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20 Be Positive Quotes That Will Warm the Coldest Heart

March 9, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Life can be a series of intense challenges that make us wonder what the purpose is. We can face storms that seem unending and mountains that seem impossible. Amid life’s challenges, it helps to think of the best “be positive” quotes to help us get back in the race and keep playing in the game of life.

20 Be Positive Quotes to Warm Your Heart

1. “I’ve always thought that you can think positive just as well as you can think negative.” -James Baldwin

The power of your life is in your mind. Your life will be a manifestation of your thoughts, which will drive your actions. You can choose either to think positively or to think negatively. A lot of life just happens to us, and we have no control over it. We can, however, control how we look at these situations and how we react to them. This is a favorite be positive quotes for every person who needs to keep their thoughts positive.

2. “Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” -Theodore Roosevelt

Believing in yourself is a huge part of the success equation. When you believe you can do it, you have mastered the hardest part of your challenge ahead. Many people fail not because they are not talented or smart, but because they don’t believe in themselves.

3. “I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can change my sails to always reach my destination.” -Jimmy Dean

So much of what happens in life is outside of our control. What is in our control, however, is the ability to course-correct and stay on track to our goals. Sometimes life requires adjusting. The key is to keep heading in the right direction.

4. “Life is like riding a bicycle, in order to keep your balance, you must keep moving.”-Albert Einstein

In life, things will happen that will knock us off track. The key is to keep moving, keep going forward, and not to stop and give up. This heartwarming quote reminds us to keep going, despite the obstacles in our path.

5. “Limit your always and your nevers.” -Amy Poehler

Thinking in terms of absolutes can limit you in life. You don’t “always” fail, nor will you “never” succeed at something. Understanding that there are shades of gray is the best way to keep your thinking positive.

6. “You are never too old to set a new goal or dream a new dream.” -C.S. Lewis

Many people give up because they think that their season has passed and it’s too late to do something extraordinary. Some people start new businesses, create new inventions, and rebuild their lives later in life. Never give up.

7. “Try to be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.” –Maya Angelou

Everyone you know is fighting their own internal battles and struggles. Try to be a shining light in their life, someone they can count on for a heartwarming word of encouragement, a smile, or a mood boost.

8. “You don’t find the happy life, you make it.” -Camilla Eyring Kimball

Life does not always go as planned. If you want a happy life, you have to create it yourself. Surround yourself with people and things that enhance your life and make it happy.

9. “You must do the things you think you cannot do.” –Eleanor Roosevelt

Sometimes, our minds are our own worst enemies. If you ever think you cannot do something, change your mind and tell yourself that you absolutely can.

10. “We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.” -Joseph Campbell

Sometimes the life that we planned doesn’t happen. This doesn’t mean that we can’t have an abundant life. When we let go of what could have been, we can enjoy what the next chapter holds. Many people reinvent their lives after a setback and go on to enjoy better lives than the ones they had.

11. “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” –Mahatma Gandhi

If you want to see the world change, let it begin with you. If you want to see more kindness, love, and gentleness, be the kind, loving, and gentle person to those around you. Change starts from within, and even if you can’t change the entire world, we can change little things about our world and the world of those around us.

12. “You are enough, just as you are.” -Megan Markle

Sometimes we feel as though we are not enough. It can be easy to see others doing more and being more and feel inadequate. This is one of the be positive quotes to remind us that we are good enough. Comparing ourselves to others can only make us feel worse about ourselves. Remember that we are enough, just the way we are, no matter what others around us are doing.

13. “Don’t wait, the time will never be just right.” -Napoleon Hill

The time will never be perfect for pursuing your goals. The best thing to do is get started, even in a small way. In many cases, we put off the things we want in life because we feel the timing is not right. Our finances are not in order. We’re not the perfect size. We don’t have the right set of circumstances. The reality is that the time will never be just right, so the key is just to get started.

14. “Motivation comes from working on things that we care about.” -Sheryl Sandberg

When we work on things that are important to us, we find energy and inspiration. Motivation comes from putting our energy into those things that bring us joy. Find your passion and feed it if you want to feel alive and full of energy.

15. “The way to get started is to stop talking and begin doing.” -Walt Disney

Walt Disney was one of the most prolific business people of the modern age. His quote reminds us that taking action is better than just talking about what we want to do. A lot of times, we talk about what we want to do without taking action. The key is to start moving and start doing to achieve success.

16. “Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today.” -Will Rogers

Sometimes we get so caught up in what happened in the past that we can’t enjoy today. This quote reminds us not to let the past hinder us from the present. The past cannot be changed, and dwelling in the past will only stop us from enjoying the future and the present. Letting yesterday take up too much of today is a surefire way to make sure we don’t enjoy what we have now.

17. “The grass is greener where you water it.” -Neil Barringham

It often seems as though the grass is greener on the other side of the fence. The truth is that if we water our grass, it will be green as well. Comparison is the thief of joy, and if we want to live a joyful life, we have to focus on making our lives better instead of comparing ourselves to others.

18. “I have not failed. I have just found 10,000 ways that don’t work.” –Thomas Edison

Thomas Edison is known for inventing the light bulb, but most people don’t know that it took him many tries to perfect the invention. He had failed many times before he got it right, but he never gave up. This quotation is one of the best be positive quotes for people who have faced failure after failure and are thinking of quitting.

19. “Too many of us are not living our dreams because we are living our fears.” -Les Brown

When we live in fear, we block our dreams. This quote reminds us that fear will only inhibit us from living a life of abundance. Our fears can cripple us, tell us we’re not good enough, and generally hold us back from the things we want and need. Living our dreams means quieting our fears and letting our courage take hold.

20. “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.” -Christopher Robin, Winnie the Pooh

At times we don’t realize our greatness. We think that we can’t face challenges. We’re not strong enough to keep fighting, and we’re not smart enough to solve problems. This is one of the be positive quotes that remind us that we are greater than we think and that we can do amazing things. Winnie the Pooh was an eternal optimist, so it is no surprise that one of the best be positive quotes comes from him.

Final Thoughts: Remember these “Be Positive” Quotes When Times Get Tough

When it comes to enjoying our lives and living lives of purpose, it helps to remember the best be positive quotes that will motivate us to live our best lives. Life can be full of challenges that can knock us off our feet and divert us from our paths. The key is to remember that behind the storm clouds of life, there are silver linings that help us to enjoy full, productive, and happy lives.

How to Release The Emotional Attachment Of Being Childless In Your 30’s

March 9, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Are you childless because you chose to focus on your career or didn’t think you were the motherly type? Since the beginning of time, all living things have instinctively known that producing offspring was the only way their species would survive. The more children a couple had, the more clout they often gained in these early civilizations.

Nobody understood the complexity of genetics and human reproduction health, so society once deemed being childless as shameful, especially for women. Unfortunately, women have borne the brunt of reproductive expectations for thousands of years.

Not that it was ever easy for mothers, but women without children were often treated worse. They were often ostracized, scorned, and viewed as oddities of nature. The pressure was on for women to bear children and bring male heirs into the world to continue the family bloodline.

What the world didn’t know was that a man’s reproductive health played just as much a part of the woman, and his chromosomes determined their child’s gender. Most people viewed the man as the slighted victim and the woman as a betrayer.

