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Doctors Explain What Causes Hemorrhoids (and Share Treatment Options)

September 13, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Hemorrhoids are a prevalent problem that most people are too embarrassed to discuss publicly. Also called, “piles,” they usually afflict older people and are typically associated with bathroom dysfunction, hence the taboo. The truth is, they are effortless to treat and prevent right from the comfort of your home.

What Is A Hemorrhoid?

At their core, hemorrhoids are nothing more than inflamed veins in your anus and rectum, and they manifest themselves in swollen lumps that become more prominent when you have to defecate.

These unpleasant occurrences are also responsible for some rectal bleeding. Although not dangerous, they can be unsightly and cause significant embarrassment for the person suffering from them. The bleeding associated with them can be alarming, so if your swollen veins are painful or get worse over time, consult your doctor for a hemorrhoid treatment.

Internal Hemorrhoids

As the name suggests, these develop within your body and are often not distinguishable from the human eye. You might not even know that you have them. These types rarely require hemorrhoid treatment; they only make themselves known if they bleed slightly while you’re straining to go to the bathroom. They are also painless and do not require any severe intervention or surgery.

External Hemorrhoids

You can see and feel these types when wiping yourself after using the toilet. They tend to flare up a little bit more and can often hurt if they get enlarged enough. These types also will bleed, sometimes copiously, when you wipe. Most hemorrhoid treatments are for those that form outside of the body, as they are most likely to prolapse and cause discomfort. Although this type of hemorrhoid is generally not dangerous, they are unattractive and usually disposed of with surgery or home remedies.

What Causes This Condition?

Many things cause inflammation of your anus and rectum, including your genes and diet. Those that are overweight or obese are more likely to suffer from flareups and occurrences of this condition.

Pregnancy

Pregnant women are also at greater risk of getting hemorrhoids or two for their lifetime. This is because irritation in the anus and rectum is caused by straining. Women who give vaginal birth must push, and strain, and an unintended side effect of delivery could be an inflamed vein or two.

Diet

Similarly, those with less-than-ideal diets are also at greater risk for needing a hemorrhoid treatment at some point in their lives. Bad diets lead to more straining on the toilet, which puts more significant pressure on the veins inside the anus and rectum and can cause them to get inflamed. You place yourself at particular risk if you eat a low fiber diet.

Chronic Illness

The chronically ill are also at greater risk for developing this condition. Bathroom troubles, like diarrhea and constipation, can cause this medical ailment, as can constant sneezing or coughing. Those who use the bathroom as a second reading room are also at greater risk of developing hemorrhoids. The continuous pushing creates plenty of irritation in the bowels and can lead to inflammation and problems.

Essentially, these enlarged veins are caused by straining or pushing. They are a delicate region of the body that is easily irritated by everyday activities, like going to the bathroom, so so many people develop them throughout their lives.

Lifting Objects That Are Too Heavy For You

Do you work at a job requiring you to lift heavy objects? The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases cites this as another cause of piles. Their report explains that the tissues that support your rectum weaken with age. One wrong lift and you could create this outcome.

How Do Doctors Treat Hemorrhoids?

A doctor diagnoses and treats a hemorrhoid through a series of exams. Essentially, the doctor will insert a finger in the rectum and feel around for any abnormalities. If the hemorrhoid in question is on the surface, your doctor might be able to see it. Still, internal ones will always need to be diagnosed with a thorough, and, unfortunately, invasive exam.

Depending on their feelings, your doctor might schedule additional exams to ensure you’re completely healthy. Colonoscopies are a standard follow-up procedure if you have severe hemorrhoids, especially if you are over fifty. Keep in mind that mainly these procedures are prescribed to make one-hundred percent sure that there’s nothing wrong, not because the doctor is diagnosing you with cancer or any other serious illness.

Treating A Hemorrhoid At Home

Most people opt for a home-based hemorrhoid treatment, and since plenty of over-the-counter medications help ease your discomfort, this is an excellent way to go!

OTC medications

OTC creams can stop hemorrhoids in their tracks and shrink down the larger, external ones, so the piles are less noticeable. They work by tightening up your veins and compressing hemorrhoids. Witch hazel is also a common way to alleviate pain and shrink the size of the bulging vein.

Add fiber

You can also soothe the area by taking warm baths and taking pain medication if the discomfort persists or hurts to sit down. Eating a kinder diet of fiber-rich foods is also an excellent way to rid your life of these unpleasant swollen veins.

Toilet habits

Alternating how you use the toilet is a great way to keep pressure off your anus and relieve yourself without further irritating your hemorrhoid. This is easy enough to accomplish by getting a small step stool and putting your feet on it when you go to the bathroom. You might find that when you sit this way and use the toilet that your hemorrhoid goes away all on its own.

Seeking Medical Treatment

If you feel like your condition requires medical intervention, there are many different types of minimally invasive procedures that can rid you of your hemorrhoids.

Ligation

The most common type is “rubber band ligation,” and you don’t need to go under anesthesia to do it. The doctor secures your hemorrhoid with a rubber band and cuts off the blood flow. With no source of sustenance, the hemorrhoid dies and falls off in seven to ten days.

Injections

Your doctor could inject your hemorrhoid with a solution designed to shrink it. This is the more medically advanced version of those topical creams that you can apply on your own at home and is not painful, although somewhat less successful than rubber band ligation.

Laser treatment

Another piles treatment doctors employ is freezing or lasering the offending lump off. This is a fairly new procedure and has had decent results so far. Most people don’t even need anesthesia for lasering or freezing their piles; they return to normal immediately.

Surgical option

If you require more serious care, your doctor could opt for a hemorrhoidectomy, an invasive surgery where your doctor removes the skin around your hemorrhoid to ensure that you are completely rid of it. You can also opt for hemorrhoid stapling, similar to rubber band ligation but exclusively for internal hemorrhoids.

Most people will not need to go under the knife. There are only a few rare occurrences where hemorrhoids are anything other than a nuisance and occasionally painful when they go to the bathroom.

Prevention Tips

The best way to avoid dealing with a hemorrhoid is to avoid getting one in the first place. How do you do this? Know what irritates the veins of the anus and rectum and take steps to avoid compromising the area.

Go To The Toilet When You Need To

Do not try to hold it, especially regarding “number two.” Our bodies know when it’s time to go to the bathroom, and delaying that inevitable release will only cause feces to back up in our intestines and bowels and become dry and tough. These stools can tear the tissue on their way out, causing bleeding and irritation and setting the stage for you to get some terrible hemorrhoids.

Don’t Go To The Toilet When You Don’t Need To

The inverse is also true! Many people treat the bathroom as a refuge or a secondary reading room. They sit on the toilet and strain, causing damage to the sensitive veins around their rectum and anus. Only use the bathroom when you have to go and avoid sitting there for any longer than you need to. You won’t put undue strain on your bowels, rectum, or anus this way.

Drink A Lot Of Water to Prevent Hemmorhoids

Staying hydrated can prevent piles. How? When your body is full of water, your stools are softer and easier to pass through your body. Water can do so many good things for your body anyway, so it’s a good idea to get your eight ounces of water every single day. Your overall health and anus and rectum will thank you in the long run.

Get Enough Exercise to Avoid Hemorrhoids

Like water, exercise helps just about every area of our bodies function better. One of the primary places that cardio exercise targets are digestive issues. If you have fewer digestive issues, you will strain less when you have to go to the bathroom, and your stools will pass more easily through your body.

Some fantastic exercises you might want to try are yoga and light cardio, like walking, biking, or swimming. These exercises increase your flexibility and overall health. Avoid hefty activities like weightlifting, which can cause hemorrhoids to become worse. When you do a lot of weightlifting, you’re straining yourself and putting a lot of pressure on sensitive nerve endings in your anus and rectum. Even if you don’t already suffer from the condition, you could develop it through a weightlifting routine.

Keep your cardio consistent but kind to your body. The other great thing about incorporating exercise into your routine is that it can inspire you to eat better, another way to avoid getting or worsening your hemorrhoids.

Foods High In Fiber Can Improve Hemorrhoids

Fiber helps us clean our insides and can work wonders for our overall health. These days, plenty of foods are fortified with fiber, but you can also find plenty of fiber in naturally occurring ways.

Let’s talk about some foods that are fantastically full of fiber and can help you fight constipation (and the subsequent piles) like a champ!

Fiber-filled dietary options:

Leafy green vegetables are superstars in the fiber department. These antioxidant powerhouses are also potently high in fiber and can ease your bowel movements. Add some leafy green vegetables to salads or stews, or combine them with citrus fruits and bananas for a superfood smoothie.
Most fruits are really high in sugar, so if you want to keep a hemorrhoid attack at bay, slice up some mangos, apples, bananas, oranges, and strawberries for a tasty fruit salad. Alternatively, sprinkle some of these fruits on a green salad or make them into a delicious smoothie.
Beans and lentils are full of fiber and can pop right into any meal. Lentil soup with carrots and kale is one of the best ways to get your daily dose of fiber and other nutrients.
Whole grains are high in fiber. If you eat a lot of white rice or bread, make the smart swap to whole grains, and you’ll experience a whole new sense of health and vitality.

Stay away from processed foods that can lead to dehydration, constipation, or diarrhea, all of which could irritate the piles. A healthy diet is one of the best ways to prevent inflammation in this region of your body.

Fighting The Hemorrhoid Stigma

Unfortunately, this common condition is often viewed with a sense of shame. It’s likely that piles are a bathroom-related problem that causes discomfort and embarrassment. Despite the stigma, many people have had at least one hemorrhoid.

Fortunately, some light is being shed on this subject, and people are becoming less and less embarrassed to talk about their conditions. This is a great thing because it means more information is out there, and people can swap stories about what has worked for them and what hasn’t. The other good thing about shedding light on the hemorrhoid epidemic and how many people it affects is that people who suffer from this condition are less likely to feel alone.

Get support!

There are now hemorrhoid support groups where you can ask questions and get answers about your condition. You can also go on social media and ask questions in safe spaces where others understand what you are going through. It’s very heartening that people look at this normal inflammation of the veins in the anus and rectum as something that people live with, not a horrible medical condition.

