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10 Home Remedies for BP Patients

home remedies for BP patients

Introduction

Whenever your heart beats, the blood is pumped against the walls of arteries. Arteries are nothing but the blood vessels that circulate the blood in a human body pumped by the heart. The level of blood pressured against the walls of the arteries is called the Blood Pressure (BP). The main artery against which the blood pressure is measured is called the Brachial artery.

There are two types of Blood Pressure. One is measured when the heart is fully active and working. This is the time when your heart beats and pumps the blood into the Brachial artery. This Blood Pressure is called the Systolic Blood Pressure. The second type of pressure is measured when the heartbeat is at rest, usually in between the beats. Now, the pressure of the blood falls and the reading is recorded as the Diastolic pressure. Blood Pressure is typically a reading of this Systolic pressure over the Diastolic Pressure. The unit in which it is measured is Millimeters of Mercury (mm HG). A reading of 120/80 mm HG is usually regarded as normal Blood Pressure.

In this article, we shall talk about the high BP condition and 10 of the most effective remedies through which it can be cured at home along with the medication prescribed by your physician.

High BP Conditions: Causes and Symptoms

High BP can be determined by two important things: The amount of blood the heart is pumping against the arteries and the thickness of the blood so that it can move easily between the arteries. If the heart pumps more blood or if the arteries are narrower to take it through the body, the condition can lead to high BP or what we call Hypertension. The condition of high BP is the result of the extreme force of blood pushing against the walls of the Brachial artery constantly leading to the artery becoming slimmer or narrower to carry blood because of this high pressure. This condition can permanently damage the artery and can lead to heart stroke or heart attack. The reasons for high BP are not known and thus it is often termed a silent killer by medical practitioners. However, unhealthy eating patterns, abnormal sleep patterns, sedentary lifestyles, smoking, and overconsumption of alcohol are the reasons known for the high BP. A BP higher than 120/80 can be called a high BP condition.

When you are suffering from a high BP condition, you should always seek advice from a trained doctor or medical practitioner. With the help of a trained medical professional and a couple of lifestyle changes, you can take care of the condition.

I am going to list some home remedies for you to adopt in case you are suffering from high BP. These remedies of course are some quick ways to tackle the condition at home. But these should be adopted together with the consultation of your doctor.

Remedies for High BP

  1. Intake Less of Sodium: The first and foremost step toward controlling the high BP is cutting down on Sodium intake. A high intake of sodium leads to the retention of liquids in your body, causing high fluid volume in the arteries, thus causing high BP. You should take a low amount of sodium or salt in your diet which can bring down the high BP. In a normal human being, one tablespoon of salt is enough for a day. In terms of milligrams, as low as 1500 mg and as high as 2300 mg are sufficient for a normal human body depending on different body constitutions and builds. Consult your doctor about how much salt intake you require for your body weight and measurement and start consuming only that amount. Taking limited sodium can be fructifying for controlling high BP.

2. Increase Potassium Intake: Potassium intake can do wonders if you are suffering from high BP. Potassium helps flush out the sodium from the body. Potassium relaxes the walls of the arteries thus causing blood pumped against them in the correct amount thereby diminishing the chances of lowering the high BP. Potassium can be found in daily routine food such as beans, peas, dry fruits, and fruits and vegetables, such as spinach, cabbage, banana, papaya, and dates. A high intake of potassium can lower the risk of high BP by as much as 10%.  

3. Follow a Balanced Diet: A low-fat diet can prove to be beneficial for maintaining an optimum BP. Eat a lot of fiber-rich food, such as atta bread, pasta, rice, etc. Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, blackberries, beetroots, yogurt, nuts, etc. You can include seasonal green leafy vegetables as well in your dietary intake.

4. Maintain an Appropriate Weight: An ideal weight for a person is height in cm minus 100. Thus, for example, if your height is 165 cm. Then your ideal weight would be 165-100, which is 65 kg. Maintaining an ideal weight for BP patients is very important. Losing weight can prove to be a boon for patients who are overweight and hypertensive. The more you lose, the lower your BP would be. Reducing body weight will also reduce the intake of medication that you might be having for your BP.

5. Cut Down on Smoking and Alcohol: Nicotine which is present in cigarettes can hamper the proper functioning of the heart and thus can affect BP. Nicotine a chemical found in cigarettes increases hormones in the body which can increase the level of BP in the body. When released, these hormones can shrink and expand in the arteries, which can impair the way blood pumps through the arteries. The same goes for drinking. Drinking too much alcohol can narrow your arteries and can make your heart malfunction by not allowing it to circulate blood in your body.

6. Exercise: Exercise should be in your daily routine to tackle the problem of BP. Simple physical training exercises and some others such as cycling, jogging, swimming, etc can have a significant effect on your BP in terms of lowering it. Your both Systolic and Diastolic BP can become optimum once you start exercising. Many people who engage in regular exercise know that the effect of a 30-minute workout can have a lasting impact for 24 hours. Thus, it is very important to take exercises.  

7. Avoid Sleep Disorders: A sound sleep of 8-10 hours is a must for a healthy body and mind. So is true for curing high BP conditions. Studies show that a night of good sleep can lower the BP by many notches. It is called the nocturn dipping. It is also proven that people with sleep disorders are more prone to high BP. Sleeping for less than 6 hours, sleeplessness, and interrupted sleep patterns all can contribute to high BP. Thus, it is very important to have a sound sleep.

8. Manage Stress: There is a term in medicine called situational stress. This type of stress can be a major contributory factor for high BP. Many of us know that our body produces hormones when it is stressed. This increase in release of the hormones can cause a condition that impairs the proper functioning of the heart because of the narrowing of the arteries, resulting in high BP. Thus, BP patients should avoid stress.

9. Drink Lots of Water: Water is a blessing that is available free for all. It is a godsent nectar that can prove to be a haven for BP patients. Dehydration is one of the major causes of high BP. If you do not drink plenty of water (8-10 glasses), you are risking the stay of sodium in your blood because it is not flushing out regularly. Sodium as we discussed is again a contributing factor for high BP. Water also helps retain potassium in the body, which is also required for maintaining your BP. Thus, drink enough water for appropriate flushing out of sodium from your body.

10. Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Physical activity does not pertain to only exercising. Walking half a km after dinner, taking breaks from sedentary work by taking a walk of 10 minutes, and walking while talking on the phone are some of the good habits that you should adopt for lowering your BP. Physical activity can do wonders for a patient with high BP. Physical activity is not only good for high BP directly; but it also helps reduce stress, manages your weight, and strengthens your heart, which can be fruitful for lowering the BP in the long run. A walk of 7,000 – 10,000 steps daily can be beneficial.

Conclusion

Patients with BP conditions should not worry because if they take their medicines regularly and follow some simple remedies at home, they can always deal with high BP. Cutting down salt intake, increasing potassium intake, along with taking regular exercises, and engaging in physical activity can bring down the high BP. These steps taken would have an indirect effect on your body weight, stress levels, sleep disorders, etc; And it will result in lowering your high BP as well.

I do not claim that merely taking these steps would help. You should always take medicines prescribed by your doctor along with these measures. But believe me, adapting to these home remedies will in the long run help fight your battle against high BP.

Stop worrying and start believing and nobody can stop you from attaining good health and a stable BP. All the best in your endeavours to counter this menace and live a healthy BP-free life.