History Stacked the Deck Against Childless Women

History is overflowing with accounts of enraged men and rulers who blamed their wives for being unable to produce a male heir. One of the most notorious cases was the murderous King Henry VIII of England, who divorced two of his wives and executed them. Sadly, this was not an isolated case in history.

These were cases of women who weren’t childless by choice. For some, the shame and consequences of not having children were more than they could bear. There are many untold stories of barren women throughout history, and the ending wasn’t always so happy.

Most women were so eager to have children that they paid little attention to the risks of childbearing. For thousands of years, childbirth was the leading cause of death among women. Lack of medical knowledge and unsanitary conditions were often the blame.

The Gradual Shift

Most of these historical injustices were incurred against women who longed for children. Unless women joined a religious community and swore vows of chastity, being childless by choice was unthinkable. Women were trained from birth to take their humble place in the world as child-bearers who were subservient to their husbands.

Up until the mid-20th century, large families were the norm in America. In a society with strong rural roots, families needed several children to tend to crops, livestock, and household needs. Parents with 10-20 biological children weren’t viewed as curiosities to parade on television shows.

During World War II, thousands of men and women were battling overseas, leaving a massive vacuum in the American labor market. For the first time, many war brides put domestic duties aside and worked jobs traditionally dominated by men. With this new-found freedom and responsibility, women realized that they could do other things besides being a mother and housewife.

Fast-forward to the Sexual Revolution and Women’s Liberation Movement of the 60s and 70s. Many women stood their ground as equals to men in the workforce and at home. As more families migrated from the farms to the city, the need for large families dwindled. Society was more open about family planning, and single working women and childless couples were more prevalent.

Choosing A Life with No Children

If you are a single woman or in a committed relationship, you don’t have the unconscionable pressure of past eras to have children. It’s perfectly acceptable and doesn’t make or break your worth as a person. Some women and men aren’t “kid-friendly,” and that’s okay.

Even in the 21st century, some stigma remains from past prejudicial attitudes, including those against people without children. Whether or not your fertility is by choice, you may still feel a twist of anxiety as your biological clock is ticking away.

Here are some helpful ways of changing your mindset. Then, you can release the emotional attachment of not having children.

1. Politely Stand Your Ground

After you’ve graduated high school and consider your college and career options, the pressure to find a mate won’t be subtle. Close friends and relatives will usually push the issue as they eagerly wait for you to find Mr. Right. However, marrying or staying single is your choice, and you needn’t apologize or explain.

If you find love in a committed relationship, the next stage of outside interference will be about having children. Parents on both sides may always hint of having grandchildren, and you will often be pushed in all directions. This pressure may hurt your self-esteem and make you feel inferior in others’ eyes.

Nobody has the right to ask you intrusive questions about such a personal subject. To those who continue to have the audacity, stand your ground, and politely reply that it’s not a comfortable subject. Most sensible people will get the hint and will back off.

What do you do in a case when someone is persistent? If you’ve done everything to politely deflect the nosey questions, feel free to stop the conversation immediately. Let the offender know that if the inappropriate queries continue, you will be parting ways.

2. Find Your Self-Worth in Other Parts of Your Life

Being a parent may be a cherished aspect of your life, but it doesn’t define you. If you can’t have children or choose not to, don’t allow it to erode your self-esteem. Concentrate on the many facets of your life that make you an extraordinary individual.

If you can’t have children, allow yourself to go through the grief process without judging yourself. You’ve done nothing wrong, and you are just as good as anybody else. You may find solace and inspiration in your mate and the things you do together.

3. Pour Your Kindness into Other Kids

Maybe you decided not to have children for practical reasons. Some people don’t want the responsibility of raising kids in today’s scary world. You may be focused on your career, love to travel, or cherish solitude.

Just because you don’t have children of your own doesn’t mean you don’t love them. The beauty of having young nieces, nephews, or godchildren is that you can “borrow” them for a day of fun, and then you can promptly return them to their parents. You can often fulfill your parental instincts by being kind to little ones in your family and circle of close friends.

4. Spend Time with Like-Minded Friends

You needn’t turn your back on friends and family who have children. When you observe some of their trials of being a parent, you may be glad you’re not one. If you want children but cannot have them, attending baby showers and listening to conversations about kids can be hurtful.

Be assured that you are not alone, whether you’ve opted to be child-free or not. You’ll find many people among family and friends who are in the same situation. Form a support system of like-minded individuals with who you can laugh and cry without the burden of unfair criticism.

By conducting some online research, you will find many support groups and other social circles that focus on childless couples. You can also talk to a social service organization about live groups that meet in your area. Remember that there’s power in numbers.

5. Be Selective About What You Watch or Read

As you stand in line for checkout in the grocery store, you’ll notice a plethora of women’s magazines geared toward parenting. Many books, movies, and television shows reinforce women’s outdated social norms as mothers and homemakers. That may be fine for women who chose a family, but it doesn’t nearly fit society and their right to choose this lifestyle.

Consider many of the classic fairy tales of evil stepmothers and child-eating witches. These dreadful villainesses are usually childless, while the heroines are beautiful princesses ready for marriage and children. It was no accident that women without offspring were portrayed with such blatant mischaracterization.

You might enjoy some parent-children oriented media, but it doesn’t have to be your only choice. Many books, magazines, and websites are dedicated to life-long single people or those who are childless by choice. Some of the articles and first-person accounts may solidify the facts that you aren’t alone, and your decision does not diminish you as a person.

6. Maybe You’re Not a “Kid Person.”

Not every person has parental instincts or can cope with the countless responsibilities of raising a child. Perhaps you don’t relate to kids and have little tolerance for their behavioral issues. It doesn’t make you a wicked person if you say that you don’t have kids because that’s not your thing.

Final Thoughts on Being Childless and Releasing the Pressure from Your Mind

Having children can be one of the most fulfilling parts of your life. However, it would help if you never defined yourself by whether you have a house full of little ones or remain childless. The beauty of being an individual is making your own choices and living your best life accordingly.

Not Every Person Will Forgive. Be Careful Who You Hurt

March 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

You can’t change all the people you encounter each day. However, you have the choice in who you allow into your inner circle. You want to be with someone eager to forgive, knows how to have fun, and is there for you when you need it most.

You will blink your eyes, and the best years of your life will be behind you. Since time is so short, you don’t want to waste it on those who don’t value and respect you as a friend. You must surround yourself with people who make you feel loved and appreciated.

The Sting of Betrayal

Have you been betrayed because you allowed someone to get close and they misused your trust? It’s not always easy to forgive or forget, but you should practice it often. Going through a betrayal is one of the most heartbreaking things in life.

If you tell a boyfriend or girlfriend about a cheating ex, they probably promised never to do that to you. When they turn around and do the same thing, the pangs of disloyalty from a cheating spouse feel more intense. You bear that scar for life once you feel such a resounding blow to the psyche.

When you meet someone new, every fiber of your being wants to believe that this person is true blue and would never hurt you. You care and love deeply, but giving yourself entirely to them is challenging because you’ve developed trust issues. You’re afraid that they will turn around and break your heart which is barely mended from the last betrayal.

Do you tend to stay longer in relationships than you should? There are always warning signs that the partnership isn’t working, but many choose to remain, hoping things will improve. Why do people stay with people that make them miserable?