Living With Chronic Hemorrhoids

Even if you can’t treat your piles medically or with at-home remedies, you can still live a full life with chronic hemorrhoids or several of them.

Keep Creams Or Witch Hazel On Hand to Treat Piles

If you know that you are prone to suffering from flare-ups in your rectum or anus, keep a tube of cream specifically for this condition or some witch hazel in your medicine cupboard. These treatments rarely, if ever, expire and will do you a world of good if you find yourself in a situation where you have a surprise hemorrhoid. Knowing that you’re prone to getting them means that you should take steps to deal with them when they arrive.

Always Go To The Bathroom With A Step Stool

Even if you’re not experiencing a flare-up, you should still poop optimally by propping your feet up on a stool and putting less pressure on your anus and rectum. This will allow the veins to relax, and you can relieve yourself without straining as much. Practice going to the bathroom like this all of the time, not only when experiencing a hemorrhoid-related issue. In public toilets, adjust your seating position to match your use at home more closely. Once your body gets used to relieving itself in this fashion, it should be easier to remember to keep the pressure off those sensitive veins inside your anus and rectum.

Be An Advocate For Others Who Struggle with Hemorrhoids

Fight against the hemorrhoid stigma by advocating for others suffering from the same condition. Volunteer your time in digital spaces, like online messaging boards, and give fellow suffers insight into how to best deal with their conditions. You can also offer advice in a mentor/mentee setup and assure them that it improves over time.

Try To Make Health A Lifestyle

It’s easy to remember to eat your fiber when you’re having a piles flare-up but to ensure that you are staving off more inflammation, you need to consume a good amount of fiber daily. Keep your diet primarily to whole foods, like fruits and vegetables, and remember to get a lot of water in your system. All this will help keep your stools soft and let them pass through your body without further irritating your piles.

In addition to eating properly, you need to remember to incorporate moderate exercise into your daily life. Join a gym, running club, or a yoga studio to keep your body active and your digestive system happy. This will help keep any future hemorrhoids at bay and give you the fringe benefit of a healthier and happier lifestyle overall.

Final Thoughts: Know When You Should Seek Serious Hemorrhoid Treatment

Those who have had a hemorrhoid or two in the past are more likely to get them in the future. It’s important to know what type can be treated at home and which ones you want to seek medical help for. Understanding the difference is one of the keys to being healthy while suffering from piles. If you experience an inflammation that causes severe pain or is bleeding copiously, go to your doctor.

It’s possible that it’s just a normal occurrence and will go away on its own, but just in case, it is always good to seek medical treatment whenever you are unsure. Catching a problem earlier is always preferable to find it later on when it might be more difficult to treat effectively.

If you are suffering from this rectal and anal inflammation, it doesn’t need to be the end of the world or drastically change your life. Hemorrhoids are widespread and easy to treat and prevent with the right medication and lifestyle choices.

Scientists Explain What Happens to Your Body When You Don’t Get Enough Vitamin D

September 13, 2019 by Power of Positivity

According to health scientists, about 1 billion people around the world currently have a high to low range of vitamin D deficiency (VDD). (1)

However, even a small deficit can lead to symptoms and increased disease risk, such as cardiovascular disease.

Vitamin D is an essential fat-soluble nutrient we can often discover lacking in our daily diets. Your entire body uses the vitamin, so the symptoms of deficiency can vary widely. Symptoms also mimic other daily complaints that we easily brush aside.

With a strong link to major causes of death in the US, you should strongly evaluate your personal and dietary risks for D. An intervention now might provide your body with the defense it needs in the future.

Keep reading to learn more about what can occur if you’re not receiving enough.

Quick Facts About D Vitamins (2)

Every cell in your body uses or stores vitamin D
Almost half the world’s population is deficient
It’s one of the easiest deficiencies to fix with food, sun exposure, and/or supplements
Two D vitamins exist, D2 and D3; both provide the same preventative and healthful benefits
Vegans and vegetarians are at higher risk despite many plant-based choices
Fatty fish, eggs, and mushrooms contain high amounts of D
Called the sunshine vitamin
Our bodies can’t make D2, only D3
You will find it difficult to meet your daily requirement through food alone

The Types of Medical Conditions Linked to a Slight to Severe VDD (3)

Cardiovascular conditions
Cancer
Metabolic conditions
Respiratory conditions
Skin conditions
Muscular issues
Skeletal problems
Neurological conditions
Gastrointestinal conditions

Deficiency can make these conditions worse too, even when they’re related to non-deficiency causes such as genetics.

For example, you can have asthma due to underdeveloped lungs and be deficient in D vitamins. When you’re no longer deficient, your asthma remains. You might see an improvement in your symptoms though.

The same can be true for those who have both medical conditions and a vitamin deficiency. Only in cases where your deficiency is the cause could you see a reversal.

What Causes VDD?

In its simplest form a deficiency can occur when your body lacks the vitamin D, doesn’t convert enough of it, or if an underlying condition hinders absorption.

Environmental and lifestyle factors play a role too. These might be easier to control or reverse with changes in choices and/or supplementation.

Deficiency can still occur if you don’t have high risk factors and consume a healthy, whole food diet because age and race are predominant causes.

Who’s at the Highest Risk for Developing VDD? (4)

Hispanics
African Americans
Vegans
Non lacto-vegetarians
Lactose intolerance and/or milk allergy
If you avoid fish
If you live someplace far from the equator or spend a great deal of your time indoors
Overuse of sunscreen
Obese or overweight individuals
Exclusively or partially breastfed babies
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Anyone with fat absorption conditions
If you’ve had gastric bypass surgery

Certain races, lifestyles, ages, and locations have an increased risk at developing a deficiency in vitamin D. Remember, only a blood test can let you and your doctor know your current levels and where they fall.

Who should consider having their D levels tested? Everyone really, but you should consider it if you have any of the symptoms or complaints we’ve gathered below in combination with any risk factors.

Common Symptoms Related to Vitamin D Deficiency

Previously we brushed over the common conditions deficiency can cause or worsen. Many of the ailments below overlap with complaints we can experience on occasion or daily.

That makes it difficult to self-diagnose. We suggest keeping a diary should they arise to share with your doctor. They can compare your notes with test results.

Frequent Respiratory Infections and Slowed Healing

D plays a pivotal role in your body’s ability to fight illness and bacteria. This includes the duration and severity of your sickness too. (5)

A study followed adults who frequently had respiratory-related illnesses for a year. The participants received D supplements or placebo. Adults who took the vitamin had fewer instances of illness compared to the placebo group during the course of the study. (6, 7)

Fatigue

Having an off day here or there or after a hard workout is one thing. However, if you find yourself constantly fatigued during the daytime without any cause, you could be experiencing a deficiency. (8)

Unlike other signs, a slight deficit in D can lead to fatigue and headaches for some. Symptoms usually resolve once D levels reach a normal range too. (9)

Calcium Deficiency

Calcium is another vital nutrient your body needs to function well, and D vitamins assist its absorption. When you lack D, the calcium from your food or supplements build up and can lead to other health conditions. This also means you’re at risk of being deficient in calcium too.

Bone Related Pain

Pain that radiates deep in your bones is one way you could describe the sensation. It may present at your joints, which you could shrug off as arthritis.

You can have this type of pain anywhere in your skeletal system, but the legs and ribs are common according to a popular study. (10)

Another study draws a direct link to moderate to severe back pain too. (11)

Depression

For the longest time, we referred to this type of depression as the winter blues. The sun is farthest away, and the short days limit sunlight exposure. Even if we receive enough vitamin D, we’re at higher risk for developing depression during that time.

However, you can have depression related to vitamin D deficiency yearlong too. People with depression who are also deficient tend to see an improvement in their symptoms after receiving supplements. (12, 13)

However, not all depression shares a relation to deficiency; speak with your doctor about having your vitamin level tested.

Weakened Bone Metabolism

D is vital to your bone’s metabolism. This is mostly due to the role it plays in your body’s ability to absorb calcium.

A large study found a link between low D levels in postmenopausal and menopausal women and their low bone density. (14)

If your bone density is low, you’re at a greater chance for fracture. Have your doctor check your calcium and D levels to see if you’re at risk.

Severe Hair Loss

Did you know vitamin D deficiency could cause hair loss? Stress might not be to blame after all. Of course, budding research hasn’t formed an exact link yet, but early results are drawing toward that conclusion. (15)

Scientists consider low D levels as a predominant risk factor for alopecia, for example. (16)

If you’ve noticed unusual or severe hair loss, you might want to speak with your doctor about having your vitamin levels tested.

Obesity and Unexplained Weight Gain

Research is still developing the complex link between being overweight and low D levels. However, studies do show a correlation between body mass index scores and body fat percentages in association with lower levels of D vitamins. (17, 18)

Some scientists believe fixing low D levels can lead to modest weight loss. However, you’ll have to make more adjustments to your lifestyle and food choices than taking a supplement for more significant or prolonged weight loss.

How Much D Does Your Body Actually Require?

Before supplementing, you should consult your doctor and have your levels tested. They will recommend a proper dose based on your levels and the medicine, including supplements, you already take.

However, the recommended daily allowance is 400-800 IU. Keep in mind that number is a generalization, likely based on a healthy, non-deficient adult. (19)

Can You Take Too Much?

Yes, you can when you’re supplementing. However, it generally takes long term overexposure. Be sure to check all your supplements, especially those containing blends, and consult your doctor if you have questions.

What Happens if You Take Too Much D?

The largest toxicity concern is hypervitaminosis D. Your blood calcium levels can become too high and damage your kidneys, lead to bone loss, and more. (20)

Most overdoses occur when you already have healthy levels of D or if other supplements also contain it. Please note, if your D comes from whole food sources and safe sun exposure, you’re unlikely to be at risk for overdose even with a supplement.