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Health

Hidden side effects of cosmetic use over skin

cosmetics to avoid skin irritation

Cosmetic is something that people use to camouflage their appearance to enhance their beauty. They do not want to show their natural look as they feel insecure about it, so instead they choose to use heavy cosmetics over their skin. People don’t realize how slowly it harms the skin as we age, and also the manufacturer uses many chemicals to make cosmetics, but still people tend to use it just to hide their reality. Also, as many of the actors advertise on that particular product, then there will be a following trend to use that product. 

Before using any product it is very necessary to know the chemicals/ingredients present in the cosmetics and do a patch test before using as it is risky and harmful, especially for those who have sensitivity and redness on their skin.

However, people do not think twice before purchasing cosmetics, they just think that they will look good in any way after applying them. They are not aware of how it harms our health, and it may lead to cancer too. Also, the product seller knows that different kinds of cosmetics are used in different parts of the body and for different seasons, so they make a profit, and the customers just purchase it without any idea/information. Later on, all the chemicals can irritate the skin and trigger breakouts like acne and premature aging. Though some cosmetics contain some quantity of chemicals some have higher quantities, so keeping in mind we have to be more curious about our skin to keep healthy and tidy and should stay away from all these toxic chemicals before they harm our skin. If anyone suffers from any kind of skin issues or else they can go to experts to check up on their skin rather than applying toxicity on their skin.

Furthermore, variations of cosmetics shouldn’t be used at a time when people complain about rashes and burning sensations on the skin, but they do not realize what makes their skin look bad. Likewise, we have different kinds of cosmetics for our lips, eyes, cheeks, chins, etc.

Today I am going to share some hidden side effects that affect our skin slowly..

Hidden Skin Side Effects:

  • Irritation of the Skin: Many chemicals/ingredients and fragrances may irritate our skin damage the skin barrier lower our skin moisture and produce redness, ringworm, and flaky dryness.
  • Hyperpigmentation on our Skin: It occurs due to some cosmetics that have lightning substances or chemicals and also when the skin keeps producing melanin (it’s the pigment that gives our skin color) it can cause uneven skin tone and darker spots.
  • Prematurely Ageing Before Our Age Turns: Excessive use of many products at a time, mostly those harmful chemicals that damage our natural skin barrier, can cause wrinkles, premature aging, and make our skin look dull.
  • Allergic Reactions on our Skin: Not everyone is suitable with every ingredient that is found in cosmetics, some people may feel that their skin has allergies to some of the ingredients that are found in the cosmetics and it can cause rashes, itchiness, dermatitis, and swelling.
  • Acne, Eczema, and Breakouts: Overuse of toxic cosmetics may lead to clogged pores, acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and skin inflammation which is more common to cause infections on our skin.
  • Endocrine Disruption: As we know our skin is the largest part of the organ in our body and it keeps in contact with some chemicals to protect our skin from infections whether it is naturally or scientifically, so certain cosmetic chemicals/ingredients may cause hormonal disturbances, it harms negatively to the health of humans. 

Some toxic chemicals that are present in cosmetics include:

Parabens: These are mostly used as a cosmetic preservative to make the skin look fresh and it is found in many products. It leads to hormonal imbalances and eventually causes breast cancer.

Phthalates: These are the chemicals that are used in cosmetics for the flexibility of the products and for a longer period for the fragrances to stay. It is mainly found in sprays and lotions and it produces toxins.

Talcum Powder: It is mainly made from Talc a soft mineral that occurs naturally and contains elements namely magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. As it is a powder, so it is used to absorb moisture well and reduce friction and is mainly found in eyeshadows, blush, baby powders, and face powders. And if we use talc directly it may cause Ovarian Cancer.

Formaldehyde: It is gas and colorless and also used in cosmetics as a preservative it develops toxicity like asthma and if by chance we inhale this it can cause dizziness and suffocation overall it disturbs our respiratory system.

Fragrances:

It can cause skin rashes, allergies, irritation, and more severe skin problems. And those products that have stronger scents can cause headaches and nausea and lead to respiratory disturbances.

Diethanolamine:

It is the ingredient used in many cosmetics to give them a creamy texture but it has many side effects on the human body like it can cause eye damage and skin irritation, mostly to those people who have sensitive skin. 

So, taking everything into account as a buyer/consumer we should be very aware of the things that we purchase or what we apply to the skin without proper clarification. The cosmetics that we use every day to look good are not comparable with our natural look/beauty, we all are beautiful the way we are. 

We should not listen to or follow whatever others say about our features or our looks instead we need to follow our own to be in a healthy position, it doesn’t matter to being judged by people we all are proud of our natural skin, we are not born to impress others by those heavy toxic chemical products or to make a profit to those producers who dumb us by this toxicity that harms us. But if we want to apply it then we should know which one is beneficial or suits our skin. 

These are the following important side effects that you know before using any kind of unknown products. Hope this article helped you with the information you needed.

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Health

Is sparkling water good or bad for your health?

carbonated or sparkling water

Sparkling water is a water which has been carbonated and it is a combination of Carbon dioxide gas into water, which forms a bubble and fizz. Coke and Pepsi, everybody is familiar with this name, right? Well, this is one of the most popular beverages, and it has a choice whether you want a flavored or a plain bubbly drink.

Sparkling water has both some good and bad effects on health. Since, it cannot be called as exact healthy beverage, but it can boost and can be added to your meal. Drinking sparkling water can also increase your productivity.

Before knowing whether it harms our health or not, firstly let us know what exactly sparkling water contains and what a registered dietitian specialized Kirsten Jackson, RDN says about sparkling water is that- Not every product of sparkling water is made equally and if you want to add sparkling water in your daily diet then you need to check the ingredients before consuming it. Some of the brands add artificial sweetness into sparkling water, which you should avoid drinking because that might cause diarrhea for some and some might face irritation in the stomach and feel bloating.

If you’re drinking simple plain water every day and thinking of jumping on to sparkling water then you should give it a try, as it will help you burp too and burping doesn’t hurt our body. Those who constantly feel hungry should drink sparkling water, as it can fill up their stomach gap and keep them free from all sorts of gastric and for those who are concerned about their skin; it cleanses very well drinking sparkling water. Today in this article I am going to share with you in details regarding both effects.

Is sparkling water healthy?

Generally, Sparkling water is safe, according to specialized dietary and it doesn’t harm in any case and it has few potential benefits for health. Before knowing how it affects positively our health let us know some of the different kinds of sparkling water:

i) Natural Sparkling water: This can also be known as natural soda water, which is naturally extracted from the underground aquifer or from a natural source such as a spring or well.

ii) Artificial Sparkling water: This is artificial soda water mixed up with carbon dioxide gas, which forms carbonated water. It is a simple sizzle of water with no added flavors or sweeteners into it.

iii) Tonic Water: Tonic is a type of water that contains added flavors such as citrus and minerals such as quinine. To improve Tonic water’s taste, sometimes brands add different kinds of sweeteners and artificial flavors to enhance more.

iv) Flavored Sparkling water: Flavored sparkling water contains different flavors such as different natural and artificial fruit juices and essences.

Sparkling water has quite a bunch of benefits, to avoiding dehydration and staying hydrated; sparkling water can help your basic problems such as headaches, and dry mouth and keep you hydrated for a long. It can also help you manage your weight, by replacing the soda water instead of artificial drinks which contain flavored sugary drinks. It can also help you cure motion sickness and nausea while traveling. People struggling with Diabetes can be helpful for them, as it can help cut down their sugary drinks and for people who are suffering from indigestion, it is one of the best drinks to help them with their indigestion and constipation.