What makes someone stay with someone they no longer trust?

Some of the most common reasons that people stay in a rocky relationship are these:

Finances
Children
Social or family ties
Jobs
The comfort of having someone

No matter how miserable this person makes you, there is comfort in coming home to the same thing every night. Generally, people don’t like change because it’s uncomfortable. Packing up the house, sever ties, and moving on is a huge hassle.

Once you’ve had such an intimate life with someone, it’s hard to move on and show mercy because they deceived you. They know things about you that make you vulnerable to them.

You will experience pain because the person you believed and trusted with all your secrets now is no longer that confidant. In fact, they might be the enemy. How do you move on from such a devastating blow?

The Emotional Changes Caused by Hurt

Once you’ve experienced deep hurt, it does things that cause you to change in ways that are hard to imagine. Some people believe in the fallacy that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Sadly, that’s not always the case.

Sure, some things you go through in life will make you a stronger and better person. However, some storms will alter you and can even destroy who you are. Love doesn’t mean you will live happily ever after, and it’s a bitter pill to swallow.

You can love a person with all your heart, but that doesn’t mean that you can live together. What good is love without income, commitment, or trust? Does it sound odd to say that the person who has caused you so much agony in life is the one that you should be thanking?

Aligning Your Visions

What would have happened if you never saw the person who betrayed you for who they really were? If you never saw their true colors, then you would have continued in a relationship that wasn’t right or healthy.

Without this revelation, you would have continued to believe that they were a good and decent person and that they were someone they weren’t. You gained wisdom and perspective when you hit your breaking point.

You’ve now learned when enough is enough. The next time, you will see the warning signs and end things before they come to blows. The most important lesson comes when someone disrespects your values because now you fully understand your true worth.

People become quite emotional when it comes to love. The pain is not caused by the fact that they didn’t love you completely; it comes from thinking they did. You wanted and believed that they loved you every bit as much as you did them.

You had no idea this relationship would end up like this. When you said forever, you thought that it would be for eternity. You had visions of sitting on the porch swing growing old together, but your visions didn’t align.

Learning to Forgive Yourself and Others

It’s time to change your destiny. If you let unforgiveness fester in your heart and mind, it can destroy you. However, you can forgive yourself because you didn’t know or ignored the warning signs.

Promise yourself that you will never allow this to happen to you again. The knowledge and wisdom you gain will keep you from making the same mistakes again. Time will tell if a person is right or wrong for you, and you can’t use your feelings of infatuation or love as a guide.

Time is really a beautiful gift as it allows manipulators and narcissistic people’s true colors to come to the forefront. Don’t be so eager to jump into a relationship head-on, and don’t move them into your home before you’ve given them a decent period to prove themselves.

Forgive the past mistakes you and others have made, but don’t make the same blunders again. Take some time to get to know yourself a bit better. Understand what you want, need, and are looking for in a friend or mate. You should guard your heart like a fragile piece of glass that can shatter and break if mishandled.

One of the biggest problems that people get caught up in is quantity. Don’t worry about how many dates you have or haven’t been on this month. It’s not a contest. You want quality because this is where you will find true happiness.

Stop loving all the wrong people and giving your heart away so easily. When you are eager for love, you will set yourself up for heartbreak.

But What if You Wronged Someone?

Now, what if you wronged someone in a relationship? And now, you must ask for forgiveness?

You must be careful because some people are not so eager to offer mercy. When you’ve crossed the line, some people aren’t interested in going back to the way things were.

Assume that you’re dating a woman and things are going well. You get a call from an ex-lover who wants to meet for dinner while she’s in town. You don’t want to tell your girlfriend because you know she might overreact, and you don’t intend this to be anything other than a quaint dinner.

The night was splendid, and catching up with an old flame was good. However, your girlfriend found out because someone saw you with another woman. She will have a hard time with trust and communication in the future, and she may not forgive you.

Even though you didn’t technically cheat on her, you put yourself in a position for her to distrust you in the future. She may view this as an unforgivable offense and believe that you were intimate with her even if you weren’t. Sometimes, people cross a line and do unforgivable things in the other person’s eyes.

This whole situation could have been avoided if you had told your girlfriend or brought her along, too. When things are going great in a relationship, be careful not to do something that could ruin the entire thing. A simple act of foolishness could have cost your bond with a beautiful person.

Not everyone will offer forgiveness or forget what you’ve done. You must be careful who you’ve hurt because sometimes there’s no going back.

Final Thoughts on the Choice to Forgive (or Not)

While you may forgive someone for something wrong they’ve done to you, it’s almost impossible to forget. Still, it’s possible for time to ease the painful pangs over time. When someone is dishonest or treats you poorly, you must forgive them. Karma is a beautiful yet vicious thing.

When you put negativity out into the atmosphere, then negativity is what will come back to you. When you offer forgiveness to others, then forgiveness will come back to you. Life is hard, and people make mistakes as no one is perfect, but make sure that even if it means your association ends you forgive.

Kansas City Builds Tiny Home Village For Homeless Veterans

March 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

The Veterans Community Project is located at 8900 Troost Avenue, in an old automobile shop. Across the street is a plot of land. There, they will build over 50 tiny homes to create a Veterans Village. The facility will house homeless veterans across Kansas City. Every one of these homes will offer veterans a solid, stable life.

Chris Stout created the Veterans Community Project. He envisioned a goal of eliminating veteran homelessness by providing transitional-housing and many other on-site services to address the root cause of veteran homelessness Because of this amazing work, CNN named Stout as one of CNN’s Top 10 Heroes of 2018.

The dedication of the Veterans Community Project to providing a stable and supportive environment for homeless veterans in Kansas City is a commendable initiative that highlights the urgent need for innovative housing solutions. In addition to the planned Veterans Village with over 50 tiny homes, there is a growing interest in alternative housing options that can further address homelessness effectively.

One such option gaining attention is the use of shipping containers for sale, which can be repurposed into durable, cost-effective living spaces. These containers can be quickly transformed into functional homes, offering a practical solution to the housing crisis faced by many veterans.

By integrating this modern approach to housing with comprehensive support services, the Veterans Community Project is paving the way for a brighter future, ensuring that those who have served our country receive the care and stability they deserve.

About Veterans Community Project

Walking into the Veterans Community Project feels more like walking into a family member’s house, not an office. A secretary greets guests at the door, with a candle burning and candy and Chapstick ready for guests to grab. Stout, the CEO and his partners Kevin Jamison and Vincent Morales renovated the entire office in just 28 days in 2014.

Even though Stout is the CEO, talking to him felt more like talking to a friend than talking to a non-profit owner. A visit to his office reveals a desk filled with commemorative mugs and awards for his service. In the corner sat his service dog, who was napping on his day off. He has two lounge chairs sitting in front of him for guests to feel welcome and comfortable.

“That’s the best part, you know, being able to interact with [the veterans],” Stout notes. “They are like family. It’s like a family here.”

Everyone who works at the VCP has some sort of connection with Stout, and flow out of each other’s offices contently, as they knew that their presence would never be a bother. Stout is a medically retired veteran, after being injured in Afghanistan, and said he is lucky he had the support he did when he got out.

“Luckily, I had family. Not everyone does,” he said. Stout said this motivated him to help these homeless veterans.

