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How To Always Think Positive By Using This Mental Trick

July 1, 2019 by Power of Positivity

One of the best ways to think positive is by reducing the stress in your life. In fact, stress not only impacts our physical health but also clouds our judgment and leads to a negative outlook on life. If you’re not familiar with what positive thinking entails, it is a mental and emotional attitude.

With it, you expect good and favorable results without feeling discouraged when things don’t go quite as planned. For some people, this attitude comes naturally; for others, it is a behavior that must be learned.

To further illustrate this point, some people tend to see the glass as being half-empty while others see it as half-full; positive thinking is all about perspective. In this article, we will discuss how stress and negative self-talk can impede our ability to think positively about the things and people in our lives.

How To Think Positive Always

HOW NEGATIVE SELF-TALK IMPEDES OUR ABILITY TO THINK POSITIVE

Studies have shown many benefits associated with thinking positive, namely in the form of health and general well-being. Also, thinking positive encourages optimism and aids in reducing stress; however, negative self-talk like berating one’s self and being overly self-critical, for example, can have the opposite effect. Struggles and hardships are a natural part of life. We do have some say as to the extent they impact our lives. The best way to overcome the pessimism that comes with life’s challenges is through positive affirmations, commonly referred to as positive self-talk.

HOW SELF-TALK ENCOURAGES YOU TO THINK POSITIVE

The biggest misconception associated with thinking positive is that you’re oblivious to the unpleasant experiences in life. This couldn’t be further from the truth. When you think positive, it doesn’t mean that you only see life through rose-colored glasses. Instead, you approach challenges with a greater degree of optimism. You believe that good things can happen even if your current circumstances say otherwise. Self-talk is an integral part of this process. It can trigger a stream of thoughts, which you can speak aloud or circulate through your consciousness to help distract you from negative experiences, real or perceived.

THINK POSITIVE TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH

Studies consistently prove the correlation between our thoughts and our overall health. To that point, thinking positive has been shown to provide the following health benefits:

Reduced feelings of anxiety and depression
Reduced stress
An increase in life expectancy
Resistance to common colds
Improved cardiovascular health
Improved capacity to cope with hardships

Of course, this is not a comprehensive list. Ongoing research continues to explore additional health benefits that may link to positive thinking. It is also worth noting that more research is needed to identify why thinking positive provides so many health benefits. Early studies, however, have shown that positive thinking can help reduce stress, which, coincidentally, causes a variety of health problems. That said, it stands to reason that the body would respond favorably as stress levels decline. Also, individuals who think positively tend to lead healthier lifestyles than those who are negative and pessimistic, which further reduces stress levels.

NEGATIVE THINKING

While positive self-talk can be uplifting, negative self-talk can increase stress levels and adversely affect one’s outlook. That said, it is important to distinguish between these two very different ways of thinking; naturally, they impact our lives in either a negative or positive way. Now that we have a general understanding of what positive self-talk entails, let’s take a moment to explore the impact that negative self-talk can have on our lives. Individuals who engage in negative self-talk tend to exhibit the same patterns of behavior including:

Personalizing – When bad things occur, negative thinking individuals tend to blame themselves even if they had no say in how things may have unfolded. Needless to say, this way of thinking is the antithesis of thinking positive.
Polarizing – Individuals who engage in negative thinking usually only see things as good or bad, leaving no room for middle ground. This all-or-nothing mentality leaves them feeling either defeated or like they’re on top of the world.
Filtering – This perspective is akin to “blowing things out of proportion.” Negative thinking individuals will often magnify the negatives in a given situation while disregarding the positives.
Catastrophizing – This mentality is characterized by irrational thoughts whereby negative-minded individuals always anticipate the worse possible outcome in any situation.

Negative thinking and negative self-talk can lead to a number of emotional and physical health problems. Of course, changing the way you think is not always easy; however, breaking these habits can significantly improve your overall quality of life.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU THINK POSITIVE?

Let’s take a moment to explore positivity thinking and positive self-talk. Individuals who engage in positive self-talk tend to possess the following qualities:

Identify opportunities for improvement – Individuals who engage in positive thinking and self-talk are more inclined to view negative experiences as an opportunity to make improvements, which is much more productive. You can apply this type of thinking to any area of life, including work, relationships with friends and family, and personal development.
Self-assessment – Positive individuals are more likely to take inventory of their lives. This gives them an opportunity to reevaluate things in their lives and make changes as needed. Self-assessments can also help put things in perspective, enabling you to see the positives in situations that may otherwise be unpleasant.
A sense of humor – Positive-minded individuals are more likely to laugh or smile, even in challenging situations. They are not as likely to allow negative experiences to cause them stress, which could potentially lead to health and emotional problems.
Positive self-talk – Individuals who are positive will often engage in encouraging self-talk. Also, they are more inclined to use this practice as a means of evaluating and ultimately dismissing negative thoughts and experiences.
Healthy lifestyle – Those who are positive are more likely to lead a healthy lifestyle, typically consuming a healthy diet and exercising regularly. That said, positive-minded individuals tend to be more conscious of the relationship between physical and mental health.
Surround themselves with like-minded people – Positive people typically remain positive by surrounding themselves with other positive people who tend to be more encouraging and supportive. Conversely, surrounding one’s self with negative people can cause stress and other problems.

