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7 Thoughts About Life From Aretha Franklin (That Will Change Your Life)

August 16, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Known as the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin died on August 16th at 9:50 a.m. at her home in Detroit surrounded by family and friends. She was 76. According to a family statement, the “official cause of death was due to advanced pancreatic cancer of the neuroendocrine type, which was confirmed by Franklin’s oncologist, Dr. Philip Phillips of Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit.”

Aretha started singing gospel music as a child at New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, where her father, C. L. Franklin, was the minister. In 1960, at the age of 18, she began recording for Columbia Records but didn’t get the breakthrough she needed as an artist. After signing to Atlantic Records in 1967, Franklin achieved major success with some of her most famous songs such as “Respect”, “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman”, “Spanish Harlem” and “Think”.

Fans of Franklin left flowers and a crown on her Hollywood Walk of Fame star in Los Angeles to honor her memory, and former President Barack Obama tweeted “Aretha helped define the American experience. In her voice, we could feel our history, all of it and in every shade — our power and our pain, our darkness and our light, our quest for redemption and our hard-won respect. May the Queen of Soul rest in eternal peace.”

She will certainly be missed, but her powerful, soulful music will live on forever. To honor her life, we have gathered some important thoughts and positive quotes from the Queen of Soul that will change your life.

Here are 7 thoughts about life from Aretha Franklin:

1. “We all require and want respect, man or woman, black or white. It’s our basic human right.”

One of her most iconic songs “Respect” earned her two Grammy Awards in 1968 and was one of the most influential songs for the feminist movement. Aretha Franklin‘s version of this song made Rolling Stone’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of all Time,” coming in at number five. Not only did “Respect” become an anthem for the Women’s Rights movement, it also was an important song for the Civil Rights movement. The song’s message was loud and clear: you have to demand respect from people, because otherwise they’ll just walk all over you. If someone doesn’t respect you, then just turn the other way, because you deserve better.

2. “You cannot define a person on just one thing. You can’t just forget all these wonderful and good things that a person has done because one thing didn’t come off the way you thought it should come off.”

Acceptance of others played an important role in her music as well, and this quote sums that up perfectly. We can’t simply judge others on their mistakes, because who doesn’t mess up at some point in life? We should remember others mostly for all the good things they’ve done, because most people in the world are good souls who are trying to figure things out just like the rest of us. Positive thinking helps to reframe life and keep us focused on the good intentions of those around us.

3. “Being the Queen is not all about singing, and being a diva is not all about singing. It has much to do with your service to people. And your social contributions to your community and your civic contributions as well.”

Aretha Franklin knew that God didn’t give her the ability to sing just for the fame, money, or other material gains. She used her voice to deliver the importance of social justice, and always answered the call to raise money and write checks for the Civil Rights movement. Her music truly unified people because it transcended race, social status, and religion; it was about human equality.

4. “Music does a lot of things for a lot of people. It’s transporting, for sure. It can take you right back, it’s uplifting, it’s encouraging, it’s strengthening.”

Aretha Franklin’s music was certainly all of those things. She captivated crowds with her powerful voice and important messages throughout her music. In her career, she won 18 Grammy Awards and sold over 75 million records worldwide.

5. “Sometimes, what you’re looking for is already there.”

This quote can remind us that maybe what we’ve been searching for is right in front of our eyes already. We often become blinded by what society wants us to do, think, or say and instead of listening to our own soul, we give into popular opinion. However, maybe what we really need is within us already if we search hard enough. Aretha Franklin never looked outside herself for the answers, because she knew that her natural talents would change people’s lives. Though she had plenty of people guiding her along her musical journey, Aretha found most of her inspiration within.

6. “Who hasn’t had a weight issue? If not the body, certainly the big head!”

Aretha struggled with her weight for years and suffered from health problems in her later life. However, she didn’t let her health stop her from delivering music to thousands of people, and despite the fame, she always remained humble.

7. “People really don’t have to give you anything, so appreciate what people give you.”

Perhaps this is one of the most important lessons we can learn from Aretha Franklin: never take for granted what people give you. Remember that no one owes you anything, so accept what others offer you with grace and humility, and try to give them something in return. Life is much more fulfilling when you focus on what you can give rather than what you can gain, as the Queen of Soul did throughout her life.

Source:

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10 Essential Spices That Help Fight Depression

August 16, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Millions of people in the United States suffer from depression each year. Depression causes sadness and loss of interest in things that used to be enjoyed. Unfortunately, depression sometimes even leads to suicide. It can be difficult for some depressed people to identify the cause of the depression, though. Without finding the cause, most people resort to pharmaceutical drugs to alleviate the symptoms. There are other ways to treat depression, however.

There are herbs and spices that have been found to alleviate the symptoms of depression. This allows the depressed person to get in the right state of mind to find the cause or get help. While the healing properties of herbs and spices are not well known to most people, they are not just cooking spices. They are an all natural way to help treat depression. These cooking spices help balance hormones in the body so hormones that are lacking are increased. Usually, hormones being back in balance will alleviate the symptoms of depression and help the person suffering return to a happier state of mind.

