Health Tips for Mind, Body and Soul

6 Plants For Your Bedroom to Help You Sleep

2016-03-09T03:12:00.001-08:00

Have trouble in sleeping at night??? Insomnia can be a very disturbing condition, as after a long and tiring work day all you want to do is get a good night’s rest. But sometimes this just isn’t possible, because half of the night passes and you are still turning around in your bed wondering when will you fall asleep? Prescribing medication is not the best option, as there are always alternative and natural solutions. Such a home remedy is to fill your home with plants as they will have a very positive effect on your health and well-being. Plants have some amazing healing features, can reduce anxiety and purify the air inside your home, a perfect combination that will reduce the amount of sleepless nights in a year. But in order to take a full advantage of the healing power of plants, you have to be informed about which type of plants can help you reduce insomnia.

The Center for disease control and prevention stated that insufficient sleep is major health problem lot of people are suffering from and spent thousands of dollars to get the solution.If you have done meditation,relaxation techniques and other remedies but still did not find a proper solution to get sleep at night then this article will help you.

Lavender - healthmagweb.blogspot.com

LAVENDER

It’s also probably the most well-known of all plants when it comes to inducing sleep and reducing anxiety levels. Research backs up these claims, with lavender scents shown to slow down heart rate, lower blood pressure and levels of stress.

In one study, the smell of lavender reduced crying in babies, sending them into a deeper sleep; while simultaneously reducing stress in both mother and child – something all new mothers will be happy to hear!

In women, lavender has been shown to increase light sleep, and decrease rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep and the amount of time to wake after first falling asleep, with opposite effects in men.

While there are a host of lavender scented products on the market to help you get a full night’s rest (from scented sleep masks to lavender mattresses) why not go for the most natural and cost effective option – a beautiful lavender plant placed on your nightstand.

Jasmine - healthmagweb.blogspot.com

JASMINE

Who doesn’t love the scent of lavender? Jasmine is a colorful plant whose smell helps in improving the quality of sleep and alertness and keeps you to be refresh next day.Just by smelling this plant it helps to reduce stress and anxiety.

Snake Plant - healthmagweb.blogspot.com

SNAKE PLANT

What’s great about this plant is that it emits oxygen at night time whilst simultaneously taking in carbon dioxide – something we naturally produce when breathing. All this leads to a purer quality of air and a better night’s sleep.

The Snake Plant also filters some nasty but common household toxins (namely formaldehyde, trichloroethylene and benzene) from the air.

Aloe Vera - healthmagweb.blogspot.com

ALOE VERA

Aloe Vera plant is an excellent indoor plant because it has lot of benefits and is easy to keep alive.Aloe Vera is listed as NASA’s top most air improving plants and also shown to emit oxygen during nights.Increase in oxygen supply may help with insomnia and helps in improving the quality of sleep.

Aloe Vera is also known as the ‘plant of immortality’ and can be reproduced easily.Keep this excellent medicinal plant all over you home for maximum benefits.

Golden Pothos - healthmagweb.blogspot.com

GOLDEN POTHOS

Golden pothos plants need bright, indirect light. Don't overwater or you'll end up with a case of root rot, reports Wisconsin Horticulture.

Those with a busy schedule will particularly welcome this ivy-like vine. Not only will you have a better quality of sleep but you need not worry too much about nurturing it – a couple of hours of morning sun and a little water once a week is all it requires.

It makes a great hanging plant too – which curbs its invasive nature and keeps its mildly toxic leaves out of the reach of pets and children.

English Ivy - healthmagweb.blogspot.com

ENGLISH IVY

English Ivy plant is a classy and easy to grow.NASA has named it the NUMBER ONE air purifying plant.This plant is particularly beneficial to those who suffer from Asthma and breathing problems at night.. Studies have shown that having English ivy in the home helps to reduce airborne mold up to 94%. Since contaminants in the air are a major trigger of allergies, asthma and other breathing problems, this affordable plant may help to significantly improve the quality of sleep.

5 Easy Ways to Burn Fat Fast Without Exercise

2016-02-27T20:31:00.000-08:00

The human body is a remarkably adaptable machine. Even if years and years of neglect have allowed pound after pound of fat to fill out your frame, you can rid yourself of that lard at a much faster rate than you brought it on board. In that sense, time is your side!

Take these five easy-to-implement tips to heart, and progress will come in a hurry!

Drinking Water Helps Maintain the Balance of Body Fluids

1. DRINK MORE WATER.

Water is the medium in which most cellular activities take place, including the transport and burning of fat. In addition, drinking plenty of calorie-free water makes you feel full and eat less. Drink at least 1 ounce of water per 2 pounds of bodyweight a day (that's 100 ounces for a 200-pound person). Keep a 20-ounce water bottle at your desk, fill it five times a day, and you're set.

