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

Do These 3 Simple Things Daily To Get Rid Of Dark Circles Under Eyes

Dark under-eye circles are a common problem plenty of adults face. You might try changing your sleep schedule, adjusting your diet or loading up on over-the-counter beauty products, but the truth is that dark circles under eyes can be genetic.

According to New York City cosmetic dermatologist Paul Jarrod Frank, the skin under our eyes is some of the thinnest on our bodies, and darkness and puffiness around the area can be inherited. Increased pigmentation in the area is a possible culprit, but just because you have your DNA to thank for your dark circles, reducing their severity and restoring a refreshed appearance isn’t totally out of your hands.

Three Ways to Lighten Dark Circles Under Eyes

The best way to treat your under-eye circles is to weed out the underlying cause. Even if it’s genetic, there are plenty of home remedies to treat dark circles under eyes. Here are three that we recommend.

Use a Retinoid Cream

Expensive laser treatments and cosmetic procedures are often advertised as the best treatments for under-eye darkness, but you can try some more affordable options to save cash.

If the skin under your eyes is very thin, the application of retinol can improve the appearance. Retinol is a pure molecule found in Vitamin A; retinoids are the primary component of most anti-aging beauty creams and cosmetic products.

As we age, the retinol in our bodies decreases, which contributes to wrinkles and fine lines.

Retinoid creams help stimulate collagen production. Patricia Ceballos, a dermatologist in New Rochelle, New York, says, “Retinoids help rebuild dermal collagen and thereby contribute to vascular support in the area and the recovery of skin volume and firmness.”

Don’t immediately start slathering on the retinol cream, though. For optimal results, doctors say you should develop a schedule that regulates your application and builds up the amount you use over time.

Buy Better Bedding

If you wake up in the morning with dark, puffy bags under your eyes, you may not be sleeping with enough support.

Consider investing in a fluffy pillow that keeps your head slightly elevated while you sleep; this prevents fluid from pooling under the eyes overnight and can reduce the appearance of darkness and puffiness in the morning.

You should also make sure that you frequently wash your bed linens; some people only change their sheets but leave out their comforter and pillowcases, and this can create a buildup of dust mites, dead skin and other allergens that irritate the eyes and leave you with dark pigmentation and puffiness.

If you suspect allergies are the culprit behind your tired appearance, consider buying some hypoallergenic pillows. If you know allergies are to blame, then talk to your doctor about taking an antihistamine like Zyrtec.

Cut Back on Salt

We all know our diets impact our health and appearance in more ways than we even want to acknowledge. A lot of things can happen when you eat too much salt, including fluid retention, bloating and puffiness under the eyes.

Under-eye bags leave us looking worn-out and run-down even after a full night’s sleep.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends adults limit their sodium intake to 1,5000 mg per day or three-quarters of a teaspoon. There are lots of ways to consume less salt; if you find that most of your sodium intake comes from junk food, switch to some healthier protein snacks that will keep you full and help curb cravings.

Other Diet Suggestions to Reduce Dark Circles Under Eyes

If you want to lighten up the dark bags beneath your eyes, cut back on alcohol. Drinking too much causes dehydration, which leads to water retention. Your body holds on to fluids when it’s dehydrated, so you’re more likely to find bags under your eyes and dark circles forming if you don’t drink enough water or have a diet that dries your body out.

dark circles under eyes

Stick to 8 ounces of water eight times per day. This is the baseline amount of water you should consume every day, but you should adjust your intake if you workout and sweat more.

Also, be sure to consume lots of fruits and veggies packed with Vitamin C. Just like our parents tried to tell us, it really does pay to eat your Brussels sprouts!

Dark Circles Under Eyes Aren’t the End of the World

If your under-eye circles are ruining your self-esteem, don’t worry. There are lots of inexpensive concealers and creams you can get at the drug store to reduce their appearance and feel more confident. Primers and concealers with a yellow tint can help cancel out darkness and lighten your under-eye region.

Before you run out and buy everything you can to cover your face, make sure you’re practicing body positivity. It’s not always easy to love the skin we’re in, but our imperfect bodies are ours to love and nurture.