10 Essential Spices For Cooking that Help Fight Depression

Turmeric

An ingredient in turmeric called curcumin has been in several studies as a treatment for depression. Each study found that curcumin helped in treating depression. A psychiatry and pharmacology professor from the University of Toronto weighed in on the possible healing properties of turmeric and curcumin for treating depression. He stated, “curcumin does have an effect on several physiological systems that are implicated in the causes of depression. It certainly would be a reasonable hypothesis that it could be in possession of antidepressant properties”. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps those with depression because oftentimes, a depressed person has more inflammation than normal, causing depression.

Rosemary

Clinical research shows that rosemary can reduce the symptoms of depression. A study where 30 students with moderate depression were treated with rosemary and 30 were treated with a placebo showed that rosemary does work. At the end of the 30 days, the students who were treated with rosemary were down to only mild depression. The students who took the placebo still had moderate depression.

Saffron

Saffron helps treat depression by balancing the levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the body. An Iranian study was done where one group of depressed individuals were given saffron and the other group was given Prozac, an antidepressant pharmaceutical drug. At the end of the trial, saffron was found to be just as effective as Prozac.

Thyme

Thyme is another one of the spices for cooking that are effective in helping treat depression because it contains lithium. Lithium is a mineral that is already used to treat depression but using thyme to get lithium is an all natural way to do it.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the symptoms of depression. It also helps control blood pressure, which helps with depression. Cinnamon is one of the easiest spices for cooking to use for depression.

Nutmeg

Nutmeg is another spice that reduces the inflammation that leads to depression and anxiety. Regularly adding nutmeg to a drink or food recipe can significantly improve the symptoms of depression. This all-natural method is delicious and nutmeg can easily be added to recipes.

Vanilla

In Hong Kong, studies were performed on over 1,200 people to see if vanilla could help with depression and anxiety symptoms. After the studies, it was determined that vanilla does improve the symptoms, and helps with anger, hostility, and overall well-being. This study showed that just the scent of vanilla would do the trick.

Cloves

Cloves contain potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and heart rate. This provides relief for depression and anxiety.

Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds help with mental health disorders, such as depression. There are many minerals in fennel seeds that allow them to return the body to a more normal state, easing the symptoms of depression.

Sage

Sage, also known as salvia, helps improve the nervous system and blood circulation. This leads to a decrease in depression and the symptoms that accompany it.

Conclusion

Depression is a serious illness affecting millions of people every day so it is important to know your options. There are more natural ways to treat depression than through the use of pharmaceutical drugs. Spices for cooking have many more benefits than just making a meal taste delicious. The spices can help your body return to its natural hormonal balance, potentially easing the symptoms of depression. Spices for cooking are an easy, all-natural method. Simply find ways to use the spices in your favorite recipes and you may find relief from the symptoms of your depression.

8 Telltale Symptoms of Heart Attacks in Women According to a Cardiologist

August 16, 2018 by Sarah Barkley

Heart attacks can happen to anyone. But the symptoms of a heart attack in women are different than those in a male.

The American Heart Association explains that women are more likely to die from a heart attack than men are. One in three women die of a heart attack, and this high rate is likely due to the differing symptoms.

Most people know the common symptoms of a heart attack but don’t realize that women experience it differently. While chest pain is a sign, it isn’t the only one, and some women don’t experience it at all. Sometimes the pain feels more like pressure or heartburn than people realize, too.

A heart attack happens when the blood flow to your heart becomes disrupted. Research shows that women might experience symptoms for weeks before the attack, as they don’t typically occur suddenly. Plus, symptoms can seem to stop and then start again later.

According to the CDC, heart attacks are the leading cause of death in women in the United States. Knowing the silent signs of a heart attack in women can be life-saving. The sooner medical treatment begins, the more likely the person is to survive.

Symptoms of Heart Attack in Women

Do you know the main silent signs of a heart attack in women?

1. Chest Pain, But Not Always

As the most common heart attack symptom, chest pain seems to be the sign everyone waits for. While it is common, not everyone experiences chest pain or discomfort at all. Other people experience tightness, pressure, squeezing, or aching rather than the pain they expect.

Studies show that 42% of women who have had heart attacks did not experience any chest pain before or during the attack. Those that did experience pain didn’t always have it on the left side of their body, as most people believe happens.

When chest pain is present, it might ease or completely go away for a while. Then, it returns later that day or even more than a week later.

2. Unusual Fatigue

Women are often tired because they lead busy lives. Whether they work outside of the home, care for children and other family members, or run the home, women tend to be stressed. However, new or increased fatigue could be the first sign of heart attack in women.

Signs of fatigue to watch for include:

suddenly becoming worn out after a typical activity
you feel like you can’t exert yourself
your chest feels heavy when you’re moving

Fatigue can occur anytime in the weeks leading up to the heart attack or just before it occurs. Even after resting for a while, the fatigue will still be present. The fatigue occurs as a result of the excessive stress to your heart when blood flow is blocked.

3. Pressure In The Lower Chest Or Upper Abdomen

Another sign of heart attack in women is pressure or discomfort in the lower chest or upper abdomen. Some women describe the feeling as being similar to a bra that is too tight.

Just like with chest pain, this pressure can go away for a while only to come back. If that happens to you, it could be a sign of a heart attack.