Can Sparkling Water affect your health?

Knowing that every individual is different, sparkling water wouldn’t affect everyone, but Sometimes the fizziness of sparkling might weaken your tooth enamel, as it contains a form of acidity.

Excessive consumption of sparkling water may also may lead to discomfort of stomach and let you feel bloated due to accumulation of the carbon dioxide in your digestive system. You can also face stomach upset, if you have a sensitive stomach. Also if you are under medications, sparkling water may interfere with the medicines you were consuming.

Lastly, I would say that, only few individuals out of many may face problems consuming sparkling water, otherwise it is one of the best drink beverages ever. But you shouldn’t rely only to sparkling water for every stomach issue you face. So stay healthy stay happy..

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Health

Essential Home Workout Kits for Daily Exercise

Introduction

It goes without saying and everyone knows exercising helps in maintaining a balanced health – both physical and mental. Exercise is done for a variety of purposes, such as weight loss or maintenance, muscular and cardiovascular system development, growth and improvement, athletic skill honing, health benefits, or just for fun.

Any movement that uses the muscles and forces our body to burn calories is considered exercise. Physical activity comes in various forms; walking, running, and swimming are just a few. Numerous physical and mental health benefits of exercise have been demonstrated over time.

Staying healthy and exercising routinely especially indoors is a new normal that the world is witnessing especially after Covid. We can exercise by watching many videos that are uploaded on various websites and can attain our desired result.

Time and money appear to be in limited supply these days. That is why convenience and affordability are the top reasons why many individuals choose to work out at home rather than go to the gym.

Creating a home gym or exercise space could hold the key to transforming that unhealthy situation. But before we start working out, we will need some equipment or exercise kits to burn out those extra calories that might be causing us trouble.

In this upcoming article, we shall be looking at some gym equipment that can be used at home also that might help us in our workouts.

Before we start looking at the equipment, there are certain factors that we should consider while working out at home. These factors are:

  • Build Slowly: It might be alluring to start collecting kits right away. Pause, think, and act. Start slowly.
  • Test the Equipment: Even if the world is going more and more online, try to visit a store to get exercise kits.
  • Strive for Adaptability: Equipment that can be utilized in several ways may give alternatives and intrigue to our workouts—which is especially crucial when deciding out our regimen.
  • Be Cognizant of Size: An excellent training setting should allow us to roam about. Try not to overcrowd the location.

Let us now look at the equipment that can be used in home workouts.

Top Equipment for the Home Workouts:

  • Dumbbells/Kettlebells: Free weights such as dumbbells and kettlebells may be utilized for both strength and resistance training. They can help us develop muscle and burn fat while remaining economical for use in our home gym. Both equipment have their distinct qualities, and the ideal one for us relies on our objectives and abilities.

Dumbbells: These feature a conventional design, with a handle in the center and weight evenly distributed on both sides. They are effective for muscle growth, particularly in smaller muscle parts, and may be utilized for standard exercises such as bicep curls, triceps extensions, chest presses, and reverse flies. Dumbbells are also useful for strengthening our forearms. The handles include medium-depth knurling for a stable grip, and dumbbells can be manufactured from a variety of materials such as rubber and urethane.

Kettlebells: The weight is dispersed below the handle in this unusually shaped device, which resembles a cannonball with a handle. Kettlebells enable more difficult exercises including front squats, snatches, and cleans. They are useful for boosting the intensity of our workouts. Additionally, its off-center weight distribution allows for dynamic motions that can aid with cardio and weight reduction. Typically composed of steel or cast iron, kettlebell handles can be constructed to accommodate one or two hands.

Both these exercise equipment are ideal for home workouts.

  • Resistance Bands: Resistance bands are big, elastic bands used for exercise and strength training that are composed of rubber or latex. They may be used to increase strength and flexibility and to work out every part of the body. Resistance bands can also be used to strengthen the body’s defenses against degenerative ailments, fractures, and falls.

Resistance bands can be used to simulate the usage of weight training equipment like dumbbells or cables or to add strain to bodyweight workouts. We might, for instance, have a partner pull against us while wearing resistance bands fastened to their waist, or we could tie one around our leg and pull against it.

Resistance bands are also widely employed in physical therapy, particularly by patients suffering from muscle injuries or in cardiac rehabilitation. They allow patients to gradually regain strength without demanding total body mobility. These are ideal for working out at home.

  • Jump Rope: What is the primary premise behind jumping rope? We throw a rope over our heads and jump as it passes beneath our feet, repeating the action as long as we can (or want to). The idea is to create a steady beat.

There are many ways to accomplish it.

We can leap with the rope in front of us or try to jump backward but keep in mind that this makes it more difficult to see the rope. We can leap quickly or attempt a double-under, which involves swinging the rope around twice before landing. We may even try jumping with one leg.

There are many advantages of jump rope:

  • It burns calories
  • It increases the heart rate
  • It improves coordination and Balance
  • It builds bone density
  • It is convenient to do

Jumping rope is an asset for keeping at home for faster calorie burnout and weight management.

  • Gliding Discs: Known by several names, including sliders or gliding discs, these compact, two-sided exercise tools may be used to test our mobility and core. They may be utilized on a range of surfaces, including carpet, hardwood, cement, and vinyl, and are frequently seen in gyms, fitness clubs, and studios.

Usually the size of a frisbee, gliding discs are composed of two layers: a hard plastic side and a fabric or durable coated fabric side. While the opposite side increases friction between our body and the ground to offer resistance, the smooth side glides more smoothly over carpet and fabric. Depending on the activity we are performing, we may position the discs beneath our hands, feet, or knees and move them in any direction. This helps us stabilize our muscles, particularly our core, and provides resistance to our routines.

Gliding discs may be utilized to tone our lower body, improve our core, and work for all our major muscle groups. We may include them in a stand-alone gliding lesson or use them for exercises like planks.

Ideal equipment to be kept at home when there are challenges of going out and working out in the gym.

  • Indoor Cycling Bike: For people of all ages, cycling is frequently suggested as an entertaining and low-impact form of exercise. It is an aerobic workout that improves lung, blood vessel, and heart strength.

Some health benefits of Cycling include the following:

  • Increases Strength and Flexibility: Riding a bike can help us increase our muscle strength and endurance much like other aerobic workouts. Indoor cycling has been found to aid in the development of muscle in the lower body. Our hips, calves, hamstrings, and quadriceps may all be loosened up by cycling. Our lower body is gradually getting more flexible in this way. Also, we work on our arm and core muscles.
  • Assists in Coordination and Balance: Additionally, cycling can help with balance. Riding an indoor or outdoor bike requires us to be in a precise position, which helps to teach our body to maintain better posture. Riding a bike can help stabilize our basics and enhance our coordination.
  • Enables a Multifunctional Exercise: The ease with which other exercises may be incorporated during our bike session is another advantage of indoor cycling. As a result, we may start exercising our muscles other than our legs at the same time we start riding a bike.
  • Enhances Mental Health: Cycling has mental health benefits as well. In our brain, it first aids in the production of feel-good endorphins. Riding a bicycle has been demonstrated to lower anxiety and sadness. mostly because it may be enjoyable. We may go do it with friends or enjoy the additional bonus of being outside.
  • Aids in Improving Conditions Like Arthritis: Cycling is a great kind of exercise if we have osteoarthritis or arthritis because it is a low-impact activity. This is because riding a bicycle does not strain our joints too much. Cycling while upright encourages core engagement. Our back will start to flatten because of using our core, which will lessen joint stress and relieve back discomfort.

