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Is Olive Oil Really Good for Your Skin? Here is What Dermatologists Need You to Know

September 18, 2019 by Power of Positivity

The secret to glowing skin could be right in your pantry. Commonly used in cooking, olive oil could prevent signs of aging and give your skin a healthy boost. Here’s all you need to know about the secret weapon.

What Is Olive Oil?

Olive oil is made mainly of oleic acid. Smaller amounts of linoleic acid, palmitic acid, and other fatty acids make up the rest of it. Most people use it to fry food or in salad dressings. Extra virgin olive oil is what most people use to flavor their food. Regular olive oil contains antioxidants. These help to fight free-radical damage. It also contains squalene which is helpful in moisturizing. Studies show applying olive oil to skin might actually reverse sun damage and may prevent signs of aging. It may all seem too good to be true. Some aren’t big fans of olive oil due to its thickness that could lead to clogged pores.

The History

Olive oil may have been around since the Early Minoan period in the early 1000 BCs. Olive trees were sparse and popular across the Mediterranean. Olives played a large role in the island of Crete’s economy as early as 1500 BC. The legendary Cleopatra was a beauty of her time. Legend states that she used olive oil on her skin. In fact, many of the ancient Romans and Greeks used it on their skin. The olive was native to their environment so it was a natural thing to use for many things besides eating. They must have realized it was a natural skin moisturizer. The Egyptians used olive oil as well as beeswax for all of its properties. In Greece olive oil was used during the massage to relieve muscle pain and prevent injuries. The Japanese are known for their youthful look. In 2000, Japan was the top importer of olive oil in Asia at 13,000 tons annually. This is because the Japanese people use it for both consuming and topical application.

The Good Stuff

1 – Full of Antioxidants

Skin wrinkles and ages over time. There is nothing that can totally alleviate this aging process. Damaged or destroyed cells lead to aging skin. The free radicals in the skin can be destroyed by antioxidants. Many people love to use olive oil because it has a high antioxidant content. This helps prevent oxidation, which might produce free radicals that could lead to damaging cells and contributing to skin cancer. These antioxidants are great to prevent premature aging. They may also help fight skin cancer. Putting olive oil on the skin may help fight off the cells that cause skin cancer. By both consuming and applying olive oil, its antioxidants get into your body helping to destroy the free radicals that cause aging and skin cancer.

2 – Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Extra virgin olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties to help fight inflammation. The antioxidants in olive oil help many people the same way as ibuprofen and other anti-inflammation drugs. The oleic acid in the oil helps reduce inflammation in the C-reactive proteins of the body. Using this on the skin works in the same way as it may help inflammation areas on the skin. Many times pimples or other problem areas that arise on the skin are surrounded with inflamed skin. Olive oil can help ease this inflammation. The only problem could be if the skin is extremely sensitive, it could clog the pores around the affected area so test the skin before applying all over the area.

3 – A Youthful Glow

Olive oil is a natural way to maintain the youthful glow of your skin. The moisturizing properties in the oil work with almost all skin types as nourishment. This nourishment helps soften the skin. The softening provides a natural, beautiful glow. Mixing this olive oil with another moisturizer seals in the effects giving the body an all-over glow.

Uses and How To Apply Olive Oil

The Face

Using olive oil on the skin doesn’t mean you need to douse yourself in it just to get the good stuff. Less is more when applying olive oil. You don’t have to walk around with it dripping off your face for that literal glow. If you do this, it might actually clog your pores. Use a few drops once or twice a week in the beginning to test the skin. Watch the results in that week. After this week, apply liberally to your skin.

All-Over Moisturizer

You can use olive oil all over the body like lotion. Many people use baby oil only to see it dry up in a few hours. Olive oil should be used in a minimal way so you don’t set off the “glow” alarms. Just like the face, you don’t need your body dripping with oil. Use it like lotion so you get a faint glow with all of the nutrients. It does have a distinct smell so you might not want to use a lot of it for that reason either. It’s best applied to damp skin so it will penetrate the skin deeper and quicker.

Make-Up Remover

One of the best things about olive oil is that it is a natural way to take off your make-up. Use it to take off your mascara and eyeliner. In doing so, you will also moisturize that delicate skin around the eye. It also moisturizes the eyelashes in the same way conditioner nourishes your hair.

Cracked Heels

A nice pedicure is often the only way some people can heal their dry, cracked heels. Olive oil might do this trick instead of spending lots of money. Exfoliate the area with a scrub then apply oil to the feet. Wear socks to bed, and wake up with renewed feet. The moisturizer in the olive oil helps the repair the cracked, dry areas of the heels in a few hours.

Sunburn Treatment

A sunburn is no fun. Oil might sound like a strange way to treat a sunburn, but it’s actually a natural way to ease the blistering. Mix it with vinegar. Rub this concoction over the sunburned area. It might sound like it will burn, but it will actually help. The anti-inflammatory parts in both the vinegar and oil will help ease the pain of the sunburn.

Shaving Cream

You don’t need to invest in shaving cream when you have a natural alternative. Olive oil keeps away razor burn and pesky bumps. It’s lubricating and moisturizing to the body so it’s a natural way to rid of hair without the burn.

Nails Health

Olive oil can also work to help your nails and cuticles. Soak hands in a mixture of warm water and white vinegar for five minutes. After hands dry, apply a few drops of oil to each cuticle. Let the olive oil absorb for ten minutes. You can also use it to help nails grow due to vitamin E in it. Nails love vitamin E for its moisturizing properties that helps them to grow.

Cracked Lips

Olive oil may help dry, cracked lips get relief. You can mix it with sugar and lemon juice to make a scrub. Put this scrub on your lips for a soft feel. The concoction is a natural way to rid of those chapped, dry lips that often come with cold weather.

Scar Massage Oil

Olive oil’s rich sense of vitamins and antioxidants may help fade the look of scars by regenerating skin cells. Massage the oil on top of the scar. Many people mix it with lemon juice to treat areas of hyper-pigmentation. This sometimes happens when the area around the scar is darker than other areas of the skin.

Risks

Clogged Pores

It’s important to always test the skin before applying olive oil all over it. It’s a hefty, thick oil. It may clog some people’s pores leading to problem areas on the face. This can usually be avoided if people use the oil sparingly. Also it is best to wipe the excess oil away with a soft cloth.

Low-Quality Oil

There are many different types of olive oil on the shelves. Do not buy low-quality oil. Some of these contain additives and/or chemicals that can damage the skin or cause irritation. It is best to use pure oils instead of those with blends in them.

Expecting A Miracle

There is no foolproof way to ward off aging except finding the Fountain of Youth. Olive oil may show results of anti-aging in some, but not show any effect on others. It is up to each person’s skin along with genes and the way people live. The best way to see if it is a miracle for you is to try it out for yourself for a few weeks.

Final Thought on Olive Oil & Your Skin

This product is a glowing secret for many people. The vitamins, antibacterial characteristics, and antioxidants help the skin look and feel better. Always use sparingly if you have sensitive skin. The best news is that if olive oil doesn’t work well for your skin type, you can always use it to cook your next meal.

9 Things Your Zodiac Sign Reveals About Your Relationships

September 17, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Hey, what’s your zodiac sign?

One of the most common pick-up lines someone will hear at a bar or club is “what is your zodiac sign?” If not used as a pick-up line, then a friend who is trying to understand the qualities of the new companion in their life. However, why do we care?

Whether you believe in it or not, many will read their weekly or monthly horoscope from the paper due to the underlying belief that there is some truth to it. Many believe that there are some scientific truths to the zodiac signs. This is especially true for some people when it comes to having a relationship with a certain sign they may or may not be compatible with.

There are many qualities both good and bad that every zodiac sign has. To ask what a person’s sign is is to allow yourself to peer into the qualities and faults that a person may have without prying directly. Therefore, you are can also look for the possible zodiac compatibility you may have with them if anything romantically may happen without making things awkward.

While a certain sign may be perceived to be more inclined to go after “bad relationships”, this cannot be predicted for that is based more often on the individual then it is to their sign.

With all this said, here are 9 things your zodiac sign reveals about you and your relationships.

9 things your zodiac sign can reveal about you

1) One’s passions

Every Zodiac sign has something they are passionate about. Be it fighting for the under-dog or traveling the world, passion runs in the veins of everyone at different levels of intensity. Anyone who wants to have a happy and healthy relationship wants to know what their partner or future partner is passionate about. By knowing what you or they are passionate about it gives away another key part of compatibility- intensity!

While it may be well known by some, not all the signs require a high level of intensity to be happy in life. Understanding the intensity levels of your sign and that of your partners can reveal if there will be major problems or just minor annoyances in your relationship. On the other hand, different intensity levels can counterbalance each other in the end.