Vegan Sources of D Vitamins

Fortified orange juice
Plant-based milk alternatives
Fortified cereal
MushroomsTofu
Safe sun exposure

Final Thoughts on VDD and D Vitamins

Sunscreen and spending more time indoors than outside can have consequences on your vitamin D levels. It can cause deficiency too since inadequate levels exist in the foods we eat, and the risk factors appear to be broader than any other vitamin shortage,

However, before you reach for supplements, you should speak with your doctor. Toxicity is rare but serious. Your doctor can provide you with a custom daily-recommended dose too.

In the meantime, eat your mushrooms, fortified cereals, non-dairy milk, and practice safe sunning to combat low D levels naturally.

20 Apple Recipes For Making Diet-Friendly Snacks

September 12, 2019 by Power of Positivity

with These healthy apple recipes can have you looking and feeling fantastic–without sacrificing flavor.

Everywhere we look, it seems we are inundated with advertisements for losing weight, getting in better shape, and eating healthy. In today’s increasingly hectic and stressful world, it can be hard to bypass all of the fast-food temptations and plan ahead for healthy meals and snacks using apple recipes that won’t take a toll on our health and our waistlines.

How can we plan these healthy meals and snacks so that we can keep up with all the demands of life and care for our health as well?

Apples: A dieter’s best friend?

Studies from Harvard now point to the apple as a key component in the battle of the bulge. This flavonoid-rich fruit contains powerful antioxidants that can slow or even the onset of weight gain. It’s pleasing taste and bendable texture make it a perfect ingredient in all types of dishes, and it deserves to be incorporated in your nutritional requirements as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Behold some of our favorite apple snacks and dishes; begin cooking and snacking with apples as the main ingredient, and watch the magic happen! Check out these stellar apple recipes; try them out, test them, and put them in your own arsenal of healthy snack recipes that you can use to revolutionize your snacking habits:

1. Healthy turtle snack for kids

It’s okay for kids to play with their food with this cute and tasty snack. Of course, your kids will clamor for the chance to make and eat this healthy apple recipe after school or before the latest sporting event.

Ingredients:
1 Granny Smith, sliced in half
Green grapes, halved
Wilton candy eyeballs
Peanut butter/hazelnut spread/honey

Directions:
Slice the Granny Smith in half and lay one half on a plate flat side down. Cut two grapes in half lengthwise, place them on a plate on either side of the “body”. Spread a small amount of peanut butter or Nutella on the bottom of the candy eyeballs, affix to the turtle’s body. Put eyeballs in place on the grape head and watch the magic unfold!

2. Gluten-Free Cinnamon Mini Loaves

Nothing smells quite so good as the aroma of freshly baked bread; these delicious and nutritious loaves will really take the cake and offer you a healthy indulgence that is worthy of the best place at your meal—dessert!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour
one tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder
half tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/3 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/3 cup brown or coconut sugar
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/3 cup melted coconut oil
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 Golden Delicious variety, peeled and gratedDirections:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare mini loaf pans by greasing or lining with parchment paper. Sift together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside. Combine applesauce, coconut milk, brown sugar, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla. Stir in grated apples and then add dry ingredients, stirring by hand to combine. Pour batter into pans and bake 30-35 minutes, or till a knife inserted in the center of each loaf comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for ten minutes, then remove and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

3. Red Quinoa With Coconut Roasted Macintosh

This savory combination will have you putting it on the menu at least once a week, not only for its delicious flavor, but for the health benefits it affords you.

Ingredients:

Salad:1 cup red quinoa
2 large Macintosh cut into 1-inch cubes
1 Tbsp melted coconut oil
1 pinch cinnamon
2 cups shaved purple cabbage
2 Tbsp raw shelled pumpkin seeds
Large pinch coconut flakesDressing:

1 tsp balsamic vinegar
1 Tbsp olive oil
Juice of one large orange
1 pinch poppy seeds
1/2 tsp orange zest
salt and pepper to tasteDirections:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees; cook quinoa according to package directions. Toss Macintosh pieces with melted coconut oil and cinnamon; place on a lined baking sheet and sprinkle with sea salt. Roast in heated oven for 30-35 minutes and then set aside to cool.Portion quinoa, Macintosh pieces, coconut flakes, cabbage, and pumpkin seeds among serving bowls, drizzle with combined dressing ingredients. Add more balsamic and olive oil to taste. Delicious!

4. Cinnamon Harvest Cider Ice Cream

Who says ice cream can’t be had when dieting? This delicious combination of wholesome ingredients has your mouth singing and your waistline whittling; enjoy anytime you need a sweet treat in order to stay on track.

Ingredients:
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tsp cinnamon
pinch of salt
2 cups so Delicious Dairy Free Original Almond Creamer
1 tsp vanilla
One cup apple cider
1 medium Granny Smith, peeled and diced
One Tbsp coconut oil
1/4 tsp cinnamon

Directions:
Place can of ice cream machine in the freezer. In a medium saucepan, whisk together brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. Place pan over medium heat and add creamer and vanilla. Allow it to heat up but do not boil it. Take the mixture off of heat and pour it into a bowl; put it in the refrigerator to chill.

For the cider swirl:

Pour cider into a pan and place over high heat. Once it begins to boil, lower the temperature and uncover; allow it to continue cooking at a steady boil until it begins to caramelize. Pour into a small bowl and chill in the refrigerator; should make a thick syrup.

Diced Granny smith chunks: While cider is reducing, place Granny Smith chunks and coconut oil into a pan, saute till soft and they begin to brown. Add cinnamon; pour into yet another small bowl and refrigerate.

To freeze:

Remove the chilled ice cream can from the freezer and pour the ice cream base in it. Begin mixing according to manufacturer directions, till the base reaches a soft-serve consistency. About five minutes before you finish mixing, add the diced apples and mix in thoroughly.

Once the mixture is churned and chilled, put ice cream into freezer-safe containers, layering alternately with the cider syrup for a swirled effect.

5. Apple Cinnamon and Pecan Bar

If you are looking for a snack on the go that contains wholesome, delicious ingredients, an organic granola bar is the perfect grab and go snack. Containing real chunks of Macintosh, fresh cinnamon and pecans, it will satisfy your urge for something sweet without derailing your diet plans. The best part about this flavorful offering is that you don’t have to make it; it’s truly a healthy convenience snack.

6. Fruit Leather

Don’t worry, this apple recipe is a lot easier than it looks, and with healthy snacks around the house, you are far less likely to indulge in treats that are not so good for you. Enjoy this fruity and fun leather, and pack it on the go for your busy days to keep you full and satisfied:

Ingredients:

3 small Macintosh or Fuji
2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
honey, agave, or maple syrup to taste

Directions:

Add Macintosh to a sauce pan and cover with water. Bring the water to a boil and cover, let simmer for 20-30 minutes, or till fruit is fork-tender. Preheat an oven to 200 degrees; line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add all fruit to a blender and puree till smooth; add sweetener to taste. Spread mixture very thin on the parchment lined a baking sheet, using a spatula to even it out. Bake in the oven for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, or till it is tacky and dry to the touch. Remove from the oven and allow to cool before cutting and rolling into strips. Store in an airtight container.

7. Cinnamon Caramel Energy Balls

This simple, no-bake snack is great for kids and adults alike; it will satisfy your urge for something sweet while filling your body with wholesome goodness.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup pitted dates
One cup dried granny smiths
1/2 cup uncooked oats
1/2 tsp cinnamon

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a food processor or high-speed blender till smooth. You might have to stop and scrape down the sides of the container to make sure it is evenly mixed. Using a tablespoon as a guide, scoop out 1 Tbsp and roll into a ball. Garnish with shredded coconut if desired.

8. Apple Sandwiches

These tasty fun snacks are a hit whether on the go or for a sit-down snack. Enjoy with your favorite fillings—cheese, nut butter, etc. for a powerhouse treat.

Ingredients:
1 Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, sliced
2 Tbsp peanut or almond butter
1/4 cup raisins
cheese slices

Directions:
Layer one apple slice with an assortment of your favorite toppings, add another apple slice on top and garnish with additional toppings such as nuts or raisins if desired. Enjoy the satisfying crunch!

9. Applesauce Muffins

Nothing says comfort food like warm muffins fresh out of the oven. These tasty treats do not disappoint; serve warm with butter or your favorite nut butter for extra protein.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
3/4 cup natural applesauce
1 3/4 cups flour
One Tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

Topping:
half cup butter, melted
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup cinnamonDirections:

Cream butter and sugar; add eggs one at a time and beat till light and fluffy. Add applesauce and mix. Sift in and mix dry ingredients. Spoon into prepared muffin pans, bake at 350 degrees for 12-18 minutes.
Before serving, dip tops of muffins in melted butter, then dip into sugar and cinnamon mixture.

10. Penguins

These cute critters look good enough to eat—and they are!

Ingredients:
One red delicious
1 baby carrot
1 raisin

Directions:
Cut a heart shape in the Red Delicious to form the face and body of the penguin. From the section that you cut out, shape two wings. Attach them to the sides of the body with toothpicks. Cut feet and beak from the baby carrot; place into the flesh. Cut the rasin in half and press into the face to form the eyes. If you find that carrots and raisins are not sticking, use a small amount of peanut butter to secure them to the penguin.

11. Caramel Pie Dip

This is the ultimate in decadent dips; it is the perfect complement to fresh produce. Dip to your heart’s content!

Ingredients:
2 – 8 oz pkgs cream cheese, chilled
1 cup caramel ice cream topping, chilled
1 store bought graham cracker pie crust

Directions:
Whip cream cheese with a hand mixer until fluffy, about three minutes. Stir in caramel ice cream topping. Break up graham cracker crust into small pieces and put into a zip top plastic bag. Crush the crust until it resembles fine graham cracker crumbs. To serve the dip, dip fresh fruit slices into the cheesecake dip first, then into graham cracker crumbs. Yum!!!

12. Autumn Harvest Granola Bars

These power-packed energy bars have all the flavors that we love in fall; taking them with on the go is the perfect way to enjoy healthy snacking that is also delicious.