When the pressure happens in the lower chest area, many people mistake it for a stomach issue. Sometimes the discomfort seems to spread to other parts of your body, as well.

4. Jaw, Neck, Or Upper Back Pain

When there is an issue with your heart, it triggers nerves in that area and other areas of the body. You might experience pain in your jaw, neck, or upper back for no specific reason. If the discomfort or pain begins or worsens when you exert yourself, it’s a good sign of a heart attack.

This symptom isn’t as prevalent in men, but women often report the experience. The jaw pain typically occurs on the left bottom side, which is closest to the heart.

Pain in other parts of your body usually happens when the chest pain spreads. You might not even notice the chest pain first, though, so don’t rely on it as a warning. Sometimes the pain will happen suddenly and can even begin while you are sleeping at night.

5. Shortness Of Breath

Shortness of breath is an often-overlooked symptom of a heart attack in women. Since women’s bodies go through so many changes, it isn’t unusual to experience this symptom. It’s an important thing to watch for because it could be a serious indication.

The heart pumps oxygenated blood to your tissues and recycles oxygen-depleted blood through your lungs. This function can’t occur when the heart isn’t working properly, resulting in a lack of oxygen throughout your bloodstream. When this happens, you experience shortness of breath.

Leading up to a heart attack, a woman might experience shortness of breath without exertion. The breathless feeling will worsen as time goes on, as well. Plus, it might get worse when you lay down and improve when you are propped up.

6. Nausea Or Vomiting

When nausea or vomiting accompanies any of the other symptoms, it could indicate a heart attack. It’s often confused for food poisoning or other gastrointestinal problems, especially with upper abdomen discomfort.

Since the heart is your vital organ, the slightest blood flow problem can make you feel sick. If your heart isn’t getting enough blood flow, it starts to die, and your entire body suffers. You will feel an overall sense of being unwell, and your nausea will likely be intense.

7. Indigestion

Indigestion is a common symptom of a heart attack in women because the heart rests above the stomach. Sometimes, heart attacks are mistaken for indigestion, causing someone to believe they are fine. Indigestion typically eases when you rest, so if yours doesn’t go away, it could be something more serious.

If you experience indigestion that feels unusual or lasts for more than a couple of minutes, see a doctor immediately. Additionally, if you’ve never had indigestion before and it’s now regularly occurring, you should get it checked. Likewise, if intense indigestion happens suddenly, it could be a sign of a heart attack.

8. Fainting

Fainting, also known as syncope, is a serious warning that something is wrong, and it could be a heart attack. Feeling like you will faint isn’t normal, and it’s a sign of insufficient blood flow to the brain. This is especially true if it happens when you’re exercising or doing other strenuous activities.

If you feel weak or shaky, it could be a sign that you might faint. This feeling often occurs because of low blood pressure because the heart can’t pump enough oxygen. You might also experience anxiety, dizziness, or feeling lightheaded.

When to Call Emergency Services

Do you think you or someone else might be experiencing a heart attack? Act quickly! You should never ignore the signs of a heart attack.

At the First Sign of a Problem

If you think you or someone else might be having a heart attack, call emergency services immediately. Don’t wait to see if symptoms improve because it is better to call for help and be wrong than to wait. Every minute that you wait potentially causes more damage and could lead to death.

When Someone Experiences Upper Body Pain

Any chest discomfort or pain can indicate a heart attack. If it lasts more than a few minutes, call for help right away. If the pain spreads to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, don’t wait to call an ambulance.

If the Shortness of Breath Occurs with Other Signs

Shortness of breath with other issues can indicate a serious problem. Oftentimes, the person will break out in a cold sweat or feel faint and nauseous. If doing simple things like walking to the restroom causes the issue, call emergency personnel immediately.

The Person Becomes Extremely Weak

If someone suddenly becomes weak, it is a sign that oxygenated blood isn’t circulating. The person’s heartbeat might become irregular, and they could begin vomiting. Don’t assume these are signs of a virus, as it could be a heart attack.

Final Thoughts on Telltale Symptoms of Heart Attack in Women According to a Cardiologist

The symptoms of a full-blown heart attack in women differ from men, and the differences often lead to women not calling for help. A heart attack doesn’t happen suddenly, even if it might seem like it sometimes. There are usually signs in the weeks leading up to the event that indicates a problem is imminent.

Don’t wait to call for help if you think you or someone else is having a heart attack. The sooner help arrives and medical treatment begins, the higher the survival rate will be. Don’t diminish the symptoms and assume they are less serious or wait around to see if they get worse.

It is always better to call for help and get diagnostics tests to confirm you were wrong than risk losing a life. Every minute counts for heart disease, and knowing the symptoms of a heart attack in women can make all the difference. When you know what to watch for, you will immediately recognize any heart attack symptoms and know when to get help.

8 Hormone Imbalances That Make It Hard to Lose Weight

August 16, 2018 by Power of Positivity

As you well know, losing weight is more than diet and exercise. To nobody’s surprise, hormones can play a role as well. With that in mind, we want to share eight hormone imbalances that make it hard to lose weight.

