Author: onlyhealth

A healthy mind and body do not stop at being sane and disease- free. Being healthy also means feeling great and comfortable all day long. One of the basic ways to ensure a fresh feeling every day is to maintain good personal hygiene.

What is personal hygiene?

For most people, personal hygiene includes monotonous activities such as brushing, flossing, bathing, and deodorizing. And that is all. However, personal hygiene is more than just keeping bad breath and body odor away.

As a woman, special care should be placed on feminine hygiene care. A word of caution, though, most feminine personal hygiene products are found to be on the verge of being unnecessary as the chemicals they contain do more harm than good. What the vagina needs is a set of pretty basic care.

Here are the top basic personal hygiene tips that every woman should learn and must religiously follow:

 

1. Cleansing

The vagina has a natural discharge and oils. In reality, these are not bodily waste products and are, in fact, important in keeping the vagina protected against infections. Having these natural discharges is actually a natural process wherein the vagina self- cleanses its surfaces.

Excessive washing and using feminine wash and soap strips the protective barrier created by the discharges. Although it may feel comfortable having scented genitalia, it actually leaves you more prone to infections that will, later on, produce odor and discomfort.

To properly cleanse the external genitals, what you need is warm water and a bar of mild soap and remember to rinse the soap suds thoroughly. You also need to avoid cleaning the internal genitalia. Cleanse the vagina only when necessary such as after a comfort room trip.

2. Menstrual care

During menstruation, it is natural that a woman feels uncomfortable especially with the wet and potentially bad smell feeling. A lot of women do douching to clean even inside the vagina to really have that clean feel.

However, douching pushes bacteria and other menstrual debris back into the reproductive tract. This will ultimately lead to developing the pelvic inflammatory disease that is very painful.

What a woman must during the red flag days is to cleanse the genitalia with warm water and mild soap just like on normal days. In choosing pads and tampons, it is best to choose unscented products to avoid exposing the genitalia to a lot of chemicals.

3. Odor Care

Every woman has a unique natural scent. This odor is healthy and naturally occurring in every woman’s body. The use of feminine sprays and deodorants are promoted to cover up that smell but you must know that using it will not make the smell go away.

It is only masking the natural smell but it is still there. If you must know, this smell does not go beyond your clothing and is rarely detectable to the people you are with.

If you think you have an abnormally strong scent or that it smells fishy down south, then it is most likely that you are suffering from a genital infection like bacterial vaginosis. You must be checked by a doctor at once because only antibiotics can clear it up.

4. Clothing Tips

The vagina is naturally moist because of its normal secretions. To make these secretions evaporate, wearing clothes that allow good airflow is a must.

It is important that air can flow to dissipate the collection of bacteria and fungi in the area which can cause vaginal infections.

Cotton underpants are highly recommended and so are those with cotton crotch linings. Do not wear wet bathing suits for a long period as well as leather pants, spandex, and other tight clothing.

When you are sweating a lot, such as after a workout, change clothes immediately including underpants.

5. Eating and Hygiene

You may not know it but what you eat or drink also affects your feminine hygiene. Junk foods are bad for your health in many ways.

It is evident on your discharges like sweat and genital discharges that smell off. Fresh and healthy foods, and a lot of water, however, will keep your discharges maintain its natural pH thus keeping everything balanced and smelling natural.

6. When to visit the gyno?

Contrary to most practice that a visit to a gyno is due only when there is something wrong, it is recommended to pay a visit regularly even when you are not experiencing anything abnormal.

Gynecologists are the best people to learn about feminine health and concerns. They can answer any of your questions and will even demonstrate how to properly care for your genitalia.

Regular visits to the gynecologist will ensure you to get screened for early detection of certain female conditions.  Such as cervical cancer, breast cancer, vaginal infections, and others.

Take personal hygiene seriously to avoid unnecessary illnesses and to help make you feel good inside and out.

Ok, lets for a moment talk like a normal human being, for doubts concerning our natural needs. You’d presumably noticed that stool color could be different than “regular” poop color. But sometimes they come in a different color, correct? What does the color indicate, if it’s black or maybe green, red, yellow?

The little changes in the color of your stool are because of a diverse diet. We don’t consume the same food at every meal, and every day. Oftentimes a color diversity can indicate a trivial health problem. In some cases, it signalizes something more serious in your metabolism.

 

WHAT THE COLOR OF THE STOOL CAN SIGNALIZE

Before you read this, be aware you should consult your specialist if you’re concerned about your stool color. Especially if the color does not change for a few days or if your stool is bright black or red— this can indicate the presence of blood —check with the specialist immediately.