2. EAT A FULL, BALANCED BREAKFAST.

"Your body has been starving all night long, and it needs nutrients to rebuild itself," says Matarazzo. "If you just catch something quick on the run instead of eating a full meal, it negatively impacts your workout, and everything else you do during the day." Eat sufficient protein (30-40 grams), a complex carbohydrate, like oatmeal, and a piece of fruit to start your day off right.

3. EAT 5-6 MEALS A DAY.

Dieters often decrease the number of daily meals in an attempt to reduce calories—a big no-no. "If you eat six meals a day versus three with the same total calories, you can lose more fat because more meals burn more calories [by increasing thermogenesis, the production of heat, in the body]," says Aceto. Calculate how many calories you want to consume per day (see tip 3), and spread them evenly across 5-6 meals.

4. INCREASE YOUR PROTEIN.

Increasing protein intake will increase your metabolism and help to maintain your muscle mass, all of which helps with fat-burning. In fact, your body burns more calories when you eat protein than when you digest either fats or carbs.

This may explain why the fat-burning effects of eating more protein were confirmed in a study published in the American Journal of Physiology. One group was fed a high-protein diet (just over 1 gram per pound of body weight per day) while the second group consumed an amount closer to the lower recommendation of the RDA (recommended dietary allowance). The group eating the higher-protein diet burned the most fat.

5. INCREASE VEGETABLE CONSUMPTION.

Vegetables are nutrient-dense, meaning they pack maximum nutrition value with minimal calories, leaving you more full on fewer calories. Consume five servings a day of veggies, whether as a snack, on a sandwich or on the side of a chicken breast. Order your next burger with fresh vegetables instead of french fries.

9 Signs Of Mouth Cancer

2016-02-27T17:36:00.001-08:00

Oral cancer kills as many Americans as skin or cervical cancer and is rising among women, young people, and nonsmokers. Over 25% of oral cancer victims do not smoke or abuse alcohol. The National Cancer Institute estimates that about 40,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with mouth or throat cancer in 2012.

Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, can also affect a patient’s dental health. Common symptoms include dry mouth; difficulty chewing, swallowing, tasting or speaking; tooth decay; a burning feeling in the mouth or throat; mouth sores; and infections in the mouth.

According to the National Institute of Dental Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), over half of those in the U.S. survive from oral cancer after five years. If this condition is caught early enough, the chances of successful treatment are high.

Dentists look for early signs of mouth cancer during regular checkup appointments, but it's also important for you to recognize these warning signals so you can bring them to the attention of your dentist right away.

Signs and Symptoms

Mouth cancer can occur anywhere in the mouth, including the lips, tongue and throat, as well as the salivary glands, pharynx, larynx and sinuses. And because early detection is crucial in overcoming this disease, you'll want to visit your doctor immediately if any of the following symptoms persist for more than two weeks:

Sores, swellings, lumps or thick patches anywhere in or around your mouth or throat
Areas of red or white lesions in your mouth or lips
The feeling of a lump or object stuck in your throat
Swellings that make wearing dentures uncomfortable
Numbness, pain or tenderness anywhere in your mouth, including your tongue
Pain in one of your ears but without any loss of hearing
Trouble moving your jaw or tongue, or problems with chewing, swallowing or speaking
Loose teeth with no apparent dental cause
Lingering sore throat or hoarseness

How It Occurs

Although the exact cause of oral cancer is unclear, there are certain lifestyle factors that can put someone at risk for this disease. Tobacco of any kind – cigarettes, cigars, pipes and smokeless tobacco – increase your risk for oral cancer. In fact, the Mouth Cancer Foundation reports 90 percent of those with oral cancer consume tobacco. Heavy use of alcohol also increases a person's chances of developing oral cancer, and the NIDCR says your risk is even higher when using both tobacco and alcohol.

In addition to tobacco and alcohol, age and eating habits can influence your risk as well. Most oral cancers occur in people over the age of 40, and a diet that is deficient in fruits and vegetables can make it easier to contract. Keep in mind sun exposure can cause cancer on the lips. More recently, there has been a rise in a subset of oral cancers associated with the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV 16).

Oral Cancer Screening and Treatment

Oral cancer examinations by your dentist are quick, painless and crucial to detecting it in its early stages. The American Dental Association (ADA) explains that during a routine checkup of your teeth and gums, your dentist also visually checks your lips and face for signs of spreading beyond your mouth. He or she may also palpate the neck and jaw area, and examine both the top and underside of your tongue. These oral cancer screenings should be done every six months.

A dentist who suspects cancer will recommend a biopsy of the area, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). With a positive diagnosis, surgery may be needed to treat the affected area, and often this surgery is followed by radiation and chemotherapy treatment.

The oral cavity includes your lips, cheek lining, gums, front part of your tongue, floor of the mouth beneath the tongue and the hard palate that makes up the roof of your mouth. The throat (pharynx) starts at the soft part of the roof of your mouth and continues back into your throat. It includes the back section of your tongue as well as the base where the tongue attaches to the floor of your mouth.