It’s perfectly natural to want to improve little things about our appearance, but when we love our bodies, we can operate from a place of love rather than hate and make better changes that feel like an improvement, not a necessity.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKn7Oq8hNVk

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Wisdom Teeth : 10 Best Home Remedies To Relieve Wisdom Tooth Pain

Wisdom teeth happen to be the last teeth to protrude from the gums and are positioned at each back corner of the mouth. In some cases, such teeth can become painful, resulting in a characteristic dull ache at the back of the gums. Research shows that around 85% of people with wisdom teeth have to get them removed. Pain results because by the time such teeth protrude, there is usually no room for them in the gum.

Therefore, such teeth may emerge at an awkward angle and can easily trap food, leading to the proliferation of bacteria. In some cases, wisdom teeth could become impacted resulting in tenderness, pain, and aches. Unfortunately, most people rarely have the opportunity to see a dentist right away. Therefore, there is a need to manage pain arising from wisdom teeth using certain home remedies before one gets the opportunity to visit the dentist.

This article discusses effective wisdom tooth pain relief strategies that one can use at home.

Warm Salt Water

Dentists usually recommend salt water as a temporary wisdom tooth pain relief until the next appointment. Salt water is known to have natural disinfectant qualities and numerous studies have shown that using salt water as a rinse for the mouth can significantly reduce bacteria. Therefore, the salt water can accelerate treatment, and thus, minimize discomfort at the wisdom tooth.

Cloves

Clove is an effective home remedy for tooth pain. With its anesthetic qualities, clove can be used to numb pain. Also, the antibacterial properties of the herb can be utilized to prevent infections. To use clove, one can apply some clove oil on a cotton ball and hold it directly on the wisdom tooth and the gums around the tooth until the pain recedes. Another way to use clove is to chew whole clove, only spitting it out when the pain diminishes.

Ice

If the pain at the site of the wisdom teeth results in swelling, then it could be beneficial to apply an ice pack. With ice in a plastic bag and wrapped in a towel, it is advisable to place the ice pack on the swollen area because it can relieve pain and also reduce inflammation.

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a type of pain relief medication usually dispensed over the counter that helps to reduce inflammation. The drug can be used to alleviate discomfort and pain around the affected teeth. Such medications act as temporary pain relievers until one gets the opportunity to visit the dentist.

Peppermint

Peppermint is regularly used as an excellent pain reliever for wisdom teeth. The leaves contain essential oils that have prominent anesthetic properties responsible for curbing pain. Such oils also have antibacterial properties that prevent infection. To use the herb for this purpose, one can soak a cotton ball in peppermint extract and apply it lightly on the affected area or directly rub the oil on the affected area. The additional advantage with peppermint is that the natural fresh aroma of the herb is pleasant and can significantly refresh the mouth.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is effective in relieving wisdom tooth pain. The oil acts as a powerful antibacterial agent that eradicates bacteria in the mouth. Since the remedy is highly potent, it is advisable to dilute it with coconut oil. For this remedy, one can rub the diluted tea tree oil at the site of pain. Usually, the remedy will dissipate pain on the affected tooth after a short while. It is crucial to spit out the oil once done because it is not safe to swallow it.

Numbing Gel

Numbing gel for the gums can be used to decrease the feeling of pain in the gums. Such gels are dispensed over the counter and can also be found in numerous online stores. The active ingredient in such gels is usually benzocaine. Usually, the dental gels are applied to the gums, but it is imperative to avoid such gels if one is allergic to benzocaine.

Vanilla

Vanilla is effective in alleviating the discomfort associated with tooth pain. Using a cotton swab, one can add a few drops of the extract and place it on the affected site for approximately fifteen minutes. The extract has ample amounts of antioxidants and has active numbing qualities. Also, it is allowed to apply to the extract using one’s fingertips.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a widely recognized antiseptic and antibacterial wisdom tooth pain relief remedy. For toothaches, turmeric can be massaged into the aching gum to alleviate swelling and pain. Alternatively, one can rinse the mouth with water that has been boiled with turmeric mixed with cloves.

wisdom tooth - Turmeric

Oregano Oil

Oregano is known as a potent healer because of its ability to eliminate bacteria. Consequently, it is regularly used to curb infection. Oregano is commonly used to reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation. Due to its highly potent nature, it is advisable to dilute oregano oil by mixing a drop of the oil with a single teaspoon of carrier oil. Alternatively, one can use a cotton ball to rub oil on the gums.

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12 Healthy Breakfast Recipes That Will Keep You Full All Day

Eating a wholesome, healthy breakfast can help to alleviate the hunger pains that cause people to make bad food choices later in the day. In fact, eating the right healthy foods can keep you full all day long. A wholesome morning meal can also keep you mentally sharp and reduce midday fatigue.