Ingredients:
1 1/4 cup old fashioned rolled oats
One cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup flax seeds
4 Tbsp coconut oil
Half cup of honey
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups puffed rice cereal
1/2 cup dried diced apples
1 tsp ground cinnamon
pinch sea salt

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prep a 9×9 baking dish with parchment paper or grease lightly; set aside. Spread oats, nuts, and flax seeds in an even layer on baking sheet. Bake for 5-8 minutes, or till everything is lightly toasted. In a small saucepan, bring honey, brown sugar, and coconut oil to a boil. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract; set aside. In another bowl, combine puff cereal, apples, cinnamon, and salt. Add oat mixture to this bowl, then coat everything with the sauce; mix to combine. Press into your prepared baking dish and pack down till you have an even layer; chill in the fridge for at least a few hours before cutting into bars.

13. Fruit Slice Cookies

Regardless of the fruit that you use for the foundation of this cookie, its savory and sweet combination of delicious flavors combines for an explosion of flavor and taste that is unparalleled. Feel free to mix it up with different flavor combinations for your favorite flavors.

Ingredients:
1 medium Fuji or Pink Lady, sliced into 1/8 slices
Almond, cashew or nut butter
Pecans or peanuts
Chocolate chips, peanut butter chips
Coconut flakes
Honey

Directions;
Lay slices flat on a baking sheet; top with your favorite nut butter and a combination of the rest of listed ingredients (or some of your own favorites) for maximum flavor and crunch.

14. Fruity frogs

Turn your favorite flavor into a fruity froggy to make a delightful snack that your kids will love!

Ingredients:
1 Granny Smith
2 cucumber slices
2 dried currants or raisins
1 green grape
black cookie icing or a food safe black marker
2 pink circle-shaped sprinkles
2 black sesame seeds
sharp kitchen knife

Directions:
Cut a large slice off the Granny Smith, stopping just before the core. Place green side up for the frog’s head. Make another slice off the other side of the core; cut the sides off the core and make thin strips for the frog’s arms. Place arms on the frog’s body. Cut the remaining piece in half; one of these will be the frog’s body. Place it on the plate underneath the frog’s head. Take the last piece of green and cut into 2 oval shapes. Place these beside the body for the frog’s legs.

Place cucumber slices on the head for the eyes. Next, put the black currants in the center of each cucumber slice. Slice green grape into four small slices. You will put these on the plate for the frog’s hands and feet. Place two pink circle-shaped sprinkles on the frog’s face for the cheeks. Finally, place black sesame seeds on the center of the face for frog’s nostrils. Take your cookie icing or food-safe marker and make a smile to complete your cute and tasty snack!

15. Fruit Nachos (apple recipe to eat sparingly, but sooooo yummy)

We snuck it an indulgent treat on this one! The perfect sweet snack for movie nights and entertaining friends, they are as delicious as they are refreshing.

Ingredients:
3-4 Galas
3-4 Granny Smiths
1/2 package Kraft caramels, unwrapped
1 Tbsp water
white chocolate candy coating
mini chocolate chips
bagged toffee pieces
coconut flakes
chopped pecans or walnuts

Directions:
Arrange fruit slices on a plate, alternating kinds. Unwrap caramels and place in a saucepan with 1 Tbsp water; heat till caramel is melted. At the same time and in a separate saucepan, melt white chocolate candy coating and prepare to drizzle over the fruit.

Immediately after both candies are melted, drizzle over the plate and top liberally with coconut flakes, nuts, chocolate chips, and toffee pieces. Serve immediately to prevent the fruit from browning.

16. Baked Fruit Chips

Simple and delicious, this recipe works for all types of fruit. These chips can be used and stored for months, so feel free to make in large batches and take along with you for on the go snacking.

Ingredients:
3 Honeycrisps or Pink Ladies
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp cinnamon

Directions:
Preheat oven to 225 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside. Mix sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Slice fruit thinly, layering on the baking sheet and sprinkling liberally with cinnamon and sugar mixture, applying to both sides. Bake one hour on each side.

17. Crisp-stuffed Baked Apples

This apple recipe means comfort food at its finest; tender juicy baked fruit encircles gooey goodness, making for a delightful snacking experience. Feel free to indulge in as a dessert or take along for surprisingly good leftovers the next day.

Ingredients:
8 Galas or Honeycrisp
4 Tbsp butter
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Crumble:
1/2 cup all purpose flour
One-quarter cup oats
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon
4 Tbsp butter, cubed and chilled

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Prepare the crumble topping by combining all ingredients except butter cubes in a bowl. Add butter cubes and cut through with a pastry cutter or some forks, continuing till crumbly. Peel and chop two of the apples. Add fruit, butter, cinnamon, brown sugar to a medium saucepan and stir for 8 minutes or till apples are fork tender. Chop the tops off the remaining apples and scoop out the flexh. Fill scooped out apples with fruit filling and top generously with crumble topping. Place stuffed apples on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or till crumble topping is crispy and bubbly. Top with your favorite whipped cream or ice cream.

18. Crunchy Boat Apples

Kids can’t resist this aesthetically pleasing and adventurous snack—combining the best flavors and textures, this is one time it’s okay to “play” with your food.

Ingredients:
Apples of your favorite kind
Nut butter
hazelnut spread
puffed rice cereal
Cheese
Toothpicks

Directions:
Cut apples in half, removing the cores. Spread the top with your nut butter or topping, top with rice krispies. Insert a toothpick in the middle and top with a cheese triangle to look like a sail for the sailboat. Enjoy!

19. Apples And Cheese Tortilla

Perfect for an after school snack, the combination of apples and cheese has long tantalized people in various recipes. One of our favorite apple recipes, it is simple to make and the kids can do it themselves. Pack a few and take them with you to a busy day of work and play.

Ingredients:
1 Flour tortilla
4 Tbsp medium cheddar cheese, grated
1/3 cup thinly cut up or sliced apples

Directions:
Place tortilla on a plate and sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Place apple slices over the cheese and then top with another layer of cheese. Fold tortilla over and microwave for 60-90 seconds. Take tortilla out of the microwave and cut into thirds.

20. Healthy Tuna Sandwich

A bit more substantial, this healthy sandwich is packed with both texture and flavor. Enjoy this healthy apple recipe any time of day for power-packed satisfaction.

Ingredients:
1 can tuna in water, drained
1 small gala, chopped
1/4 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
One tsp mustard
1 tsp honey
6 slices of whole wheat bread
3 iceberg lettuce leaves

Directions:
Combine tuna, apples, mustard, yogurt, and honey. Spread 1/2 cup mixture on three bread slices. Top each with lettuce leaf and bread. Place on cutting board and cut sandwiches in half–enjoy with your favorite fresh fruit.

Enjoy Happy Snacking with Our Diet-friendly Apple Recipes

Now you have it—-healthy apple recipes with power-packed nutrients from nature’s gold! Serve them up any way you like; you are bound to see and feel results that will keep the doctor away for a long, long time!

31 Best Positivity Quotes to Send You Love And Light

September 12, 2019 by Power of Positivity

These positivity quotes may help you live a longer, happier, healthier life. It’s true!

According to Dr. Barbara L. Fredrickson of the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, it is vital to stay positive.

“Positive emotions expand our awareness and open us up to new ideas, so we can grow and add to our toolkit for survival.” ~Dr Barbara Fredrickson

People with a negative attitude about life will likely attract negative energies from others.

Here’s a fun fact about remaining positive. Simply looking on the bright side has a powerful effect on your life.

People with high levels of emotional wellness and who can deal with swings in mood and circumstances are known as resilient. Emotionally healthy people can stay positive longer and can more easily bounce back from an adverse event. People who think positively have lower rates of mental illness. They are also more likely to be able to ward off chronic illnesses and diseases like high blood pressure and heart disease.

Use these 31 positivity quotes to help guide yourself to a more balanced view of life. These positivity quotes come from various thinkers, artists, musicians, and poets. They will help you create a life filled with joy and clarity.

Positivity Quotes to Brighten Your Day

1. “The only place where your dreams become impossible is in your own thinking.” – Robert H Shuller

2. “Fall seven times and stand up eight.” – Anonymous

3. “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude.” – Oprah Winfrey

4. “Optimism is the most important human trait because it allows us to evolve our ideas, to improve our situation, and to hope for a better tomorrow.” – Seth Godin

5. “It’s a funny thing about life, once you begin to take note of the things you are grateful for, you begin to lose sight of the things that you lack.” – Germany Kent

6. “Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll start having positive results.” — Willie Nelson

7. “You can’t make positive choices for the rest of your life without an environment that makes those choices easy, natural, and enjoyable.” — Deepak Chopra

8. “In every day, there are 1,440 minutes. That means we have 1,440 daily opportunities to make a positive impact.” — Les Brown

9. “Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn’t learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn’t learn a little, at least we didn’t get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn’t die; so let us all be thankful.” — Buddha

10. “Maybe you can afford to wait. Maybe for you there’s a tomorrow. Maybe for you there’s one thousand tomorrows, or three thousand, or ten, so much time you can bathe in it, roll around it, let it slide like coins through you fingers. So much time you can waste it. But for some of us there’s only today. And the truth is, you never really know.” –Lauren Oliver

11. “Perfectionism is the enemy of happiness. Embrace being perfectly imperfect. Learn from your mistakes and forgive yourself, you’ll be happier. We make mistakes because we are imperfect. Learn from your mistakes, forgive yourself, and keep moving forward.” –Roy T. Bennett

12. “The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.” –Bob Marley

The Best Quotes on Positivity to Inspire You

13. “Pick the day. Enjoy it – to the hilt. The day as it comes. People as they come… The past, I think, has helped me appreciate the present, and I don’t want to spoil any of it by fretting about the future.” –Audrey Hepburn

14. “How can you tell a man there’s nothing to do? I can’t imagine a situation in which there could ever be nothing to do! Do it for mankind and don’t worry about the rest. There’s so much to do that a lifetime won’t be enough, if you look around attentively.” –Fyodor Dostoyevsky

15. “After all that I’d been through, after all that I’d learned and all that I’d been given, I was going to do what I had been doing every day for the last few years now: just show up and do the best that I could do with whatever lay in front of me.” –Michael J. Fox