2) One’s faults

When it comes to the faults of an individual, one would think that you must know the person themselves to know what their faults are and if you can deal with them when dating a person. This is not completely true. Although not everyone is exactly like their sun sign (they may be more like their moon or rising sign), knowing the faults of the sun sign can reveal many truths.

For example, the fault of an Aries could be their anger, for a Scorpio could be their cold-heartedness, and for a Taurus, it could be their world-famous stubbornness. If you do not like confrontation, having a harsh tongue lashing, or talking to a brick wall then knowing what the faults are of a person’s sign could save you a lot of heartbreak. On the other hand, it could just be used as a warning, so you know what you are getting yourself into.

3) One’s anger levels

When dating someone there will be days when you don’t get along and you will argue. It is just a fact of life. We all know whether we like it or not.

Understanding the levels of anger and if or how long each sign can hold a grudge is important. If you are a kind and sensitive soul, then dating an Aries or a Scorpio may not be the best idea. For an Aries’ ability to quick to anger and a Scorpio’s ability to hold a grudge forever and a day could be a bad match. Knowing what anger levels, you have and what anger levels you can handle will save you a lot of pain in the long run.

4) One’s compatibility to compromise

To have a successful relationship one must be willing to compromise. However, some signs are better than others. There is a reason why in the olden day’s mothers gave their daughters the advice of “pick your battles”.

Understanding that not all people are willing to compromise in their relationships no matter the situation. Some zodiac signs take more time to master this ability then others do, so be prepared to either give more than taking or take more than giving. Be prepared to deal with this and that some signs will never truly compromise.

5) One’s intensity levels

Intensity can make a love burn with a passion that many people hope and crave for. The downside of this is that sometimes intensity can be too much and burn the curious fly. Acknowledging that intensity is the lifeblood for some signs while not so much for other zodiac signs will make your relationship either happier or rockier.

Having high-intensity levels as an individual can sometimes be overpowering when it begins to feel like an obsession. Having a passion for a hobby is one thing, having a passion for love can be wonderful if not overpowering at times. Understanding your intensity levels will better suit you if or when it starts to scare you and/or lover.

6) One’s level of passion

No matter who you are, sexual compatibility is key to a successful relationship. Some signs are not as keen on its importance compared to other signs, however, knowing one’s skill level gives a personal insight as to if they will be satisfied or not. Sexual compatibility makes up at least 50 percent if not more of a successful relationship because of its ability to relieve stress, communicate what words cannot and help express emotions that need expressing.

7) One’s romantic level

Whoever said romance is dead most likely never look at the details of the zodiac sign of the person they married. If you need a lot of romance in your life and to feel loved by your partner, then you will need to know the romance levels of your partner and their sign. Not being fulfilled can lead to heartbreak and having the feeling of being let down.

While the person’s romance level may not equal what their sign says it should, it is still a good idea to double-check.

8) Trustworthiness

We all know the saying of trust taking a lifetime to build and a second to destroy. This is true even to this day. Every relationship needs trust to survive and grow.

Each sign has some level of having and requiring trust not only of themselves but also of their partners. Some signs like Scorpios, Libras and Taurus highly value trust above all else and the slightest chance of it being broken they run for the hills. While others would stay and see if it would happen.

Make sure you know how trustworthy you are so when you investigate the sign of the other person you can handle it if they start to question you.

9) One’s compassion levels

An important trait that marriages and dating require at times is the ability to have and show compassion. When your partner is feeling down or is going through a rough patch like losing a job or their dearly loved family member dies, showing compassion to the person you love is one of the greatest things you can do for them. It is also one of the best things they can for you.

While signs like Scorpios are not greatly known for this ability, having compassion for yourself and for the person you love will get your father in some situations then it will in others. Knowing the compassion levels that you have and can give to your partner and the compassion levels that you need and require are important. Don’t be afraid to talk about this with yourself and your partner.

Your future self will thank you for it.

In a Nutshell…Your Zodiac Signs Speaks Volumes

Be it that you are your sign to “T” or that you are more of your moon or rising sign, your zodiac sign can reveal a lot about you. Your sign can advise how you may deal with or have dealt with a present or a past relationship, be it that your good or bad qualities come or came out. As you grow as a person different quality of your sign comes out and the people who know you will know what qualities of your sign you are at the present.

These nine things reveal a lot about you and your relationships but not necessarily in the way that you would think. Reviewing this list over time can help you in many ways. Remember, as you grow as a person some things change over time. Personality and ways of thinking are what changes the most.

However, some things ring true no matter the amount of time that passing. The zodiac signs have their traits for reasons unknown and the more you accept your traits the better.

21 Inspirational Quotes About Leadership from Barack Obama

September 17, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Barack Obama served as the President of the United States of America from 2009 through 2017. He, our 44th president, holds the distinction of being the first African-American President.

Before becoming President, Obama practiced law and a popular politician, served the State of Illinois as a state senator from 1997 until 2004. Former President Obama was (and still is) well-known for his inspirational quotes in speeches, during interviews, on social media, and in print.

Obama took on an unenviable role as President. The job was not easy. He took the Oath of Office during an economic recession. Additionally, the nation had two ongoing wars in foreign countries and an extremely low international favorability rating. His plans for the United States included financial reforms, alternative energy, improved education reforms, health-care for all, and reducing the national debt.

Former President Obama then spent the next eight years of his life and career pushing for all of his presidential goals. He never lost sight of what he promised the American citizens in the beginning and, although he was not perfect, he did his best and pleased a majority of the nation.

Former President Barack Obama and Positivity

Throughout all of his accomplishments and hardships during his presidency, Barack Hussein Obama II stayed positive and remained a leader in our country. Because of this, we are left with an endless amount of inspirational quotes about leadership from former President Obama. His powerful words reached around the globe, giving everyone a boost of motivation when it came to leadership.

Background Information About Former President Obama

The former President of the United States is the son of parents who are from Kenya (his father) and Kansas (his mother, who was born on a military base). Obama was raised in Hawaii (where he was born), but he left home to attend college in Los Angeles at Occidental College, New York at Columbia University, and then in Massachusetts at Harvard Law School.

At Harvard Law School, he served as President of the Harvard Law Review, which is a student-led group that releases a publication once a month reviewing court rulings, including the Supreme Court rulings. He then began his career in Chicago, beginning a long-time service to the state of Illinois.

Political Career

Obama served on the Illinois State Senate and was later elected as a United States senator in 2004. His post stayed in Illinois throughout this political career, until becoming President of the United States in 2009. He brought his wife, the former First Lady, Michelle Obama, and their two daughters Malia and Sasha with him to the White House.

Inspirational Quotes About Leadership From Barack Obama

1 – “I always believe that ultimately, if people are paying attention, then we get good government and good leadership. And when we get lazy, as a democracy and civically start taking shortcuts, then it results in bad government and politics.”

2 – “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

3 – “If you’re walking down the right path and you’re willing to keep walking, eventually you’ll make progress.”

4 – “We need to steer clear of this poverty of ambition, where people want to drive fancy cars and wear nice clothes and live in nice apartments but don’t want to work hard to accomplish these things. Everyone should try to realize their full potential.”

5 – “We, the People, recognize that we have responsibilities as well as rights; that our destinies are bound together; that a freedom which only asks what’s in it for me, a freedom without a commitment to others, a freedom without love or charity or duty or patriotism, is unworthy of our founding ideals, and those who died in their defense.”

6. “There is probably a perverse pride in my administration…that we were going to do the right thing, even if short-term it was unpopular. And I think anybody who’s occupied this office has to remember that success is determined by an intersection in policy and politics and that you can’t be neglecting of marketing and P.R. and public opinion.”

7 – “If the people cannot trust their government to do the job for which it exists – to protect them and to promote their common welfare – all else is lost.”
– The 44th President of the United States: Obama

8 – “When we don’t pay close attention to the decisions made by our leaders, when we fail to educate ourselves about the major issues of the day, when we choose not to make our voices and opinions heard, that’s when democracy breaks down. That’s when power is abused. That’s when the most extreme voices in our society fill the void that we leave. That’s when powerful interests and their lobbyists are most able to buy access and influence in the corridors of power – because none of us are there to speak up and stop them.”

9 – “Participation in public life doesn’t mean that you all have to run for public office – though we could certainly use some fresh faces in Washington. But it does mean that you should pay attention and contribute in any way that you can. Stay informed. Write letters, or make phone calls on behalf of an issue you care about. If electoral politics isn’t your thing, continue the tradition so many of you started here at Michigan and find a way to serve your community and your country – an act that will help you stay connected to your fellow citizens and improve the lives of those around you.”