Eight hormone imbalances that make it hard to lose weight

“…where your body stores excess weight is not a random occurrence but rather a complex hormonally driven process.” – Hormone Rebalance Centre (source)

Chronic inflammation

Studies show that long-term problems with inflammation may lead to weight gain and obesity. Chronic inflammation is also linked to cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

Dr. Mark Hyman, a licensed physician and New York Times bestselling author, recommends a 1- to 4-week anti-allergen protocol that may help deal with many problems associated with inflammation and weight gain. Dr. Hyman calls for eliminating “some foods that irritate the immune system more than others,” including:

Dairy: butter, cheese, milk, and yogurt
Gluten: barley, oats, rye, and wheat
Nightshade vegetables: bell peppers, eggplant, potatoes and tomatoes
Yeast, including fermented foods

High cortisol levels

Cortisol is the fuel that ignites our fight-or-flight system. Our primary stress hormone, cortisol also communicates with the brain to manage emotions like motivation. While it gets a bad rap, cortisol is essential to many bodily functions. For example, it helps keep inflammation down, regulates blood pressure, and manages our circadian rhythm (“sleep/wake cycle”).

But cortisol also increases blood sugar, and too much of it can boost the rate at which our body stores fat in cells. Of course, this malfunction can lead to weight gain.

Excess Estrogen

Certain forms of estrogen influence how the body manages weight gain. When estrogen levels are low – during a woman’s menstrual cycle, for example – the body’s metabolism slows, and this can result in weight gain.

Other causes of this form of hormone imbalances include:

anorexia
intense exercise
lactation
ovarian surgery

Hypothyroidism

Disorders of the thyroid are notorious for causing weight problems. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. When this happens, the metabolism is essentially handicapped; the body’s ability to convert fat into energy slows, and the chances of gaining weight increase drastically.

Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, oversleeping, and brain fog.

Low testosterone

Testosterone is the primary sex hormone in men and influences fat-burning, muscle mass, and skin tone in both sexes. Testosterone deficiency can result from a stressed-out lifestyle, poor diet, and obesity. Regarding the last, it is thought that low “T-count” can be both the cause and the effect. In other words, low testosterone is a potential catalyst for weight gain.

Most frustrating is that an individual may still experience weight gain with low T-counts despite a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Fortunately, treatment of low testosterone can effectively reverse any side effects of the condition.

Excess insulin

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that converts sugar glucose into energy. A proper balance of this hormone is crucial to ensuring normal blood sugar levels.

After we eat, pancreas cells are activated that release insulin into the bloodstream. Insulin then clings to and signals cells to absorb sugar and to use it for energy. When insulin levels too high, the body feels hungrier more frequently. As a result, we may overeat and experience difficulties in losing weight.

Menopausal imbalances

Menopause throws the female hormones through a loop (but you probably don’t need me to tell you that!). It’s the odd behavior of hormones that causes those lovely symptoms such as mood swings, cramps, hot flashes, fatigue, and night sweats.

As is the case with any type of hormone imbalances, weight gain may also result. Per the Mayo Clinic, menopause may occur between the ages of 40 to 50, with the average age being 51.

Serotonin imbalance

Imbalance of the brain chemical serotonin is commonly linked to depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Per a 2006 study published in the journal Neuron, serotonin – the neurotransmitter that regulates mood and sleep – inhibits cravings by acting on receptors that curb appetite while blocking other receptors that cause cravings.

It can be stated, then, that a lack of serotonin in the brain may increase appetite. Anecdotal evidence exists that humans are more likely to crave refined carbohydrates (e.g., sugar and starches) when deficient in serotonin.

Correcting hormone imbalances

Now that you have a good idea as to how and why hormone imbalance can cause weight loss, here are some ideas to help get your hormones back in sync!

Limit exposure to stress: Common stressors that may facilitate weight gain include trouble at work, financial difficulties, toxic relationships, and poor self-esteem.
Use progressive relaxation techniques: Active relaxation techniques include anything that takes your mind off of things. Get a massage, take a hot bath, or practice deep breathing.

Diet and exercise: While diet and exercise aren’t the “be all, end all” of weight loss, eating right and working out regularly can help maintain a healthy weight and balance hormones.

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Single Mom Missed A Class, But Professor’s Response Is Going Viral For Perfect Reasons

August 16, 2018 by Power of Positivity

“Told my professor I missed class yesterday bc I couldn’t find childcare & this was her response. I’m literally crying. So blessed/thankful.”

– @morganking on Twitter

“Childcare falls through sometimes, and it does for me as well, and I bring my kids to work. We all need people around us, people supporting us. Nobody can do this journey by themselves.”

– Dr. Sally Beville Hunter

A single mother’s struggle

This subheading is a bit misleading. Millions of single mothers struggle every day to make a living and care for their children.

When you Google “affordable/quality childcare,” you’ll be hit with over 1 million results, reflecting the growing demand for dependable options. Studies from Yale University and articles in the Washington Post emphasize the importance of high-quality care, and research from healthcare and childcare agencies continues to stress its benefits. If you’re looking for childcare services near Hoppers Crossing, you’ll find that there are many options available that can provide both affordability and quality, ensuring your child is well cared for in a nurturing environment.