Here are 12 healthy breakfast recipes that are simple and will keep the hunger pains at bay.

1. Peach-Spinach Chia Smoothie

Chia seeds absorb several times their weight, so a small amount can make you feel full for a while. With four simple ingredients–peaches, chia seed, spinach, and apple juice–it only takes about a minute or two to make this smoothie. Check out Real Simple’s recipe here.

2. Vanilla Cinnamon Chia Pudding

This is another chia seed recipe that you can easily throw together and it tastes great. Mix together almond milk, chia seeds, agave nectar, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Let it sit for a couple of hours in the refrigerator and you can quickly eat a cup and be on your way. Get the recipe for this breakfast here from Real Simple.

3. Hot Chocolate Banana Nut Oatmeal

Oatmeal is full of fiber, which keeps you fuller longer. For this, you will be mixing cocoa, chocolate chips, nuts, bananas, and oatmeal together to make this quick and easy healthy treat. Check out the full recipe here on Food Network.

4. Ham, Egg, and Cheese Oatmeal

This isn’t a typical type of breakfast bowl. In the south, they eat ham, eggs, and grits. If you replace the grits with oatmeal, you will be getting a healthy dose of protein and fiber, two things that keep you full during the day. View the entire healthy breakfast recipe from Food Network.

5. Chickpea Scramble

This chickpea scramble is yummy, healthy, and vegan. Chickpeas will keep you full for a long time because they are high in soluble fiber. For this scramble, you just soften some chick peas and mash them. Then you scramble in your favorite veggies. Check out the recipe from Catching Seeds.

6. Jumbo Chickpea Pancake

This recipe takes a little bit more preparation, but if you pre-prep the veggies and keep them already chopped in your refrigerator, that will save you time in the mornings. Using some chickpea flour, green onion, red pepper, and other seasonings, you can whip together the most tasty and wholesome pancake you’ve ever had. Find out more about this recipe from Oh She Glows.

7. Peppered Butter and Pear Toast

Black pepper and pears probably don’t sound like a great combination, but you have to try it before you judge it. The contrasting flavors actually end up complimenting each other. This super easy recipe only calls for pears, whole grain toast, butter, black pepper, and a couple of other easy ingredients. See the whole recipe here at Bon Appetit.

8. Healthy 5 Minute Avocado Toast

Avocado is a great food to keep you full all day. This recipe is very simple and quick. Start by toasting your favorite bread. Mash some avocado in a bowl and season it with cilantro, salt, pepper, and lime and then spread it on your toast. Serve with an egg cooked any way. Check out the full recipe here at Gimme Delicious.

9. Bacon Baked Egg in Avocado

This is another yummy avocado dish that is quick and easy to make. Cut an avocado in half and scoop out around two tablespoons of the avocado. Drop in an egg and bake at 425 degrees. Add some pieces of bacon and drizzle it with yummy sriracha sauce. Check out the whole recipe from JoyfulHealthyEats.com.

10. Avocado Chocolate Smoothie

Since avocado is so awesome, here is another simple avocado recipe. All you need is avocado, frozen spinach, cacao powder, almond milk, maple syrup or honey, and ice cubes. Blend the ingredients together to make an amazing, quick, healthy smoothie that will keep you full for most of the day.

healthy breakfast

11. Berries with Pistachio Yogurt Compote

Not only is this a yummy and healthy breakfast, but it is also a yummy and healthy treat. Nuts are known for their ability to keep you full for a while. Simply put the berries and the juice in the bottom of a cup or jar, next comes the yogurt, then top with the pistachios and drizzle with maple syrup. See the whole recipe at Nuts4Life.com.

12. Fruit and Nut Bars

These are like do-it-yourself granola bars with no fillers. It is a blend of fruit, nuts, dates, juice, and more. They don’t take very long to make, but they require baking, so you may want to make these in advance. You can store them for up to four days.

Now you don’t have to skip healthy breakfast due to time constraints and be plagued by mid-day hunger. These quick and easy recipes will help you start your day off right. You will stay fuller for a longer period of time and probably also have more energy and a better mood. Bon appetit!