Your Best Option

When in doubt, seek prevention! You should already practice daily oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay and gum disease: brushing regularly with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily and limiting sweets. But by regulating certain lifestyle choices – smoking, alcohol use and sun exposure, for example – you can significantly lower your risk of developing oral cancer.

Ultimately, if you know what to look for and see your dentist for regular screenings, early signs of mouth cancer can be identified and taken care of before they become a serious problem.

8 Tips How to Eat to Manage Diabetes

2016-02-27T05:55:00.000-08:00

Diabetes is on the rise, yet most cases are preventable with healthy lifestyle changes. Some can even be reversed. Taking steps to prevent and control diabetes doesn’t mean living in deprivation; it means eating a tasty, balanced diet that will also boost your energy and improve your mood. You don’t have to give up sweets entirely or resign yourself to a lifetime of bland food. With these tips, you can still take pleasure from your meals without feeling hungry or deprived.

Eat regular meals Plate

1. Eat regular meals Plate

Spacing meals evenly throughout the day will help control your appetite and blood glucose levels – especially if you are on twice-daily insulin.

Opt for slowly absorbed carbohydrates

2. Opt for slowly absorbed carbohydrates

All carbohydrates (carbs) affect blood glucose levels, so be conscious of how much you eat and opt for carbs that are more gradually absorbed. Try pasta, basmati or easy-cook rice; granary, pumpernickel or rye bread; new potatoes, sweet potatoes and yams; oat-based cereals, such as porridge or natural muesli.

Cut the fatcarbs

3. Cut the fatcarbs

Eat less fat – particularly saturated fat. Try unsaturated fats and oils, especially monounsaturated fats like extra virgin olive oil and rapeseed oil, as these types of fat are better for your heart. Use skimmed or semi-skimmed milk and other low-fat dairy products, while grilling, steaming or baking foods is healthier than frying. Remember that all fats contribute similar amounts of calories, so limit your overall intake if you are aiming to lose weight.

Five portions of fruit and vegetables every day

4. Five a day

Aim for at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day to give your body the vitamins, minerals and fibre it needs. A portion is: 1 piece of fruit, like a banana or apple, 1 handful of grapes, 1 tablespoon (30g) dried fruit, 1 small glass (150ml) of fruit juice or fruit smoothie, 3 heaped tablespoons vegetables.

Eat plenty of beans

5. Eat plenty of beans

Beans, lentils and pulses are all low in fat, high in fibre and cheap to buy. They don’t have a big impact on blood glucose and may help to control blood fats such as cholesterol. Try kidney beans, chickpeas, green lentils, and even baked beans. Include in soups and casseroles, cold in salads, in falafel, bean burgers and low-fat houmous and dahls.

Eat more fish

6. Eat more fish

All types of fish are healthy, provided they’re not coated in batter or fried, but oily fish such as mackerel, sardines, salmon and trout are particularly good for you. They are rich in omega-3 (polyunsaturated fat) which helps protect against heart disease, which people with diabetes are at higher risk of. Aim to eat two portions of oily fish a week.,

Cut back on sugar

7. Cut back on sugar

Having diabetes doesn’t mean you need to eat a sugar-free diet. You can include some sugar as part of a healthy, balanced diet, provided you don’t over do it. Just aim to have less of it. You can also use other sweeteners as an alternative to sugar. Some easy ways to cut back on your sugar intake include choosing sugar-free drinks, buying canned fruit in juice rather than syrup and reducing or cutting out sugar in tea and coffee. But remember, sugary drinks are an excellent treatment for hypos (hypoglycaemia – low blood glucose level).

Reduce your salt

8. Reduce your salt

Having too much salt increases risk of high blood pressure. This in turn increases your risk of heart disease and stroke, which people with diabetes are already at higher risk of. Reduce salt in your diet to 6g or less a day. Try cutting back on processed foods which account for about 70 per cent of our salt intake. You can also try flavouring foods with herbs and spices instead of salt.

Quinoa: 9 Health & Nutritional Benefits

2016-02-27T03:28:00.002-08:00

Quinoa - Health and Nutritional Benefits

"Quinoa is a good source of protein, fiber, iron, copper, thiamin and vitamin B6," said Kelly Toups, a registered dietician with the Whole Grains Council. It’s also "an excellent source of magnesium, phosphorus, manganese and folate." Toups emphasized that a "'good source' means that one serving provides at least 10 percent of the daily value of that nutrient, while 'excellent source' means that one serving provides at least 20 percent of the daily value of that nutrient."