10 -“In a world of complex threats, our security and leadership depends on all elements of our power – including strong and principled diplomacy.”

11. “That’s what Americans do when others are in need – we help. We give. We inspire.”
— Barack Obama

12 – “Where we are met with cynicism and doubts and those who tell us that we can’t, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people: Yes We Can.”

13 – “Keep exploring. Keep dreaming. Keep asking why. Don’t settle for what you already know. Never stop believing in the power of your ideas, your imagination, your hard work to change the world.”

14 – “If you work hard and meet your responsibilities, you can get ahead, no matter where you come from, what you look like or who you love.”

15 – “The value of social movements and activism is to get you at the table, get you in the room, and then to start trying to figure out how is this problem going to be solved.”

16 – “You can’t let your failures define you. You have to let your failures teach you.”

17 – “When ignorant folks want to advertise their ignorance, you don’t really have to do anything, you just let them talk.”

18. “Take off your bedroom slippers. Put on your marching shoes. Shake it off. Stop complainin’. Stop grumblin’. Stop cryin’. We are going to press on. We have work to do.”

19 – “We didn’t become the most prosperous country in the world just by rewarding greed and recklessness. We didn’t come this far by letting the special interests run wild. We didn’t do it just by gambling and chasing paper profits on Wall Street. We built this country by making things, by producing goods we could sell.”

20 – “With patient and firm determination, I am going to press on for jobs. I’m going to press on for equality. I’m going to press on for the sake of our children. I’m going to press on for the sake of all those families who are struggling right now. I don’t have time to feel sorry for myself. I don’t have time to complain. I am going to press on.”

21 – “On every front, there are clear answers out there that can make this country stronger, but we’re going to break through the fear and the frustration people are feeling. Our job is to make sure that even as we make progress, that we are also giving people a sense of hope and vision for the future.”

Final Thoughts On Inspirational Quotes About Leadership From Barack Obama

Former President Barack Obama worked hard his entire life. He grew up in a middle-class family in America. And he worked his way through college, including Harvard Law School. Eventually, he made his way to becoming President of the United States of America.

Throughout all of his years of hard work, he remained a leader, which resulted in a large number of inspirational quotes about leadership from the one and only Barack Hussein Obama II. Even for those who didn’t support his presidency, the inspirational quotes were helpful, motivating, and uplifting.

OB/GYNs Explain How to Deal With Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

September 17, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Most will agree that childbirth is an auspicious and transformative moment in a woman’s life. And women enjoy with an air of excitement and wonderment. However, during pregnancy, most women will have to experience a wide range of unpleasant symptoms. Some of these include weight gain, frequent urination, enlarged and sore breasts, morning sickness, and nausea.

To make matters worse, some women will also develop painful hemorrhoids. This condition causes swollen veins in the lowest part of the rectum and anus. Primarily, women develop these during their third trimester.

In many cases, these veins can become even more irritated when defecating. In this article, we will take a closer look at the relationship between hemorrhoids, aka piles, and pregnancy. We will also review the symptoms and treatments available to those struggling with the condition.

WHY DOES BEING PREGNANT CAUSE HEMORRHOIDS?

When a woman becomes pregnant, the size of her uterus increases and places more pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus. This size increase also triggers an uptick in progesterone, a hormone produced in the ovaries following ovulation. Progesterone causes vein walls to become relaxed, making them even more susceptible to inflammation and swelling. The increase in blood flow that occurs when a woman is pregnant causes these same veins to become larger, further increasing her chances of developing hemorrhoids. Pregnancy hormones can also cause food to move through the digestive tract at a slower rate, further increasing the likelihood of constipation, which can lead to piles. The following other factors might trigger a flare-up:

Standing or sitting for too long
Straining while passing stool
Gaining pregnancy weight
Consuming a low-fiber diet
Chronic diarrhea
Obesity
Engaging in heavy lifting

It is worth noting that piles are not uncommon during most pregnancies; however, many will agree that the condition can be quite distressing. As far as symptoms are concerned, they can vary depending on the type of piles that a woman has developed in that they can be classified as external, forming underneath the skin near the anus, or internal, which means that they form inside of the rectum. That said, some of the most common symptoms include

EXTERNAL

Persistent pain and discomfort
Swelling around the anus
Itching an irritation
Bloody stool

INTERNAL

Pain while defecating
Bleeding while defecating
Prolapsed or protruding piles
Itching and irritation

Those with external piles should avoid straining when defecating as doing so can lead to thrombosed piles, which are piles that contain blood clots. Symptoms associated with this condition often include

A hard, painful mass around the anus
Pain while sitting or walking
Swelling
Inflammation
Bleeding while defecating

HOW COMMON ARE PILES DURING PREGNANCY?

Now that we have a better understanding of why women develop piles once they become pregnant, let’s take a closer look at how many women are affected by this sometimes painful condition. According to a study published by BMJ Clinical Evidence, an international peer-reviewed journal that publishes systematic reviews of important clinical conditions, more than 38 percent of women will struggle with constipation once they become pregnant. The study goes on to state that these struggles will likely be the result of the uterus pressing against the bowel as it grows in size or due to excessive iron, a mineral found in most prenatal vitamins, in their blood.

COMPLICATIONS CAUSED BY PILES

Being pregnant can be taxing on a woman’s body; however, piles can make matters that much worse. In addition to thrombosed piles, which is often caused by straining while constipated, some women may also encounter the following complications:

Strangulated piles -This condition is typically associated with internal piles and occurs when they no longer receive blood, which can cause intense inflammation, irritation, and pain.

Anemia – Although rare, piles can trigger anemia, a condition characterized by a reduction in red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood, in some women.

HOW TO AVOID HEMORRHOIDS WHILE PREGNANT

Consuming fiber-rich foods – One of the best ways to lower your chances of developing piles while pregnant is by eating foods that contain fiber as the nutrient goes a long way toward normalizing bowel movements. It also aids in softening and increasing stool size as well. For those who are a fan of fruits, bananas, oranges, apples, mangoes, strawberries, raspberries are all excellent sources of fiber. As far as vegetables are concerned, carrots, beets, broccoli, spinach, and most dark-colored vegetables contain a fair amount of fiber. The same applies to whole grains as well. All in all, there are several options when it comes to increasing your fiber intake.

Stool softeners – Although a fiber-rich diet can help soften stool, some women may still find defecating difficult while pregnant, especially during their third trimester. In these cases, prescription-based stool softeners can be beneficial.

Exercise – Kegel exercises not only strengthen your pelvic floor muscles but also eases pile symptoms by helping to improve blood flow to the rectal area. However, you must isolate and contract the right muscles to get the most out of these exercises. To that point, it may be a good idea to work with an obstetrician, gynecology expert, or personal trainer that can guide you on using proper form to ensure that you are targeting the right muscle groups.

Practicing good hygiene – Studies show that not properly wiping or cleansing after defecating can cause piles, especially in women who are pregnant. After defecating, it is a good idea to use baby wipes as opposed to toilet paper as they do not irritate the delicate around the anus. They are also more effective when it comes to removing fecal matter. Beyond that, you should make it a point to keep this part of your body as dry as possible.

TREATING PILES WHILE PREGNANT

When it comes to treating piles during your pregnancy, several at-home remedies have been shown to be effective, some of which include

Sitz baths – For those who are unfamiliar with a sitz bath, it is a therapeutic bath commonly used to heal and cleanse the space around the genitals and the anus. For best results, you will want to sit in the warm bath for 10 to 15 minutes 3 times per day or until your symptoms have subsided.

Over-the-counter treatments – For piles that are relatively small and not overly painful, over-the-counter ointments, suppositories, creams, and pads can provide a great deal of relief. After all, many of these products contain ingredients that can help relieve inflammation, itching, and pain, such as lidocaine and hydrocortisone, for example.

WILL PILES GO AWAY AFTER GIVING BIRTH?

Piles caused by pregnancy will typically go away on their own after a woman has given birth as this is when intra-abdominal pressure decreases and hormone levels return to normal. Also worth noting, women that do not develop piles while pregnant often develop them after giving birth, typically due to straining during the second stage of labor. In these cases, it can take as long as 6 months before they finally go away.

HOW ARE HEMMORHOIDS CLASSIFIED?

When it comes to piles, everyone experiences them differently. Therefore, they have been assigned grades based on severity. These grades include the following:

Grade 1 – This grade is used to describe internal piles that affect the inner lining of the anus.

Grade 2 – This grade describes internal piles that are slightly larger than grade 1 but have not yet extended beyond the inner lining of the anus.