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A Complete Guide To Remove Acne Scars Using Home Remedies

Many people have the unfortunate experience of suffering from acne scars. The blemishes can be so awful that upon a visit to their doctor, they get prescribed the usual oral medications and chemical creams that are given in these cases. All of these pharmaceuticals have a long list of side effects that are just as detrimental to your health as the acne scarring itself.

If you desire a natural and holistic based solution and an acne scar treatment that works using home remedies, then read our exclusive list below. You will find that some of the ingredients in these treatments can easily be found at home, locally and online.

Here’s a complete guide to getting rid of acne scars:

Aloe Vera Gel – A Great Source of Vitamins and Minerals

Fresh aloe vera gel, straight from the plant itself, boasts a wide range of vitamins and minerals that can soothe and replenish your skin, dissolving scar tissue over time. It is so effective that it can act as a natural moisturizer that will leave your skin beautifully soft and glowing. Although you can source aloe vera gel in the shops, we highly recommend you purchase a small aloe vera plant. One of the greatest things about the plant itself is that it is extremely low maintenance and easy to keep. Just break off a small leaf, splice it, and apply the gel directly to your face. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes to allow the minerals and vitamins to penetrate and then wash off with a splash of cold water. You could do this daily for great results.

Unleash the Power of Turmeric – A Spice with Plenty of Benefits

Are you wondering how turmeric can give you perfect glowing skin? Turmeric happens to contain some rather powerful anti-inflammatory properties as well as antioxidants, making this spice a multi-functional medicine. Turmeric helps to kill bacteria on the skin. By mixing it with rose water or plain water, it acts as a natural exfoliant. The anti-inflammatory properties that it contains also help to eliminate acne scarring by controlling the swelling and redness that is often associated with acne scars.

Apple Cider Vinegar – One of the Best Home Remedies

This rather acidic but very useful pantry item has been reported to have so many delicious benefits for health that it is one of the best home remedies for acne scars.

Apple cider vinegar is jam-packed with magnesium, potassium, acetic acid and various enzymes that can get rid of bacteria and fungi growth. It can be used as toner that restores the natural PH levels in your skin. To use this acne scars treatment, just soak a cotton ball in it and dab a little on the affected areas.

Honey, Yoghurt and Cinnamon Mask – The Trio with a Lot of Punch

Raw, natural and organic honey has been touted “The Golden Syrup of Health” with an impressive list of health benefits for medicinal purposes, home remedies and for acne scars. Fortunately, raw honey can be sourced quite conveniently, both locally and online. Raw honey contains a slew of health properties and is well known for being anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral and rich with antibacterial compounds. Mix this raw honey with a dash of cinnamon, which is loaded with antioxidants, and a natural plain yoghurt and you have a wonderful, homemade mask that can help soothe irritated areas and prevent acne scarring. All you have to do is mix ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, a dash of raw honey and plain yoghurt into a smooth paste and apply to the affected area. Leave on for 10 minutes and wash off with a clean, damp cloth.

The Unusual Use for a Green Tea Herbal Remedy

Funny enough, although green tea is well known for its health benefits if you drink it, it is also a rather nice tonic to splash on your face once in a while to help tone the skin. Green tea happens to contain antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds that help to keep acne scars at bay. To use this tea extraction, just make the tea as per usual in a mug and allow the tea to cool. Once it has cooled, dab and soak a cotton ball in the tea and apply it to the acne scarred tissue. Use this refreshing mixture whenever it suits you.acne scars

Final Thoughts

Acne scarring can cause concern and upset. But that doesn’t mean you are without a solution. This article shows you that there are many easy home remedies that you can make to help get rid of your acne scarred tissue and soothe, tone and moisturize your skin. Over time, your skin will begin to heal and your skin can become beautiful and glowing. All these ingredients come from natural sources, are holistic in nature and contain properties that help to eliminate acne.

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The 7 Key Elements Of An Ideal Anti Inflammatory Diet

An anti-inflammatory diet plan can reduce joint pain, reset and heal your gut, provide more energy and mental clarity, and offer more healthful benefits.

Your reasons for considering an anti-inflammatory diet can vary from losing weight to natural pain relief medicine to alleviate your symptoms. Autoimmune disorders, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, diabetes, depression, and cancer are the leading reasons people consider one of these diets. Eating for your health can never be wrong.

Is It The Mediterranean Diet?