Along with Jamison, and Morales, Stout worked for 211-emergency call service when they met. Stout said he heard heart-wrenching stories of veterans suffering after getting out of the service, and he noticed there was a huge gap in the nursing market.

Read about how Robin Williams made an impact on the lives of homeless people in L.A.

Why They Started The Project

The real turning point for him and his partners was when a veteran needed $200 dollars to stay in his apartment. Stout and his peers knew exactly how to get that money for him. However, the veteran’s landlord kicked him out in the middle of the day–before Stout could assist him.

They had to get a U-Haul and move him to a hotel as soon as possible, which wound up costing the team much more than 200 dollars in the long-run.

Stout said he knew he had to come up with a solution, and soon. They found an automobile shop for sale on Troost they knew would be perfect for starting a veteran non-profit. They had trouble getting a loan for their office at first, but after he put his home up for collateral, they were able to purchase the shop and begin building the tiny homes for veterans.

“People like to put these people in categories like ‘oh they’re homeless,’ or ‘oh they’re veterans,’ but the fact of the matter is, they’re people just like you and me,” said Stout. “They’re trying to make a better life for themselves just like the rest of us.”

About the Tiny Homes

Each home is 240 sq. ft., with the exception of family homes which are 320 sq. ft and can house up to 6 people. Each fully-furnished home offers a vet a private, comfortable space to themselves.

They are doing each build in phases of 10 to help the veterans adjust more easily, and there will be 50 homes on the KC property when finished. They are currently at Phase Two of the Tiny Homes project in Kansas City, which brings the current number to about 20 homes. Additionally, they are also building a 5,000 square foot community center, which they hope to finish by the springtime.

They want each veteran to have as much time as needed to be able to adjust while living in their tiny homes. However, they instituted a loose two-year maximum “rule” for living there. At that two-year point, they will sit down with the veteran to determine if VCP is the right program for them.

“It would be delusional to imagine that this is the perfect program for every single veteran,” Stout said. “We always only want what is best for them, even if it isn’t us.”

Veterans Community Project has several sponsors, including Samuel Adams beer, Google Fiber, and Coca-Cola. Although these sponsors are very appreciated, this non-profit is only expanding, and could always use more help. From volunteering to sponsorships, all assistance is welcome.

Which Is the Next Community to Host Tiny Homes for Veterans?

Currently, the VCP has locations in Kansas City, Denver, St. Louis, and Nashville. They have received offers from several other cities. And, they want to expand as far as they can, so they can help as many people as possible.

They have sponsorships of $15,000 to help them build several tiny homes. Additionally, they fund other programs for veterans at their facilities. Some services they provide include drug and alcohol abuse assistance, mental and physical health services, gardening classes, cooking classes, veterinary services, and dental services.

Stout said there are several ways to get involved besides the $15,000 sponsorship. To learn more about the organization and how to get involved, visit the website at veteranscommunityproject.org, as well as their social media pages.

10 Healthy Reasons to Crack Open Pistachios If You’re Hungry

March 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Pistachios are, indeed, a great little nut that everyone loves to break out of their small shells. Try them, and you’ll discover its pure awesomeness.

The nut has been the thing of legends, being used in an assortment of foods and drinks across the world. It has even made its way into popular culture. Does anyone else remember the Great Pistachio Wars from the 1990’s show Dinosaurs?

Why Should You Snack on These Smiling Nuts?

While these are a tasty snack, with sweet and salty hints, what do they do for us, aside from test out patience? It turns out these are just short of a superfood, with some incredible health benefits. There are some significant medical studies to support these claims, surpassing hubris claims on fad nutrition and health blogs. Get past the hype and see why you should be eating more pistachios.

1 – Lowers Blood Sugar

It is pretty easy to understand that if you swap out a candy bar for any nut, you will lower your blood sugar. However, one clinical study looked at the effects of eating these nuts regularly on both fasting blood sugars as well as hemoglobin A1c levels. Participants ate about three-quarters of an ounce twice a day as a snack over the course of 12 weeks.

The results were nothing short of shocking. The fasting glucose results dropped by an average of 16mg/dl. The HbA1c results dropped by an average of 0.4%. For anyone who is not familiar with blood sugar levels, these numbers are almost the difference between being prediabetic and being diabetic. That is a significant difference when you are trying to control elevated blood sugar.

Read about the healthful benefits of eating pistachios and other nuts.

2 – Reduces High Blood Pressure

Uncontrolled high blood pressure increases the risk of severe health problems like heart attack and stroke. That means people with elevated blood pressure need to take serious steps to reduce it.

Studies have shown that taking 10-20% of your daily energy from nuts over the course of at least four weeks helps reduce blood pressure. Most nuts only lower the systolic blood pressure. However, when taken over a long period of time helps reduce both systolic and diastolic pressures.

Reducing both pressures has the most significant impact on your health. It ensures you are not putting undue stress on your heart, and protects your veins from rupturing under too much pressure. The point is that making them a regular part of your diet may help keep your blood pressure in check. Keep in mind. This is not a magic bullet. You still need to watch other factors like getting regular exercise.

3 – Balances Cholesterol

Everyone knows how vital cholesterol is to avoiding heart attacks. After all, it is the cholesterol that helps lead to the formation of plaque on artery walls, slowly restricting blood flow.

You may have also heard that cholesterol is not merely keeping the overall number down. Instead, there is a good kind, or HDL, and a bad sort, or LDL. It is balancing the two properly, which gives you the best protection.

Many studies have looked at the effect of pistachio consumption on cholesterol. What they have found is a significant decrease in LDL levels and improvement in HDL levels. What that means is a better ratio of HDL to LDL, which is indicative of better heart health.

Read why consuming nuts can improve both heart health and blood sugar levels.

4 – Aids in Weight Management

Some people have purported that pistachios have an effect on helping people lose weight. However, that correlation is not directly due to the consumption of the pistachio nut.

One study looked at the effect of using these as a snack compared to eating pretzels. In that study, there was no difference in actual weight, but blood triglycerides were lower. Elevated triglycerides have been linked with heart disease.

However, other studies have indicated that eating the ones that you have to shell yourself helps reduce caloric intake. This is, in part, linked to the visual cue of how much you have consumed. Further, there is evidence that only eating something helps reduce the urge to continue eating.

5 – Protects Brain Health

One of the things most people fear about getting older is some form of neural degeneration. This could be Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, or a host of other conditions.

Pistachios have a chemical called resveratrol in the skin, between the nut and the shell. This is a chemical constituent that has been studied for its role in cancer. However, recently this chemical has been a focus of research for neural degeneration, including Alzheimer’s.

Does this mean that they will prevent you from developing this debilitating and deadly condition? Not at all. What it does mean is that consuming these nuts will help protect cognitive function.

6 – Strong Source of Antioxidants

Antioxidants have been the focus of so many blogs for their benefits. One of the first things antioxidants do is to reduce free radicals throughout the body. Free radicals are atoms with an unpaired electron. These free radicals have been linked to some forms of cancer.

The oxidative stress they create in the body is also linked to other conditions. These include cardiovascular disease, respiratory problems like COPD, neurological disorders, inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, and kidney disease.

Pistachios have demonstrated potent antioxidant properties due to the polyphenols they contain, specifically catechin. This strong effect on the body helps to reduce the risk of many conditions. However, keep in mind that more is not always better, as other studies have shown that consuming excess antioxidants can lead to other problems.