Green Color — means that the food may be moving through the large bowels too quickly, happens due to diarrhea. As a consequence, bile doesn’t have time to tear down completely. Cause: Green leafy vegetables, green food coloring, such as in flavored drink juices or ice pops, iron supplements

Light-colored, white or clay-colored — indicates the lack of bile in poop. This may symbolize a bile duct blocking. Cause: certain medications, like big doses of bismuth subsalicylate or anti-diarrheal medications.

Yellow, greasy, foul-smelling — means that excess fat in the stool, such as due to an absorption disorder, for example, celiac disease. Cause:
Sometimes the protein gluten, such as in bread and cereals. See a doctor for evaluation.

Black — means that bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as the stomach. Cause: Iron supplements, bismuth, black licorice.

Bright Red — means bleeding in the lower intestinal tract, such as the large intestine or rectum, often from hemorrhoids. Cause:
Red food coloring, beets, cranberries, tomato juice or soup, red gelatin or drink mixes. Ok, we learn something about what the color of poop can tell about our general health. What about the types and sizes of the poop? Please check what pop type can tell about your health.

Arthritis is not a single disease, but a set of related conditions. It is, unfortunately, a common and painful condition and represents the leading cause of disability in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it affects nearly 55 million American adults.

It can be of more than 100 types, such as osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), fibromyalgia, and gout, and all of them are accompanied by severe joint pain.

Most arthritis sufferers treat their symptoms with prescription medications. Besides being expensive, they also come with a variety of adverse effects. Ranging from headaches and dizziness to liver failure.

On the other hand, nutrition is probably the most feasible way to soothe arthritic pain, since the diet can be the cause and therapy of various types of arthritis.

There are some trigger stories such as dairy, red meats, wheat, corn, beef, and nightshade vegetables that you should avoid.

On the other hand, the following 5 foods are highly beneficial in the case of arthritis:

— Apples contain two powerful bioflavonoids, quercetin and rutin, which inhibit the release of histamine, fight inflammation, improve blood circulation, and promote cellular health

— Eggs are full of protein that boosts tryptophan levels in the blood, which is the building block of serotonin, that soothes pain and stabilizes mood, and increases endorphin levels in the brain and body.

— Almonds are full of vitamin E, which stabilizes cell membranes and promotes the growth of cartilage

— Lamb is a rich source of zinc. The Arthritis Association reports that lower zinc levels can be linked to rheumatoid arthritis.

— Cold-water fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel, are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, that contain marine fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), that suppress the body’s inflammatory response by interfering with immune cells and enzymes involved in it.

Additionally, the following tips can help you deal with arthritis:

Try hot and cold treatments that will soothe arthritis pain and swellings
Lose weight, as extra weight puts more pressure on your joints — especially the knees, hips, and feet.
Start exercising regularly, to maintain the flexibility of the joints. Focus on low-impact exercises
Add turmeric to your diet, as its active ingredient curcumin, reduces arthritis pain and fights inflammation in the body
Try herbal supplements that alleviate joint pain, such as bromelain, boswelia, stinging nettle, gingko, Devil’s Claw, and Thunder god vine
Acupuncture can reduce arthritis pain
Massaging reduces stiffness and pain and improve the range of motion
Meditation is a great way to soothe pain, fight inflammation, and relieve stress

Scientists have found amazing correlations between the shape of your navel and health. There are 4 types of the navel that can provide a lot of information about your health. What type of navel do you have? Let’s find out.

1. Small and swollen form: If you have this form, it means you’re more vulnerable to viruses and bacteria. As a result, it’s very important to start consuming more foods and drinks to strengthen your immune system.

2. Hidden navel: People who have this form of navel are more prone to developing digestive problems. Also, people with this type of navel suffer, most often, from obesity. Moreover, unlike other individuals, those who have this form have greater chances to become depressed.

3. Almond form: This form indicates muscle problems and bone pain. If you have it, you may also be more exposed to severe migraines and, moreover, the navel that has this construction can be a sign of fragile bones.

4. “U” form: If you have this form of the navel, it means you are prone to skin and kidney diseases. In addition, congenital defects can be caused by this shape of the navel.

If you notice any changes to your navel, doctors recommend you go urgently to a routine check.

Epsom salt baths or foot soaks are among the best ways to relax the body, detoxify the system, and reap all the benefits of magnesium. Epsom salts are naturally occurring pure mineral compounds made of sulfate and magnesium, which have been found in a saline spring in Epsom, Surrey, England.