Morgan King, a 21-year-old single mom, is a perfect example. In addition to working nights at a restaurant and caring for her infant daughter, King is studying recreational therapy at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville (UT). Her career goal: to assist children with disabilities.

Realizing that she’d have to miss class, King emailed her professor, Dr. Sally Hunter.

Bring her!

King emailed her professor and explained her situation. She didn’t have anyone to care for her baby daughter and couldn’t make it to class.

Most professors would do one of two things (from experience): shoot off a quick reply with something like “Ok, just read ‘x’ and study ‘y,'” or not bother to respond at all. In their defense, most ‘profs’ are busy people, and most lectures are not mandatory.

Dr. Sally Hunter is not most professors. Of course, Dr. Hunter outlined the lecture’s topics and what work needed to be done; but it was her second paragraph that really stood out – here it is verbatim and in original format:

“In the future, if you are having trouble finding someone to watch Korbyn, please feel free to just BRING HER with you to class. I would be absolutely delighted to hold her while I teach, so that you can still pay attention to the class and take notes. I work for the Department of CHILD and FAMILY Studies – so how terrible would it be, if I was unwilling to have a child visit our class? I’m very serious with this offer – just bring Korbyn with you!”

Mom and Professor go viral

When the Knoxville News Sentinel reported on King’s story, the Tweet had been shared over 5,000 times. Even the UT Chancellor (head of the school), Beverly Davenport, got in on the action. Davenport re-tweeted and then added: “Morgan, thanks for showing us challenges college students face. Prof Hunter, thanks for being part of the solution.”

Others responded in-kind – students, single moms, and others who are struggling. The underlying premise of most replies: admiring Dr. Hunter, advocating for single mothers, and the essentiality of simple acts of kindness.

Readers: Have you or your child ever been on the receiving end of someone else’s act of kindness? Please share!

Paying it forward

Dr. Hunter is quite a humble individual. (In all the articles read and referenced, she [subtly] redirected the spotlight.) In fact, the professor discussed her need for help at one point:

“I had Issac, my oldest son, 10 years ago. It was March and I didn’t finish the semester until May. It was my last semester of graduate coursework to get the Ph.D. My professor, Dr. Blanton, said ‘Why don’t you just bring him with you to class?'”

Dr. Hunter also points to her duties as a Professor. Working within UT’s Department of Child and Family Studies, she remains sensitive to the personal needs of students outside of the classroom.

A bigger issue

Childcare Aware of America, a non-profit institution that studies the effects of child care cites the following:

Research tells us that quality child care, for the first five years of a child’s development, provides “a (foundation) for future success and has long-term academic and social benefits (for) child and society.”

Affordable child care is not just a single mother issue; it is a problem that affects working families. At the macro level, child care (or lack thereof) has an impact on all of us. Children who are enrolled in quality programs “demonstrate lasting effects on IQ, (academic) and economic achievement, and lower incidences of childhood obesity and chronic illness.”

What do you all think of the story? Do you have any personal or professional insight on child care? Please do share with us!

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(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

References:
http://www.knoxnews.com/story/news/2017/06/24/absent-ut-student-got-incredible-response-professor/424874001/
http://www.scarymommy.com/professors-response-single-mom-student-missed-class-going-viral/
http://usa.childcareaware.org/advocacy-public-policy/resources/research/statefactsheets/
http://yaledailynews.com/blog/2016/10/13/lack-of-child-care-affects-low-income-families/
https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/tennessee/articles/2017-06-24/professor-offers-to-watch-students-baby-during-class

7 Foods That Cause Mucus In Your Body

August 16, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Many people only think about mucus or phlegm when they’re feeling ill. Mucus is that sticky, annoying substance that makes your nose feel blocked. Phlegm is very similar to mucus in that way. But it’s produced from your lungs instead. Mucus is different, as it’s mostly in your nose, and it can cause some nasty conditions such as sinusitis or make you wake up with crusty eyes and a puffy face. It might not surprise you that some foods cause mucus. Consuming these foods, especially when you are already under the weather, can make you feel worse.

The best way to avoid being affected by the effects of mucus is to rid your diet of foods that cause mucus production. That might not be very easy – and you don’t have to quit those foods cold turkey – but making a conscious effort to reduce them in your diet will yield effects straightaway. Eating these foods in moderation is also a good step to take. If you suffer from problems caused by excessive mucus, you’ll feel much better after a week of adjusting your diet. Without further ago, let’s get to this list of foods.

Here Are 7 Foods That Cause Mucus In Your Body

1. Milk and dairy

Cheese, milk, yogurt, and all other dairy products contain casein – molecules many believe may increase mucus secretions. Therefore, consuming a lot of dairy products means that there will be more mucus in your throat and sinuses. They also believe the lactose may be bad for mucus production, too.

So try replacing the milk in your coffee or cappuccino with a dairy alternative like almond. There are also a variety of plant-based milks that can do the trick – and feel free to experiment until you find the one you like. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some dairy-free cheese and ice cream! You’ll be surprised at the great tastes you can find.

Much information on thickening mucus after consuming dairy is anecdotal, and research is ongoing. Some scientists believe that any increase in mucus after dairy consumption is most likely a sensitivity or allergy. One study disputes that milk can cause mucus, calling it a myth.