7 – Reduces Inflammation

Many people deal with inflammation of different types, whether from an injury or a chronic condition. In fact, some estimates suggest 60% of Americans have at least one chronic inflammatory condition. It is further estimated that 3 out of 5 people die due to one of these inflammatory diseases.

These diseases include such conditions as arthritis, COPD, cardiovascular diseases, diverticulosis, irritable bowel syndrome, and more. As you can see, chronic inflammation in the body can lead to a host of problems.

Research shows that pistachios have strong anti-inflammatory potential. This does not mean that if you have a swollen ankle, these will solve it for you. This is an example of acute inflammation caused by an injury. Chronic inflammation, on the other hand, has a different cause, with a number of various possible reasons. These tiny nuts are shown to help combat those causes.

8 – Promotes Gut Health

There has been a lot of discussion about gut health and its critical role in your overall health. That is what has led to a nearly $50 billion industry selling probiotics.

It is true, gut health impacts everything from immune function to heart health, brain function, mental health, and sleep health. That is why working to support a healthy gut is so important.

Fortunately, what you eat strongly influences your gut health. Studies have shown that nuts help to cultivate healthy gut bacteria, especially these fantastic little nuts. This means that eating these regularly will help you maintain a healthy gut microbiome, supporting many systems throughout your body.

9 – Supports Eye Health

Most people do not think much about their eye health until there is a problem with it. For instance, the CDC estimates over 12 million adults in the United States have some vision impairment. Our eyes are a significant organ that provides a vital function in how most of us experience life.

You can see that it really does make sense to try to take care of your eyes. Sure, you should have regular visits to an optometrist. Why not also do everything you can to help keep your eyes healthy. Studies have focused on lutein as a critical nutrient to help support healthy eyes.

Tree nuts, including pistachios, have a high concentration of this crucial nutrient. As you enjoy this tasty snack, you will support your eyes in addition to so many other functions of your body.

10 – Encourages Healthy Sleep

Sleep is a critical part of maintaining a healthy body. Without the proper amount of sleep, your body cannot properly repair itself. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine estimates that about 30% of adults have symptoms of insomnia.

Fortunately, it is also well known and accepted that dietary melatonin is a great way to help solve this problem for some people. Studies have indicated that pistachios have a high concentration of bioactive melatonin. Eating these can help keep your body’s clock regular so you can get the sleep you need.

Struggle with insomnia? These 16 tips can help you get some rest.

Final Thoughts On Pistachios

As you can see, there are a lot of reasons to enjoy cracking open some pistachios as a regular snack. No, they may not be a magic bullet like some other foods claim to be, but they sure do taste good, and there is a lot they can do in the body.

From all the research presented, you are best to eat pistachios that are not pre-shelled. This not only helps you control how many you have but also exercises your patience and dexterity. How much should you eat are you asking? The recommended serving based on all of these studies is about 25 grams of actual nuts. This works out to be about ½ cup when they are in the shells.

So what are you waiting for? Go grab a bag and crack some open today!

10 Early Signs of Bursitis to Never Ignore

March 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Bursitis can be extremely painful and affects the bursae of the joints, which are fluid-filled sacs that are supposed to cushion tendons, bones, and muscles around your joints. When a person experiences bursitis, those bursae become inflamed.

This condition most commonly occurs in the shoulder, elbow, and hip area, but it can also occur in the knee, heel, and base of the big toe. In other words, it affects the joints that repeat the same motion often. Another way this condition can arise is by repeatedly putting pressure on the bursae around a specific joint.

Some specific examples of activities that can lead to bursitis include:

throwing a baseball
lifting over your head
leaning on elbows
kneeling for long periods
raking or shoveling
painting
playing tennis
playing golf

There are other times when this condition can occur, such as when someone is suffering from or having a flare-up of arthritis, gout, or infection. Also important to note is that it is most common in adults over the age of 40. It is essential to treat this condition early on to prevent it from getting worse and to eliminate the extreme pain that almost always occurs.

Early Signs of Bursitis to Never Ignore

The signs and symptoms of bursitis may come on slowly, but frequently they are sudden and unexpected. No matter which method the pain takes, however, it usually is always severe. If you have calcium deposits in the same area as the inflammation, the pain is even worse, making it unbearable.

While the pain from this condition has been mentioned many times already, there are different times when the pain may affect you. Along with the differences in the pain, there are many other signs and symptoms of this condition that you should watch for.

1. Sharp and shooting pain without movement

When the pain occurs when you aren’t even moving the affected joint, it is almost a dead giveaway that you are suffering from a severe case of bursitis. You should stop using the joint immediately and contact your doctor.

2. Pain when moving joints

If you experience pain when you move the affected joints, you should try to limit your activity in that area. The condition may ease on its own with rest in this case, but it could quickly become worse if repetitive use continues.

3. Stiffness in the joints

This red flag may just come across as seeming a little sore, and your movements may not be as easy. If this is the case, try to rest and apply ice to see if the signs ease.

4. Swelling of joints

This is a sign that you should see a doctor as soon as possible. It is a sign that the condition is worsening or that medical attention is required to ease the pain and heal the flare-up.

5. An unusual warmth in the joints

When you feel warmth in the area, it is likely caused by an infection. A doctor should always treat disease, so merely resting won’t do the trick.

6. Tenderness of the joints

Like some of the other signs, this may seem like a minor sign, but it could quickly become worse if not treated properly. Preventing further injury is the most important thing to do in this case, so resting the joints is essential.

7. Difficulty moving the joints

When this occurs, you will know that something is wrong. This means that the pain is likely pretty bad, and you are losing range of motion. It may be best to see a doctor to get the best treatment plan possible.

8. Fever

If your fever goes over 102 degrees, it is a huge sign that the condition is being caused by an infection. This is extremely important to have treated, as the infection can spread and lead to even more significant issues.

9. Aching joints

This is a sign that worse may be coming if you don’t make a change right away. Aching joints are never a good sign, and you may begin noticing that you have trouble moving those joints before long.

10. Bruising, a rash or redness

While you will typically see redness when this condition flares up, you may notice bruising or a rash instead.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Bursitis

Diagnosis

To diagnosis this condition, you will need to see a doctor. They can sometimes diagnose it based on a physical exam, symptoms, and previous medical history. Other times, however, testing will be needed for a formal diagnosis.

The testing that may be required include:

X-Ray (only to exclude other possible conditions)
Ultrasound
MRI
Blood tests (to determine the cause)

Treatment

Most often, this condition is treated by resting the joint that is having the problem. This not only prevents more severe injury from occurring, but it also helps heal the current issue. It usually goes away in a couple of weeks with proper rest and using ice, and warm compresses can help in the meantime.

If rest doesn’t work to treat the condition, other measures may be taken. The cause of the situation will be considered when determining how to handle it. If there is no infection, then all-natural remedies can be used for treatment.

Another option is to use chamomile and olive oil mixed together. You would rub this mixture into the red, swollen, or painful area. Within a short amount of time, you may notice a reduction in pain.

One other natural remedy for treating this condition is to drink water with one tablespoon of honey and one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar mixed in. If you drink this mixture each day, the situation may be treated, and the pain will be eased.