This salt has a plethora of extraordinary uses, and when added to a hot bath, magnesium and sulfate are broken down and readily absorbed through the skin where they quickly enter the bloodstream. Then, it pulls toxins out from the body via reverse osmosis and allows the magnesium and sulfates to enter it.

Magnesium is involved in multiple functions in the body and is needed in more than 325 enzymes, while sulfates maintain and build healthy joints, and skin and nervous tissue.

Therefore, Epsom salt baths relieve:

-Acidity
-Stress
-Inflammation
-Complications from sunburn
-Fibromyalgia
-Migraines
-Stiff joints and tight muscles
-Arthritis pain and swelling
-Insomnia
-Ingrown toenails
-Insulin sensitivity
-Poor circulation
-Psoriasis
-Soreness from diarrhea
-Swollen and tired feet

The relaxing properties of this bath have been proven and used for centuries. Namely, stress reduces magnesium levels in the body and raises the levels of adrenaline. Since it replenishes the levels of magnesium in the body, this salt reduces tension and soothes the body and mind.

Moreover, magnesium boosts the production of serotonin, a mood-elevating chemical within the brain, increases energy and stamina by encouraging the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy packets made in the cells, and lowers adrenaline, treating irritability.

You will also drastically improve sleep quality if you enjoy a warm Epsom salt bath just before bedtime.

Now, here is how to prepare a nice, hot and relaxing, Epsom salt detox bath and treat aches, relieve stress, chronic pain, and migraines, and soothe the body and mind:

Epsom Salt Bath Recipe

1-2 cups of Epsom salt
1 cup of baking soda (optional)
1/3 cup of apple cider vinegar (optional)
10-20 drops of lavender essential oil (optional)
Instructions:

-Fill the bathtub up with warm water, and add the salts. Soak for about 20 minutes three times a week.

-You can also choose to boost the effects of the bath by adding essential oils, baking soda, and apple cider vinegar.

-The addition of lavender oil will boost the relaxing and medicinal benefits of the bath, and invigorate the skin.

-If you add apple cider vinegar, the bath will offer even more powerful detoxifying properties, and you will rebalance the pH of the skin, and treat fungal or microbial infections.

-Baking soda has strong cleansing and antifungal qualities, it will alleviate irritations, and leave the skin soft.

There have been certain references that the amount of Epsom salt used should correlate with your body weight, as follows:

-Children under 60 lbs (27 Kg): ½ cup to a standard size bath
-Individuals between 60-100 lbs (27 kg- 45 kg): 1 cup
-People between 100-150 lbs (45 kg – 68 kg): 1½ cups
-Individuals over 150 lbs (68 kg): 2 cups
-On the other hand, Epsom salt foot soaks help in the treatment of weak immune system, inflammation, athlete’s foot, corns and calluses, hammertoe, plantar fasciitis, toenail fungus, sprains, gout, muscle soreness and bruises, painful bunions, flat feet or tarsal tunnel syndrome.

All you have to do is to fill up a large bucket with hot water, add ½ cup Epsom salt and soak feet for 10 minutes. Repeat three times a week.

Additionally, Epsom salt offers countless other health benefits, as it can naturally whiten teeth, exfoliate the skin, improve hair volume and treat a dry scalp. Also, it treats constipation as it has laxative effects.

This versatile salt can be used in numerous ways in the household and the garden as well:

Mix it with baby oil to use it as a hand wash
You can use it to clean the bathroom tiles
Sprinkle it close to the entry points to prevent slugs
You can use it to clean the detergent buildup on washing machines
Use Epsom salts on your lawn and in your garden to naturally get rid of plant pests and keep them at bay
Add Epsom salts to your houseplants to fertilize them
Magnesium sulfate crystals provide vital nutrients that prevent the loss of green color in plants
You can find Epsom salt in most pharmacies and health stores, and use it in various ways to improve your health.

Is your body too acidic? Many people have never even considered this question. The pH of our bodies is enormously important to our health, yet we hardly ever give it a second thought. Here’s why you should care…

The optimal condition for your body is a balanced environment that is not too acidic and not overly alkaline. If your body is overly acidic, you may be more susceptible to certain illnesses. You may also become deficient in certain nutrients. This is because when the body is too acidic, the body may need to take minerals such as calcium, potassium, and sodium from your bones to neutralize the acid. This can put your body under a lot of strain.