And, Grade 3 – This grade is associated with external piles, also known as prolapsed piles, which can be felt hanging from the rectum. However, they can be re-inserted.

Grade 4 – This grade is associated with external piles that require medical treatment as they are much larger than those associated with grade 3 and cannot be re-inserted.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON HEMORRHOIDS & PREGNANCY

Although giving birth is one of the most exciting times in a woman’s life, the journey through pregnancy be challenging. And when you struggle with hemorrhoids during pregnancy, it only makes things that much harder. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments that can provide relief. That allows you to focus on more important things…like motherhood, for example.

15 Super Simple Ways to Drink More Water Every Day

September 17, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Is your day so hectic that you often find yourself forgetting to drink water? If so, you are like most of us. Recent research has shown that about 80 percent of Americans do not drink enough water each day.

Doctors recommend that the average person drink the following each day:

2200 ml for women (roughly 74 fluid ounces)
3000 ml for men (about 101 fluid ounces)

This may vary depending on body size, activity level, and weather. The larger the person, the more you exercise, and the warmer the weather the more you should drink each day. As you can see, men should also intake slightly more than women on average.

Here are some tips to help ensure that you stay hydrated, no matter how chaotic your day may be.

15 Methods to Amp Up Your Water Intake

#1. Use A Straw

Using a straw can help you drink more water with each sip. If you are looking for ways to drink more water each day switching to a cup that uses a straw, rather than an open spout, may be an easy way to drink more water per sip.

#2. Use Custom Water Bottles

Carrying a bottle with you wherever you go is a great reminder that you need to hydrate your body. But often we do not keep track of how much we have drunk. You can use customized bottles that label how much water you should drink each hour. For example, instead of listing the ounces that you have in the bottle, some bottles label the measurements in time, like 8 am, 9 am, etc. This helps ensure that you are hydrating your body each hour, reminds you when to fill up your water, and overall helps you meet the minimum requirement of water.

#3. Try Flavored Water

If you do not like the taste of plain water you can try some of the many flavored varieties. In fact, you will find a vast supply of flavors on the market. Drinking flavored water is better than not drinking any water.

#4. Find A Water Buddy

One of the best ways to remember to drink water is if you have another person encouraging you to do so. Find a friend at work to help remind you to drink water. Together you can encourage one another to lead a healthier lifestyle, one drink at a time.

#5. Drink After Using The Bathroom

While you are already up and moving around to use the bathroom you should drink a glass of water. Using specific times, like bathroom breaks, can help remind you to drink water.

While it may be difficult to drink an entire cup of water after a bathroom break you should at least finish the 8-ounce cup of water before using the bathroom again.

Assuming that you use the bathroom eight times a day, from morning to night, and you drink a cup of water each time you go to the bathroom, you can drink all eight 8 ounce cups during the day using this trick.

A bathroom break serves as a simple reminder to drink water. The longer you use this trick the more naturally you will remember to do this. Before long you will not even have to think about drinking water and you will be doing it.

#6. Drink Water Before You Eat

Recent studies have found that when people who are trying to lose weight and they drink water before each meal tend to lose weight on average than people who do not drink water before they eat.

The most notable study found that drinking 16 ounces of water 30 minutes before meals has the largest effect. Drinking water helps keep you hydrated, but it can also help you lose weight. Since about fifty percent of Americans would like to lose weight, we should all start by drinking more water.

#7. Set Alarms To Drink Water

If you find yourself feeling thirsty throughout the day you are not getting enough water. Our busy schedules make it difficult to remember to drink water even if it is right next to us.

Try setting a reminder on your phone or fitness watch to remind you to take a few gulps. Start by setting an alarm each hour. When the alarm goes off it can help remind you to chug away.

#8 Eat Water-Based Foods For Hydration

If you have a difficult time drinking enough water each day you can try in taking some of your water by eating water-based foods.

Some of the best water-based foods for you to eat include watermelon, cantaloupe, grapes, lettuce, bananas, and even shrimp. Most fruits and vegetables have a high percentage of water in each piece.

Not only can eating these foods cure your sweet tooth, but they can also help you stay hydrated.

#9. Use A Water Filter

Investing in a water filter may help you drink significantly more water. Water filters are not very expensive and can save you a lot of money in the long run since you will not be purchasing plastic water bottles.

A water filter can greatly improve the overall taste of your water since it filters out chemicals. The improved taste may leave you drinking more water.

#10. Check The Temperature Of Your Water

If you find it difficult to drink water it may be because you have not found the ideal temperature to drink it at. Some people prefer their water room temperature while others like to have iced water. Sip some water at both temperatures and decide which one you like more.

If you find that you like colder temperatures better, you should get a water bottle that keeps your drink cold for hours. This could help you drink more water.

#11. Exercise More

The more you exercise, the more water your body will need and the more water you will naturally crave. If you are already struggling to drink the minimum water requirement, it may sound crazy to say that you should exercise more and drink an additional two or more glasses of water for each hour that you exercise.

This is not crazy at all, because you will want to drink more water after exercising and this will come naturally to your body and your mind. Researchers have found that the average person loses between 17 to 50 ounces of water for each hour of exercise. Therefore, you should be drinking about 2 or more 8-ounce glasses of water before, during, or after exercise to replenish your lost fluids.

There are tremendous benefits to remaining hydrated while you exercise. Drinking water helps improve your athletic ability, increases your critical thinking skills, delivers nutrients to your body more efficiently, reduces the amount of effort on your heart, along with many other things. It is crucial that you do not get dehydrated when you are exercising.

#12. Use A Water Tracking App

There are endless apps available for free on most phones. If you are attached to your phone and carry it with you everywhere you should try downloading a free water tracking app. These apps can help keep track of your water intake and can keep a record of it for you to look back at later. Some of these apps also remind you to take in more during the day. If you have your phone with you, downloading a water tracking app can help you effortlessly consume the correct quantity each day.

#13. Drink Rose Water

If you have a difficult time drinking water to stay hydrated try drinking rose water for its incredible beauty benefits. If you are looking for natural ways to rejuvenate your skin you can sip rose water daily to give your skin a younger-looking glow.

Enjoying a glass of rose water each night before bed can be an easy addition to your beauty routine but can also help you add a glass of water to your counter.

#14. Initiate A Water Filling Station At Work

Many companies, schools, and public buildings are starting to use hydration stations to fill up water bottles. They use filtered fountains with a camera to encourage more and more people to drink up. If your place of work does not already have one of these stations you should encourage them to get one.

#15. Carry A Reusable Water Bottle

Do not rely on other people to get your water. You should always bring your own water bottle with you wherever you go so that you do not have to worry about buying water or asking for water. Using a reusable bottle can be the best reminder that you need to hydrate. Whenever you pick it up or set it down during your day it is a reminder to drink.

Final Thoughts: Use These Ways to Drink More Water

There are some great tricks to help ensure that you stay hydrated throughout the day. No matter who you are or what you have planned for your busy day these tricks can help ensure that you get enough water. These tips and tricks do not require you to do anything differently during your day. They only serve as a reminder for when and how you can boost your intake.

Drinking at least eight cups of H2O each and every day can help improve your overall health, help you lose weight, increase your athletic ability, and improve your mindset. While we all need a minimum of 64 ounces of water each day, with a healthy diet we can get about 20 percent of our water from foods.

While there are endless benefits to drinking water, many of us still do not get as much as we need. If you find yourself thirsty throughout the day try using one or two of these tricks to get you started down the right path of staying hydrated and feeling healthy.

31 Foods That Fuel You with Vitamin D (#8 is Delish)

September 16, 2019 by Deborah Tayloe

You might wonder, ‘who could need such a long list of foods with vitamin D, and why?’ Can’t blame you. Others might ask that same question and also find it extensive. Perhaps that’s why so many have this nutritional deficiency.

Surprisingly, many people, even those that live on a sunny beach, have a deficiency. Despite warmly tanned skin, they are shocked to learn they aren’t receiving enough.

And for those living in cold, cloudy climates…well, they are generally very prone to this deficiency.

What’s even more curious is that I wasn’t alone. It was shocking to learn that nearly half of the population is also deficient in vitamin D!

If you suspect or already know you’re in the same boat as that population, consider adding a few foods to boost your vitamin D level. Don’t worry; there are plenty of options to choose from! You won’t have to revamp your diet to address this deficiency.

So, if you’re uncertain of this deficiency, see your family doctor. A simple test will reveal your status.

31 FOODS THAT FUEL YOUR BODY WITH VITAMIN D

1. Swordfish

Each day, children and adults should aim for 600 IU, or international units. Interestingly enough, very few foods are naturally packed with vitamin D. The good news for seafood lovers is that fatty fish can provide you with some of the highest vitamin D levels.