The Mediterranean Diet is one of the most common anti inflammatory diets, focusing on fruits, vegetables, fish, healthy oils, nuts, and whole grains. Olive oil and tomatoes are key components of the lifestyle, both of which have well-researched anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is not the only one. Most diets do not have specific names, and the Mediterranean Diet wasn’t created to be anti-inflammatory; it simply contains plenty of foods that share those properties.

Your root cause can affect key elements of an anti-inflammatory diet plan. Inflation in your body can vary from the inflammation in another person’s body. While diet plans are easy to follow, you should consider your inflammation and research possible culprit foods. For example, if someone has celiac disease, they need to consider which whole grains they can and cannot consume to maintain 25g per day.

7 Key Features You’ll Find in an Anti Inflammatory Diet

Whole Grains

Whole grains are at the center of this lifestyle. They are filling but also contain vital nutrients like fiber to keep you full and keep things going. You should avoid heavily processed foods labeled with whole grains as a marketing ploy. These foods contain little if no more benefit than their white flour cousins (think pasta). Instead, consider including more oatmeal and barley for whole grain sources.

Fruits and Vegetables

Be mindful of the fruits and vegetables you choose because some are notorious for causing inflammation. Berries are a great choice because they contain high amounts of antioxidants and polyphenols. The same applies to dark leafy greens and tomatoes.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids have plenty of science to support their addition to your anti-inflammatory diet. Diets rich in these essential nutrients will help you combat depression and anxiety, reduce inflammation, and much more. Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids are genuine superfoods.

  • Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids
  • Fatty fish like salmon, cod liver oil, sardines, and anchovies
  • Chia seeds
  • Flax seeds
  • Walnuts

Meat, eggs, and dairy from actual grass-fed operations also contain large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids; however, these might not be suitable for an anti-inflammatory diet.

Healthy Fats

Fats are not created equal. An anti inflammatory diet limits saturated fat to 10%, which your body still needs, and contains anti-inflammatory properties. This does not mean your diet will be fat-free. Instead, you will consume natural, unprocessed sources of unsaturated, monounsaturated, and those omega-3 fatty acids.

  • Olive oil
  • Coconut oil
  • Wild-caught fish
  • Pasture-raised chicken
  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Avocados

No Processed Foods

Processed foods contain large amounts of salt, sugar, chemicals, and empty calories. Many ingredients in processed foods have been linked to inflammation or are questionable. While everyone should do their best to avoid them, if you are on an anti inflammatory diet plan, they won’t be allowed.

Exercise

Light to moderate exercise is a crucial component to any healthy lifestyle. However, if you suffer from inflammation, you shouldn’t exercise more than one hour daily. Some studies suggest beyond an hour is when exercise becomes inflammatory.

If you’re a workout junkie, you should consider smaller sessions spaced throughout your day instead of long, vigorous sessions as part of your anti inflammatory diet. For those who don’t exercise, consider adding light walking, aerobics, or any activity you enjoy.

anti inflammatory diet

Fewer Symptoms

Some people experience remission when they switch to an anti inflammatory lifestyle. Others will see a vast improvement. More and more people are making the diet switch to prevent future diseases like cancer, dementia, or heart disease. One key component people have in common is seeing results on one level or another.

Few diets or lifestyle plans have the science to back them. An anti inflammatory diet does because it does not revolve around gimmicks or supplements, just natural whole foods in normal quantities. There is credence to filling your plate with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and proteins while still consuming moderate amounts of healthy fats.

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This Is What Happens To Your Body When You Drink Lemon Water Every Morning

A friend recommended that I drink a glass of lemon water every morning at breakfast. She claimed that the benefits of lemon water were awesome. I was intrigued and decided to try it for a month. Each morning, I drank eight ounces of water with the juice of half a fresh lemon squeezed into it. The results were fascinating.

Lemon water contains powerful antioxidants in the form of Vitamin C. Just one lemon contains 51% of your daily value of Vitamin C. Citric acid, the active compound in lemon juice, has rejuvenating and freshening qualities for the entire body, from the breath to the skin. Read on to what happens when your body receives the benefits of lemon water impacted my health and well-being.

Here are the benefits of lemon water:

1. My Digestion Was Improved

I was impressed at how quickly the benefits of lemon water helped my digestion. It had especially potent effects when I used warm water. I felt lighter and healthier. I sometimes have problems with constipation, and this amazing water helped to remedy my problem.

2. I Lost Weight

This might be difficult to believe, but simply adding a glass of lemon juice water in the morning helped me lose weight. I didn’t do anything else differently for the month when I drank the water each day. Reportedly, this water increases your metabolic rate and helps you make better use of calories.