Cycling can prove to be a great plus for home workouts.

  • Treadmill: If we like to walk or run all year round and reside in a cold region, a treadmill might be quite beneficial. In addition to being safer than traversing icy streets and evading automobiles and potholes, treadmills are simple to use and have adjustable settings to give variation to our walks or runs.

According to research, we can get as intense exercise from a treadmill run as we would from a road run. This implies that we can run on a track or a treadmill with the same amount of effort.

Follow these simple rules while on a treadmill:

  • Walk slowly for the first five minutes to warm up.
  • Elevate the settings to a pace that we find comfortable.
  • Wait to increase the treadmill’s grade until we have given our body enough time to acclimatize to the machine’s pace. This adaptive approach frequently requires many sessions.
  • After engaging in continuous movement for three to five minutes, our heart rate should stabilize.
  • After that, if our heart rate is still below our goal range, raise the treadmill’s speed and/or inclination until it does so and stays there.

Treadmills although a bit costly, might prove to be a boon for exercising at home without having to go out to burn fat and calories.

  • Punching Bag: Punching drills and conditioning workouts are used together in boxing to help enhance our heart health, strength, endurance, balance, and coordination. Additionally, it can boost our self-esteem and general well-being while lowering stress, anxiety, and sadness. There are several benefits of using punching bags for workouts. These are:
  • Improves heart health
  • Boosts Endurance
  • Enables full body endurance
  • Helps in weight management
  • Improves balance
  • Fosters mental health

Punching bags go a long way in enhancing our overall health and are a great resource for workouts. These are cheaper and occupy very little space.

Final Thoughts

The opportunity to work out at home is provided by setting up a home gym. It is up to us, though, to seize that opportunity.

Establishing a routine is crucial to developing an exercise habit. Therefore, try to set aside a certain period to work out in the space we prepared every day or every other day. Get the most out of our area if we make it a habit.

Exercise at home offers several advantages over gym visits. In addition to saving money on a gym subscription, we will not have to waste time traveling to the gym.

Home exercises are a great substitute if we are nervous about going to the gym or self-conscious about working out in front of others. We do not have to wait for our turn to use the gym equipment; we may work out in peace in our own homes.

Exercise from home is handy if we work from home or spend a lot of time there. When the day is over, we may just go from our computer to our assigned exercise area.

Now please check our next topic – How To Reduce Life Risks Associated With Wrong Protein Supplements.

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HealthLifeStyle

Best Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dark Circles

Dark circles around the eyes are a real tension for a lot of people. It can affect the entire beauty of your face and hence should be considered a very serious issue. Even if there are medicines available for this, it is better to try the Home remedies first. They can help you get rid of this problem without any side effects. So, if you are also a person who is looking for the best home remedies to get rid of dark circles, we are here to help you with some of the most effective options for them.

How To Get Rid Of DARK CIRCLES Naturally & Effectively | Home Remedies &  DIY Masks!

Apart from the issues related to the side effects, people also opt for home remedies because of one more reason. It is the inexpensive usage of the items that are readily available in our homes that makes home remedies so attractive for most people.

Cucumber -To Remove Dark Circles Around Your Eyes: –

Cucumber is readily available in our homes. So, this method can be tried quite easily without any extra expense. Below is the complete process of how to use cucumber to get rid of dark circles.

  • Take a cucumber and cut it into thick slices.
  • Now chill it for about 30 minutes.
  • Once it is done, take one slice and keep it on the dark spot. This can be done without the help of anyone.
  • Let the slice on the spot for at least 10 minutes.
  • Now remove the slice and wash the area on which it was kept.
  • Repeat this process twice a day. You can find the result within a week.

Coconut Oil – Can Help You Get Rid of Dark Circles: –

Coconut oil is a home remedy for a lot of problems. It is found to be helpful for people suffering from the dark circles also. They can make use of the coconut oil and effectively get rid of those unwanted dark circles around the eyes. Here are the steps to use it.

  • Take some coconut oil and pat it on the portion around your eyes where the dark circle is spotted.
  • Massage the oil on the spot for a few minutes.
  • Let the oil remain there and go to your bed in the night.
  • Repeat this process for a few days and you will find that the dark circles have disappeared.

Green Tea Bags – Can Help Disappear the Dark Circles: –

At our homes, we always throw away the Green Tea Bags after use. But they can be a very good remedy for the dark circles. You can use it the way mentioned below to get rid of the dark circles around your eyes.

  • Take two green tea bags and dip it in water.
  • Refrigerate these bags for some time and keep it over the dark spots for 10-15 minutes.
  • Then remove the bags and wash the area at which it was kept.
  • Repeat this process for a few days and you can see a considerable change in that dark circles. Continue this until the spots are completely removed.

Potatoes- A Good Home Remedy for Dark Circles: –

Among the various options discussed here, this is the cheapest one. The raw potatoes are readily available in our homes and we can make use of them to remove the dark circle around the eyes. So, here is your easy way to get a more beautiful face.

  • Take a potato and cut it into small pieces.
  • Extract the juice from 2-3 small pieces and keep it in a small vessel.
  • Now take a cotton ball and dip it in the potato juice on the vessel.
  • Close your eyes and keep the cotton ball on the dark spot.
  • Repeat this process twice a day and you can find the extremely good results within the next two weeks.

Lemon Juice – Another Effective Home Remedy for Dark Circles: –

We all keep lemon at our house as it can be a multipurpose item for household requirements. You will be happy to know that this lemon can be a useful home remedy for dark spots. Follow the below steps to successfully try this option.

  • Take on lemon and cut it into 2 pieces.
  • Take each piece and squeeze the juice out of it.
  • Collect this juice in a vessel.
  • Apply this juice on the black spot around your eyes. If a cotton ball is used, it can be more effective and easy to apply.
  • Now wait for 10-15 minutes and then wash it away. Repeat this process for two weeks. You can find that the dark circles around your eyes have completely vanished.

So, these are some of the most commonly used home remedies to get rid of dark circles. You can try any one of the processes mentioned above. If you find that it is not providing the expected result, then you can go ahead and try any second option discussed here.

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Health

How To Make Alkaline Water & Benefits of Using It?

Alkaline water has gained popularity for its potential health benefits and its distinct taste. With claims ranging from improved hydration to better pH balance in the body, it’s no wonder that many are interested in incorporating alkaline water into their daily routines. This article will guide you through the process of making alkaline water at home and discuss the potential benefits it may offer.

In recent years, alkaline water has emerged as a popular health trend. Unlike regular water, which has a neutral pH of 7, alkaline water has a higher pH, typically between 8 and 9. The theory behind its benefits suggests that it can help neutralize acid in the bloodstream, improve hydration, and even support weight loss. With increasing interest in wellness and natural remedies, understanding how to make alkaline water at home and its potential advantages can empower you to make informed decisions about your health.

Understanding Alkaline Water

What is Alkaline Water?

Alkaline water is water that has a higher pH level than regular drinking water. The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is, with 7 being neutral. Water with a pH above 7 is considered alkaline, while water with a pH below 7 is acidic. Alkaline water typically has a pH of 8 to 9, and it is thought to have various health benefits due to its ability to neutralize excess acid in the body.