Still other suggest that the perception of milk causing mucus might be due to the texture and viscosity of milk, which some may mistake for the feeling of mucus in the mouth and throat.

Long story short – talk with your doctor and ask it you could have a dairy sensitivity causing increases of mucus.

2. Sugar

As much as you love sugary treats, you need to be aware of the fact that sugars are one of those foods that cause mucus in your body. Even sugar in your coffee or tea is in danger of making your body produce more mucus, as well as processed fruits and even simple things like glazed fruits. Try replacing sugar with anything you can find; honey and agave nectar are always good alternatives. In baking, you can use more fruit, a natural sugar source.

In fact, consuming high amounts of sugar can lead to inflammation, which may increase mucus production. One study discusses how excessive fructose consumption (a type of sugar) can lead to inflammation and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

3. Meat and oil

This doesn’t mean that you need to turn vegetarian. However, if you do have the flu or a cough, it’s a good idea to avoid any meat or fish because they could make your mucus discharge even worse. In the long term, limit your meaty meals to several a week rather than eating meat daily. With fish, try to consume even less because fish is very rich in fatty acids and oils that can also contribute to mucus production.

4. Wheat

Some people are sensitive to wheat and may experience increased mucus production after consumption. The sensitivity to wheat and its potential effects on mucus production are usually linked to conditions like wheat allergy, celiac disease, or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

A study on wheat allergies notes that while some individuals may experience increased mucus production or respiratory symptoms after consuming wheat, these are not the primary or most common symptoms associated with wheat sensitivity or allergy.

5. Nuts

Some individuals are allergic to specific nuts, and an allergic reaction can manifest in various ways. Symptoms of a nut allergy can include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, and postnasal drip, all of which may stimulate mucus production. In severe cases, an allergic reaction to nuts (or various other foods, according to studies) can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.

6. Alcohol

No matter whether it’s beer, whiskey, vodka, or any other type of alcohol – drinking is discouraged while you’re ill because alcohol tends to dehydrate you. Dehydration means that the remaining mucus feels more concentrated in the body. If you’re thinking about replacing alcohol with soft drinks, take note that carbonated sugary drinks can dehydrate you, too. The best source of hydration while you’re ill is water – because there are no additives in it, and it can easily break down the mucus.

7. Fried foods

Your favorite fast-food burger and fries might be your go-to meal on the way home from a hectic or stressful day at work. But does it leave you feeling sluggish the next day? That’s because these foods can increase inflammation in the body, potentially leading to increased mucus production.

As a study explains the association between fried foods, inflammation, and potential health consequences. Fried foods often contain trans fats and are cooked at high temperatures. As a result, it can form harmful compounds that promote inflammation. It causes particular inflammation in the bowel and can lead to inflammatory bowle diseases.

Final thoughts on the foods that cause mucus in your body

It’s difficult to deal with excessive mucus because it feels like it’ll never go away – but it will, as long as you keep up the positive thinking and the healthy mucus-defeating diet! Continue to be positive and don’t deprive yourself of useful nutrients, though, and if you feel very ill, always consult your doctor!

Editorial Note 08/24/2023: Added updated studies and food products, according to updates in research

10 Bedtime Drinks That Burn Stomach Fat

August 16, 2018 by Power of Positivity

The road to losing weight, specifically stomach fat, can be such a discouraging process, especially when you have to deal with stubborn belly fat. But it is possible to trim off a muffin top even while you sleep. We want to share several bedtime drinks that will help burn stomach fat faster:

Here Are 10 Bedtime Drinks That Help Burn Stomach Fat

“Both belly bulge and love handles are about excess body fat, not lack of muscle… The best way to reduce these problem areas is to reduce your overall body fat percentage, and we all know that that requires diet and exercise.” – Jillian Michaels

1. Cucumber juice

Juice fresh cucumbers for a flavorful and healthy bedtime drink. Add water as desired if the cucumber blend is too strong to drink “straight”. To make the drink tastier, squeeze some lemons and grate ginger on the juice before drinking. Drink this every night for a month and you will notice your stomach fat trimming.

Cucumbers are low in calories but loaded with antioxidants, fiber, minerals, and vitamins that work for weight loss. An intake of cucumbers in plenty amounts won’t have you packing the pounds.

Instead, it helps the body level off its blood sugars and promotes hydration.

2. Lemon and cucumber juice

Do you notice how some restaurants serve water with slices of lemon? Drinking lemon water provides heaps of benefits, including losing stomach fat.

A study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine showed that people who drank lemon juice four times a day while fasting reduced their body fat mass and improved their lipid profile.

To make your bedtime lemon drink taste better and be more effective, combine the fruit with two cucumbers, an orange, and a pitcher of water. Add honey to taste and garnish this drink with mint as well, if you like.

3. Cucumber and cilantro drink

Here’s another drink filled with antioxidants that will help flush the toxins and bad fat from your body. Combine cucumber, a cup of cilantro (or fresh parsley), lemon, and half a glass of water in a blender.

Sprinkle the drink with grated ginger and a tablespoon of Aloe Vera juice. Let this combination sit for a few minutes before drinking it all the way down.

