alternatives can be greatly beneficial.
Choose non-toxic cleaning products whenever possible, and try to avoid using plastics in the kitchen as much as possible.
As well, our beauty products can also be a potential source of exposure. Use the environmental working groups website to help you pick better products for your hormones.
Lastly, eating organic produce whenever possible will reduce your consumption of pesticide residue.
2. Limit Caffeine:
Caffeine is a big part of most of our lives, and it is difficult to part with. But, in truth, it can have detrimental effects on our hormones.
Highly-caffeinated beverages, namely coffee, can put our bodies into a permanent state of fight-or-flight by stimulating the production of stress hormones.
While this may be beneficial in the short term, it can stress your entire body out in the long-term.
Consider cutting back on your caffeine intake, or swapping it out entirely for drinks with lower levels of caffeine.
3. Eat Healthy Fats:
Many hormones are cholesterol-based, meaning that fat is the basis of their make-up.
Therefore, eating plenty of healthy fats will help your body produce enough of these hormones.
Ensure that you focus on saturated fats and omega-3's especially, as our diets tend to be too high in omega-6's.
4. Sleep is Key:
Sleep is the time when our bodies produce hormones and detoxify harmful substances from our body.
Moreover, sleep can disrupt your mood and your blood sugars levels, both of which can contribute negatively to hormones.
Try to optimize your sleeping environment by making the room as dark as possible and creating a nighttime routine.
5. Exercise Properly:
While exercise is always important, extended periods of exertion can actually have negative consequences.
Therefore, opt for less strenuous workouts such as weight lifting or gentle yoga when you first begin your healing journey.
6. Try Mindfulness:
Stress is often at the root of our hormone problems. In the least, it can make your moods and physical symptoms much worse.
To complicate things, stress is not an easy problem to 'fix'. Often times, it is anything but easy to reduce our stress levels.
One option to try, however, is to implement mindfulness into your approach. It will not only help you become more aware of your body and its struggles but also to how you deal with adversity.
Over time, you can begin to shift your mindset around the stresses of life with mindfulness and develop a better relationship with it altogether.
7. Consider Herbs or Supplements:
Another potential way to heal your endocrine system is with different herbs and supplements.
These are not a quick fix by any means, but they can provide additional support alongside other treatments.
Some good options for supplementation could include red raspberry leaf, evening primrose oil, vitex, maca, fish oil, magnesium, and zinc, depending on your specific imbalance.
8. Try Bio-Identical Hormones:
There are times when no amount of natural treatment through sleep, diet, and exercise help.
In this case, an option could be bio-identical hormone therapy, which involves using chemically identical hormones to heal your imbalance.
BodyLogicMD has an abundance of information on this topic and can help provide you the support you need.
Hormone Health Reflects Overall Health:
All in all, the health of our endocrine system is reflective of our lived environment.
While it can be influenced partly by genetics and other factors out of our control, much of it is impacted by the way we choose to live.
Therefore, by consciously choosing to implement natural ways to balance hormones, we can reap the benefits of our system working in our favor.
For more information about how hormones can impact reproductive health, check out our post of the causes of female and male infertility.
Read More:
Must-Have Appliances for a Healthier Life.
Important Habits to Protect Your Ear Health and Hearing.
How to Stay Healthy and Fit Despite a Hectic Schedule.
In the complex symphony of our body, every organ, every cell, plays a vital role. The gut, located at the core of our body, is an unassuming yet potent conductor of health. Its silent communications often unveil an underexplored health concern - leaky gut syndrome - an issue that may affect many without them realizing it. Now, let's delve deeper into this critical health matter, shedding light on its mystery and ways to address it.
A Deeper Dive Into Leaky Gut Syndrome
Leaky gut syndrome, scientifically known as increased intestinal permeability, is a mysterious digestive condition. It manifests when the intestinal wall, which normally allows selective passage of nutrients into the bloodstream, becomes compromised. In this state, undesired particles like bacteria, toxins, and undigested food leak into the bloodstream, creating a cascade of potential health issues that often extend beyond the realm of digestion. It's thus essential to grasp its workings for our well-being.
Interpreting The Whispers: Recognizing The Symptoms Of Leaky Gut
One of the reasons leaky gut syndrome is often overlooked is its extensive range of seemingly unrelated symptoms. Chronic fatigue, digestive issues like bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, food sensitivities, joint pain, skin conditions like acne, eczema, rosacea, and even mental health disturbances like anxiety and depression - all of these could be the gentle whispers of a leaky gut. If you notice these symptoms persisting, it's time to consider consulting a healthcare professional. A comprehensive understanding of these signs can lead us toward better health.