The Science Behind pH Balance

The human body maintains a delicate pH balance in the blood and tissues. A diet high in processed foods and sugars can shift this balance towards acidity. Proponents of alkaline water argue that by consuming water with a higher pH, you can help counteract this acidity and promote a more balanced internal environment. While scientific evidence on the efficacy of this theory is still debated, many people find value in incorporating alkaline water into their routine.

Methods for Making Alkaline Water at Home

1. Using Baking Soda

How It Works

One of the simplest methods to make alkaline water at home is by adding baking soda. Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, has a pH of about 9, making it an effective way to increase the pH of your water.

Instructions

  1. Fill a Glass with Water: Start with a clean glass of water.
  2. Add Baking Soda: Mix in 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda.
  3. Stir Well: Ensure the baking soda is fully dissolved.
  4. Test pH Level: Use pH test strips to check the water’s pH level. Adjust the amount of baking soda if needed to reach your desired pH.

2. Using Lemon Juice

How It Works

Though lemon juice is acidic, it has an alkalizing effect on the body once metabolized. By adding lemon juice to water, you can create a refreshing and slightly alkaline beverage.

Instructions

  1. Squeeze Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into a glass of water.
  2. Stir Well: Mix thoroughly to combine the lemon juice with the water.
  3. Taste and Adjust: Add more lemon juice or water based on your taste preferences.

3. Using Alkaline Water Pitchers

How It Works

Alkaline water pitchers come equipped with filters that increase the water’s pH through a process called ionization. These pitchers are designed to be user-friendly and can easily be incorporated into your daily routine.

Instructions

  1. Fill the Pitcher: Add tap or filtered water to the pitcher.
  2. Allow to Filter: Let the water pass through the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  3. Check pH Levels: Use a pH meter to ensure the water has reached the desired alkalinity.

4. Using Alkaline Water Drops

How It Works

Alkaline water drops are concentrated solutions designed to increase the pH of water. They are a convenient option for those looking for a quick and precise method.

Instructions

  1. Add Drops to Water: Follow the dosage instructions on the product label.
  2. Stir or Shake: Mix well to ensure the drops are evenly distributed.
  3. Test pH Levels: Verify the pH level with test strips or a meter.

Potential Benefits of Alkaline Water

1. Improved Hydration

How It Helps

Alkaline water may offer enhanced hydration compared to regular water. Its higher pH could potentially aid in better fluid absorption and retention, particularly beneficial during intense physical activities.

User Experiences

Many people report feeling more hydrated and refreshed when drinking alkaline water. This could be due to the water’s mineral content and its effect on cellular hydration.

2. Acid Reflux Relief

How It Helps

Some studies suggest that alkaline water might help neutralize stomach acid, potentially providing relief from acid reflux. The higher pH may help reduce symptoms by buffering stomach acid more effectively.

Considerations

While some individuals experience relief, it’s important to note that more research is needed to confirm these benefits. Consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended for those with persistent acid reflux issues.

3. Antioxidant Properties

How It Helps

Alkaline water may possess antioxidant properties, which help neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage cells, leading to various health issues.

Research Insights

Some research indicates that alkaline water with a higher pH might act as an antioxidant, but more studies are required to fully understand its effects on oxidative stress and overall health.

4. Better Bone Health

How It Helps

There is ongoing debate about whether alkaline water can positively impact bone health. Some proponents believe that alkaline water may help reduce bone loss by neutralizing acid in the body, potentially benefiting bone density.

Evidence and Caution

While some studies suggest a link between alkaline water and bone health, the evidence is not conclusive. Maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle remains crucial for bone health.

Things to Consider

1. Not a Miracle Cure

The Limitations

Despite its potential benefits, alkaline water is not a cure-all. It should complement a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle rather than replace traditional health practices.

Consulting Healthcare Professionals

For those with specific health conditions or concerns, it’s essential to consult with healthcare professionals before making significant changes to your diet or hydration practices.

2. Water Quality Matters

Importance of Purity

The quality of the water you use to make alkaline water is crucial. Ensure that your water is free from contaminants and impurities to avoid any adverse effects.

Using Filters

If you’re concerned about water quality, consider using a water filter before alkalizing it. This ensures that you’re drinking clean and safe water.

Final Thoughts

Making alkaline water at home is a straightforward process that offers a convenient way to explore its potential benefits. Whether you choose to use baking soda, lemon juice, alkaline water pitchers, or drops, each method has its own set of advantages and considerations.

While the benefits of alkaline water are still under investigation, many people find it to be a refreshing and potentially beneficial addition to their daily routine. Remember that maintaining overall health involves more than just drinking alkaline water—it’s about balancing diet, hydration, and lifestyle. By staying informed and cautious, you can make the most of your alkaline water experience and enjoy the possible advantages it has to offer.

For those interested in incorporating alkaline water into their lives, this guide provides practical methods and insights to help you make an informed decision. Happy hydrating!

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Health

Reasons Why Losing Weight Without Eating Enough Food Is Risky?

Weight loss is often viewed as a desirable goal, but the methods used to achieve it can significantly impact overall health. One common, yet risky approach is losing weight without consuming enough food. While reducing caloric intake can lead to weight loss, failing to eat adequately can have serious health implications. Understanding the risks associated with inadequate food intake during weight loss is crucial for making informed and healthy choices. We will explore why losing weight without eating enough food can be dangerous and provide guidance on how to approach weight loss safely.

The pursuit of weight loss can sometimes lead individuals to adopt extreme dietary measures, including severely restricting food intake. While this approach may result in initial weight loss, it often comes with a host of health risks. Insufficient food intake can lead to nutrient deficiencies, metabolic slowdown, and various other health complications. It is important to recognize that sustainable weight loss should involve balanced nutrition and gradual changes rather than extreme caloric restriction. By understanding the potential dangers of not eating enough while trying to lose weight, you can make healthier choices that promote long-term well-being.

The Risks of Not Eating Enough Food

1. Nutrient Deficiencies

Importance of Balanced Nutrition

When you drastically reduce your food intake, you risk not getting the essential nutrients your body needs to function optimally. Nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and proteins are crucial for various bodily processes, including immune function, energy production, and tissue repair.

Consequences of Nutrient Deficiencies

Nutrient deficiencies can lead to a range of health issues, including weakened immune function, fatigue, and impaired cognitive abilities. For example, insufficient iron can cause anemia, while a lack of calcium and vitamin D can lead to weakened bones. Ensuring a balanced diet is vital to prevent these deficiencies and maintain overall health.

2. Slowed Metabolism

How Metabolism Works

Your metabolism is responsible for converting the food you eat into energy. When you significantly reduce your caloric intake, your body can enter a state of “starvation mode,” where it slows down metabolism to conserve energy. This metabolic slowdown can hinder weight loss efforts and negatively impact overall health.

Impact on Weight Loss

A slower metabolism means fewer calories are burned throughout the day, which can make it more difficult to lose weight and maintain weight loss. Additionally, a reduced metabolic rate can lead to the loss of lean muscle mass, further complicating weight management and affecting body composition.

3. Loss of Muscle Mass

Role of Muscle Mass in Weight Loss

Muscle mass plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy metabolism and supporting physical activity. When you do not eat enough food, your body may start to break down muscle tissue for energy, leading to a loss of muscle mass.