4. Ginger tea

Ginger has widely-known medicinal properties but a study published in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences revealed it also works effectively against obesity. Drinking ginger tea before bedtime also helps the body absorb nutrients better. Additionally, it aids in food digestion and alleviates stomach discomfort (especially if you’ve had a bad meal a few hours before going to bed).

If you want to make ginger tea tastier, squeeze in some lemon and add a tablespoon of honey to your drink. You can also make it into iced ginger tea if you’re drinking this concoction during the summer.

5. Pineapple juice

Pineapple adds positive value to your weight loss goals because it’s an antioxidant, low in calories and rich in fiber. According to the Joslin Diabetic Center, fiber-rich foods and drinks make you feel full without adding to your stomach fat.

Like lemon, a glass of cold, delicious, and freshly squeezed pineapple juice is always refreshing. However, you can enjoy this as a warm and soothing drink instead. Blend or squeeze pineapple juice with lemon.

Add slices or chunks of pineapples to your drink, if you like. If the fruit is sweet enough, you won’t need to add honey.

6. Strawberry with lemon and herbs

Strawberries and other berry extracts have phytochemical properties that aid in diet and protect the body from cancer and heart disease, according to a study in the Journal of Medicinal Food.

This fruit has components which block the hormones that trigger inflammation, raise blood sugar levels, and hinder weight loss.

Juice a lemon or lime and add a few slices of the peels into the cup. Then cut up strawberries and include herbs such as mint and tarragon into the mixture. Pour hot water over it and let this mixture settle together. Remove the lemon or lime peels and transfer the mixture to a jar. Pour cold water and ice and then add honey, depending on your preference. Drink away!

7. Dandelion tea

Dandelion tea is effective in relieving stomach bloating, heartburn, and other forms of stomach upset. As a natural diuretic, dandelion tea also helps flush out water weight so you will feel lighter after having a cup at bedtime.

8. Green tea

Green tea’s chemical composition is so complex that even experts debate on its health benefits. But scientists from Japan stated, in a 2017 study published in the journal Nutrients, that drinking green tea before bedtime can promote better sleep quality among middle-aged people.

The caffeine content found in green tea is low, so it helps the body become more relaxed. And if you sleep better, you can boost your metabolism better to prevent weight gain. But there’s an added benefit to this drink. Because green tea is an antioxidant, it also aids in weight loss and cutting down that unwanted stomach fat.

9. Apple cider vinegar juice

Whether freshly made or bought in stores, apple cider vinegar juice offers many health benefits. As it has antibiotic and antibacterial properties, this drink can help with stomach upset, bacteria-causing diarrhea, and intestinal spasms. Mix one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. If you prefer, you can combine this with lemon juice and a few slices of fresh apple.

10. Grapefruit and cinnamon juice

People who love a detoxifying diet mainly eat or drink grapefruit because it’s hydrating and filling. Aside from that, it’s packed with nutrients and helps with metabolism. Grapefruit juice may also be freshly blended or store bought. Extract at least half a glass from this fruit, which will be added to a syrup mixture.

You can make the syrup by mixing a glass of water, sugar to taste, and cinnamon sticks. Let this mixture simmer in a pan for seven minutes before adding the grapefruit and cold water in a pitcher. Garnish the drink with mint.

Final Thoughts on Trying These Drinks That May Help Melt Stomach Fat

These drink suggestions are so easy to prepare. You can modify or add more healthy ingredients to any of these bedtime drinks. If consumed regularly, you will soon see the effects of the drinks on your stomach fat. Remember, positive thinking and the will to lose weight is all you need to achieve your stomach fat weight loss goals!

Autistic Man Begins To Cry At Airport, Then Airline Worker Shows ‘Utmost Compassion’

August 15, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Strangers can change our lives in extraordinary ways. When someone reaches out to us in a moment of need or distress, it can turn our whole perspective upside down – or, right side up. Different people handle stress in different ways. Autistic people in particular have a hard time dealing with stress.

When stress piles on, it can be difficult to remember that there are people around us who would take a moment out of their day to help us out. Russell Lehmann discovered one such person while he was trapped in an airport during a stressful travel, and he was so moved that he spoke out about it.

Russell Lehmann is a motivational speaker. He talks about his experience with being autistic, which means he has a spectrum disorder involving symptoms such as difficulty with social situations as well as being overwhelmed by things that other people might not be. It’s a different way of experiencing the world, and Russell was on his way to give a speech about just this.

Unfortunately, he was having a terrible travel experience. He was trying to fly to Cincinnati to give a speech the next day, but was being met at every turn with missed connections and flight delays. It was starting to feel like he was never going to make it out of the airport at all. Russell was having a hard time handling the stress.

Autistic Man Begins To Cry At Airport, Then Airline Worker Shows ‘Utmost Compassion’

Finally, he just couldn’t hold it in. Russell started crying and had a total meltdown sitting there in the airport. Russell had managed to curl himself up behind an unoccupied ticket counter. He was hyperventilating and his muscles were shaking as he rocked himself back and forth, a common self-soothing method for autistic people.

Russell Lehmann: Speaker, Author, Advocate

He never expected anyone to approach him, but that’s just what one American Airlines employee did. The employee, named David, slowly approached Russell and asked him what was wrong. Russell was so distraught that he could hardly speak. Finally, he managed to get the words out: “I don’t know. I can’t think. I have autism.”