Because of the prevalence of the Western diet and an inactive lifestyle, many people today are somewhat acidic. If your acidity gets extreme, it is known as acidosis — a condition which requires urgent medical attention. If it is mild, you may not notice a problem at first, until you find yourself feeling worse and worse in unexpected ways.

Signs your body may be too acidic

-Feeling fatigued, even when you’ve had enough sleep.
-Depression or having a hard time enjoying things that you used to.
-Easily irritable for no discernable reason.
-Loss of focus or have “brain fog” often.
-You frequently develop infections, colds, and cases of flu.
-Dry skin even in the warmer months.
-Acne or other skin problems.
-Hormonal imbalance issues.
-Frequently developing yeast infections.
-Bad digestion, or frequently experience constipation or diarrhea.
-Experiencing short of breath often.
-Frequent joint pain.
-Headaches.
-Chronic allergies or sinus pain.
-Having chronic pain is not due to an injury or a medical condition.

If you find you are experiencing multiple symptoms on this list, it’s time to check your pH. You can either have this done by a health professional or you can do it yourself at home. Purchase pH test strips that use your saliva or urine. Readings lower than 6.5 means your body is too acidic.

If your pH reading is significantly lower than 6.5, you may have a more serious case of acidosis. In this case, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as you can. If the reading is 6.5 or slightly lower, you may be able to combat the problem at home (although it never hurts to visit a health professional you trust, just to be safe).

Here is how to get your body back in balance:

-Quit eating processed foods
-Cut out processed food if your body is acidic.

These are often acidic, and seriously, they’re not doing any of your body’s systems any good. Processed foods include fast food, boxed meals, and many packaged products. If there are more than five ingredients on the label, you’re better off skipping it. Make a commitment to cooking nutritious meals made from fresh ingredients at home. This is one of the most important things you can do for your pH and your overall health.

Stop eating so much sugar

It is best to eliminate the refined sugar in your diet altogether. This definitely means no soda (super acidification powers in those fizzy, sugary drinks). If you need to sweeten your meals and beverages, use coconut crystals, raw honey or unprocessed stevia leaves instead. Just remember, moderation is important for these natural sweeteners.

Stay away from artificial sweeteners

They may promote acidity, and they’re also terrible for your health. Essentially the artificial sweeteners in soda, coffee, and flavored drinks trick your body. Consuming them often may even lead to metabolic syndrome.

Cut down on the coffee

While coffee itself has a lot of health benefits, it can also be acidic on your system. If you’re struggling with mild acidosis, it may be best to quit the coffee for a while, or at least cut-down. Try to replace your coffee habit with herbal tea. Green tea is great and red rooibos tea is a delicious option which does not contain caffeine. You can also try these great energy-boosting smoothies.

Get white flour out of your diet

When your body is acidic, eating white flour doesn’t help.
White flour is heavily processed and stripped of its nutritious compounds. Try these great gluten-free flours for a healthy alternative.

Reduce your consumption of both dairy and meat

While these can be healthy (especially when organic and grass-fed), they can also be acidic. Either eliminate them for a while until your body is back to a healthy pH or cut down. Double up on vegetables and fresh fruits instead.

Eat your veggies

Many fruits and vegetables have an alkalizing effect on your body, so make sure you’re getting an ample amount of them. These include dark green, leafy vegetables like kale, arugula, spinach, Swiss chard, and collard greens, along with lemons, carrots, beets, turnips, cayenne peppers, and garlic.

Drink lots of water

Make sure you’re getting at least eight glasses each and every day. Proper hydration is key to getting your body back into balance.

Take steps to reduce your stress

Meditation, yoga, and tai chi are all wonderful practices that can help you greatly with your stress relief quest. Make room in your schedule to unwind and do the things you love to do.

Exercise

Sedentary behavior may contribute to acidity, so make sure you get moving and stay moving. Start by taking a walk every day. Next, add a routine that includes strength training three times per week. You could also take a class in a fun activity that you’ve always wanted to learn, like dancing or kickboxing.

Don’t smoke

If your body is too acidic, it’s best to quit smoking

If you still do, quit. Cigarettes are great for promoting a toxic environment in your body.

Take supplements

Talk to a health professional you trust about the possibility of supplementing with magnesium or calcium if needed.

If you follow these steps, you should soon find that your body is becoming less acidic. Take a pH test every couple of weeks to chart your progress. If your pH does not go down into a healthy range, or if your symptoms are persisting, it’s time to go see a health professional you trust.