3. My Skin was Clearer

This was one of the most impressive benefits. When I was drinking the water, I noticed that my skin was clearer and less oily. As soon as I stopped drinking it daily, my skin returned to its original state, so I really think it had to do with the water.

4. No More Bad Breath

Drinking the water in the morning helped to freshen my breath and kill bacteria in my mouth. I talked to my dentist about the benefits of lemon water, and she warned me that drinking too many acidic liquids would be bad for my tooth enamel. I agreed to brush my teeth after drinking the water.

5. My Liver Worked More Effectively

While I don’t have any examples of how this water helped my liver, I know that it helps to detoxify the body so the liver works better. One month is probably too brief to see measurable impacts on my liver, but I felt better overall.

6. I Felt Better When I Had a Cold

One of the best-known natural health benefits is that this water helps to bolster your immune system. It also helps to reduce inflammation. I came down with a cold when I was drinking the water each day, and I think it made me feel better faster. I mixed the juice with warm water when I wasn’t feeling well and added a little raw honey. This mixture helped my throat feel better and lessened my coughing. The addition of honey doubles the health impact.

essential oils

7. It Helped my Hangover

I hate to admit it, but I had a little too much fun one night while I was on my lemon juice water regimen. I was in rough shape when I got up that morning. I found that the water helped me feel better faster. I discovered that lemon juice water is a source of potassium, which is beneficial to the body when recovering from a hangover because it helps to regulate hydration in the body.

Final Thoughts

While it isn’t a magic bullet, I feel that the benefits of lemon water really helped my overall health. If you want to give it a try, make sure you use fresh-cut lemons and not just concentrated lemon juice. This will give you the added benefits of consuming the whole fruit and the lemon oil from the peel. Taking lemon juice water in the morning can’t hurt, and it’s worth trying when it has so many amazing health benefits. Add it to your morning routine and see the benefits for yourself.

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Bloated Stomach : 10 Proven Ways To Beat Bloating

Do you have “fat days” when suddenly you can barely button your pants? Excess gas in the intestines, or bloating, can make you puffy and swollen. It’s a fairly common problem affecting between about 16 to 30 percent of us. It’s especially common in women.

Being bloated often can be caused by a serious medical problem, but health experts say most of the time a bloated stomach is caused by certain foods, bad eating habits, or hormones. Numerous medications can cause excess gas. Prescription and over-the-counter meds to watch out for include antidepressants, iron pills, antihistamines, and calcium supplements with bicarbonate or carbonate.

If you’ve ruled out meds as the culprit, consider these 10 proven ways to get rid of a bloated stomach:

1. Rule Out Food Allergies

Food allergies are relatively common and can cause intolerance to certain foods. These foods can cause excess gas production, resulting in a bloated stomach and other symptoms. Common foods people have an intolerance to include lactose, fructose, eggs, wheat, and gluten. Use a process of elimination to determine if you may have a food allergy. Work along with your doctor to resolve the issue.

2. Eat Smaller Meals

Do you tend to eat a lot at one meal and feel stuffed? People who have a tendency to bloat feel over-full on smaller amounts of food than others. Try eating smaller meals more often. This may require adding an extra meal to your day.

3. Avoid Swallowing Air

Swallowing too much air when eating is a big cause of a bloated stomach. Try eating more slowly and chewing more thoroughly. This cuts down on the amount of air you swallow. Watch out for snacking on the go and eating fast. Other culprits of swallowing air include talking while eating, drinking through a straw, chewing gum, and drinking lots of carbonated beverages.

4. Avoid Gassy Foods

Some foods are known to be a problem, especially high-fiber foods like beans and some whole grains. Fatty foods can also cause problems for some people since they slow down digestion and the emptying of the stomach. Foods that make you feel bloated vary from one person to another. Keep a food diary to find your own triggers.

5. Watch Out for Sugar Alcohols

Sugar alcohols are in sugar-free foods and chewing gums. Some consider them safe alternatives to sugar, but in high amounts, they may cause digestive problems. Sugar alcohols are digested in the large intestine and produce gas. They are a type of carbohydrates known as FODMAPs and can cause create gas, especially in people with irritable bowel syndrome.