Discovering The Root: Understanding The Causes Of Leaky Gut
Although research continues to explore the exact causes of leaky gut syndrome, several factors are often implicated. These include a poor diet lacking in fiber and essential nutrients, chronic stress that disrupts the body's equilibrium, toxin overload from environmental pollutants or lifestyle choices, and an imbalance in gut bacteria known as dysbiosis.
The modern lifestyle, characterized by ultra-processed food consumption, lack of physical activity, and high stress, could potentially increase the risk of developing conditions like leaky gut syndrome. This knowledge can help us adopt a more gut-friendly lifestyle.
Translating The Whispers: Diagnostic And Treatment Approaches
Diagnosing leaky gut syndrome can be a challenge due to the broad spectrum of symptoms and the absence of a single, definitive diagnostic test. It is often identified based on symptoms, medical history, and a positive response to treatment. Therefore, a multifaceted approach to diagnosis and treatment is usually the best way forward.
Treatment for leaky gut primarily involves making significant changes to the diet. A well-balanced, anti-inflammatory diet that includes a variety of fiber-rich foods, fermented foods, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help restore gut health. Supplements that support gut health also play a crucial role in this process. If you're unsure about which supplements to take, click here to explore a detailed guide on the best leaky gut supplements. In combination with dietary changes, the right supplement can optimize your path toward a healthy gut.
Fortifying Gut Health With Supplements
When it comes to combating leaky gut syndrome, the right supplements can be powerful allies. They can help rebuild the integrity of the gut lining, restore balance to the gut microbiota, and reduce inflammation. Some of the most effective supplements include probiotics, L-glutamine, collagen peptides, and digestive enzymes, all working in synergy to promote gut health. With their targeted benefits, these supplements can play a key role in supporting the journey toward a healthy gut.
PureHealth Research stands as a notable brand within the health supplements industry. They provide an array of supplements formulated to meet various health needs, including gut health. Incorporating these supplements, based on your specific needs and a healthcare professional's advice, could be a supportive measure in your strategy against leaky gut syndrome
Expanding Our Understanding Through Research
Scientific research continually sheds new light on our understanding of leaky gut syndrome and its wide-ranging effects on health. Recent studies, such as those published in the journal Gut and Liver in 2020, and the journal Frontiers in Immunology in 2017, delve into the complex mechanisms underlying leaky gut syndrome. They highlight the importance of gut health for overall physical and mental well-being. This expanding body of research underscores the importance of staying informed and utilizing this knowledge for our benefit.
The Larger Picture: The Role Of Gut Health In Overall Well-Being
Maintaining a healthy gut extends beyond just alleviating digestive issues. Emerging research indicates a profound connection between gut health and various other systems in our bodies, including our immune system, endocrine (hormonal) system, and even our neurological health. Therefore, by attending to the whispers of a leaky gut, we may also positively impact these other aspects of our health. Recognizing the interconnected nature of our body systems can guide us toward more holistic health practices.
The Path Forward: Heeding The Whispers Of Your Gut
The silent whispers of a leaky gut need not be a cause for panic, but a signal for attention and action. By tuning in to these subtle signals, identifying potential triggers, and taking proactive steps towards improved gut health, you can enhance your overall well-being and vitality.
A journey towards better health often starts by paying heed to these whispers, and taking preventative measures before they escalate into louder cries for help. So, let's not ignore these whispers, instead, let's interpret them as calls to action, steering us towards a healthier future.
Read Also:
Ensuring Quality Healthcare With Correct Diagnoses
What Is The Chain Of Survival?
When to worry about Varicose veins? - Varicose veins are the bulged and twisted veins found on your legs just under your skin. They are one of the most common body conditions but are seldom dangerous or life-threatening.
In this article, you will get a general overview of when to worry about varicose veins. However, before that, you will get a general overview of Varicose veins and their symptoms. On the other hand, this article will also give you a general detail of its diagnosis. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.
What Are Varicose Veins?
If there are bulging and enlarged veins in the body, these veins are called Varicose veins. Generally, all superficial veins can become Varicose. Basically, superficial veins are the ones that are close to the surface of the skin.
However, in most cases, Varicose veins affect veins in the legs. This is due to the fact that standing and walking increase pressure in those veins.