16. “It will never rain roses: when we want to have more roses, we must plant more roses.” –George Eliot

17. “When you are joyful, when you say yes to life and have fun and project positivity all around you, you become a sun in the center of every constellation, and people want to be near you.” –Shannon L. Alder

18. “I promise you that the same stuff galaxies are made of, you are. The same energy that swings planets around stars makes electrons dance in your heart. It is in you, outside you, you are it. It is beautiful. Trust in this. And your life will be grand.” –Kamal Ravikant

19. “So, let us reflect what is truly of value in life, what gives meaning to our lives, and set our priorities on the basis of that. The purpose of our life needs to be positive. We weren’t born with the purpose of causing trouble, harming others. For our life to be of value, I think we must develop basic good human qualities—warmth, kindness, compassion. Then our life becomes meaningful and more peaceful—happier.” –Dalai Lama XIV

20. “Affirmations are our mental vitamins, providing the supplementary positive thoughts we need to balance the barrage of negative events and thoughts we experience daily.” –Tia Walker

21. “If you see the world and yourself through a lens smudged by negativity then you’ll find much misery. If you look outwards and inwards through lens brightened by positivity you’ll find much to be happy and appreciative about.” –Henrik Edberg

22. “If you want to bring the world closer to peace, be a peacemaker by creating peace whenever you can. If you find yourself engaged in an argument that only stirs anger in the heart, quickly make peace and carry on.” –Suzy Kassem

23. “Leave that room, kid. Shut the screen off. Take your dirty shoes, not the pretty ones, and go out to feel the wind. Touch water. Touch earth. Touch wood, touch skin, touch everything you can touch and memorize everything because that’s all you will live off in the end, and that’s all you will need.” –Charlotte Eriksson

24. “I can only imagine how happy life would be if we could stay so grounded in our faith that we would never waver in our positive attitudes.” –Tracie Miles

25. “Don’t be a reflection of your depression, your dark, or your ugly. Reflect what you want. Your light, your beauty, & your strength. Aspire for greatness – reflect who you are; not which deficits you maintain. Showcase the hidden treasures.” –Tiffany Luard

26. “Happiness is loving your enemies.” –Charles M. Schultz

27. “You aren’t responsible for the way your face looks, but you’re responsible for the face you’re making.” –Coluche

28. “It’s easy to be hard on yourself, but true self-love also lies in forgiving yourself when your plans get disrupted—life happens. Surrender and keep pushing.” –Martika Shanel

29. “I didn’t play the cards I was dealt. I changed the cards.” –Kanye West

30. “If you are waking up believing that there is more to life than there is, then there is more for you out there.” –Oscar Auliq-Ice

31. “Spreading positivity is the best remedy for a poisoned spirit.” –Giovannie de Sadeleer

Take Comfort from These Positive Thinking Quotes

It may be challenging to keep your mind focused on positive thoughts sometimes. Therefore, it is essential to keep this daily practice in mind. When we go forward with gratitude for the blessings we have been given, we can put negative thoughts in perspective.

When you build mental resilience using these positivity quotes, you will have an easier time focusing on what is truly important in life.

Positivity quotes are a great way to focus your And, they can help you pinpoint some negative thinking that may be holding you back. So when you keep these positive quotes in mind, you will be able to face the challenges in your life with a fresh attitude.

8 Symptoms of Kidney Stones to Never Ignore

September 12, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Whenever the minerals and salt contained in your kidneys start to crystallize into stones, these are called kidney stones. This is usually due to an imbalance. When you’re lacking water or urine in your system, those minerals start sticking together. Once they’ve solidified, these stones can start to break off and flow into your urinary tract every time that you use the restroom.

Passing stones can be extremely painful, depending on their size. Some can be as tiny as a pinhole while others can expand as far as 10 mm. Smaller stones that remain in the kidney usually go unnoticed but once a stone travels from your ureter to your bladder, the discomfort begins.

Fortunately, having a stone in your kidney usually causes no permanent damage if you catch them on time. Situations will vary, but standard treatment includes drinking lots of water to pass the stones and taking pain medication when necessary. However, in more severe cases, surgery will be needed to remove stones that have become stuck in the urinary tract, stones that have begun to cause complications, or if you have an infection.

If you have been experiencing excruciating pain, especially while urinating, you may be experiencing kidney stones. Here are 8 symptoms that you may experience while passing stones.

8 Symptoms of Kidney Stones

1 – Back, belly, or side pain

The pain from kidney stones has often been described as one of the most painful experiences that one can imagine, frequently compared to childbirth or being impaled. This pain is so severe, it is responsible for nearly 1 million visits to the emergency room every year. (1)

The pain usually begins when the accumulated mineral deposits in the kidney start traveling into the ureter – this is the tube that transports urine from your kidneys to your bladder. Because this tube is very narrow, the stones can create a blockage, causing a build-up of pressure inside of your kidney.

These blockages will result in intense pain, a distress signal from your body alerting you that kidney has an obstruction. The most intense areas will be along your side, under your ribs, or in your back. Eventually, as the stone passes, it will start navigating to other areas, such as your stomach or groin. The pain usually happens in waves, due to a contraction of your uterus as you try to push the stones out.

2 – Pain during urination

If you notice that you are having a sharp or burning pain during urination, this could be another sign that you are passing stones. This happens because your body is trying to move them through your urinary tract.

However, painful urination could also be a symptom of a urinary tract infection as well. Just to be sure, ask your doctor for a urine test. Blood or imaging tests can also be administered to detect the presences of stones in your kidney.

3 – Constantly needing to urinate

Frequent urination is another symptom that you should look out for. This signals that your stones are moving to the lower part of your urinary tract. Constant bathroom breaks are also another symptom that kidney
stones share with UTIs, so you may also need your doctor to check for infection in your urinary tract.

4 – Blood in urine

A common symptom associated with passing stones is hematuria, also known as blood in the urine. The color of the blood will vary from pink, red, or brown. Sometimes, this blood may only be detectable through a microscopic examination of your urine or with dipstick testing.

5 – Your urine is cloudy or smells unpleasant

Because stones in the kidney often form due to a lack of hydration, they can affect the odor of your urine. If you notice that the smell is extremely strong and unpleasant, it is a sign that you may have an infection that needs to be treated. And usually, this is the case. Many people who come in for stones tend to also have UTIs.

Furthermore, the bacteria that is responsible for UTIs can also alter the smell of urine. In addition to a bad smell, you may notice that it is also cloudy looking. Cloudiness is a sign that you have pus in your urine, which is another symptom of infection in your urinary tract.

6 – Low urine volume

Depending on the size of your kidney stone, you may experience an obstruction in your ureter. This could ultimately stop the flow of your urine and cause your kidneys to swell.

If you notice that your urine has dwindled down to a trickle or has stopped completely, this is considered a medical emergency and you get help immediately. You will need assistance with having it removed before it causes complications.

7 – Nausea and vomiting

There are several reasons that you could be experiencing nausea and vomiting when you have stones in your urinary tract and kidneys.

Passing stones is an extremely painful experience. For some, their body’s natural response to intense pain is vomiting.

Another reason that you may experience nausea is due to urine blockage. When you’re unable to pee, it can start to back up in your kidney. As a result, you will experience swelling and stretching of your kidney tissue.

Lastly, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract share nerve connections. When the stones start accumulating in the kidney, they can trigger nerves in your GI tract, causing you to feel sick.

8 – Fever and chills

One of the more serious signs that you have stones in your kidney is experiencing fevers and chills. This is a sign that you have a kidney infection. This is also an indication that there may be more severe issues going on so you should contact a doctor immediately.

What causes kidney stones to develop?

How do stones develop inside of your kidneys? They happen when there is a decrease in urine and an excess of minerals. In most cases, the stones are made up of calcium but other compounds that form stones include uric acid, cysteine, and magnesium ammonium phosphate.

This can happen due to the following situations:

Dehydration and Reduced Fluid Intake
Urinary Tract Infections
Metabolic Disorders
Diabetes
Medications
Gout
Dietary Factors

Can kidney stones be prevented?

If you’ve had stones in your urinary tract before, you already know that it is better to prevent them from happening rather than having to undergo treatment. It’s extremely helpful to drink lots of water because dehydration can lead to their formation.

Also, the foods that you eat influence the likelihood of developing them, especially if you’ve had them before. Once you have passed a stone, it can be helpful to have it analyzed to develop prevention measures.

If your stones have more calcium oxalate, it’s advised to stay away from foods that are high in oxalate, such as peanuts, spinach, swiss chard, or beets. Also, eating too much sodium or protein could lead to the formation of cystine and uric acid stones. (2)

While no diet can completely eliminate the development of stones, doctors recommend that people follow the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet to decrease their likelihood. This diet recommends that you eat more vegetables, fruits, grain, and low-fat dairy while limiting your intake of salt, sugar, and red meat.

What is the treatment for kidney stones?

Experiencing stones passing through your urinary tract is a painful experience but fortunately, most will be dissolved on their own within 48 hours if you drink large amounts of water. During that time, it is recommended that you take anti-inflammatory medications for pain control, making sure that you avoid aspirin or NSAIDs because they increase the risk of bleeding.

Some factors that you must consider when passing stones include the size of the stone, your body size, whether you have an enlarged prostate, or pregnancy. Stones that are less than 4 mm have a much greater chance of passing through your tract with no problem. However, stones that are larger than 9 – 10 mm will need specific treatment to dissolve.

If you do need help passing the stones, you can receive a popular procedure called lithotripsy to help you break up the stones into smaller pieces. This is done using shock waves.

When all other methods fail, surgery is another option. This is usually performed through a small incision in the skin or with a ureteroscope that passed through your urinary tract into your ureter.

Know the Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Kidney Stones are an accumulation of minerals and salt that have started to stick together. This could be due to several reasons, including a lack of hydration as well as your diet.

Once these stones start to develop, they can travel to other parts of your urinary tract, which is often a very painful experience. Other symptoms that may occur while passing stones include a difficulty urinating, cloudy or smelly urine, and nausea.