6. Try Digestive Enzyme Supplements

Look for over-the-counter products to help with a bloated stomach. They contain supplemental enzymes that can help break down indigestible carbohydrates. Some to try include Lactase and Beano. Lactase breaks down lactose, and Beano contains alpha-galactosidase, an enzyme that helps break down hard-to-digest carbs.

7. Take Probiotics

Many different bacteria live in the intestines, but they vary from person to person. Studies support the theory that they can cause gas. Probiotic supplements have been shown to control gas and a bloated stomach. Some probiotics may reduce gas, but you can still feel bloated. The key is to find the right probiotic for you and give it time to work.

8. Natural Remedies

No research exists to show the effectiveness of natural products to reduce intestinal gas. Peppermint capsules may help by relaxing stomach muscles. Charcoal capsules absorb gas to help relieve bloating.

9. Increase Fiber

Adequate fiber helps prevent constipation which in turn exacerbates a bloated stomach. Bulk in the intestines helps food move through quicker. Most people don’t get enough fiber in their diet. Try adding a bran cereal to your breakfast and snack on fresh fruit throughout the day. Go slowly when adding fiber to your diet. Too much too fast can actually cause more gas.

bloated stomach

10. Stay hydrated and exercise

Drinking enough water makes everything in your body work better. This includes digestion. Water flushes out waste and helps you avoid constipation, which can cause gas.

Add at least a 10 minute walk to your day. Exercise helps pass gas through the intestines quickly, giving you immediate relief.

Don’t forget that being bloated often can be a sign of a serious medical condition. Pay attention to your symptoms. If making these changes to your diet doesn’t work, it’s important to discuss your symptoms with a doctor.

7 Secrets To Attract Money And Wealth Using The Law Of Attraction

How would you feel if you were told what every young child dreams of — that you have a superpower that can bring to you anything you wish for. Turns out that this dream might not be so far off from reality as one might think. In fact, this whole new concept has to do with the exact way in which reality operates. It is called the Law of Attraction.

According to this law of attraction, you can have anything you wish for, as long as you are able to first create it in your mind and emotional state of being. People mainly use the law of attraction for money, and many people have successfully improved their financial state in this seemingly illogical way. Here are the 7 secrets to using this law of attraction for money.

7 Secrets To Using The Law Of Attraction

give you strength

Achieve Clarity

It is important to take some time in realizing exactly what it is that you want. You have to be clear in your intentions in order for this to work faster. You set your intentions on how much money you want to receive.

Use Visualization Techniques

Visualization is one of the most powerful ways of invoking motivation and change in your mental and emotional state. According to physics, any energy you put out has to come back to you. When you visualize the thing you want to receive, you attract it into your everyday reality. Let’s say you want to have large amounts of money and financial freedom. You should envision yourself in this new state of being — how would you feel if you had all the money that you needed and more? Imagine holding the money, going into your new home, driving your dream car, or traveling to a foreign destination. The more you utilize your senses, the faster the result will be. You can even use the technique of smelling the money to get a sense of the way it feels when you have it.

Uproot Limiting Beliefs

Most people have a negative set of values when it comes to money. Because money has been a big struggle for humanity, it has become a topic of great negative scriptures. You cannot attract something that you judge or harbor negative stereotypes towards. It is true that you will experience difficulties at first, but notice the beliefs you have towards money. Do you respond negatively to rich people and have negative expectations of money? You can use visualization techniques to clear out the old patterns and allow abundance to flow into your life.

Focus on Abundance

The more you focus on a topic, the more prevalent it becomes in your life. Make it a daily routine to focus on the abundance you already have. Express appreciation for the money you already have, your home, your car, and all the other comforts you use in your daily life. Feel that you are abundant and are growing richer with each passing day.

Overpower The Inner Critic

Our beliefs are the ones that make us sabotage ourselves when things are really not as hard as they seem. Every time you try to attract abundance into your life, the inner voice may tell you that you can’t or don’t deserve it. This negative talk does not come from you — it is a reflection of your parents and the conditioning that society has received on the topic of money. Every time the inner critic contradicts a happy thought on money, you can use visualization techniques like a “stop” road sign or a big X, or you can simply state in yourself a phrase that is opposite to the criticism. This phrase could be “Making money is easy and everyone deserves to be abundant.”

Tend To Your Feelings

Being rich and abundant should make you feel a certain way. How would you feel if you had everything that you ever wanted? Try to keep this state of emotions as much as possible throughout the day. Many people want to be rich and then be happy. It works the opposite way, however. Like it was taught by most religious teachings of the world, faith precedes reality. Be kind to yourself, and tend to your emotional state of being as much as you can – the better you feel, the better you will perform in all aspects of your life.