Often used as a substitute for rice, quinoa is commonly considered to be a grain and is usually referred to as such, but is actually a seed. "The yellowish pods are the seed of a plant called Chenopodium quinoa, native to Peru and related to beets, chard and spinach," wrote Nicole Spiridakis in a story for NPR. When cooked, quinoa is soft and fluffy, with a slightly nutty taste. It can also be made into flour, flakes and various foods like pasta and bread, according to the Grains and Legumes Nutrition Council.

White Quinoa, Red Quinoa, and Black Quinoa

1. Contains All Amino Acids

One of the most impressive qualities of Quinoa is its protein make-up. It’s not animal source of protein but boasts some pretty good numbers. The protein alone would be enough to eat it, but it contains all 8 of the amino acids that your body needs to truly function at its best. There are supplements out there that you can buy to get all of those amino acids in one place, or you can start eating Quinoa daily to get them from a natural food source.

2. High in Fiber

The fiber content in Quinoa is what gets many people interested in eating it. If you have trouble thinking of ways to increase your fiber and have resorted to buying and eating fiber bars or fiber fortified cereals to get the job done, you might be better off getting a supply of Quinoa. It contains a fifth of how much fiber you need each day in every one cup serving. That’s pretty impressive considering that most Quinoa recipes are filled with other foods like black beans that have a good amount of fiber so you can get a substantial portion of your fiber needs met in one meal.

3. High in Riboflavin

Riboflavin is also known as Vitamin B2, part of the family of B Vitamins and responsible for providing much needed antioxidants to assist the body with a number of functions. It also helps with enzyme performance and oxygen delivery throughout the entire body. It’s a pretty important vitamin. Six percent of your daily needs per 100 grams of Quinoa might not sound like a lot, but many foods contain a bit of riboflavin, so it adds up throughout the day, Quinoa just gives it a nice contributing boost.

4. Contains Lysine

One special amino acid that Quinoa contains is called Lysine. Lysine is usually found in sports supplements by those trying to add lean muscle to their body. It’s been said to also help strengthen the immune system, so Quinoa is great to eat during those months when everyone seems to be getting sick. It’s also been proven to help raise serotonin levels, which is a way to help you feel more relaxed and get into a calm state. Instead of using a supplement to get it, you can simply start eating more Quinoa.

5. Rich in Manganese

Manganese is something you definitely don’t want to go without for any stretch of time, and with Quinoa you won’t have to because it provides almost half of what you need in just one serving. The symptoms of being low on manganese include having high blood pressure levels, high cholesterol levels, neurological problems, hearing impairments, and more. The number one cause of running a manganese deficiency is not eating enough foods that are rich in it. That’s why making Quinoa a part of your lifestyle is a good idea.

6. Has Antiseptic Properties

During the processing of Quinoa there are saponins which are removed from it and then reused as an antiseptic, as well as a detergent. This shows just one more aspect of this superseed. There is some misperception as to what Quinoa is exactly, whether it’s a grain or a seed. The part that is edible is the seed, which makes it great for grain-free diets and diet plans. But the plant that it grows on is grain-like which causes the confusion. There are many benefits to the plant, and it shows just how versatile it can be, much the same way aloe can be eaten, and used to treat the skin.

7. Supports a Gluten-Free Diet

When you’ve gone gluten free either for medical reasons or for dietary ones, you’ll quickly find out that while there may be more GF options than there were a decade ago, there is still a lot of room for more products. In the meantime you can stay gluten-free by using Quinoa. It’s not a grain, it’s a seed, and it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten in it, so you can feel free to enjoy it in loads of different Quinoa recipes without worrying if it’s going to upset your system.

8. Helps You Avoid Getting Fat

The fiber in Quinoa helps the body get rid of unneeded fat, while also helping you to eat less by making you feel fuller longer. This will help you eat less overall, as well as help your digestive system process. The overall result is that if you have a problem with overeating, or a sluggish digestion, Quinoa can help on both counts. The results of adding Quinoa to your diet can typically be felt right away, as you start to feel lighter both by not eating as much, and having more regularity than you currently do.

9. Helps Lower Cholesterol

It’s the fiber once again that provides the benefits here, this time helping to lower your cholesterol. Many people resort to cholesterol-lowering drugs, and it’s always important to listen to your doctor’s advice. But with dietary changes and you doctor’s guidance you can avoid or reduce the amount of medication you have to take to keep your cholesterol in check. Quinoa makes it easy since it’s can be used in a myriad of ways, and you won’t feel like you’re eating a special diet of any sort, or missing out on the foods you love.

12 New Sex Positions Should Try

2016-02-26T23:04:00.000-08:00

This is the year to really heat things up in the bedroom!
Romance between you and your partner in the bedroom slowing down? Getting tired of trying the same old sex positions? Or maybe you fancy a bit of fun outside the bedroom? We have the top 12 new sex positions everyone needs to know about!