If you have stones, you should be able to pass them in a few days by drinking ample amounts of water. However, more severe cases will need treatment using surgery or ultrasound for removal.

7 Symptoms of Hemorrhoids to Never Ignore

September 12, 2019 by Power of Positivity

If you’re struggling with hemorrhoids, also known as piles, you’re not alone. That’s because this condition affects the lives of millions of Americans. In fact, hemorrhoids occur in 1 in 20 people and affect 50 percent of individuals aged 50 and over.

Here’s the low-down for those who are not familiar with hemorrhoids. This is a medical condition characterized by inflamed and swollen veins that usually affect the inside lining of the rectum. Piles can also develop around the opening of the anus as well. In many cases, those who have hemorrhoids are not aware of the condition until the symptoms become severe. In this article, we will take a closer look at pile symptoms as well as available treatments that can provide some much-needed relief.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PILES

Obesity and pregnancy can both make hemorrhoids worse as both conditions can place even more pressure on the already swollen veins inside the lining of the rectum. Also, hemorrhoids that form around the opening of the anus can cause blood clots, which can be exceedingly painful. While this may all sound grim, hemorrhoids are not life-threatening; however, they can significantly affect an individual’s overall quality of life.

INTERNAL VERSUS EXTERNAL PILES

It is worth noting that there are two different kinds of piles, internal and external. The internal variant forms inside of the anus and often goes unnoticed by most people until after they’ve passed through the anus and become external, which, coincidentally, is when defecating becomes more difficult. Conversely, external piles will form around the opening of the anus, which makes them easier to detect. That said, an individual can experience both internal and external piles at the same time.

COMMON HEMORRHOID-RELATED SYMPTOMS

When piles become severe, most people will find it necessary to strain more than usual while defecating as the condition is known to cause constipation. This is especially true of internal piles. More than that, piles can cause rectal bleeding and the following additional symptoms:

Pain during bowel movements
Itchy anus
Swollen rectal tissue
Loose stool

7 SYMPTOMS OF PILES YOU SHOULD NEVER IGNORE

Although piles can seem distressing, medical treatment is not always necessary. In fact, small internal piles will generally resolve themselves within a matter of days. The same applies to their larger external counterparts, which form around the opening of the anus. That said, some symptoms should never be ignored as they can be indicative of a more serious problem, including

1. Blood following a bowel movement
2. Extreme pain during bowel movements
3. If your stool is maroon in color
4. Pain that lasts for more than one week
5. Have developed physical lumps on your anus.
6. If you have strangulated hemorrhoids
7. Experiencing chronic constipation

Some of these symptoms may be emblematic of a more serious health problem, such as colon polyps, Crohn’s disease, colitis, diverticulitis, and colorectal cancer, for example. Also worth noting, rectal bleeding can also be a byproduct of anal fissures, a condition characterized by microscopic tears in the lining of the anus, which can require medical care. While these symptoms may not signify serious health problems, it is still best to err on the side of caution and been seen by a medical professional anyway.

HOW ARE INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL PILES DIAGNOSED?

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms detailed in this article, you may have developed piles. However, to confirm you have developed the condition, you will need to schedule an appointment with a general physician or a specialist, namely a gastroenterologist or a proctologist. During your appointment, the practitioner will likely inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing before performing a rectal exam. These exams often include the following:

An anoscopy
A sigmoidoscopy
A colonoscopy

Based on the results of these exams, your physician will recommend a hemorrhoid treatment that will work best for you.

WHAT IS THE BEST HEMORRHOID TREATMENT?

When it comes to hemorrhoid-related treatments, there is no such thing as a one size fits all approach as the severity of the condition will dictate the type of treatment an individual will need. For example, small piles can be treated with over-the-counter sprays and ointments containing local anesthetics to help minimize pain. Additionally, vasoconstrictor drugs, also available over-the-counter, are effective in reducing swelling.

Lastly, sitting in a warm bath and using moist toilettes following each bowel movement can provide a great deal of relief from hemorrhoid-related symptoms. It is important to note that these remedies are not a cure for the condition, but they can relieve some of the more severe symptoms. In most cases, piles will go away on their own; however, if that does not happen, surgery may be needed.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENTS

If over-the-counter and other at-home treatments are not effective in relieving hemorrhoid symptoms, there are some minimally invasive procedures that can help, including

Rubber band ligation
Laser treatments
Sclerotherapy

All of these procedures are performed on an outpatient basis and only require a local anesthetic. That numbing is used to keep pain and discomfort to a minimum. Also, the success rate associated with each of these procedures is very high, typically 75 percent or better. Now that we have a general idea of what medical treatments are available, let’s take a closer look at what they each entail:

Rubber band ligation – This minimally invasive procedure involves using a rubber band to remove internal piles. To perform this procedure, a physician will place the rubber band directly on the pile to cut off blood flow, which will cause it to die and ultimately fall off. As with any surgery, even those that are minimally invasive, rubber band ligation does carry some risk, including severe bleeding, pain, infection, and possible blood clots. That said, you will want to discuss these risks with your physician before undergoing this procedure.

Laser treatments – This procedure entails using either laser or infrared lights to destroy piles that form inside the lining of a patient’s rectum.

Sclerotherapy – This procedure involves injecting a salt solution into the piles, which, in turn, causes them to die off.

After an initial exam, your physician will determine which of these procedures will work best for you. However, in some cases, a slightly more invasive surgical procedure, namely hemorrhoidectomy, may be needed.

WHAT IS HEMORRHOIDECTOMY SURGERY?

For those who may not be familiar with a hemorrhoidectomy, it is a procedure whereby a surgeon will cut away inflamed tissue that is causing pain and discomfort. Thus, surgeons perform hemorrhoidectomies solely as a last resort when less invasive options have failed. The doctor performs surgery while a patient is under local or general anesthesia. Moreover, doctors can use surgery to treat internal or external piles. The treatment has a success rate in the neighborhood of 95 percent. As with any surgery, there are risks, such as bleeding or infections at the incision site following a hemorrhoidectomy. To minimize these risks, follow your physician’s recommendations for at-home care. And, be sure to take pain and antibiotic medications as directed.

CAN YOU PREVENT PILES?

While most people will develop piles at some point within their lifetime, there are things that you can do to lower your chances of developing them. And that’s because constipation and straining are to the two leading causes of piles. As such, it would be a good idea to consume foods rich in fiber as the nutrient not only keeps you regular but also softens stool. Ideally, you should aim for a minimum of 20 grams of fiber every day. Similarly, consuming eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day can go a long way toward lowering your chances of developing piles as well. Lastly, you may also want to consider the following:

Not straining to “go”
Taking laxatives
Taking stool softeners as needed
Consuming a well, balanced diet
Not postponing defecating
Seeing a physician if you’re struggling with prolonged constipation

BOTTOM LINE ON HEMORRHOIDS AND THEIR SYMPTOMS

All in all, piles are more common than most people think, meaning you should not let embarrassment keep you from getting the hemorrhoid treatment that you need. This includes purchasing over-the-counter medications or scheduling an appointment with a physician, especially if you’re experiencing bleeding, swelling, or any of the more severe symptoms detailed in this article.

15 Health Benefits of Coffee to Never Ignore

September 11, 2019 by Power of Positivity

There’s a reason why coffee lovers are so devoted to their daily cup of joe. In addition to it being a great way to start the day, there are many benefits to drinking java.

Important Health Benefits of Coffee

Though many people to their cup of joe to stay awake, there are several other health benefits of coffee that most people do not even realize. Keep reading for a guide on all the advantages of this caffeinated beverage.

1. Boost Your Productivity

What is the number one reason caffeine-lovers can’t get enough of their favorite brew? Of course, it is the instant boost in productivity and focus that drinking java brings.

This is why so many people turn to this caffeinated beverage for a wake-up call in the morning.

Alertness, reaction time, and attention are all elements that are immediately improved after drinking java. These stimulating effects have proven to be true in countless studies and real-life applications in workplaces and academic settings around the world.

While there are many other advantages to this daily dose of caffeine, staying awake and alert is the most popular benefit.

2. Lower Your Risk of Alzheimer’s

There’s more in your cappuccino than a heavy dose of caffeine.

Experts say that a jolt of java can have long-term benefits when it comes to lowering the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

As a neurodegenerative disease, Alzheimer’s significantly affects one’s cognitive function and memory. Substantial evidence indicates this beverage’s ability to protect the body against mental deterioration. Studies show that there is an inverse association between individuals that consume large amounts of this caffeinated drink and Alzheimer’s disease.

3. Benefit From Protective Compounds

Caffeic acid in your average cup of joe has several health-protective benefits.

This caffeic acid is a type of plant chemical that contains polyphenols. This compound has many anti-aging, anticancer, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Certain studies show that regularly consuming this drink has several advantages. These benefits include protecting one’s liver from toxicity and improving the respiratory system in individuals with asthma.

Currently, there are clinical trials investigating this compound’s effectiveness as an esophageal cancer treatment.

4. Lower Your Risk of Skin Cancer

Experts indicate the coffee’s polyphenols help to increase our skin’s ability to resist UV rays, which could help protect our body against skin cancer.

The cancer called melanoma is the most severe form of skin cancer. While sunlight is a risk factor for this condition, melanoma is also affected by the food we eat.

By sticking to your favorite type of caffeinated joe, studies indicate that you’ll lower your risk of developing melanoma.

5. Benefit from Antioxidants

The polyphenols in this drink have powerful benefits as antioxidants.

According to extensive studies, these antioxidants in this drink helps to protect one’s body against inflammation and age-related decline. Similarly, consuming java regularly will help boost your immunity, thanks to the polyphenols in this drink.

Not sure which type of caffeinated beverage contains the most polyphenols? Whether you choose a freshly made brew or your favorite instant brand, you will still be able to benefit from these antioxidants.

6. Lower Your Risk of Stroke

While strokes often happen without warning, it is possible to limit your risk of stroke.

Certain studies link this daily caffeine habit with lowering the risk of stroke by 38%. Other studies indicate that individuals that drink more than four cups of this drink will be able to lower their risk of stroke.