Effects on Physical Health

Loss of muscle mass can weaken your physical strength, reduce endurance, and impact overall functionality. Maintaining an adequate intake of protein and other essential nutrients is important for preserving muscle mass and supporting a healthy metabolism during weight loss.

4. Increased Risk of Health Complications

Short-Term Health Risks

Inadequate food intake can lead to immediate health issues such as dizziness, fainting, and irritability. These symptoms are often indicative of a lack of essential nutrients and energy required for daily functioning.

Long-Term Health Risks

Over time, chronic under-eating can contribute to more severe health complications, including heart problems, digestive issues, and hormonal imbalances. For example, women who eat too little may experience irregular menstrual cycles or amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), which can affect reproductive health.

Safe Approaches to Weight Loss

1. Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods

What Are Nutrient-Dense Foods?

Nutrient-dense foods are those that provide a high amount of essential nutrients relative to their calorie content. Examples include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. These foods can help you meet your nutritional needs while supporting weight loss.

Benefits of Nutrient-Dense Eating

Eating nutrient-dense foods ensures you get the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients necessary for good health without consuming excess calories. This approach supports sustainable weight loss and promotes overall well-being.

2. Gradual Weight Loss

Importance of Gradual Changes

Gradual weight loss involves making slow and steady changes to your diet and exercise routine. This approach allows your body to adjust to new habits and helps prevent the negative effects associated with extreme caloric restriction.

Recommended Weight Loss Rate

Aiming for a weight loss rate of 1-2 pounds per week is generally considered safe and sustainable. This gradual approach minimizes the risk of nutrient deficiencies and other health complications while promoting long-term success.

3. Incorporate Regular Physical Activity

Benefits of Exercise

Regular physical activity supports weight loss by increasing energy expenditure and helping maintain muscle mass. It also contributes to overall health and well-being by improving cardiovascular fitness, enhancing mood, and reducing stress.

Exercise Recommendations

Engaging in a combination of aerobic exercises (such as walking, jogging, or cycling) and strength training (such as lifting weights or doing resistance exercises) can provide comprehensive benefits. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening exercises on two or more days per week.

4. Seek Professional Guidance

Importance of Professional Support

Consulting with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance and support for your weight loss journey. These professionals can help you develop a balanced eating plan, address any nutritional concerns, and monitor your progress.

Benefits of Professional Advice

Professional guidance ensures that your weight loss efforts are safe and effective. It also helps address any underlying health conditions and provides strategies for overcoming challenges related to weight management.

Final Thoughts

Losing weight without eating enough food poses significant risks to your health and well-being. Nutrient deficiencies, slowed metabolism, loss of muscle mass, and increased risk of health complications are all potential consequences of inadequate food intake. To achieve weight loss safely, it is essential to focus on nutrient-dense foods, adopt a gradual approach, incorporate regular physical activity, and seek professional guidance when needed.

By prioritizing balanced nutrition and making informed choices, you can support sustainable weight loss and enhance your overall health. Remember that the goal of weight loss should be to improve your health and well-being, not just to achieve a specific number on the scale. Approach your weight loss journey with care and consideration, and enjoy the benefits of a healthier, more active lifestyle.

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HealthLifeStyle

10 Reasons – Why Natural Drinks are Better Than Cold Drinks?

Introduction

The summers can be brutal and the inexorable sun and the soaring temperatures can prove to be a double whammy. This summer blow needs to be combated with something healthy as this hot summer not only leaves us craving for something cool but also sweet sometimes. And believe me – Cold drinks are not the right option. You must survive and relentlessly beat the heat by keeping yourself hydrous with natural and healthy drinks.

We all know the harmful effects of cold drinks. But do you know you can replace these harmful cold drinks with a couple of freshening summer drinks that not only are beneficial for your health but also help you rejuvenate and keep you hydrated? Resorting to these healthy drinks is not only quintessential to slake your thirst in the hot summer season but also the need of the hour in terms of the disastrous upshot that cold drinks bring along with them.

Natural drinks such as sugarcane juice, coconut water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices, iced tea, sugar-free cold coffee, lemonades, mango panna, buttermilk, green tea, sattu, thandai, aam ras, etc. are some of the drinks that not only bring relief from the scorching heat but also are jam-packed with flavor and health benefits. 

Then, what do we do? Well, simply recourse to healthy and natural drinks and enjoy the sweltering summer too. Let us find out how these natural drinks are way better than cold drinks.

1. Upright for Hydration: Hydration is nothing but the introduction of additional fluid/water into the body. Hydration helps to reduce the deposition of toxic substances in the tissues of your body. When feeling thirsty it is far better to fall back on these natural drinks than take those toxic cold drinks. These natural drinks are good for your hydration because they are 89% water without sugar and caffeine. Cold drinks and other aerated drinks with added sugar, and caffeine can have potential negative health effects such as heart complications, insomnia, and anxiety, and thus, they are less ideal for hydration. We all know that water is the best liquid to keep hydrated. And if you add lemon and put a little bit of mint and black salt in it and make it into lemonade it can prove to be an elixir for your body. This is just one example. You can make so many natural drinks with water and can keep hydrated.

2. Easy on Digestion: Natural drinks are rich in fiber, which not only aids in digestion but also supports gut health. For example, fresh fruit juices contain fiber and antioxidants. These fruit and vegetable juices are easily digestible and help maintain a balanced body constitution. Having cold drinks can slow down the digestion process in your body. Our body needs additional energy to normalize its core temperature when you drink something cold, which can temporarily slow down digestion. Cold drinks can also narrow blood vessels, which can impair the absorption of nutrients during digestion leading to digestive problems like bloating, cramping, and constipation. Natural drinks on the other hand are full of fibre, vitamins, and minerals which our body needs to maintain optimum health.

3. High Nutrient Value: The natural drinks are not only an extravaganza that tempts the taste buds but also offer a torrent of essential nutrients, making them cherished brews that bring a breather from the scorching heat while nourishing the body. These natural drinks are rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Fiber, Calcium, Potassium, and some minerals. Lemonade is rich in Vitamin C, fruit juices are rich in vitamin C and fiber, vegetable drinks are rich in Vitamin A and minerals, carrot juice is rich in vitamin A, and pomegranate juice is rich in iron are just a few examples to quote. 

4. Aromatically Refreshing: India has a rich tradition of wonderful summer drinks that are not only refreshing but also overflowing with flavors and health benefits. From fruity delights to aromatic spices, drinks such as jaljeera, mango panna, buttermilk, fruit punch, etc. not only satiate your taste buds but also are highly stimulating. These cold beverages offer as much sustenance and satisfaction in red-hot summers and are high on taste. Originating from different parts of India these drinks are traditional drinks renowned for their fresh nature and aromatic flavors. Some are sweet with natural sugar such as fruit juices, and sugarcane juices whereas some are savory, such as buttermilk, lassi, and chaach. These natural drinks come with an automatic health guarantee because they are natural and are not made with added preservatives and artificial colors. If you compare them with cold drinks, they are much better in taste and highly refreshing. 

5. Low Calories/Sugar: Though drinking fruit juices daily is not advised for people with diabetes they can be taken in moderate amounts to meet the daily dietary intake of vitamins minerals and fiber in the body. These fruit juices are far better than cold drinks which have added sugar and calories. These natural drinks do not contain any carbohydrates, sugar, fiber, or starches unless it has added flavorings such as cold drinks. If you are tempted for a sugary drink and have a sweet tooth, coconut water can be a boon for your cravings which is fortified with some natural sugar and does not contain calories. Other natural drinks such as fruit juices and fresh limes with sugar-free sweeteners can be great replacements for cold drinks.