Trying new sex positions isn't just for that exciting honeymoon period, anyone can rekindle the spark with their long-term partner by trying something new. You don't have to be super flexible or wildly adventurous either - we have ideas for anyone to try!

Whether you decide to spice things up with a 'sultry saddle' one night, or try a 'spider' the next, we've included easy-to-follow pictures along with a full explanation, difficultly rating and a fun rating - you can even click through to read more about every position.

Why not work your way through the gallery until you get to number one - the most popular of all our sex positions, as voted for by you. That one must be pretty close to guaranteed satisfaction, then!

Every sex position worth knowing about is right here, so take a look and we guarantee things in your bedroom will be becoming less of a flicker and more of a full-blown fire in no time!

Disclaimer: Always make sure your partner is comfortable and up for trying new things in your sex life, no matter what that may be.

1. Handcuffs

How to do it: You’ll need a waist-high surface like a countertop or table for this position. The woman faces the table, bends over, and rests her body on the surface. The man enters her from behind. He grabs her hands, pulling her arms back towards him.

Expert tip: This is a great position if you want to play around with domination and submission, since the woman is pinned in place and doesn’t have much control.

2. Sideways Straddle

How to do it: The man lies on his back. He bends one knee and rests the foot of the same leg on the bed. The woman turns her body so she’s facing his upright thigh. She straddles his leg, resting one knee on either side, and lowers down onto his penis. From there, she rocks back and forth, grinding her clitoris against his thigh.

Expert tip: This one can be a bit tricky to get into at first, but it’s an amazing position for female orgasm since the woman is getting so much clitoral stimulation. The woman can add a little bit of lube to her clitoris to make the grinding sensation feel even better.

3. Lotus

How to do it: The man sits upright, with his legs crossed (or as close to crossed as he can get!) in front of him. The woman faces him and lowers down onto his penis. She wraps her legs around his back so she’s also cross-legged.

Expert tip: This is a fantastic position for slow and intimate, but still intense sex. Since you’re mainly grinding against each other and can’t get a lot of in-and-out penetration, it’s a solid choice for men who want to last longer. It also works well for women who need a grinding motion to reach climax.

4. Upright Doggy

How to do it: In this variation of traditional Doggystyle, the woman drapes her body over the back of a sofa or props up against a large headboard instead of being on all fours. She’s still on her knees, but her body is more upright. The guy is in the same position as Doggystyle, and enters her from behind.

Expert tip: This position gives both partners easier access to the woman’s clitoris. Either partner can stroke her clitoris with fingers or a sex toy.

5. Over The Edge Lotus

How to do it: In this variation (of the position described on the previous slide), the guy scoots over to the edge of the bed so he can rest his feet flat on the floor.

Expert tip: If flexibility is not your forte, you’ll find this variation of Lotus much easier to pull off. The woman has a bit more range of motion too, so she can slide up and down the full length of his penis.

6. Leaning Cowgirl

How to do it: The man lies flat on his back, and the woman straddles him. She slowly leans back, propping her hands behind her for support.

Expert tip: This is a great position for giving the man a show. The woman can masturbate right in front of him, showing him exactly what she’s doing to herself.

7. Legsplitter

How to do it: The woman lays on her back, with one leg flat on the bed and the other leg up in the air. The man straddles the leg that’s on the bed, and the woman rests her other leg on his shoulder.

Expert tip: This position creates a really deep, full sensation. It’s great for hitting the G-spot. It’s easy to maneuver into from Missionary, but still unusual enough to feel new.

8. Crabwalk

How to do it: Remember doing the crabwalk in PE class? You’re going to get into the same position here, with your stomach facing up. The guy’s butt rests on the bed or floor. The woman can start off straddling the man, then slowly bend backwards until she’s resting on her hands.

Expert tip: This position is fun because it’s acrobatic and pretty unusual. You can use it to take a breather from more intense positions. The woman can put on a bit of a show by slowly and sensually grinding against the guy.

9. Reverse Cowgirl

How to do it: You’ve done Cowgirl, but have you flipped it around yet? In this variation, the man lies flat on his back. The woman straddles him, facing his feet. The woman has a lot of options for changing the angle of penetration. She can lean back slightly, sit fully upright, or bend forward to rest on her hands or elbows.

Expert tip: All that control ups the woman’s chances of being able to orgasm. She can easily reach down and stroke her clitoris, or lean back to hit her G-spot. The man gets an incredible view.

10. Standing Assist

How to do it: Both partners stand up, facing each other. The woman rests one foot on a short piece of furniture, like a stool or a side table.

Expert tip: 2016 can be the year that you finally try standing sex! Having the woman’s leg propped up can make for easier entry. A bit of lube will also help things along. If you’re feeling acrobatic, the woman can wrap her leg around the man’s waist, or stretch it all the way up to rest on his shoulder.