7. Reduce Your Risk of Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes affects almost 30.3 million Americans, while ? of the country has prediabetes.

These statistics indicate that diabetes is a widespread problem, but surprisingly, coffee can lower one’s risk of developing this condition.

Drinking this caffeinated beverage can eliminate the likelihood of individuals developing diabetes. Certain studies show that habitually consuming this drink will result in a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Other studies show an inverse connection between type 2 diabetes and a daily cup of joe, depending on the amount of this drink someone consumes.

While drinking java won’t magically eliminate your chance of getting diabetes, it does offer certain benefits when combined with proper sleep, exercise, and a good diet.

8. Enjoy Caffeine’s Benefits

While your favorite frappuccino may taste good, this isn’t its only benefit.

One of the most obvious reasons people enjoy their daily brew is to benefit from the caffeine content. Caffeine has a powerful effect on the body, keeping us awake, alert, and focused throughout the day.

Certain studies show that at 400 mg, caffeine will improve the body’s insulin sensitivity. Another study indicates that the caffeine in the drink helps to reduce the risk of several serious medical conditions, including Parkinson’s disease.

When taking advantage of this drink’s benefits, experts suggest limiting yourself to 400 mg. Anything over this amount may have increased effects on the body.

9. Protect Your Liver

If you aren’t thinking about the health of your liver when drinking your daily cappuccino, you should be. This caffeinated beverage has hepatoprotective properties, meaning it has the ability to prevent liver damage.

Moreover, in its purest form, this drink has the ability to treat chronic liver disease.

Studies show that consuming this drink reduces mortality, boosts one’s overall survival rate, and improves lab readings in regards to complications with liver disease.

According to a randomized trial, this drink’s protective effects are also effective against hepatitis C, which would otherwise affect the liver. This trial indicates that drinking your cup of joe can reduce oxidative damage as it increases your body’s apoptosis rate and telomere length.

10. Improve Your Longevity

It turns out that the fountain of youth may be at your local cafe. Drinking a cup of joe can help you live longer and feel better, according to certain studies.

Research shows a link between drinking java and lower rates of mortality. These studies review individuals’ consumption of this drink to determine its ability to improve longevity.

Why is this caffeinated beverage a go-to for living longer? Scientists believe that this phenomenon is due in part to this drink’s bioactive compounds.

11. Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease

Is coffee effective at protecting the heart? It seems that science likes to think so.

Research regarding heart health and this drink indicate that java has the ability to lower the risk of deaths caused by cardiovascular disease.

Reviews of these studies show that participants drinking anywhere from 3 – 5 cups of coffee a day experience the lowest risk. Other studies indicate that moderate amounts of four cups or less a day have the power to lower CVD mortality without negatively affecting the drinker’s health.

12. Lower Depression

Another reported benefit of drinking this caffeinated beverage is lowering depression.

Studies show that individuals that drink this lower their chance of experiencing depression. Studies indicate that this relationship between this drink and depression is due to its ability to improve our mood, boost our energy levels, and increase our ability to focus.

13. Protect Your Gums and Teeth

While some associate drinking a cup of joe with the yellowing of their teeth, this drink may, in fact, have a protective effect on one’s teeth. This drink’s benefits for your dental health include protecting against conditions like periodontal disease.

One study, in particular, shows that there is an inverse relationship between severe periodontitis and regular coffee consumption. Other studies indicate that higher consumption of this drink is linked to a reduction in bone loss related to periodontal disease. This type of research shows that a cup of joe has antibacterial properties, making taking this drink black the most effective at fighting the effects of these dental issues.

14. Boost Your Physical Performance

The energy-boosting effects of this drink are well known as it is a beverage high in caffeine.

When taking advantage of coffee for its power to harness your energy, you’ll find that it’s incredibly effective when improving your exercise or sports performance. Certain studies show that having coffee prior to a workout will enhance one’s recovery, boost their metabolic rate, and increase the body’s capabilities for resistance training.

15. Burn Fat Faster

Though claiming coffee burns fat may seem like a gimmick, studies show that coffee boosts your ability to burn fat.

While excess sugar isn’t the healthiest way to take advantage of this fat-burning quality of this drink, you can kickstart your metabolism by pairing your cup of joe with exercise. Doing this will boost your metabolic right by up to 11%, which will help your body break down food faster without resulting in weight gain.

According to another study, caffeine was found to increase free fatty acid (FFA) disposal, which means that it improves the way the body converts fat into energy. Moreover, researchers learned that caffeine also helps the body release FFAs in the bloodstream, which will make them available for use in energy conversion.

Final Thoughts on the Health Benefits of Coffee

Of all the health-boosting drinks on the market, coffee has some of the most impactful benefits. When consuming this caffeinated drink in moderation, you too can take advantage of it.

Keep this guide handy when drinking your java. While opting for the sweetest, frothiest drinks are okay in moderation, to get the most of your coffee, it’s best to keep it simple.

23 Inspirational Quotes About Positivity from Dolly Parton

September 11, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Have you ever read inspirational quotes that turned the course of your life completely upside down?

Not just actions—words, words have great power to change the perception around which one’s life revolves. To enlighten you and encourage you are quotes from Dolly Parton one of the most influential ladies from the past few decades! Sometimes all we need is a slight emotional and spiritual push. Something that inspires us enough to walk a little further towards possibilities instead of being stagnant in the shadow of hopelessness due to numerous factors.

“Words, carefully crafted and impeccably arranged could move worlds at nobody’s expense.” -Anonymous.

Inspirational Quotes from Dolly Parton

1. “If you dislike the path you are walking onto, build yourself another one.”

As an individual, you are obliged to mend the path that serves you the purpose you have been looking for and the one you ought to achieve. If you got to change the way for your sole self—do it with your head up high, there is nothing that can stop you from touching the sky!

2. “One of the things that I have learned if you want the rainbow, you have to put up with the rain.”

We all want to cherish the good things in life, to pursue the ultimate happiness and pleasure. The joy of something truly earned can never be compared with the joy of something gifted. In this inspirational quote, Dolly Parton states the utter truth—that if you want to cherish the best you have to go through the bad days as well, it comes in a package!

3. “Don’t get so busy whilst earning a living that you forget to spend a life worth living.”

Instead of valuing true emotional experiences and nature we often measure the worth of a person/relationship or other things in life according to the monetary value invested—and when that hallmark is set to measure love and luxury of life, one loses track of life in the constant quest of piling money. Dolly Parton through this quote, reminds us to enjoy the simpler, priceless things in life.

• Quick fact: According to a research, reading inspirational & motivational quotes has shown a remarkable boost in individuals (especially adults) self-esteem, motivation, courage and empowerment who suffer from depression, anxiety, stress, and other chronic or terminal illnesses. (Bedroy, 2018)[1]

4. “You gotta keep trying to find your niche and trying to fit in the box left for you, but if you don’t like it then make yourself a new slot”

Self-exploration is the key to all the doors of curiosity that lead you to realize where you actually stand or want to stand. While life offers you numerous opportunities—you have two simple options: either you fit into the place left or you build your own according to what you desire!

5. “I think that if I am smart about business, it’s just that I am just smart about who I am.”

In most of the inspirational quotes by Dolly often reflects the inner strength and mastering at knowing yourself before anything. And that’s utterly true! You can take hold of anything you possibly want to if you know yourself better if you know in what aspect your smartness lies.

6. “One cannot direct the wind, but can learn to bend the sails.”

Often you might find yourself into situations that you haven’t chosen for yourself. Life offers challenging circumstances that leave one clueless of how to deal with them, now here’s a thing: you didn’t choose it, neither it’s your fault but how you react to it is your responsibility. So if you can’t control the pace of wind where it takes you, you can at least change your course of direction towards the revolution of your choice.

7. “I may look like a lady, but I ponder like a man. Because in the world of business, it has assisted me a lot.”

Well, this one is very useful for businesswomen seeking inspiration. No doubt even women prove to be excellent in business and decisions that require related skill but do you know what the key behind it is? “Act like a woman but think like a man.”

So ladies, sharpen all those sassy looks if you have to and rock the business world!

8. “You need to really believe in what you’ve got to offer, what your talent is-and if you believe, that gives you strength.”

Of all inspirational quotes, this reminds me of a post that I read and is very relatable to Dolly Parton’s context, “Millions can believe in you, yet none of that matters if you don’t believe in yourself.” Believing in yourself gives you all the strength you need, and comes from within and not through outside validation.

9. ”Sometimes the storms make trees hold onto deeper roots.”

In this inspirational quote, Dolly Parton has used a metaphoric approach. As we get older and past childhood/teenage and maturity starts to take over with every challenge ahead of us, what do we hold onto the most? Our ideas and values built in the initial phase of our lives. The more storms we face, the firmer the grip gets with our roots.

10. “God is in everything I do, and all my work Glorifies him.”

Rejoicing God for everything Dolly has ever done or achieved is a selfless and valuable act in itself. By this quote, she means to convey that if you with the help of God do something with righteousness, you will be surely be rewarded with you deserve.

Quick Fact: According to Media psychologist experts and communications consultant human psychology works on the primal aspect. Humans are aspirational, and that is why quotes by role models and leaders affect them on a primal level. (Moran, 2019) [2]

11. “If your actions construct a legacy that motivates people to do more, become extraordinary, and learn more then you are an exceptional leader.”

It’s no doubt we all have a role model whom we look up to, whom we want to be like—but apart that if you are the best version of yourself that is a resourceful leader, then one cannot ask for more!

12. “It’s hard to be a true diamond in a world full of stress”

Dolly Parton explains that in a world where everything is beautifully disguised and pretended, it’s a hard thing to be original and true self and yet shine through!

13. “You will never do a whole lot unless you are brave enough to try.”

Many settle for less, but those who withhold undying passion for standing apart are the ones who don’t fear to step out of the comfort zone. And if you are brave enough to do so, you won’t return empty-handed!

14. “I ain’t glad all the time, and I won’t even try to be because that would make me a narrow person. But I do try to search good in every individual.”