For more severe instances, physical therapy may be prescribed. This helps build strength in the surrounding muscles, and it can ease pain and prevent the condition from reoccurring. Using a walking cane or other walking-aid may be used to relieve pain and pressure, as well.

Complications

There aren’t many complications of this condition, but the ones that may occur are enough to make you want to treat it before it gets any worse. The most common complication is a lessened range of motion and sometimes even the complete inability to move that joint. This could cause you not to be able to move your shoulder or other body parts at all.

How to Prevent Bursitis

Not all types of this condition can be prevented, but you can minimize the chances of it occurring. You can also reduce the severity of an episode, lessening the pain, and the complications that can arise.

Limit repetitive motions

The best way to prevent it is to practice doing any repetitive tasks in a way that doesn’t cause discomfort or soreness during or after the activity. If you are laying flooring, for instance, using kneeling pads can prevent a flare-up in the joints of your knees. This is the same for any task that requires kneeling, such as gardening or scrubbing floors.

Lift things safely

Another example of changing the way you do an activity to prevent this condition is to make sure you are lifting correctly. If you commonly have to lift things, make sure you are bending your needs as you lift to avoid excess stress on your hips. You can also look for every opportunity to use a dolly or cart to move heavier loads rather than carry them every time.

Take frequent breaks

In all repetitive activities, you should take breaks often. While on these breaks, make sure you are resting the joints that have been in use. If complete rest isn’t a possibility, switch up the task and do something that uses different joints for a while.

Maintain a healthy weight

Another vital way to prevent a flare-up is to watch your weight. The more you weigh, the more harmful stress you are putting on your joints. Maintain a healthy weight to ensure you are doing what you can to prevent serious issues like this.

Stretching exercises

Finally, spend some time exercising and stretching. Exercising can strengthen the muscles that you often use during those repetitive tasks, which helps protect your joints. Stretching also protects your joints, by warming up the muscles and preparing them for movement and work.

Final Thoughts On Early Signs of Bursitis to Never Ignore

Bursitis is a condition that causes extreme pain and a decreased range of motion. Paired with other signs and symptoms, and you will quickly find that this condition is hard to live with.

Early signs of bursitis should never be ignored, as it can lead to further injury and even more pain. The treatment options don’t have to be invasive or harmful, either. Luckily, there are many all-natural remedies to ease the symptoms and treat any flare-ups.

How to Handle the Storms In Your Life (Without It Getting You Down)

March 6, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Life isn’t easy, and you don’t need us to tell you. Life can actually be pretty unfair at times.

“She stood in the storm, and when the wind did not blower her way, she adjusted her sails.” ~ Elizabeth Edwards

Elizabeth Edwards knew all about weathering life’s storms. Edwards, a tough-as-nails woman, battled breast cancer, her husband’s (2004 vice presidential candidate, John Edwards) infidelity, and constant hounding by the press.

Throughout it all, she displayed nothing but class. This despite her morally bankrupt husband creeping around while she battled the disease that would ultimately claim her life.

Elizabeth Edwards demonstrated an irrefutable truth. We’re all going to deal with personal battles; some of them horrifically difficult.

Maybe the question to ask instead is “What have I learned from my setbacks? What can I learn?” To this point, the odds are that you’ve learned a great deal from some difficulties, while next-to-nothing for others.

This isn’t disparaging your character. We’re all human; as such, we gain wisdom from obstacles – but only to a certain point.

Unless we’re taught otherwise.

And here’s some valuable instruction: we can learn from any obstacle. Elizabeth Edwards knew this – even throughout her final days.

The Harvard Study

The ‘Harvard Grant Study’, one of the longest-running academic studies in history, followed the lives of hundreds throughout a 75-year period. The question researchers were attempting to answer: “What are the ‘secrets to a happy and purposeful life?’ (Hint: it has nothing to do with money or “success.”)

George Villant, a researcher and psychiatrist who oversaw the study, reached the following conclusion based on an overwhelming amount of evidence: The happiest people were those with the ability to ‘make gold’ out of the ugliest of situations.

The ability to steadfastly embrace and accept the adverse events in life has a “significant effect on social support and overall wellbeing.”

Keeping a “challenge notebook”

Based on the study’s findings, Villant confidently insists that everyone should keep a “challenge notebook,” documenting every challenge faced throughout life. More specifically, Dr. Villant insists that the happiest people ask the following four questions when things “don’t go to plan.”

How to Embrace the Storms In Your Life (Without It Getting You Down)

1. What can I learn from this?

It’s tempting to see any challenge we face as annoying at best and devastating at worst. But after things have settled, a critical question we ought to ask is “What can I learn from this situation?”

And no, “nothing” is not an acceptable answer. Regardless of how bleak that situation may appear, there’s always something to discover.

Let’s say you were let go from your job; without question, a potentially disastrous situation.

After you’ve come to grips with your job loss, ask yourself “Is this where I envisioned myself?” “Was the job my calling?” “What, if anything, can I do better next time?”

Answer honestly. You may just surprise yourself.

2. How am I stronger from this?

Viewing challenges as opportunities is one of the most powerful human traits – and something we’re all capable of.

Whether or not we realize, adverse events have a way of strengthening our character. If we’re able to admit this fundamental truth – proven again and again over thousands of years – we can not only confront challenges but uncover abilities and strengths that we never knew existed.

3. How is this situation advantageous?

If we’re mindful, life challenges can present a golden opportunity to develop ourselves.

Let us use another example: your children “flew the coup,” heading off to college or somewhere far from home for the first time. Sad? Absolutely. We love our kids – and they’ll always be part of us.

But if you stop and reframe the situation – say, from bleak and depressing to liberating and opportunistic – you may just realize the beauty of it all.

Your children, for the first time, have the opportunity to seek out life’s adventures. You have more time to devote yourself more to things you’re passionate about.

4. How can I use this situation to help others?

Here’s another example: military spouses who must contend with extended separations from their spouse.

Spouses, predominantly wives within the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, have leveraged their experience of time away from their husbands in a heartwarmingly constructive fashion: educating husbands and wives of military spouses on what to expect during periods of prolonged separation.

Once again, a very difficult and potentially heart-wrenching situation that may be a blessing in disguise. For if you hadn’t faced such a daunting obstacle, there’s no possible way you’d be able to help those in said obstacle’s grasp.

“Resilience is very different from being numb. Resilience means you experience, you feel, you fail, you hurt. You fall. But, you keep going.”

Tendonitis Versus Tendinitis, The Differences According to Science

March 6, 2020 by Power of Positivity

If you’re not sure of the difference between tendonitis and tendinitis, you’re not alone. Many Americans and, arguably, people around the world routinely mix up these two very different health problems. Of course, the fact that they have a similar spelling and sound nearly identical certainly doesn’t help matters.

That said, the main difference between these two health conditions is that tendinitis is characterized by inflammation. Often this occurs following a sudden injury to a tendon. (Tendons are the tissue between the muscles and bones.)

Tendonitis, by comparison, does not cause inflammation and commonly links to a repetitive strain injury. Of course, there are many more differences between these two painful health conditions.

Everything You Need to Know About Tendinitis

Now we have a basic understanding of tendinitis, also commonly referred to as tendinitis-related tendinopathy. So let’s take an even closer look at what makes this condition different from tendonitis. First and foremost, tendinitis is most common in men and women over the age of 40.