David could have simply walked away, but instead, he extended some much-needed compassion. He crouched down next to Russell, speaking to him calmly. He also explained to him that he would still be able to make it into Cincinnati that night. That flight would allow Russell to make it to his speech the next day.

David offered to help Russell reroute his flight. However, Russell was cautious and afraid of causing another meltdown after boarding another plane. After all, it would be a very tight space with a lot of stimuli and no way for Russell to shut it out or walk away if he needed to (which can greatly help someone who is autistic). David allowed him time to calm down and think about what he wanted to do. In fact, he even offered to buy Russell a slice of pizza!

Love What Matters/Facebook

David gave Russell space to calm himself down and think about his next move. Ten minutes later, he returned again. This time, David brought with him the pilot of the plane that Russell would be boarding if he wanted to reroute his flight. David had taken it upon himself to notify not only the pilot, but the rest of the flight crew about Russell’s situation.

He cleared a whole row of seats, so that Russell would have space to himself during the flight. Seeing such compassion and understanding from everyone involved, Russell decided to board the flight. David walked him down the runway, and even introduced him to each of the flight crew members.

Russell shared his story and the compassion that he was shown by these people online, and it got a massive response, with over 11,000 shares in just under 24 hours. It’s absolutely amazing what people can do for one another when they take the time to reach out and ask.

Russell Lehmann: Speaker, Author, Advocate

Something so simple and within his capabilities allowed David to take Russell’s horrible experience and turn it into something good. It’s a good reminder for all of us to do what we can to make other people’s lives easier. When more people find the compassion in their hearts to extend their energy to help others, it makes the world a better place, little by little.

Elderly Man Has An Unfortunate Accident In His Pants, But Woman’s Reaction Brought Him To Tears

August 15, 2018 by Power of Positivity

When we allow ourselves to connect with other people, it can be an amazing experience. Human beings are a social species that often get caught up in modern individualism. We avoid strangers if we can, and mind our own business unless absolutely necessary.

After all, everyone has their own struggles in life, and being able to see past our own problems can be incredibly difficult. Everyone is dealing with something. It can take great strength to be able to put aside our own troubles and reach out to someone else.

It can be difficult to believe, but there are people in the world who reach out to others, no matter the situation. Lisa Lemming Jackson is one of those people. It all happened on an otherwise ordinary shopping trip.

On a warm, early August day, Lisa Lemming Jackson, who lives in the state of Georgia, headed out for the supermarket to do some shopping. It was a routine trip, but as Lisa roamed through the aisles, weaving between pastries and pastas, she made eye contact with an elderly man.

Lisa Lemming Jackson/Facebook

Elderly Man Has An Unfortunate Accident In His Pants, But Woman’s Reaction Brought Him To Tears

The man was sitting in a motorized cart with all of his groceries, but he didn’t seem to be heading for the checkout. He had a pinched and pained look in his eyes. Lisa smiled at him, but she could tell that something wasn’t right.

Most people would quickly look away, and hurry on with the rest of their day, maybe hoping that someone else would have stopped to inquire if the man needed any assistance. Fortunately, Lisa wasn’t one of those people.

After passing him, Lisa realized that she was the only one who would say something. She circled back around, and reached out to the man. This simple act of kindness would end up changing them both. She asked if he was okay, and if he needed any help.

The elderly man’s eyes immediately began to fill with tears as he explained his situation. He currently had colon cancer, and while he was in the store he had a bad accident. His clothes were ruined, and he was afraid that if he stood up out of his cart, then the whole store would know. He didn’t know what to do, so he was stuck there, paralyzed by shame and the loss of his dignity.

Lisa Lemming Jackson/Facebook

Lisa called the grocery store staff. They immediately helped the man discreetly escape into the employee’s washroom, armed with wipes and fresh undergarments for him. They even gave him new clothes so that he would be able to leave the store.

The elderly man, despite battling through cancer, apologized and cried. He was anxious to leave, because his wife was back home and alone, and he wanted to get back to her. When they returned to gather his groceries, they had already been rung up and paid for.

The elderly man had fought in the Vietnam and Korean War, and like most veterans, felt very forgotten by the country that he has loved so much he risked his life fighting for. He was overwhelmed to discover that people still did care. After all, Lisa’s act of kindness had inspired the staff at the grocery store to ring up and pay for his groceries so he could get back to his wife.

Lisa sat with the elderly man, after all had been said and done, and they cried together. Lisa was so moved by his story, and felt so connected with him, that she began to share her own fears and her own life struggles. He imparted on her some sage wisdom that only comes with age and life experience, and the two of them began to feel as if humanity was a little more connected.

Lisa’s story is an inspiring one, reminding us all that other people are going through rough times, and that simply reaching out can make an enormous difference. Especially for veterans or people who are elderly, finding someone who will look at us and see a whole person can be difficult. It’s easy to avert our eyes and walk away when it seems like someone needs help, hoping the next person has more time than us. When we take the time out to connect with people, it makes the world a better place.

https://youtu.be/JQMK_4Nxdeg

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