11. Assisted Cowgirl

How to do it: The man lies on a narrow piece of furniture like a sturdy coffee table or settee. The woman stands flat on her feet and crouches over him with one leg on either side. She’s totally in control, and can bounce up and down or grind on top of him.

Expert tip: This one is tricky because it requires a piece of furniture that is just right. But being flat on her feet allows the woman a much wider range of motion than standard Cowgirl. This is a great position for a super intense quickie.

12. Twisted Missionary

How to do it: This position is similar to Missionary, only the woman is on her side with her legs scissored open and resting flat on the bed.

Expert tip: Like the legsplitter, this position is really easy to get into from Missionary, but it still feels like you’re doing something new. The guy can caress her while the woman can play with her clitoris.

4 Easy Steps to Prevent Zika Virus

2016-02-26T22:37:00.000-08:00

A child born in Brazil with microcephaly. Her mother was infected with the Zika virus while pregnant.

If you’ve heard about the Zika virus and are wondering what it is, you’re not alone. Cases of this emerging infectious disease are soaring in the Americas and "spreading explosively," according to World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Margaret Chan, MD. Many U.S. states are reporting cases of travelers bringing the infection back with them. Although usually spread by mosquitoes, Zika can also be transmitted through sex. One case of sexual transmission was confirmed in Texas in early February, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently investigating 14 additional reports of possible sexual transmission of the virus.
For most people, the Zika virus causes only a brief, mild flu-like illness. But in pregnant women it has been linked to an alarming increase in the rate of the birth defect known as microcephaly — a debilitatingly small head and brain size. The clusters of birth defects linked to the Zika virus are an international public health emergency, according to the WHO. Dr. Chan characterizes the situation as an "extraordinary event and a public health threat to other parts of the world."
The CDC posted a travel alert advising pregnant women to delay travel to areas where Zika is active. The travel alert list continues to expand and now includes 34 countries or territories, most of them in the Americas.
The CDC's newest guidelines recommend that pregnant women coming back from these areas get tested for Zika. Two pregnant women in Illinois tested positive for the virus after recent travel, reports the Illinois Department of Public Health, as well as three pregnant women in Florida. In addition, the CDC advises men who have a pregnant partner to use condoms if they live in or travel to areas with Zika infection.
A baby born with microcephaly in Oahu, Hawaii, had been infected with Zika, according to a press release from the Hawaii Department of Health. The child's mother had previously lived in Brazil — a Zika hot zone with up to 1.3 million cases of infection. More U.S cases among pregnant travelers are under investigation by the CDC.
With the 2016 summer Olympic Games coming up in Rio de Janeiro, public health experts are worried that the virus may spread far beyond Latin America. The World Health Organization expects Zika to spread to all but two countries in the Americas: Canada and Chile. Athletes who are concerned about Zika should consider skipping the games, the U.S. Olympic Committee now says.
Given the possible link to birth defects, preventing the spread of Zika is critical, especially for women in their childbearing years.

Mosquitoes, including Aedes aegypti, spread Zika virus

1. Wear long sleeved shirts and pants

Because there is no vaccine to prevent Zika, the "best way to prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes is to avoid being bitten," the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) wrote on its site. In areas with active Zika cases, you can lower your risk of infection by layering up and giving mosquitoes fewer chances to come into contact with your skin.
"Protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites," the CDC states. "Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants."
If you have a child, dress your offspring in long sleeved clothing that covers a lot of their skin. Also be sure to cover your crib, stroller, or baby carrier with mosquito netting, the CDC states.

2. Use Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellents

The CDC recommends using EPA-registered insect repellents and following these simple directions:

Follow the product label instructions.

Reapply insect repellent as directed by the repellent.

Avoid spraying repellent on the skin under clothing.

Apply sunscreen before applying insect repellent if you're using both

The virus can be can also be "readily controlled through effective mosquito control procedures, such as destroying the infected insects and larvae, or insecticide use," as reported by the Guardian.
The CDC recommends not using insect repellent on babies younger than two months old. It's also crucial to avoid applying insect repellent onto a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, cut, or irritated skin.

3. Treat clothes and materials with permethrin or buy permethrin-treated items

Permethrin is widely used as an insect repellent and is on the WHO's List of Essential Medicines. The CDC recommends treating your clothes with permethrin as a Zika prevention method.
"If treating items yourself, follow the product instructions carefully," the CDC states. "Do NOT use permethrin products directly on skin. They are intended to treat clothing."
Permethrin products are available for purchase on Amazon, at REI, and at Walgreens, among other stores.