Swordfish, in particular, is packed full of the ‘happy vitamin.’ You can get over 560 IU of your daily vitamin D from just one serving.

That means that just a single vitamin D-packed portion would come just shy of fulfilling your daily value!

2. Yogurt

It is critical to ensure you get your daily dose of the ‘sunshine vitamin.’ You can avoid typical vitamin D deficiency symptoms like backaches, depression, and chronic fatigue. Allowing your body to stay deficient in D vitamins for too long can lead to more serious ailments like high blood pressure and diabetes!

Including yogurt fortified with vitamin D as a regular part of your diet can fuel you with up to 71 IU of your daily dosage. Don’t worry about trying to find fortified yogurt. In today’s world, you must search hard to find unfortified yogurt.

The reason behind this is a good one. As time passes, more and more children and adults are proving to have a deficiency in this essential vitamin. One way to address this is through fortifying affordable foods that are widely eaten.

Let’s not forget–this stuff is also an excellent source of calcium.

3. Egg Yolks

It’s important to note that not everyone can easily absorb vitamins D2 and D3 through natural sunlight. For those with a darker complexion, the melanin in their skin can negatively impact the absorption rate of D vitamins.

Did you know they don’t see sunlight in parts of Alaska for over two months? It’s a wonder that the entire state isn’t deficient when they are void of sunshine for over 60 days a year!

If you’re concerned about your absorption level, you may consider adding eggs to your breakfast a few days a week. A single egg contains about 33 IU of your daily goal. Starting the day with a couple of eggs and a bowl of oatmeal sounds like the perfect way to start the day.

4. Portobello Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a curious source of the ‘sunshine vitamin,’ considering they grow in the dark. As it turns out, when grown naturally, most mushrooms provide an insignificant amount of vitamin D2 and D3. However, the moment they are exposed to UV light, they become packed with these vitamins.

Portabella mushrooms are a breed of fungus that can also provide you with a bit of vitamin D4. All in all, a cup of these tasty morsels packs a whopping 634 IU. That exceeds the recommended allowance all by itself!

5. Cod Liver Oil

Living in Alaska and having more melanin aren’t the only factors that can cause you to be deficient in D vitamins. Those living with liver and kidney diseases, Crohn’s disease, or osteoporosis are also at a higher risk of being inadequate.

Many add cod liver oil to their regimen for other health benefits like reduced inflammation and stronger bones. But did you realize that cod liver oil is also a great source of your D vitamins? A single teaspoon is loaded with 427 IU.

6. Cow’s Milk

Unfortunately, infants are another group who struggles to absorb the proper amount of the ‘sunshine vitamin.’ This is even truer if the mother lacks this essential nutrient, as she provides sustenance. Fortunately, a fortified formula can help if this becomes an issue.

Once the child is old enough, fortified milk becomes one of their primary sources of D vitamins. Do you remember learning that most yogurts are fortified?

That is true with nearly every dairy product in several countries. This ensures that children and adults can quickly and cheaply receive the necessary calcium and vitamins. Each cup of milk holds approximately 100 IU with this measure in place.

7. Oysters

Recall that there aren’t many foods that are rich in D vitamins. While oysters possess some of this vitamin, they are pretty low on how much they provide.

Still, people add them on occasion from time to time for a bit of variety. Oysters are particularly beneficial to those looking for a boost in zinc. After all, they are the number one source of this mineral.

The funny thing about oysters is that their shell carries more of vitamins. Many supplements that address calcium and vitamin D deficiencies contain the oyster shell.

8. Pacific Mackerel

Not only is pacific mackerel delicious, but it also has over 340 IU of your daily ‘happy vitamins.’ In addition to having one of the highest IU, it’s also an excellent source of omega-three fatty acids.

Research shows that omega-three fatty acids greatly benefit heart health and reduce inflammation.

9. Orange Juice

Some people falsely believe it would be impossible for a vegan to reach their daily intake of D vitamins. However, that isn’t the case with UV technology and fortification processes.

Remember that, unlike dairy products, not all orange juice is fortified. If you choose a fortified juice, you can get about 100 IU daily dose this way.

Orange and orange juice offer significant health benefits.

10. Salmon

Salmon is another one of those foods with multiple health benefits. Because of its omega 3’s, when included as a regular part of the diet, it’s proven beneficial in relieving asthma symptoms.

It’s just a bonus that it’s a great source of D vitamins, providing between 205 and 385 IU, dependent upon the variety.

11. Beef Liver

A serving of liver can provide you with approximately 40 IU, so it falls a bit low on the scale of foods rich in D vitamins. However, that’s still enough to make an impact.

Aside from providing D vitamins, it’s also a good source of protein, iron, zinc, copper, and vitamins A and B12.

12. Pork

It is already widely known that the composition of lean pork is very similar to red meat. Studies are currently underway to determine just how similar they are. Researchers have found evidence to suggest that occasionally eating lean pork can improve cardiovascular issues.

Lean cuts of pork can also assist you in reaching your daily intake of D vitamins. Depending on the cut, you could consume up to 60 IU when eating this flavorful meat.

13. Tuna

Tuna is one of the tastiest and most commonly eaten D vitamin-rich food. Considering the 60 IU, you can find in a single can of tuna. It’s no wonder so many people love it! Fresh albacore tuna is even denser in vitamins, providing around 100 IU.

If that weren’t enough motivation to eat more tuna, consider how vital it is to maintain proper brain function. DHA is a fatty acid found only in breast milk and certain fish, like tuna.

When eating fish, you mustn’t overindulge. Some fish contain high levels of mercury, and yellowfin tuna certainly falls into this category.
Fatty fish is essential in your diet, but you want to monitor how much mercury you ingest. Switch it up occasionally and choose a fish with lower mercury levels.

14. Margarine

Margarine is yet another fortified food. It’s such an essential source of D vitamins for children that it has become one of the leading sources in the United Kingdom.

Just one teaspoon delivers about 30 IU. Try cooking dinner with margarine or adding a bit to your toast to finish the day off.

15. Soy Milk

Fortified soy milk can be a terrific alternative for those with milk allergies or prefer not to eat animal products. Soy milk is the only plant-based milk comparable to cow’s milk in regards to key vitamins and nutrients.

Thanks to fortification, soy milk can provide you with the same protein, calcium, and D vitamins as cow’s milk.

16. Ice Cream

Okay, so maybe ice cream is more of a sweet treat than a substantial source of D vitamins. But you don’t have to feel guilty about giving in to your sweet tooth occasionally.

Since it’s made of fortified dairy products, even this sweet dessert will give you 1% of your daily intake. There’s a silver lining, after all, albeit it is a skinny one.

17. Sardines

By now, you’re well aware that varying types of fish are packed with omega 3s and D vitamins. Sardines are no exception to the rule. Whether you have them on a pizza or out of a can, you can absorb an impressive 144 IU when eating this food.

Did you know that regularly including fatty fish in your diet can considerably decrease your risk for diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s?

18. Maitake Mushrooms

Here’s a fun fact for you: maitake mushrooms are a superfood. Sure, every cup is packed with 780 IU of D vitamins, but that fails compared to its superpower.

These mushrooms are so powerful that they can help fight off a viral infection. Oh, did I mention that they’ve also been shown to decrease the activity in cancer cells?!

19. Almond Milk

Almond milk is a good alternative if you’re trying to overcome this deficiency but still mindful of your fat and carbohydrate intake. It’s also low in calories. So, the only actual downside is that it doesn’t have nearly as much protein as cow’s milk.

Even the level of D vitamins is comparable, weighing in at 85 IU per cup.

20. Herring

What a surprise, yet another fatty fish has made it into the lineup. Is it any wonder when you know that fish makes up the largest category of foods with vitamin D?

Just a single serving of Atlantic herring can provide you with 200 IU of your daily value. Stopping by the fish market this weekend is sounding like a better and better idea.

21. Chanterelle Mushrooms

Regarding mushrooms, chanterelle mushrooms fall pretty low on the totem pole. However, with over 100 IU of D vitamins to offer, they are certain qualifiers amongst foods with vitamin D.

What makes them even more worthy of being added to your diet is that they possess significant healing and anti-inflammatory characteristics.

22. Sturgeon

Sturgeon is a white meat fish known to be a delicacy in several countries worldwide. It’s most famous for its caviar, or its eggs.

When eating the meat of this fish, you can expect to consume just over 430 IU of D vitamins per serving. Even the caviar contains 70 IU.