Now you might be wondering. Why does age factor into this tendency? The condition stems from the fact that our bodies change with age. Indeed, the tendons in our body are no longer able to tolerate the same level of stress as they did when we were younger. As a result, they lose their elasticity and become increasingly susceptible to tearing, especially when performing repetitive tasks.

Undoubtedly, it is possible to develop tendinitis in any part of the body where tendons connect bones to muscles. However, the condition primarily impacts the following spots:

Elbows
Hips
Knees
Shoulders
The base of the thumb

The Achilles tendon

Tendinitis-related tendinopathy can also affect the Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the body. This particular tendon is a large and sturdy band of fibrous tissue. It connects the calf muscle to the calcaneus, also known as the heel bone. Not surprisingly, when an individual develops tendinitis of the Achilles tendon, they often have trouble running, walking, or even standing for long periods.

Who Is Most Likely to Develop Tendinitis?

Because tendinitis-related tendinopathy frequently results from repetitive strain injuries, it is not uncommon for it to impact individuals who engage in any of the following work-related activities:

Sewing
Typing
Woodworking
Shoveling
Painting
Gardening

Along with these work-related activities, playing certain sports, such as baseball, tennis, or golf, have also been shown to increase one’s chances of developing tendinitis-related tendinopathy.

Doctors reveal the top reasons you get foot pain.

Additional Risk Factors for Tendinitis-related Tendinopathy

Tendinitis-related tendinopathy, which, in addition to pain and inflammation, is characterized by damaged tendons with disorganized fibers, can also be caused by poor posture. Along with causing back pain, headaches, and even difficulty breathing, poor posture can place a tremendous strain on the group of muscles that make up the rotator cuff and the tendons of the bicep, all of which are needed to support the shoulder. When these muscles and tendons become inflamed, it is known as shoulder tendinitis.

That said, tendinitis-related tendinopathy of the shoulder can cause mobility problems as well as severe pain. Of course, repetitive strain injuries, age, and poor posture are not the only culprits when it comes to tendinitis-related tendinopathy as the condition can also stem from certain chronic diseases, including

Kidney disease

According to a study published by emedicinehealth.com, a consumer health information website, the probability of developing tendinitis-related tendinopathy increases exponentially for those diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, which is often the result of high blood pressure. Further, chronic kidney disease, which is also known as end-stage renal disease, can cause tendons in the quadriceps, triceps, and fingers to suddenly rupture, according to a separate study published by the National Institutes of Health. It is worth noting that certain blood diseases, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, for example, can also cause these same problems.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Along with pain, stiffness, and inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis has also been linked to tendinitis-related tendinopathy. According to a question and answer segment published by the Arthritis Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to supporting research into curing and possibly preventing arthritis, the same inflammation that causes joint damage in those with rheumatoid arthritis also damages connective tissue, including tendons and ligaments, in and around the joints.

Everything You Need to Know About Tendonitis

Having identified factors that can contribute to tendinitis-related tendinopathy and who is most at risk of developing the condition, let’s turn our attention to tendonitis. Also referred to as tendonitis-related tendinopathy, this condition is similar to tendinitis-related tendinopathy in that they can both trigger severe pain. And this has a lot to do with the micro-tears on the affected tendon. While tendonitis might not cause inflammation, the pain does become more intense with movement

Tendonitis-related tendinopathy arises from repetitive strain injuries. However, it usually results from a direct injury to the affected tendon, which can stem from a slip and fall, car accident, or any other kind of sudden blow to the body. Aside from the quicker onset of pain symptoms and the absence of inflammation, tendonitis-related tendinopathy is not too dissimilar from tendinitis-related tendinopathy. As such, the approach to treating or preventing either condition is nearly identical.

How to Prevent Tendonitis

Whether you have an occupation that requires repetitive movement, play sports, or have a chronic disease that causes inflammation of the tendons, there are things that you can do to minimize your chances of developing tendonitis or tendinitis-related tendinopathy. And it all comes down to taking a few steps to help keep your body and joints limber. That said, here are a few tips to help you get started:

Taking breaks

The human body has an uncanny way of letting you know when something is wrong. That said, if you’re experiencing pain while performing any activity, it would be a good idea to take a break. In doing so, you not only allow your body to recover but also any tendon that might be contributing to your pain symptoms.

Stretching

Along with keeping your muscles limber, stretching can go a long way toward fending off joint problems. Beyond that, it can help improve the range of motion in your joints.

Exercising

Performing weight-bearing exercises is yet another way to keep your joints, muscles, and tendons strong and healthy. Beyond that, doing so ensures that they can withstand the stress being put on them as you go about your day-to-day life. To get the most out of these exercises, consider doing some light stretching afterward.

Improving ergonomics

One of the most common forms of tendinitis-related tendinopathy among those who work in an office environment is carpal tunnel syndrome. And you can avoid it by improving your posture while sitting at your desk. Additionally, it is a good idea to make use of an ergonomic keyboard, chair, and desk whenever possible. According to a study published by Princeton University Health Services, well-designed ergonomic products can help take a lot of stress off of your tendons and joints.

At-home Treatments for Tendonitis and Tendinitis

In most cases, you can relieve the sore feeling of tendinitis-related tendinopathy and tendonitis-related tendinopathy with a variety of at-home treatments.

Acupuncture
Resting the affected area
Physical therapy
Taking herbal supplements, such as turmeric
Applying a cold compress or ice packs

When Should You Seek a Doctor’s Advice?

Generally speaking, you should start seeing relief from your symptoms within a few weeks after home treatment. Having said that, if your symptoms persist beyond this point or become worse, you should seek help from a physician.

If natural remedies do not resolve your issue

Some of the more common physician-prescribed treatments used to address tendinitis-related tendinopathy or tendonitis-related tendinopathy if your natural remedies do not provide relief might include:

Corticosteroid injections

This type of therapy can provide short-term relief from tendinitis-related tendinopathy and tendonitis-related tendinopathy. However, there is a caveat; overuse of corticosteroid injections can further weaken an already damaged tendon and increase the chances of it rupturing.

Phonophoresis

This approach to treatment involves using prescription-based topical anti-inflammatory creams, such as Voltaren, for example, and ultrasound to treat tendinitis-related tendinopathy or tendonitis-related tendinopathy. The sound waves from an ultrasound machine allow topical anti-inflammatory creams to deeply penetrate the skin and connective tissue, which helps relieve pain and inflammation that much faster.

Surgery

In severe cases, some physicians will recommend surgery to correct tendinitis-related tendinopathy or tendonitis-related tendinopathy, especially if either condition is causing mobility problems. A doctor might advise surgery if the affected tendon has already ruptured.

Final Thoughts on Understanding Tendonitis Versus Tendinitis

All in all, tendinitis-related tendinopathy or tendonitis-related tendinopathy can both cause pain and mobility problems. Fortunately, there is a wide range of treatments available to those who are struggling with either condition.

9 Incredible Benefits of Selenium Supplements

March 6, 2020 by Power of Positivity

With the prices of pharmaceutical drugs reaching ever skyward, people are looking for ways to improve their health without taking a visit to their doctor. More and more people are turning to holistic medicine to promote their overall physical health. Even the average Joe is committing to researching a wide variety of vitamins and minerals that can have a positive effect on one’s health. Selenium supplements might be one such useful tool.