6. Rich Flavours: Lassi with variations like mango lassi, shrikhand lassi, jeera lassi; badam sharbat, sandalwood sharbat, and kesar sharbat; jal jeera, thandai, bel sharbat, sattu drink emerge as a beloved summer staple in India, cherished for their refreshing qualities and health benefits. You name a flavor and we have it in Indian drinks and cuisines. Besides flavoury, these drinks are also valued for their digestive properties, making them a preferred choice after meals to aid in digestion and promote overall well-being.

7. Natural not Synthetic: While cold drinks are made with a lot of preservatives and added flavor and sugar and are made not from natural resources such as fruits and vegetables, these natural drinks are made from 100% occurring natural resources such as fruits, vegetables, and flour (sattu drink). These natural drinks offer a luxurious sensory experience that captivates the appetite and transports drinkers to a parallel world of celebration and merriment. You feel full and have satiety after drinking these natural drinks. Cold drinks on the other hand are extremely hazardous which not only make you feel not full but hungry for more which unnecessarily adds empty calories to your daily nutrient value intake.

8. High on Taste: Lemonade- tangy, fresh fruit juices – tangy and sweet and savory, lassi made from yogurt and tasting awesome; you can opt for your favorite taste any summer and can have a rich experience with an assortment of natural drinks available in plenty in the sub-continent and everywhere in the world. A cherry on the cake is the combination of fragrant spices and cooling ingredients not only refreshes the body but also rejuvenates the spirit, offering a moment of respite from the heat. The natural taste and not added flavors are what these natural drinks offer. These added flavors can be detrimental to your health. Thus, the choice is wide open for you to choose.

9. Antioxidants: Antioxidants are substances that shield the human body cells from the impairment instigated by free radicals. Free radicals are nothing but uneven molecules made by the process of oxidation during regular metabolism in the human body. Free radicals may cause cancer, heart disease, stroke, and other diseases of aging. These natural drinks are high in antioxidants and protect our bodies from free radicals. Antioxidants are found in many foods, including fruits and vegetables. They are also available as dietary supplements. Natural drinks made from fruits and vegetables can prove to be a real protector from harmful free radicals. When feeling thirsty and dehydrated go in for these fresh fruit and vegetable juices and soups. These are far better off than cold drinks. Green tea is known to be the best antioxidant which you can drink cold or hot. 

10. Weight Watchers: According to one study, drinking one extra serving of cold drink per day can lead to a weight gain of 0.10 kg per year. These natural drinks not only flush out toxins but also improve your metabolism. Drink a lot of green tea, lemon water, ginger tea, and apple cider vinegar water, which may boost your metabolism and flush out toxins. These drinks not only can cool the body during the boiling summer months but a combination of spices in them lends a unique depth of flavor and aid in digestion, making them a popular choice for you to lose weight fast. Besides these natural drinks act as potent drinks filled with antioxidants, capturing the essence of health and liveliness in every sip. 

Conclusion

In the sizzling heat of Indian summers, staying hydrated is indispensable, and what better way to do so than pampering yourself with these refreshing and revitalizing Indian summer drinks? From the tangy kick of lemonade to the creamy goodness of thandai, each cold beverage offers a unique flavor profile that is sure to torment your taste buds while keeping you unruffled and energized throughout the season. Thus, beat the heat and tang the flavors of summer with these pleasant Indian natural drinks.

Cheers to natural drinks and their nutritional value that keep you hydrated and cool through the summer!

Drink to your health, and raise a toast to natural drinks! 

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Health

Ways to Prevent Food Poisoning in Children.

Introduction

I will start this piece by quoting some of the most recent news on food adulteration causing food poisoning in children.

In June alone, over 4-5 widely shared cases surfaced, with consumers posting images of non-edible items in their food products, such as ice cream and chips.

In the latest, a resident in Jamnagar, Gujarat, was left shocked after discovering a dead frog in a packet of popular brand wafers he had purchased. 

A woman in Kerala discovered a dead rat in a bottle of chocolate-flavored popular syrup she had ordered from the grocery delivery app. 

In Noida, a woman reported discovering a centipede inside a popular brand of ice cream tub she had ordered through an instant delivery app. 

A Mumbai-based man had claimed to find a piece of flesh, apparently a severed human thumb, in the ice cream that he ordered online. 

Source: https://www.republicworld.com/india/

Looking at these news pieces, we can easily make out that the food that is consumed by us, especially minors and children is being adulterated with harmful things and objects. Since food poisoning is caused by germs or other harmful adulterations in food, it is a given that:

  • We should avoid giving junk food/packaged food/frozen food to our children.
  • Second, we should foster healthy eating habits in our children.
  • Third, we should encourage our children to wash their hands whenever they come back home from outside, especially after playing.
  • Fourth, the dishes that we use to serve food to the children should be properly cleaned and washed, especially utensils, cutting boards, surfaces, etc.
  • Fifth, when we bring fruits and vegetables from vendors, we should wash them properly to avoid germs from penetrating and thriving in the refrigerator before giving them to children.
  • Sixth, we should always use a thermometer when cooking.
  • Seventh, do not at any cost give outdated food items to children.
  • Eighth, do not encourage children to drink water from ponds or wells that are not medically treated. Ask them to drink water that has been treated or chlorinated.
  • Ninth, we should order food online, only from trustworthy food delivery vendors for our children.
  • Finally, always keep up-to-date on news on food. We should be alert about the contaminated food airing in the news.

Now, let us discuss these talking points on ways to avoid food poisoning in children in detail.

>Avoid Junk Foods/Packaged Food/Frozen Food: Children in recent times are more and more inclined toward eating junk and packaged food such as chips, chocolates, ice cremes, cold drinks, canned juices, sodas, etc. It is always advisable that when buying these food items, we should check the brand and expiry of these food items. Buy these food products, such as junk and frozen food only if you must from trustworthy vendor partners. Meats such as ham, bacon, salami, and hot dogs can be a source of food poisoning. And if we as parents, would know how our children are fond of eating these food items. It is very significant to keep in mind that all meat carries a risk of food poisoning if it is not cooked or stored properly. Some meat items are packaged and frozen for a long time. In a report, published recently it was found out that 83% were caused by meat sliced and packaged at counters. Apart from meat, other food items such as frozen food like snacks that can be fried and used later can be hazardous too if expired and not refrigerated properly.

>Foster healthy eating habits in children: The first step toward attaining our child’s health is by setting an example ourselves. Be a role model and start eating healthy food yourself. Our children often imitate us and parents are the direct source of that inspiration. Eat meals together, encourage family meals, and set a good example by opting for healthy food items. Limit junk and frozen food to just a day in the week or only on weekends and encourage children to follow the same.

>Ask children to wash their hands often: Asking children to wash their hands whenever they eat something, and asking them to wash their hands when they come back from outside are very important habits to inculcate because these habits help prevent the germs from spreading. Nurturing the habit in children to wash their hands often may prevent children from illnesses like food poisoning, the flu, or diarrhea. Germs can be transmitted to their body through hand-to-mouth contact, or by touching their face, mouth, nose, or eyes with contaminated hands. Thus, play safe by fostering the habit of washing hands often, in children.