23. Roe

Roe is slightly higher in D vitamins than caviar, weighing in at 145 IU per serving. Fish roe has additional benefits, particularly for those who have noticed crow’s feet starting to creep up. You may have guessed by now that fish roe is praised for its anti-aging and antioxidant characterizations.

24. Soy Yogurt

Soy yogurt is an ideal dairy-free alternative, as it’s also low in fat. However, it has more in common with regular yogurt than you may expect. It still has all of your essential amino acids and probiotics.

In addition, it has the same amount of ‘sunshine vitamins’ as the regular version–a great way to overcome a deficiency.

25. Trout

Like a handful of other fish, Trout can provide up to 200 IU of your daily dose of D vitamins. Not to mention, it’s high in protein and low in carbs. It’s also a far less fatty fish than a few others mentioned here.

26. White Mushrooms

White mushrooms are unique in that both sun exposure and UV exposure will cause their amount of vitamin D to jump significantly. When these mushrooms grow in the dark, they only contain 7 IU, but that skyrockets to 1200 IU when exposed to light!

27. Halibut

Halibut and trout are very similar in their nutritional makeup. They are both low in fat, and you’ll notice there are no carbohydrates found when eating halibut. However, halibut has slightly fewer D vitamins, at only 144 IU.

28. Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering foods with vitamin D. Justifiably, a single slice of cheddar cheese will only provide you with 7 IU.

However, it’s important to remember that D vitamins are not the only vitamins or minerals you want to keep in mind. While cheddar cheese doesn’t rank exceptionally high in this field, it ranks highly in calcium-rich foods.

Whether it is through cheese or fish, you want to keep a variety in your meals. If you overeat cheddar cheese or certain types of fish, you would consume too much fat.

29. Fortified Breakfast Cereal

What’s more convenient, first thing in the morning, than pouring a bowl of cereal? I can’t think of many things with a shorter kitchen preparation time.

Next time you’re picking up cereal, consider choosing oat bran that’s fortified with vitamin D. Key things you want to look for are “whole grains” and “low sugar content.”

Remember that checking the nutritional label when browsing any fortified goods is essential. Just because it’s high in specific vitamins and minerals doesn’t mean it isn’t packed full of excess sugars and fats!

30. Goat Milk

Goat milk is another option that is available for individuals with milk allergies. Over recent years, its popularity has increased partially due to its wide popularity in Mediterranean countries.

However, the driving reason behind this rise in popularity is that dairy products made from goat milk are affordable. There have also been a rising number of people with allergies to cow’s milk who may not react to goat milk.

Aside from containing the same D vitamins as cow’s milk, goat milk is also a good source of protein, calcium, and potassium. After learning all of that, it’s a bonus to find that it also has significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory attributes.

31. Swiss Cheese

A serving of Swiss cheese has slightly fewer D vitamins than cheddar cheese, with only 6 IU. While you can get a small amount of your daily intake from swiss cheese, your vitamin K level will greatly benefit you when eating this snack.

There are three types of swiss cheeses that have varying levels of Vitamin K12. At 433 ng/g, Emmenthal has the most significant amount. Alternatively, Gruyere will only provide you with just over 60 ng.

Final Thoughts on Adding Vitamin D to Your Diet

With over 40% of the world’s population with a vitamin D deficiency, the time to be more intentional with our eating has arrived.

If you have children, ensuring they consume the proper amount of D vitamins is crucial. Since children have a skeleton that has not yet developed, a vitamin D deficiency could cause a bone disorder called rickets.

Fortunately, it is easier now than ever to find foods with vitamin D. There once was a time, not too long ago, where fish was the primary source.

Now, through fortification processes, regulations, and UV photosynthesis, there are more options than we could have ever imagined.

Along with children, vegans and vegetarians struggled to meet their daily intake of the ‘happy vitamin.’ Products like fortified soy, almond milk, and fortified breakfast cereals can address this common deficiency.

If you, like many in our population, face a variety of food allergies, there’s hope for you too. With supplements being made of various products ranging from certain mushrooms to oyster shells, there’s an avenue available for us all to avoid a vitamin D deficiency.

Doctors Explain Why A Ketogenic Diet Is Perfect For Baby Boomers

September 16, 2019 by Power of Positivity

None of us is entirely immune from the effects of aging on the body–for many of us, part of the aging process includes gaining weight. Much of this weight settles around our midsection, known as “middle-age spread,” that becomes a source of frustration and self-consciousness that diminishes our quality of life. Fortunately, you can try the ketogenic diet and whip yourself back into shape.

Baby boomers, those who are considered middle-aged and moving into a more established phase of life, are a population that is affected by the onset of additional weight gain. Even if our diet and exercise habits don’t change, we still struggle to maintain a healthy weight, stay fit, and lean as we grow into our forties and beyond.

What causes middle- to older-age weight gain?

There are a number of factors that cause us to gain weight as we get older; knowing these tendencies will help us to slow down and possibly prevent this process from occurring altogether if we have the right tools for weight loss success. Some more common reasons for this weight gain include:

1. A slower metabolism

Your metabolic process slows down as you age, causing you to burn fewer calories and store fat more efficiently. You will have to watch your diet more closely and make changes to your daily routine, including more physical activity, to offset this metabolic change.

2. Loss of lean muscle

As you age, you begin to lose lean muscle mass, which can contribute to a slower metabolism. Baby boomers are past “middle age,” when your lean muscle mass begins to steadily reduce, making you more prone to the development of fat deposits in places that you don’t want them. Doing what you can to maintain a healthy exercise routine and incorporate weight-bearing and resistance training exercises will aid in maintaining lean muscle mass and help to build bone density that is so important in older adults.

3. Menopause hits

Sorry, ladies, you are prone to weight gain due to fluctuating hormones that are no longer working to fortify your reproductive system. When estrogen levels naturally drop, the body responds by triggering chemicals to promote fat storage so that the body can draw estrogen from them. The undesirable result? Excess belly fat. Men also experience weight gain around the midsection due to declining testosterone levels. Staying active through a “mid-life crisis” will aid in helping to keep excess weight at bay.

4. You become more sedentary

Blame it on convenience gadgets and the availability of transportation to take us from place to place, the result is that we slow down as we age, and we look for a path well worn to make our daily activities easier. As a result, our slower lifestyle results in a slower metabolism and excess weight on our frames.

5. Stress causes us to gain weight

A hormone called cortisol is responsible for the bulk of our abdominal fat; it was originally intended to be a chemical released during times of extreme stress as a protective measure against starvation or attack, but now it no longer serves to do anything but trigger the storage of fat on the body. Doing what you can to lower your stress levels will help reduce the fat that develops around your midsection, leading to a healthier life.

Diet and lifestyle changes for weight loss

The mathematics of weight loss is relatively simple—calories in must not exceed calories expended, or it will result in weight gain. While it’s not always easy to make these changes, keeping yourself healthy and trim in your later years will provide a better quality of life for you and the family you care for. Maintain an active lifestyle by incorporating movement and exercise into every day. Some other strategies for burning extra calories throughout the day include:

Using a standing or treadmill desk at work
Using a balance ball for sitting
Cook more of your meals at home
Take the stairs or park far away from your destination
Stay moving and take movement breaks throughout the day
Incorporate resistance exercises in your day

What the heck should I be eating?

Your regular diet, the one that you’ve grown accustomed to for years, may no longer be working for you. While it was great to enjoy that extra-large muffin and cafe latte on the way into work each morning, it may contribute to insulin spikes, cravings, and hunger that drive you to snack to the excess outside mealtime. These activities will most certainly put an extra layer around your middle if you do not change your eating pattern. Have you ever heard of “keto”?

What is the ketogenic way of eating?

The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat way of eating that shares many similarities with the Atkins and other low carb plans for eating. Going keto means drastically reducing your carbohydrate intake and replacing these calories with healthy fats. The resulting carb deficit puts your body into a fat-burning mode called “ketosis”.

When you reach ketosis, your body becomes an incredibly efficient fat-burning machine. It is also able to turn fat into ketones via a metabolic process in the liver, supplying much-needed energy to the brain. Ketogenic diets help stabilize blood glucose and insulin levels, and they have numerous other health benefits for those who follow this decadent eating style.

Why is a ketogenic diet perfect for baby boomers?

Those who are smack dab in the middle of life benefit from a ketogenic diet. Losing weight does not come naturally to this crowd, and we need a little boost to get the scale headed in the right direction. Reasons that this style of eating is perfect for those who may struggle to lose weight include:

1. Weight loss becomes nearly effortless

It takes a lot more energy to convert fat to energy than it does to transform carbs into energy–for this reason, following a ketogenic diet can actually speed up weight loss. The high levels of protein and satisfying fats don’t leave you wanting more after eating; you are full and satisfied until you must eat something again.