One mineral that individuals are finding possesses multiple health benefits is selenium. Like magnesium and calcium, this mineral is one that humans do not need a considerable amount of. Still, when one does not possess the right amount in the body, he or she can experience issues that can adversely affect one’s well-being.

People intake most of the RDA (recommended daily amount) of this mineral through their diets. However, doctors might advise others to take a supplement. The RDA of this mineral in healthy adults of either gender is 55 micrograms per day. However, physicians may instruct men at an increased risk for developing prostate cancer to take 100 micrograms of the mineral daily.

Similarly, obstetricians might advise pregnant women to take 60 micrograms per day. Moreover, they may instruct, breastfeeding women to up that amount to 70 micrograms per day. Adults (men or women) should never take over 400 micrograms per day. That’s because anything more than that number may cause an overdose.

Who needs selenium?

Who should take this mineral? Specific health issues predispose individuals to lacking this critical element. These issues include being fed intravenously (using a feeding tube), having HIV, or having Chron’s disease. However, doctors advise these take supplements most often. Due to the idea that above-average levels link to adverse side effects, you should consult your doctor before you begin a supplement routine that includes this mineral.

How can you ensure that you are getting the recommended daily amount of this mineral from your diet?

Start by consuming specific foods that are rich in the mineral. First, you can get a great deal of this mineral in nuts, particularly in Brazil nuts or walnuts. Selenium is one of the natural antioxidants in nuts.

Additionally, a great many kinds of seafood contain selenium, including the following:

tuna
herring
red snapper
mussels

Meats such as beef and poultry also contain this mineral, as well as grains (wheat).

Nine Health Benefits of Selenium Supplements

Let’s discuss the benefits of ensuring you are getting the recommended daily amount of this mineral.

First, this mineral is naturally present in nuts and fish. Both nuts and fish are renowned for their possession of antioxidants, and selenium is one of the antioxidants naturally occurring in fish and nuts. Antioxidants help prevent cell damage caused by free radicals in our environment.

Stress, smoking, and the overuse of alcohol all lead to the overproduction of free radicals or oxidative stress. Oxidative stress produces free radicals that can damage healthy cells (which can cause cancer or other issues). This mineral will work to neutralize the excess free radical cells, which, in turn, prevents oxidative stress damage to healthy cells. In this way, this mineral can help to prevent heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

1 – Prostate cancer and selenium supplements

This mineral links to the prevention of certain cancers. The most prevalent evidence concerns prostate cancer. This is why some doctors advise men to up their intake of the mineral to 100 micrograms per day (again, because there are some risks involved with taking too much of the mineral, always consult your doctor before beginning any vitamin or supplement routine).

Many of the studies regarding selenium and prostate cancer are observational. And, there seems to be conflicting information. Speak with your doctor and decide what course of action is best for you.

2- Reduces oxidative stress on the human body

The mineral is thought to not only reduce the amount of oxidative stress that the body may incur, but it is also capable of reducing damage to one’s DNA.

Furthermore, we know that antioxidants can destroy or weaken cancer cells. Additionally, this mineral can also boost one’s immune system. Many studies indicate that people with higher blood levels of this mineral are less likely to have oxidative damage done to their bodies.

It is important to note, however, that these studies linked lower incidences of oxidative stress to individuals who received their supply of this mineral from their diet, not solely from supplements.

3 – Minimizes the damage stemming from radiation treatment

Next, this mineral can help to alleviate some of the side effects of radiation treatment. When individuals with cervical or uterine cancer experienced diarrhea associated with their radiation treatments, the intake of this mineral helped to reduce this side effect of radiation. Furthermore, women taking this type of therapy said the increased consumption of this mineral helped to improve their overall quality of life during radiotherapy.

Oncologists reveal the side effects of chemotherapy.

4 – Protects the heart

Just as we know that antioxidants protect against heart disease, so does this mineral. Selenium deficiencies directly connect to incidences of heart health.

One reason that this mineral is thought to lower one’s risk of developing heart disease is that it naturally reduces the amount of inflammation in one’s body. Since inflammation is one of the notable risk factors for heart disease, reducing this marker by getting the proper amount of this mineral in one’s diet is a great way to lower one’s risk of heart disease.

5 – Ups the antioxidants

Surprisingly enough, this mineral can raise the levels of a healthy antioxidant, glutathione peroxidase, which is known to be a powerful antioxidant. In this way, this mineral not only reduces oxidative stress, but it can also reduce the amount of inflammation in one’s body. Inflammation in the body can lead to the build-up of plaque, which causes atherosclerosis (a blockage in one’s arteries). Atherosclerosis can lead to not only heart attacks, but it can also cause strokes. Ensuring one is taking in the proper amount of this mineral can help to prevent both heart disease and strokes.

6 – Selenium supplements show promise in fighting Alzheimer’s Disease

Previously, it was mentioned that those who obtain the proper amounts of the mineral in the diet would see a reduction in the chance of developing Alzheimer’s. This is because the same antioxidants we keep mentioning lead to a reduction in oxidative stress.

Many consider oxidative stress to the brain to be a leading cause of Alzheimer’s disease. The degeneration in the brain cells can be hastened by the presence of cell damage due to oxidative stress. Taking in the proper amount of this mineral means that free radicals that damage healthy cells are reduced, and this, in turn, reduces the likelihood one will develop Alzheimer’s.

Neurologist reveals four ways to decrease your risk of Alzheimer’s.

7 – Also shows promise in slowing the progression of Parkinson’s Disease

Not only does the proper amount of this mineral in one’s diet improve one’s chances of preventing Alzheimer’s, but it also helps to slow down the progression of Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. Researchers continue to work to strengthen their claims. But in the meantime, this news encourages many.

8 – Improves thyroid function

Another great benefit of taking in the correct amount of this mineral is an improvement in one’s thyroid health. The thyroid regulates many functions in the body, one of which is metabolism. The thyroid also controls one’s development and growth, so selenium intake in pregnant or breastfeeding women and young children is essential. When the thyroid does not function properly, the hormones naturally released by the thyroid are either released too often, not enough, or not at all.

Furthermore, improperly functioning thyroid can directly result from a lack of this mineral. Research proves that Hashimoto’s thyroiditis directly links to a lacking of this mineral in one’s diet. Those with Hashimoto’s disease that took this supplement stated that they had an overall improvement in their well-being. Other forms of hypothyroidism link to a lack of selenium in one’s diet. Thus, doctors recommend supplementation to combat this situation.

9 – Selenium supplements strengthen the immune system

The mineral promotes one’s immunity. Again, remember that it reduces oxidative stress, and this helps to fight off certain illnesses. Those who have higher levels of this mineral in the blood often experience an enhanced immune response. Furthermore, selenium reduces inflammation in the body, which can help to lower one’s immunity. Research indicates the mineral aids in strengthening the ability of the body to fight off disease in those with conditions that compromise the immune system.

Final Thoughts: We Need Selenium But Often Overlook It

Selenium is one of the essential minerals that we often overlook. However, we need this to strengthen our ability to fight specific diseases, reduce oxidative stress, and ease inflammation. Check with your doctor on precise dosing, and begin selenium supplements only under his or her guidance.

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