To seek positive experience all the time is a negative experience in itself—Mark Manson. To feel every emotion genuinely is positivity in itself, why? Life won’t always offer you the best of everything, so cherish the good times and have patience in the bad ones.

15. ”I have been through heartaches, headaches, toothaches, earaches, and I’ve had a little ache in the ass as well, but I’ve endured to tell about it.”

By the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what you have been through or not, but what matters is you made it regardless of the obstacles on the way. That’s valor!

16. “The magic is inside you; there ain’t no crystal ball.”

Breaking the bubble of all the fantasy world, Dolly Parton suggests that all the impossibilities that you seek to turn into reality won’t happen through some fictional magic—instead, you get out there, and work with the magic you have inside!

17. “Figure out who you are, then do it on purpose.”

Considering self-exploration the central idea of her quotations, Dolly Parton repeatedly advice people to figure out who they truly are and to do that despite knowing because it takes exceptional sight to seek within.

18. “I would never stoop so low as to be fashionable.”

A diva herself who has an incredible way of carrying herself considers following fashion a low thing. She inspires people to be confident in the way they are, after all, why follow fashion? Let fashion follow you!

19. “Above everything I have done, I’ve always said I’ve more guts than I’ve got talent.”

Truly, it takes more than mere talent to be what you want to be. To have the courage and guts to step out and do your thing!

20. “I always believe that if you find someone without a smile, you just them your own!”

In the fast pace of life where people like to mind just their own business, Dolly Parton emphasizes on spreading kindness by giving small gestures to be happy about—as small as making someone smile!

21. “They think I am simpleminded because I seem to be happy. Why shouldn’t I be happy? I have everything I ever wanted and more. May I am simpleminded. Maybe that is the key: simple.”

Through this quote, one can easily read through the importance of simplicity. The simpler, the happier you are! After all, aren’t we all looking for happiness?

22. “I am not offended by all the dumb blonde jokes because I know I am not dumb and I am not blonde.”

Dignifying her strength of individuality, Dolly Parton says that it doesn’t matter what they say about you—what matters the most is what you believe about yourself.

23. “Just because people won’t accept that I can do something else, I won’t limit myself for it.”

Sometimes the major setbacks and turmoil aren’t because you lack the ability to do so, but because of what your circle makes you believe in. So be careful whom you surround yourself with!

Be Inspired by Dolly Parton!

Are you inspired by the inspirational quotes enough to break the mental chains that have been holding you back? Then, take a cue from Dolly Parton and seize life and life it to the fullest without apologies.

Mental Health Experts Reveal 10 Signs of Borderline Personality Disorder

September 11, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Borderline personality disorder is a severe mental condition frequently triggered by trauma. A person suffering from this condition cannot effectively manage their emotions, and their feelings seem to be all over the place. Doctors sometimes misdiagnose this as bipolar disorder as it takes years find the BPD diagnosis.

There are no tests that can help diagnose this condition, which makes it tricky for doctors to diagnose Borderline Personality Disorder. The emotional turmoil this person feels can cause destructive behaviors, and those around them are affected.

Causes of Borderline Personality Disorder

Researchers have done many studies on the causes of BPD. And often, the patient suffered a trauma that has affected them greatly. However, many causes can contribute to such a diagnosis that is not trauma-based.

1 – Genetics

If a parent has BPD, then the chances of their offspring developing this mental health condition are greater. While no gene is passed down that gives a child this disease, there is a 50 percent greater chance of developing it when a parent has BPD.

2 – Brain Chemical Abnormalities

Like most mental disturbances, BPD is thought to be a problem with the neurotransmitters or brain chemicals. Serotonin is thought to be the leading factor in this condition. When a person has insufficient levels of serotonin, depression, anxiety, and other mental disturbances can plague them.

Serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine are the three most significant chemical transmitters in the brain. People with BPD often have problems controlling their urges as well as their emotions. The lack of chemicals prevents them from having a filter to stop wrong or inappropriate things.

Additionally, when one of the chemicals isn’t at an adequate level, then it can cause the signals to become haywire, causing issues found in BPD.

3 – Environmental Factors

Many environmental factors seem to be common among those suffering from BPD. First, they are often the victim of abuse, though there are higher tendencies in those who’ve been sexually abused. Additionally, the person may have been neglected as a child or placed back and forth in the foster care system.

Frequently, psychiatrists find there were substance abuse issues in the home, and they may have had poor relationships with their parents. When a person has unresolved anger or distress from their childhood, it can cause their thought patterns to become awry. They may be stuck in a childlike mentality and expect others to parent them when they are far beyond 18 years of age.

4 – Brain Development Issues

Brain development can be a major issue among those suffering from BPD. Using an MRI, those who have this mental health disturbance always have brain abnormalities such as a smaller amygdala, hippocampus, and orbitofrontal cortex areas. These regions often tend to have unusual levels of activity too.

Research has found that these areas of the brain don’t correctly form in early childhood, and therefore mood regulation and other issues develop. Having close relationships is very difficult for those suffering from BPD. This doesn’t arise from a lack of caring. Instead, it’s because they have a “short” in that area of the brain.

A Borderline Personality Disorder Diagnosis

Being diagnosed with BPD is not an easy process. It usually begins with a visit to a general practitioner who will refer an individual to a psychiatric specialist. It’s important to start at the family doctor. And that’s because the physician will run some tests to ensure that it’s not another medical condition causing the mental disturbances.

Psychiatrists always attempt to treat things like depression, anxiety, and issues of this nature before delving into deeper mental health problems. If the treatment given improves the problems, then they usually don’t need to dig deeper.

However, when doctors try numerous medications, and a person is still suffering, it’s often an indication of another underlying issue. For instance, if a person seeks treatment for severe anxiety that causes them to cut, after exhausting all the SSRI, SNRI medications, the doctor may prescribe an antipsychotic.

BPD is not the only reason a person may take antipsychotic medication as many serious mental health concerns require these treatments.

Mental Assessment

People with BPD will undergo rigorous mental evaluations to help doctors make a diagnosis. They look for symptoms that include:

An Intense Fear of Being Alone
Self-Harming Behavior
Suicidal Tendencies
Poor Self-Image
Unstable Relationship Patterns
Impulsive Actions – Legal Problems
Drug Use
Sexual Promiscuity
Reckless Spending Habits
Severe Mood Swings
Long-term Emptiness
Paranoia
Feeling Disconnected from The World or The Body

It’s often essential for doctors and psychiatrists to involve the family in the mental health assessment. The family can usually help put the pieces of the puzzle together better than the person suffering. Since BPD often affects relationships, family and friends can give vital information to the doctors.

Additionally, these people may need support and information in learning how to deal with a loved one who has BPD.

Co-existing Mental Disturbances

One of the reasons why diagnosing BPD is so difficult is because it often occurs with other mental disturbances. It’s not uncommon to find a person suffering from this condition and things like:

Substance Abuse
Bipolar Disorder
Anxiety/Panic Disorder
Anorexia or Bulimia
Another Personality Disorder
Depression

Treating A Person with Borderline Personality Disorder

Being diagnosed with BPD was often thought of as a mental death sentence in previous times. However, with new therapies emerging every day, it’s possible to live a productive life and manage the symptoms. It requires active involvement with a counselor, medical team, and family.

Psychotherapy

Counseling or psychological therapy is psychotherapy. While there are many different types, it’s all based on helping the person get in touch with their emotions.

The counselor will listen to the issues currently bothering the person and suggest tips and tricks for resolution. It’s often best to help a person change their attitude and outlook to ensure they don’t repeat negative behaviors. Some of the most common therapies used are:

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Doctors often refer to this treatment in its shorter name, DBT. During this therapy, a person learns to break the cycle that causes them to lose control of their emotions. By validating their feelings and working on being open to other opinions, it can help bring positive changes.

Mentalization Based Therapy

Therapists also call this type of therapy MBT. Most people with BPD have a hard time with mentalizing. For instance, a person may feel the need to self-harm, but they don’t stop and rationalize the consequences of these behaviors. They don’t remember the painful cuts and how difficult it is after they slice their skin.

MBT helps a person to think about thinking. It teaches people how to take a few minutes to realize the potential impact of the action. Patients often receive MBT on an inpatient basis. It’s beneficial for those in crisis who have been admitted for issues related to BPD.

Therapeutic Communities

These communities provide very structured environments. Here, it’s common to see people with a wide variety of psychological conditions. The BPD person will mingle with those who have schizophrenia, bipolar, and other severe mental disturbances.The goal is to integrate therapy into daily living. People often come here to stay for a week or a month. They will learn about running a household, prepping their meals, and how to communicate with others.

These centers are rigorous and don’t allow drinking, drugs, violence, or any self-harming behaviors. Since treatment is voluntary, community managers expel anyone who violates these rules..

Art Therapy

Psychologists employ art therapy to treat many conditions. Research has shown that it’s beneficial to the Borderline personality. Using a combination of dance, drama, music, and art can help people to focus and express themselves in positive manners.

Treating BPD with Medication

There are no medications on the market, specifically for the treatment of BPD. However, it’s possible to reduce or eliminate some symptoms with the use of antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anti-seizure medicines.

Using mood stabilization drugs as well as those that can curb anxiety have often proved helpful in those with BPD, though it’s not a cure. Most people use a cocktail of medications that frequently changes to provide relief.

Living With Borderline Personality Disorder

Living with BPD is not easy. This personality disorder often causes people to be so out of control with their emotions that they alienate those closest to them. While there are therapies and medications out there, many deny there is a problem and don’t seek help.

Since there is often drug abuse and sexual promiscuity, legal ramifications often come into play. Many judges court-ordered drug treatment when the underlying illness comes to light. It’s often the case that people with these conditions live in group homes or have guardians placed over them to manage their finances and persons.

Those who struggle with this condition often have many challenges. For instance, it’s hard for them to hold down a job, maintain a family, and maintain a social life. Therefore, it’s essential to have a reliable support system, mental health team on board, and adherence to medications and treatments to manage this complicated mental health issue.

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