HOW TO COPE WITH STRESS AND THINK POSITIVE

Because stress can impede our ability to think positive, it is a good idea to manage the stress in our lives. In doing so, however, it helps to identify the sources of stress in your life first. According to the American Psychological Association, most people tend to stress about their relationships, careers, personal health, and the economy. It is also worth noting that there is a significant disparity when it comes to the stress levels among minorities compared to that of Caucasians. Regardless of your ethnic background or the source of your stress, there are ways to get your stress levels under control including:

Understanding how you respond to stress

Everyone responds to stress differently. Some people may not be triggered by certain stressful situations while others may become unraveled by them. Identifying what causes stress in your life can make coping with it that much easier.

Stress and coping mechanisms

Much like stress impacts everyone different, coping mechanisms can vary from person to person. It is important to find one that works for you. That said, many people find going to the gym, meditating, and exercising effective when it comes to relieving stress.

Think positive and you’ll have brighter days.

Seeking help

Many of us like to be self-sufficient. However, sometimes resolving the stress in your life requires that you reach out to friends and family for support. In most cases, friends and family are very sympathetic. They will likely be willing to do whatever is necessary to help you resolve the stress in your life.

In summary, the best way to think positive is to minimize the stress in your life and to surround yourself with positive people. The benefits that come with thinking positively can complement your life in a variety of ways, from improved mental clarity to better overall health. If you’re ready to embrace positivity and the many benefits that come with it, you’re encouraged to follow some of the advice outlined in this article.

10 Reasons To Eat A Banana Daily (#3 Is The Most Effective)

July 1, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Bananas, one of the world’s most popular fruits, aren’t given enough credit by most of us. Most everyone knows that they are delicious, but did you know that they are incredibly healthy as well? Aside from being full of vitamins and nutrients, the banana health benefits extend to aiding with weight loss, promoting balanced blood levels, and aiding in positive mental health.

The best part is, you can experience banana health benefits in a number of ways. You won’t have to eat plain bananas each time you want to experience the benefits, because you can eat them paired with something else, baked into delicious desserts, or topped on your favorite treats. The options truly are limitless.

So, whether you eat a couple of bananas plain each day, or if you have them with something else to switch it up a little, the banana health benefits give you a reason to eat at least one banana every day. Luckily, this beneficial fruit is delicious as well, making it easy to incorporate into your daily diet.

Reasons to Eat Banana Every Day

1. They contain a large amount of Vitamin B6.

You will find about one-fourth of the daily recommended value of Vitamin B6 in just one of these fruits. This vitamin offers many benefits to your body including aiding in the production of red blood cells, metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids, removing chemicals from your liver and kidneys, and aiding in the maintenance of a healthy nervous system. Another perk of Vitamin B6 is that it is extremely useful for pregnant women and the unborn baby’s development.

2. Bananas offer a decent amount of Vitamin C.

One of these fruits contains nearly 10% of the daily recommended value of Vitamin C. This is important because Vitamin C protects your body from cell and tissue damage, helps you absorb iron more efficiently, aids in the production of collagen (which holds your skin, bones, and body together), and aids in the production of serotonin (which is directly related to your sleep cycle, mood, and stress levels).

3. They contain manganese.

Manganese is beneficial for skin health, protecting your skin against damage from free radicals. By eating just one piece of fruit, you will consume around 13% of the daily recommended value of manganese.

4. You will be increasing your potassium intake.

Potassium is necessary for good heart health and normal blood pressure levels. One piece of fruit contains about 10% of the daily recommended values of potassium, boosting your levels by that much for each piece of fruit you consume. Another benefit of potassium is that it is low in sodium, which aids in maintaining healthy blood pressure.

5. Bananas contain a high amount of fiber.

From one of these fruits, you will consume more than 10% of the daily recommended value of fiber. This fiber helps your body maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and it will aid in getting rid of cholesterol.

Another benefit of fiber consumption is that it adds weight and softness to your stools, which makes it easier to pass a bowel movement. With this being the case, it will help with improving your gut health.

6. They contain resistant starch.

This reason may not be well-known to many, but it is helpful to your body. Bananas contain this starch that doesn’t digest in the small intestine, which allows it to pass through to the large intestine. This causes you to feel full for a longer period of time, essentially aiding in weight loss techniques.