4. If you're pregnant, avoid regions where Zika is active

The CDC is advising pregnant women to stay away from the 22 countries that have experienced Zika outbreaks. Experts have warned that the Zika virus may cause children to have microcephaly, a rare condition that is categorized by an abnormally small head. The CDC has also advised women who are considering becoming pregnant to visit a doctor before going to active Zika regions, according to The New York Times.
"Pregnant women in any trimester should consider postponing travel to the areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing," the CDC states. "Pregnant women who do travel to one of these areas should talk to their doctor or other healthcare provider first and strictly follow steps to avoid mosquito bites during the trip."
The CDC adds that it's safe to use an EPA-registered insect repellent if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

10 Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

2016-02-24T07:12:00.001-08:00

Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, soluble fiber, and even a little bit of protein, these tiny seeds can elevate just about any meal or snack to a nutritional powerhouse.

Chia seeds have been a staple in Mayan and Aztec diets for centuries. Today, they draw the interest of many people for their health benefits and uses in cooking. It turns out chia seeds are a rich source of nutrients and antioxidants.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Chia seeds are rich in polyunsaturated fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids. Chia seeds' lipid profile is composed of 60 percent omega-3s, making them one of the richest plant-based sources of these fatty acids -- specifically, of alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA. The omega-3s in chia seeds can help reduce inflammation, enhance cognitive performance and reduce high cholesterol.

Fiber

Fiber is associated with reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol and regulating bowel function. Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, with a whopping 10 grams in only 2 tablespoons. That is one-third of the daily recommended intake of fiber per day.

Antioxidants

Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals, aging and cancer. The high antioxidant profile also helps them have a long shelf life. They last almost two years without refrigeration.

Minerals

Two tablespoons of chia seeds contain 18 percent of the DRI for calcium, 35 percent for phosphorus, 24 percent for magnesium and about 50 percent for manganese. These nutrients help you prevent hypertension and maintain a healthy weight, and are important for energy metabolism and a part of DNA synthesis.

Satiety

Satiety is the feeling of being full and satisfied, which helps lower food cravings between meals. The combination of protein, fiber and the gelling action of chia seeds when mixed with liquids all contribute to their satiating effects.

10 Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

Gluten-Free

Chia seeds contain no gluten or grains. Therefore, all of the nutritional benefits of chia seeds can be obtained on a gluten-free diet.

Egg Replacer

The outer layer of chia seeds swells when mixed with liquids to form a gel. This can used in place of eggs to lower cholesterol and increase the nutrient content of foods and baked goods. To make the egg replacement, mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let sit for 15 minutes.

Can Be Digested Whole

Unlike flaxseeds, which are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and minerals, chia seeds do not need to be ground in order to obtain their nutrient or egg- replacement benefits.

Dyslipidemia

A study published in the "British Journal of Nutrition" showed that chia seeds as a dietary fat source can lower triglycerides and cholesterol levels while increasing HDL or "good" cholesterol. The study also found that when substituting chia seeds for other fat sources, such as corn oil, the ALA was able to prevent high triglyceride levels and reduce central obesity.

Blood Sugar Regulation

Chia seeds can play an important role in regulating insulin levels. They can reduce insulin resistance and decrease abnormally high levels of insulin in the blood.

15 Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar

2016-02-23T05:43:00.000-08:00

15 Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar

An apple a day keeps the doctor away is a very famous saying. Now, you can add a new twist to this saying by replacing the apple with apple cider vinegar. A daily dose of apple cider vinegar is also very effective in keeping the doctor away. It is a quick and effective ingredient for your hair, skin, cleaning coffee makers, removing coffee and tea stains from ceramic cups, polishing armor, killing weeds, making pickles as well as used for salad dressing. Apple cider vinegar is such a useful ingredient that you cannot resist the use of this ingredient every single day. It is not just used for helping you out in the kitchen and for cleaning things, but it also has many natural benefits. It is rich in calcium, potassium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, sodium and fluorine. It is also rich in vitamins like A, B1, B2, C, E, pectin and bioflavanoid. It is such a useful ingredient that you need to use it in your daily routine.

Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar

1. Detoxifying Your Home

Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting the apple juice to form hard apple cider. Then it undergoes a second fermentation process where it becomes apple cider vinegar.
• Using the apple cider vinegar in place of other products in your home will help you to decrease the consumption and dependence on unnatural chemicals in your homes every day.
• Regular use of apple cider vinegar will provide a healthy environment and surrounding in your home.

2. Regulates Skin pH

Apple cider vinegar is found to be an excellent ingredient that will help in removing age spots, ace scars, and warts apart from toning your skin.
Procedure:
•   Use two parts of water to dilute one part of apple cider vinegar and spread this mixture all over your face with the help of a soft cotton ball.
•   You can apply this at night before going to bed or even use it in the morning before applying your moisturizer.
•   It will help in reducing age spots.
Warts Treatment:
•   Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and then using a band aid seal this soaked cotton ball over the wart on your face.
•   Leave it there for overnight and there are chances for the skin to swell when the apple cider vinegar solution reacts with the wart.
•   The wart will fall off and repeat this treatment for a few more days so that wart does not reappear.