2. It improves skin conditions

Conditions like rash, dryness, eczema, and even adult acne are cleared up with adopting a ketogenic diet. Studies have shown that many skin conditions occur because of the imbalance of blood glucose and insulin playing their roles in the body; keeping things on an even keel with respect to blood sugars helps to clear up skin and leave you looking and feeling great.

3. It may reduce the risk of cancer

The ketogenic diet is under some investigation for its unique ability to treat and even prevent certain types of cancer. The metabolic processes that occur when a person eats keto cause oxidative stress in cancer cells, prohibiting their continued growth. Some might consider a steak meal and creamed spinach miraculous when you consider its cancer-fighting properties. Bon Apetit!

4. It improves heart health

When the ketogenic diet is followed healthily, there is evidence to suggest that it can actually reduce cholesterol levels. HDL or good cholesterol levels were significantly improved, while LDL, or bad cholesterol levels, were reduced dramatically.

5. It helps to improve brain function

Eating keto has neuroprotective benefits. These benefits include the prevention of diseases like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and some sleep disorders. Children following a ketogenic diet have been shown to have improved alertness and cognitive functioning.

6. It has the potential to reduce seizure activity

The ratio of fats/proteins/carbs pushes the body into ketosis, which alters how ketones are used. Ketosis has had marked benefits for people with epilepsy, showing improvements and reductions in seizure activity.

7. Lessens menopausal symptoms in women

Many menopausal baby boomers can testify to the same fact. Eating keto helps reduce menopausal symptoms such as irritability, bloating, disruptions in sleep, and weight gain. In addition, those women who develop POCS, or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome found a dramatic reduction in their symptoms upon following the diet for several weeks. These benefits included:

added weight loss
balanced hormone levels
improved fasting insulin levels

With the reduction in the discomfort of menopausal symptoms, it is no surprise that female baby boomers embrace this diet.

Final thoughts on keto and baby boomers who want to give it a go

Of course, keto offers many benefits for health and weight loss. However, your medical doctor should scrutinize any drastic change in dietary habits. That’s because preexisting conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease should follow a modified version of keto called cycling. In this, you’ll periodically eat carbs to keep the body from going deeper into ketosis.

Following a clean keto diet and incorporating healthful, whole foods into your diet is always a recipe for success. You are creating golden years health. So, have fun with this new lifestyle. And, soon you will look forward to delicious and nutritious food combinations in your daily life.

Dermatologists Reveal the Leading Causes of Irritated Red Skin

September 15, 2019 by Power of Positivity

If you have irritated, red skin, you can take comfort in knowing that you are not alone. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, over 85 million people in America are struggling with skin conditions that cause these same symptoms.

These skin problems are often the result of an allergic reaction or certain autoimmune disorders, such as subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE), psoriasis, dermatomyositis, and bullous pemphigoid, for example. However, irritated, red skin can also be a byproduct of overexertion, sunburns, and many other things as well.

In this article, we will take a closer look at what causes skin irritation and also treatments that can provide some much-needed relief.

WHAT CAUSES SKIN INFLAMMATION?

In many cases, skin irritation is caused by the immune system as it works to protect the body against allergens, microorganisms, and other foreign substances by producing immunoglobulin, antibodies that signal cells in the body to release histamines. In short, histamines are organic nitrogenous compounds that fight off allergens and other substances that would otherwise compromise our health. However, there is a downside in that histamines can also trigger an array of allergy symptoms, such as a runny nose, watery eyes, and itchy skin. Beyond that, histamines can cause blood vessels to widen, which allows more blood to reach the skin’s surface, causing it to become noticeably red. Additional skin inflammation symptoms can include

Skin that feels hot to the touch
Swelling
Thickened skin
Blisters
Pimples
Skin that feels smooth or scaly
Chronic dry skin

Please note that skin inflammation symptoms can vary depending on the allergens or other environmental factors that triggered the condition. The same also applies to the severity of those symptoms as well.

AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS AND SKIN IRRITATION

While irritated, red skin is often the result of an allergic reaction or environmental factors, it can also be brought on by autoimmune disorders. Some of the most common include

SUBACUTE CUTANEOUS LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS

As a form of lupus, subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) is a skin condition characterized by scaly patches of skin that tend to take on a reddish color. The skin condition, which is similar to psoriasis, can be made worse by excessive sun exposure.

PSORIASIS

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that can cause redness and irritation on nearly any skin surface. It is also worth noting that there are 5 different types of psoriasis, and they all impact the skin differently. The most common variation of this particular autoimmune disorder that affects the skin is plaque psoriasis, which not only causes redness but also flaky, silver-colored patches of dead skin. Additional forms of psoriasis include guttate, inverse, plaque, erythrodermic, and pustular, all of which can cause skin irritation. Psoriasis is often triggered by sun exposure, medication, excessive alcohol consumption, infections, and stress. According to several studies, psoriasis is believed to be inherited from family members who have the same or a different autoimmune disorder. Those who have a compromised immune system due to HIV or chemotherapy treatments, for example, are also susceptible as well.

BULLOUS PEMPHIGOID

Often considered one of the most chronic autoimmune disorders, bullous pemphigoid is a skin condition characterized by red blisters and mild to moderate irritation. This skin condition can affect various parts of the body, including the arms, legs, and torso. If left untreated, the blisters caused by this skin condition can break open and, which can result in the formation of ulcers. The disease can also advance to the oral cavity, causing the gums to become inflamed and even bleed.

DERMATOMYOSITIS

Although dermatomyositis is an autoimmune disorder that typically affects the muscles, it can also cause skin irritation as well. In most cases, those with dermatomyositis have also been diagnosed with polymyositis, an autoimmune disorder that causes muscle fatigue, stiffness, and soreness. Symptoms that are specific to dermatomyositis can include skin rash and thickening of the skin. The disease may also cause the eyelids to take on a purplish color.

Also, note that this list is not an encapsulation of all skin-related autoimmune conditions. Moreover, they are some of the ones most likely to cause red, irritated skin.

SKIN REDNESS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Along with autoimmune disorders, there are a few environmental factors that can contribute to skin redness as well as skin irritation. Some of those encompass the following:

EXCESSIVE SUN EXPOSURE

When it comes to sun exposure, sunburn leads the way in terms of environmental factors that can contribute to irritated skin.

WHAT CAUSES SUNBURNS?

Generally speaking, sunburns are a byproduct of excessive exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. They can also be the result of exposure to sunlamps as is the case with indoor tanning. Repeated exposure to sunlight or artificial ultraviolet light not only damages the skin but also increases your chances of developing certain diseases, namely skin cancer.

That aside, the onset of sunburn symptoms can occur within hours after being exposed to too much natural sunlight or artificial ultraviolet lights. Some of the more common sunburn symptoms include

Rough patches of skin
Skin that appears pink or red
Tenderness
Itching
Swelling
Fluid-filled blisters
Headaches
Fever
Nausea

WHAT PARTS OF THE BODY CAN BE AFFECTED BY SUNBURN?

When it comes to sunburns, no part of the body is impervious to skin irritation. The lips, scalp, earlobes, and many other parts of the body are all susceptible. However, there is some good news worth noting; sunburn symptoms will start to dissipate after a few days, and the skin will start to heal itself naturally. The most obvious sign of healing is when the skin starts to peel, which helps remove dead, damaged skin. After the dead layers of skin have peeled away, the remaining skin may appear noticeably pink or red. All in all, it can take several days or weeks to recover from a sunburn.

POISONOUS PLANTS

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, it is important to note that exposure to plants, namely poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac, can irritate the skin. That said, all variations of poison ivy contain urushiol, an irritant that can trigger numerous allergic reactions. The most common allergic reaction, however, is contact dermatitis, a condition that makes the skin red or inflamed. Exposure to urushiol can also cause the following symptoms:

Itching
Swelling
Blisters
Respiratory problems

The onset of poison ivy rash and other allergic reactions that stem from exposure to urushiol can start in as little as 12 hours and can vary in intensity depending on the extent of the contact that an individual has had with the plant or the irritant. It should also be noted that you don’t have to come directly in contact with poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac to develop an allergic reaction as urushiol residue can be transferred to clothes, pets, shoes, and many other objects, meaning indirect contact is possible.

ADDITIONAL FACTORS THAT CAN CONTRIBUTE TO INFLAMED OR RED SKIN

Along with autoimmune disorders and environmental factors, inflamed or red skin can also be caused by the following:

Nerve disorders – While they may not cause skin redness per se, health problems like shingles, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes cause the skin to feel itchy.