Normally, varicose veins are cosmetic concerns for most people. Moreover, some people also worry about spider veins, which are nothing but mild forms of varicose veins. However, in some people, varicose also causes some discomfort and aching pain. On the other hand, some people also face serious health problems because of varicose veins.
Generally, varicose treatment involves simple exercises, leg raises, etc., that you can do while lying down. Moreover, you might need to wear compression stockings depending on varicose veins stages. Also, there are certain ways to close or remove veins.
Symptoms Of Varicose Veins
The following are some of the major symptoms of varicose veins:
The Veins become dark purple, blue, or of the skin color. However, in some cases, these changes in color are harder to see.
Some veins bulge and look twisted. In some cases, they look like cords on your legs. Also, you can check out legs for a doctor to determine varicose veins cancer symptoms.
Varicose veins can also give a heavy or achy feeling in your legs.
In some cases, burning, cramping, throbbing, or swelling in the lower legs can be due to varicose veins.
Itching on the veins can be a result of varicose veins.
When To Worry Avoid Varicose Veins? Need For Treatment
Two types of these veins typically occur in the legs. The first one, superficial veins, are harmless, appear just under the skin, and are visibly prominent. Deep veins are caused by the muscles in your legs squeezing the veins during activities such as walking, running, or exercising.
How Do Varicose Veins Form?
Your veins typically contain a one-way valve that allows the flow of blood from the legs to the heart. When the normal functioning of this valve fails, blood tends to flow back down the veins and exerts pressure on the legs.
This excess pressure results in the widening of the veins. When these veins develop, you will see a discolored spider-like vein structure that appears like bruises.
Who Is at Risk Of Varicose Veins?
You are at risk for developing varicose veins for many reasons. You might be predisposed to them because of heredity, underlying health conditions, or hormonal fluctuation. Women are more likely to have varicose veins than men for reasons including pregnancy, menopause, puberty, and other hormonal-induced body changes. Certain medications and birth control pills can also bring about the veins.
Varicose veins are prevalent among pregnant women during their initial trimester. This is due to increased estrogens and blood volume that cause veins to enlarge. Additionally, pressure on the veins can be exerted involuntarily from the enlarged uterus in pregnant women.
Another risk factor for varicose veins is prolonged sitting and an idle lifestyle.
Complications Of Having Varicose
In an otherwise healthy person, these veins do not cause adverse health problems other than cosmetic issues. In other words, the veins can be a significant cause of concern only for those who feel it is a nuisance or embarrassment.
The condition in some individuals can cause mild discomfort and a feeling of heaviness as well. Sometimes, aching may be present, which may worsen as you sit or stand for an extended period. You might develop swelling in your ankles, as well.
However, if the symptoms are severe enough to cause other health issues, you should seek immediate medical attention from a specialist.
You might develop skin ulcerations on or near your varicose veins. If the varicose vein is close to the skin, there is the possibility you could bleed if you injure the area. If the bleeding doesn’t stop with compression or your ulcers become worse, it is necessary that you see your doctor immediately.
Diagnosis And Treatment Of Varicose Veins
Treatment for varicose veins depends on the severity of your condition. You can alleviate some of the symptoms associated with varicose veins on your own. You should elevate your legs every evening for ten to fifteen minutes to help with the blood flow in your lower extremities. This is a good Varicose veins self-care.
Try wearing compression socks or stockings, which will compress your muscles and support the blood flow through your veins. You can also take an anti-inflammatory for any swelling or pain you might have.
If your varicose veins are causing you serious health problems, then you will need more invasive treatments. Your doctor for varicose vein treatment might recommend laser treatment, where they will use light energy directly on the vein to cause it to fade and disappear.
Another option is sclerotherapy, where your doctor injects a foam or chemical solution into the vein, causing it to collapse so it can no longer transport blood. There is also the possibility of your doctor surgically removing or stripping a varicose vein in more serious situations.
Final Note
When to Worry About Varicose Veins? – You can see that you must worry only when your veins swell or if there is a sudden increase in pain. Basically, if you are suffering from varicose veins, there are treatment options there for you. Don’t let this cosmetic issue become more serious!
Do you have more suggestions on how to deal with Varicose veins? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.
Read More:
Vein Doctor Diana Wilsher Discusses Vitamins That Can Help You With Varicose Veins
7 Signs Which Indicate That You Need To See A Vein Specialist Right Now
All That You Must Know About Prenatal Vitamins