>Clean utensils, cutting boards, and surfaces properly: Bacteria that are present in the food can be transferred to the utensils, cooktops, and cutting boards causing illnesses. Clean and wash the kitchen utensils, counters, and appliances, to avoid bacteria from developing on these surfaces and causing food poisoning in children. It is imperative to take the compulsory steps to clean before, during, and after preparing and eating the food to keep us and our children safe from food poisoning.

>Wash fruits and vegetables before consuming: We all know and our children also know that while growing fruits and vegetables on farms, pesticides and other medicines are sprayed on fruits and vegetables. These pesticides can cause food poisoning if our children consume these fruits and vegetables without properly washing them in running tap water. If the fruits or vegetables are consumed without washing, pesticides can enter the body, causing serious health problems including food poisoning. Other than pesticides, these fruits and vegetables might also contain dirt, and bacteria because they are often placed in the open. Thus, wash them properly before using them.

>Use a thermometer when cooking: Using a thermometer while cooking is the only reliable way to ensure food safety and determine food especially non-vegetarian food such as meat, poultry, and eggs is cooked to the desired level of doneness. Cook beef to at least 160°F (71°C), poultry to at least 165°F (73.8°C), and fish to at least 145°F (62.7°C).  Bacteria can rapidly grow in low temperatures and multiply at an increasing rate at mid-range temperatures. To avoid such conditions, a food item must be cooked to an internal temperature high enough to destroy harmful bacteria. Using a meat thermometer is a dependable way to ensure that food has reached the appropriate temperature. This is yet another way to prevent food poisoning from occurring in children.

>Never give expired food items to the children: Never give children and encourage them to consume food after its use-by date, even if it looks and smells okay, as it could make them prone to food poisoning. But sometimes some food items like shelf-stable foods and frozen foods, can be given to them to eat as they can be used longer than their expiration date. You can use your senses to judge whether a product has gone bad by looking for signs of spoilage.

>Do not drink water that has not been treated or chlorinated: Water from ponds and dirty water sources can cause havoc with our children’s health and can be a source of poisoning in children. Water can cause food poisoning when it is contaminated with bacteria, parasites, viruses, or toxins. This can happen if water meets infected people’s stools, or if contaminated water is used to wash. Shellfish that have lived in contaminated water can also contain viruses. Additionally, water that is used to grow food can become infected with animal or human feces.

>Order food online only from a trustworthy food delivery vendor: When choosing a food delivery service, we should consider things like reliability, customer support, menu, etc. to be able to get hold of them in case of an eventuality of food poisoning. Considering the news that has been coming in the last 2-3 months on adulterated food items being delivered, we should encourage our children to eat at home instead of buying online food. If it cannot be avoided, always check the credibility of the vendor food partner, and ask them to deliver only fresh food from most trusted food outlets.

>Keep up-to-date on news on food Adulteration: So much food adulteration news in circulation, these days that it is not difficult to stay abreast with the latest happening on this front.  Here are some ways to prevent food adulteration as a consumer:

  • Choose trusted brands
  • Be wary of colors
  • Clean and store properly
  • Check seals/Read labels

Conclusion

We must be vigilant and, on our feet, when it comes to our children’s health. This holds for food poisoning because it can lead to a complete drain of their health by way of upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, diarrhea with bloody stools, stomach pain, cramps, fever, and headache.

There are certain precautions that if we take can prevent food poisoning in our children. It is very difficult to find out the real reason for food poisoning and you cannot trace it to its source. Eric Schlosser once said, As a matter of fact, most cases of food poisoning are never linked back to their source.”

As an age-old saying goes, prevention is better than cure; follow simple tips to avoid food poisoning in children, and do not be sorry later.

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Technology

What Are The Roles of Technology in Tracking Our Healthcare?

Technology is one of the greatest creations of mankind; it has boomed significantly in the recent decade. Technology advancements have impacted all aspects of our livelihood and the medical field. While medical professionals can perform better diagnoses using advanced equipment, patients are now availing better treatments. The use of technology in tracking our healthcare has opened many doors accessible from our palm of hand.

What Are the Benefits of Patient Tracking Systems in Hospitals?

The progressive nature of technology will bring more glory to the medical field in the coming years, let’s dive into some of the most crucial scenarios where the advancement of technology benefits in tracking today’s healthcare.

Digital Transformation in Healthcare with Smart Technology

Smart Technology refers to the utilization of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, machine learning, and big data analysis to facilitate modern technological features that did not exist earlier.

In the healthcare field, professionals use smart technology to monitor patient movements on the bed and alert the nurses when necessary. An AI-powered inventory management system can keep track of the inventory, and order supplies automatically when required.

So, what are the other uses of technology in tracking our healthcare? Let’s find out. 

Greater Care for Patient

The use of smart technology has increased patient engagement globally. It also enhanced personalized wellness an health plans using insightful data. Wearable devices such as fitness bands and Fitbits are among the most common wireless devices used vastly to monitor electrocardiographs (ECG) and blood pressure assisting both the specialist and patient to access personalized data.

Medical specialists are now efficiently able to keep track of patient’s health status. When it comes to elderly patients and the ones living alone, their family members or concerned health professionals are alerted promptly of any abnormality detection.

Such kind of health gadgets not only ensures greater healthcare services for patients but also enhance overall health quality for all.

Eliminating Medical Errors

Errors in Medical Statistics are one of the major concerns today which leads to inevitable circumstances in healthcare performance. The global index shows that the third most common cause of death revolves around errors in medical reports at hospitals.

Thanks to the smart technology that facilitated the Clinical Decision Support System (CDS). The CDS system has proven to efficiently eliminate medical errors, ensuring life-saving treatments.

The system provides patient-specific data and other important medical information to healthcare professionals. All the collected data by CDS are accurately filtered and sent to medical professionals at required times, enhancing their decision-making at critical moments.

By utilization of smart technology in tracking our healthcare and medical treatments, so far we have achieved to eliminate 55% of serious medication errors and 83% of overall medical errors; thus the system has aided better diagnosis for healthcare service providers.

Reducing the Cost of Medical Operations and Treatments

Medical operations and treatments have become more cost-effective with the improved quality of healthcare. It is vastly the result of utilizing smart technology in healthcare services. Improvement in patient outcomes also leads to a decrease in health difficulties and less requirement for follow-ups.

The use of technology in tracking our healthcare has resulted in enormous benefits such as breakthrough medical treatment facilities, improvement in clinical outcomes, and better financial management. Due to improvements in care flow for patients, more people are now involved actively in medical decisions compared to past days.

When a common person has a better understanding of the potential of advanced technology for media care, we can hope for even greater accomplishment shortly. Furthermore, it is a fact that technological impact on the medical field is consistent and hugely evident in the healthcare industry.

With society’s ever-growing reliance on advanced medical technology, it is obvious the trend of technological advancement in healthcare will only increase over time.

Wrapping Up with Smart Technology for Healthcare Services

 The healthcare field is certainly in the midst of a dramatic change resulting from smart technology and its digital transformation. This change in healthcare is efficiently paving the way for a greater medical future. With the available wider variety of treatments, greater accessibilities, and remote monitoring features, physicians are now able to utilize AI-powered data analysis, smart monitoring systems, and other technological tools to cater to better medical diagnosis in the healthcare industry.

On the other hand, common patients and individuals have access to better health monitoring and can stay cautious of any sort of health abnormalities with the use of smart technology.    

    

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