Mental illnesses – Along with the many other symptoms commonly associated with anxiety and depression, these also known to trigger itchy skin.

Household irritants – While we probably don’t give them a second thought, many of the items in our homes can cause red or irritated skin. These irritants include soaps, cleansers, and even certain foods. Similarly, microorganisms and parasites also trigger these reactions.

Pregnancy – Most will agree that bringing a child into the world is one of the most exciting moments in a woman’s life; however, during pregnancy, many women will encounter a myriad of unpleasant symptoms, including itchy skin.

BOTTOM LINE ON COPING WITH IRRITATED AND RED SKIN

There are a lot of things that can contribute to irritated, red skin. However, there are many treatments that can provide those who are struggling with these skin conditions some much-needed relief. These therapies include over-the-counter and prescription antihistamine medications. For those struggling with autoimmune disorders, specific medications can soothe irritated skin caused by the disorder. Lastly, it would be a good idea to avoid allergens that can trigger skin inflammation and to also wear sunscreen when engaging in outdoor activities.

Scientists Explain 16 Health Benefits of Eating an Apple Every Day

September 15, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Not only are apples juicy, delicious, and crunchy, they also offer you a huge array of health benefits, as well. What’s even better is that you can eat an apple in so many different ways, which can ensure that you never get tired of them. From making a dessert to having a quick snack, they are perfect for the occasion, and the health benefits of apples are plentiful.

According to a recent report, apples are the most grown and eaten food in the world. They rank high on nearly every list about health foods and can be anywhere year-round. Being made up mostly of water, they are easy for your body to digest and are also packed full of essential nutrients.

Since you shouldn’t believe just anything you read on the internet, I’m sure you will want to hear a scientific confirmation of the health benefits of apples. If that’s the case, this article is just what you need. Read on to find out 17 health benefits of eating an apple every day.

17 Health Benefits of Apples

1. They improve brain health.

Acetylcholine is increased in your brain each time you eat an apple. This is directly linked to better concentration, problem-solving, and remembering.

2. Reduces your risk of dementia, stroke, and diabetes.

To start, each apple contains nutrients that prevent you from oxidative stress, which is what causes diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s diseases. Next, both men and women can have their risk of stroke lowered by consuming at least one apple each day. Additionally, they contain polyphenols which can even out your blood sugar levels, lower glucose absorption and stimulate insulin release, all of which are beneficial to those with diabetes.

3. Lowers cholesterol for those whose levels are too high.

The fiber that is found in this fruit can naturally lower the cholesterol levels in your body, which can help protect against cardiovascular diseases. It’s also important to note that there are two kinds of cholesterol, HDL (which is good) and LDL (which is bad), and consuming this crunchy fruit shows a reduction in the LDL but an increase in the HDL.

4. Decreases risk of obesity.

Each apple you eat is full of water and fiber, and the two of those together make you feel less hungry and reduces your appetite. Not only that, but this fruit is also burned quickly by your body, preventing any of the apples from turning into stored fat.

5. They are full of necessary nutrients and vitamins.

This fruit is packed with essential nutrients including:

85.56 grams of water
52 kcal of energy
0.26 grams of protein
0.17 grams of lipid
13.81 grams of carbs
2.4 grams of fiber
10.39 grams of sugar
6 miligrams of calcium
0.12 miligrams of iron
5 miligrams of magnesium
11 miligrams of phosphorus
107 miligrams of potassium
Only 1 miligram of sodium
0.04 miligrams of zinc
4.6 miligrams of Vitamin C
0.02 miligrams of thiamin
0.03 miligrams of riboflavin
0.09 miligrams of niacin
0.04 miligrams of Vitamin B-6
3 micrograms of folate
3 micrograms of Vitamin A
0.18 miligrams of Vitamin E
2.2 micrograms of Vitamin K

6. Helps with healthy digestion.

A huge part of the health benefits of apples is that each one contains 20 percent of the recommended daily amount of fiber for normal adults. Researchers at the Department of Horticulture Science at North Carolina State University found that the fiber in apples helps with the overall digestive process. This leads to smooth bowel movements, prevention of constipation and diarrhea, and a decreased risk of getting irritable bowel syndrome, among other digestive benefits.

7. They contain prebiotics.

One of the many health benefits of apples is that it contains pectin, a specific kind of fiber that also plays the role of a prebiotic. This allows for higher functioning (good) bacteria in the large intestine and gut. It also works to eliminate bad bacteria, allowing for higher overall nutrition.

8. Boosts your immune system.

Vitamin C, antioxidants, and protein (all found in this juicy fruit) can boost your immune system, making it easier to fight off illness. This will also help you feel less weak and will improve your muscle tone.

9. The fiber contained in them helps with oral health.

When you eat an apple, it helps clean your teeth and gums in an all-natural way. The fiber helps with the teeth cleaning, and the antibacterial properties found in each apple help keep bacteria off your teeth and gums. Another bonus to your oral health is that eating this fruit can increase the production of saliva, which lowers the number of bacteria in your mouth.

10. Contains antioxidants.

Scientists at Cornell University found that the antioxidants in this fruit can help protect the brain from oxidative stress, which helps prevent neurological disorders. Additionally, antioxidants can prevent premature aging, wrinkles, and age spots. The fruit can also help with blood circulation, keeping your skin young-looking.

11. Improves asthma symptoms.

The anti-inflammatory properties of this fruit allow for lessened asthmatic symptoms including a reduction in inflammation and strengthening of the immune system.

12. Leads to improved bone health.

This fruit contains healing compounds such as kaempferol, quercetin, and myricetin. Not only are these compounds linked to minimizing inflammatory conditions, they are also linked to overall bone health.

13. Can improve vision.

Serious eye diseases and ailments such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts can all be prevented by eating at least one apple a day. Additionally, this fruit can make your eye muscles stronger, improve eyesight, and treat night blindness. If you’re looking to improve your vision and eye health, you can’t go wrong with this fruit.

14. May help prevent gallstones.

The pectin that is found in each apple keeps cholesterol levels steady, which high cholesterol is what would cause gallstones to form. Since apples lead to lower cholesterol, it only makes sense that they also prevent gallstones.

15. Helps prevent and relieve hemorrhoids.

Since fiber helps with digestion and this fruit is full of fiber, the fruit can relieve hemorrhoids as they usually only occur when you have to strain when taking a bowel movement.

16. Prevents and treats dandruff.

When you apply the juice from an apple to your scalp, it can prevent and treat dandruff, while also working as a conditioner.

Quick, Delicious, and Easy Apple Recipes

Since you can eat or drink apple, there are quite a few recipes you could try out to increase your apple consumption.

Fruit salad

Chop up your favorite fruits (including at least one apple, of course), and mix them all together in a bowl. Eat as is, or top with whipped cream.

Apple chips

Thinly slice an apple, sprinkle with sugar, and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until crunchy.

Applesauce

Using 15 peeled and diced apples, 4 cinnamon sticks, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, a teaspoon of lemon juice, mix all ingredients together in a crockpot and cook on high for 6 hours. When it’s done, mash it all up until it has the correct texture.

Apple crisp bars

First, begin by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease an 8×8 baking dish.

Then, you will make the crust using one stick of butter, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 1/4 cups of flour. Combine and mix everything except the vanilla extract and flour, and once all of the other ingredients are well mixed, you can add the remaining two ingredients. It should make a crumbly dough, which you will then press into the bottom of the baking dish before baking for 14 minutes (leave the oven on when it’s finished, you’ll use it again at the same temperature.

Next, you will make the filling using 4 – 5 medium peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples, 2 tablespoons of flour, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Combine all of the ingredients into a large bowl and mix until the fruit is coated with sugar and flour. Put the mixture evenly over the crust.

Finally, you will make the topping using 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 3/4 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 6 tablespoons of butter cut into small cubes. Using a medium-sized bowl, mix all of the ingredients together, cutting the butter in to make a crumbly topping. Put all of the toppings over top of the fruit.

You will then bake the dish (uncovered) for about 45 minutes, allow it to cool completely, and then cut it into bars. You could use parchment paper in the baking dish to allow for easier removal.

Final Thoughts On Health Benefits of Eating an Apple Every Day

Apples are delicious, juicy, crunchy, and nutritious. The health benefits of apples are plentiful, and you will benefit in more than one way each time you eat one.

If you get tired of eating an apple by itself every day, seek out one of the many recipes. Indeed, you’re sure to find something you love. The recipes don’t have to be difficult or time-consuming, and you’ll reap all of the health benefits of apples.

Weekly tips, affirmations, and small actions to feel your best.

Fruit salad

Apple chips

Applesauce

Apple crisp bars

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!