Law of attraction

Let Go and Stop Overthinking

The one thing that can really sabotage law of attraction (at least for a while) is overthinking what you want. This can lead to feelings of tension and resistance. It is more important to tend to your emotional state and know that what you want is already coming your way. Let go, and let God — the Universe has your back.

Final Thoughts

You can use the law of attraction for absolutely everything. Just remember that the journey should be a pleasant one and does not require hardship. In fact, the easier you are about it, the faster and more efficient the law of attraction will be for you.

10 Foods That Lower Cholesterol

You may have heard that eating certain foods is bad for your health since they raise the fat content in your body and increase your chances of getting a heart attack, for example, fast foods. The same also holds for meals that are good for you, for example, eating foods that lower cholesterol helps you to maintain low density lipo-protein (LDL) levels and reduce weight.

Below are examples of top 10 foods that lower cholesterol fast.

1. Soya Foods

Eating as little as 15 g of soya meals per day can help you reduce cholesterol levels by as much as 6%. Examples include soy beans, soy milk, and tofu. Other health benefits of soya foods include being a source of Omega-3, fiber, and proteins.

2. Oats

Foods that lower cholesterol are not limited to main meals alone, they can also include breakfast. Oats are a healthy way to start your day. One bowl of oats gives you 2 grams of fiber and lowers your LDL levels. To spice up the combination, you can add some fruits to the oatmeal and increase the fiber levels by at least 1 gram.

3. Foods Fortified with Plant Sterols and Stanols

Plant sterols or stanols are generally found in vegetable oils, whole grains, seeds, fruits, nuts, and vegetables. There are also prescription drugs for plant sterols and stanols since some people cannot get sufficient nutrients from natural sources. Normally, consuming 1.5 to 2.5 g of plant sterols or stanols lowers cholesterol by between 7 and 10%.

4. Beans and Peas

Beans and peas are rich in fiber and take longer to be digested. As a result, you end up feeling full for extended periods. This effect makes beans the perfect meal for people trying to lose weight because it prevents them from eating all the time. A plate of cooked beans and peas reduce the LDL levels by up to 5%.

5. Fruits and Vegetables

Foods that lower cholesterol also include fruits and vegetables. Any fruit or vegetable that you eat has a small saturated fat content, which helps keep your LDL levels at the prescribed minimum. Additionally, fruits and vegetables contain fiber that stops the digestive tract from absorbing cholesterol.

6. Apples, Citrus Fruits, Strawberries, and Grapes

When talking about foods that lower cholesterol, there’s a special group of fruits that include apples, citrus fruits, grapes, and strawberries. These fruits contain pectin, which is a special type of water soluble fiber that holds together cholesterol in the stomach and prevents it from getting into the blood stream and clogging the arteries.

7. Nuts

Eating almonds, peanuts, and walnuts contain high levels of unsaturated fat, fiber, vitamin E, potassium, magnesium, vegetable protein, and natural sterols, which help keep your heart healthy. In addition, taking 2 ounces of nuts reduces LDL levels by 5%.

8. Eggplant and Okra

Eggplant and Okra contain large amounts of soluble fiber which prevents the body from absorbing LDL. Research has shown that regular intake of eggplants can help reduce bad cholesterol levels by as much as 30%. Eggplant and Okra is also used by people with diabetes to lower their blood sugar levels.

9. Fatty Fish

There are two ways that fish lowers LDL levels: first, it gets rid of the LDL-boosting saturated fats, and produces omega-3 fats which is a source of healthy cholesterol. Omega-3 also reduces triglycerides in the blood and improves the heart’s health.

10. Avocado

Avocado is a good source of mono-saturated fats which helps to increase High-density Lipoprotein (HDL) levels. HDL is a form of cholesterol that transports bad cholesterol away from the arteries and towards the liver, where it undergoes chemical decomposition and is released from the body.

foods that lower cholesterol

Conclusion

A low cholesterol diet needs you to be flexible, you don’t have to eat all the above foods at once or stick to one meal for the rest of your life. Try to mix the different foods and work with them on a daily basis.

The preferred low cholesterol diet contains high levels of fruits and vegetables and the occasional fish. In addition, remember to stick with the diet if you want it to be effective.

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