3. Use It For Shiny Hair

If you love to see your hair shiny and full, then you need to rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar after a good shampoo. It is also an excellent remedy for dandruff.
Procedure:
•   Add half a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a cup of cold water and mix it well.
•   Apply this solution over your hair after a good shampooing process and leave it there for about half an hour and then rinse it off.
•   Repeat this process several times a week to see quick and effective results.

4. Removes Teeth Stains

If you are finding it difficult to flaunt your yellow teeth, then apple cider vinegar is the cheapest and simplest ingredient that will help you to restore the natural white color of your teeth. It will also work effectively on the bacteria in your mouth and gums.
How To Use?
• Gargle every day with apple cider vinegar the first thing in the morning and then brush your teeth like you do normally.
• Also, brushing your teeth with apple cider vinegar will help in reducing the yellowness of your teeth.

5. Treats Sunburnt Skin

If you feel that your skin has been sunburnt due to excessive heat outside, then you can always think of having an apple cider vinegar bath to soothe your skin.
Procedure:
• Add half a cup of apple cider vinegar in a bucket of water and bath in this water. Leave the water to react on your burnt skin for some time before patting it dry.
• You can also add one or two cups of apple cider vinegar to a bathtub filled with water. Soak yourself in this water mixture for about half an hour and then have a quick bath. All your discomfort due to sunburn will vanish instantly.

6. A Natural Aftershave

If you find the regular chemical aftershaves to cause skin irritation, then you can think of replacing it with natural apple cider vinegar.
How To Use?
• Add equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water and mix them well.
• Apply this mixture over your face after a good shave and you will never experience skin irritation after a shave.

7. Promotes Weight Loss

If being overweight or obese is a problem, then you have a good solution with you in the form of apple cider vinegar. It has been found that regular consumption of apple cider vinegar that is rich in acetic acid will help in significantly reducing abdominal fat, body weight, triglycerides and inches around your waist.
Procedure:
• Add 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in 16 ounces of water. Mix it well and drink it every day for 12 weeks in the morning.
• You will find that you have reduced your weight by 2 to 3 kilos after 12 weeks.

8. Natural Massager

Massaging apple cider vinegar on hands and feet gives relief to tired hands and feet. It helps to reduce joint pains and inflammations due to arthritis, when applied to the bone joints.
How To Use?
• Rub your hands and feet with apple cider vinegar and massage it lightly before going to bed, to get rid of tiredness and pain in the joints.

9. Maintains Body pH

Apple cider vinegar helps to maintain healthy pH levels in the body. High level of acidity in the body leads to higher risk of infections. Apple cider vinegar helps to lower the acidity level.
How To Use?
• Mix 2 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in one glass of water and drink it once or twice daily to boost your immune system.

10. Body Detoxification

While balancing the pH of the body, apple cider vinegar does the overall detoxification of the body. Studies have shown that consuming apple cider vinegar helps in improving the cardiovascular circulation and detoxifying the liver.
How To Use?
• Sip some vinegar few times a day

11. Cleanses The Lymphatic System

Apple cider vinegar helps in the breakdown of mucous in the body and clears the lymph nodes. It can fight allergies as it reduces mucous formation and reduces sinus congestion.
How To Use?
• You can sip the apple cider vinegar few times a day or you can use 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar added to one glass of water and drink it in empty stomach.

12. Fights Yeast Infections

Apple cider vinegar has anti fungal properties. It contains natural enzymes which help in fighting Candida or yeast infections in humans.
How To Use?
•   Mix one cup of apple cider vinegar with one cup of water
•   Apply this mixture to the yeast infected areas of the skin several times a day
•   Repeat the procedure for a few days or till skin is cleared of infection.

13. Reduces Heart Burn

The hydrochloric acid present in the stomach is the reason for heartburn. Apple cider vinegar reduces the acidity of the stomach as it is a very mild acid. This helps to correct the acidity level of the stomach.
How To Use?
• Take a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar followed by one glass of water to get relief from heartburn.

14. Repels Fleas On Pets

•   Mix one part of vinegar and one part of water
•   Spray this mix on the fur of your pet and rub it into the skin
•   Continue this for a few days to remove flea infestation

15. Cleanser

•   It can be used for cleaning the toilet-pour apple cider vinegar into the toilet and keep it overnight.
•    It can be used for cleaning dishes instead of dish washing liquids.
•   Mix half cup of apple cider vinegar in one cup of water and use this mixture to wipe microwaves, kitchen counters, glass windows, mirrors etc.
Are you looking for a natural product to keep clean your home, to increase your body immunity? Do you want to know about natural methods to keep your hair and skin clean? Are you looking for a natural alternative to chemical dishwashers and toilet cleaners? Then you can start using apple cider vinegar for these purposes. You will find that apple cider vinegar is the ultimate natural method to keep clean your home and to maintain your body health. You can also use it in many other ways according to your need.