7. Bananas can make you feel more energetic.

This fruit contains three sugars which are all-natural. These sugars include sucrose, fructose, and glucose. With this being the case, you may feel more energetic after eating bananas, but you won’t consume the fat and cholesterol found in other sources of sugar.

8. They are low in calories.

One piece of this fruit contains around 100 calories, making it a low-calorie snack or breakfast side. Since bananas also keep you feeling full longer, you will find yourself snacking less often. This makes them the perfect food to snack on if you are trying to lose weight.

9. Bananas can ease muscle cramps and soreness.

The perfect snack for athletes and bodybuilders, bananas can minimize the pain caused by exercise-related muscle cramps. This is believed to be because of the high mineral content of bananas and the fact that they are full of easily-digested carbohydrates.

10. They are an all-natural antacid.

Bananas contain antacid properties, making them a natural alternative to medicine such as Tums. They can offer almost instant relief from acid reflux, heartburn, and GERD.

Ways to Eat Banana Every Day

Use bananas in place of egg in baking recipes.

For each egg, you could use half a mashed banana. So, if a recipe calls for two eggs, you could mash up one whole fruit and put it in the recipe instead.

Make chocolate-covered fruit pops.

Cut bananas and other fruit in half and slide them onto the tip of a popsicle stick. Put them in the freezer, and then melt chocolate. Once the chocolate is melted, dip the fruit into the chocolate. Place the chocolate-covered fruit on parchment paper and then put it back into the freezer until the chocolate completely hardens.

Eat this fruit alongside your breakfast.

Bananas pair well with almost any breakfast you choose. From cereal or toast to pancakes or waffles, a piece of fruit will taste delicious with it.

Slice bananas and put them in your yogurt or cereal.

This childhood favorite way to eat cereal. It’s as good as you remembered!

Make a fruit kabob.

Choose a few of your favorite fruits, slice them up, and slide them on a skewer. Eat this as a breakfast or snack, and enjoy the banana health benefits alongside your other favorite fruits.

Put this fruit in your smoothie.

When preparing your favorite smoothie in the morning, put one in your blender with the other ingredients.

Slice one up and put it on your dessert.

Turn something that isn’t so healthy into a treat with at least a decent amount of nutrients. Slicing up bananas and putting them on top of ice cream or another dessert offers a delicious but nutritious add-on.

Make banana bread.

Find your favorite recipe and whip some up for everyone to enjoy. It is the perfect way to add bananas into your diet. You could even throw in some nuts to give it some additional nutrients and flavor.

Cut it up and eat it with peanut butter.

You can dip the fruit into your peanut butter, making this a protein-packed snack.

Tips to Remember about Bananas

The more you know about bananas, the easier it will be to incorporate them into your diet each day. You likely won’t be going to the grocery store to buy them each day, so there are some tips to remember before getting started.

When buying them by the dozen, choose slightly firm bananas. These will last up to five days without spoiling.
Inspect the fruit for soft or brown spots. These ones will spoil quickly.
Do not refrigerate this fruit.
Do not throw bananas out if they begin to turn slightly brown. This is the perfect time to use them in bread.

The Risk

While there are no common risks of eating bananas on a daily basis, it is still important to eat them in moderation. A couple of bananas a day won’t hurt you, but if you go overboard and eat a large number of bananas at once, you will likely get a headache.

Learn the importance of banana ripeness.

This headache would be caused by the amino acids present in the fruit, which are known to dilate blood vessels. It’ll first give you a headache, and then you will become exhausted. The exhaustion is linked to a high level of tryptophan and magnesium found in the fruit.

The magnesium really is a good nutrient but, when consumed in large amounts, it can cause you to relax a little too much, resulting in wanting to sleep. As with everything in life, too much isn’t always a good thing.

Final Thoughts On Reasons to Eat Banana Every Day

Bananas are an incredible fruit, packed full of nutrients and offering limitless benefits to you. Not only are they delicious and easy to come by, but you can also eat them in many different ways. The banana health benefits are too good to pass up.

You can count on this fruit to provide essential vitamins and other nutrients, and you can also count on it to make you feel full longer and even feel a little more energetic. Bananas can also reduce the feelings of heartburn and work as a treatment for muscle cramps and soreness. The best part is, there are so many different ways you can consume a banana, so you’ll never get tired of this fruit.

Scientists Explain How Much Vitamin D You Need For Better Health

July 1, 2019 by Power of Positivity

While Vitamin D offers a myriad of health benefits, there is still some debate regarding how much of this vitamin our bodies need. Science classifies Vitamin D with a group of fat-soluble secosteroids. Although some people can get an adequate amount of vitamin D from merely being exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, this is certainly not the case for everyone. In particular, those with darker skin or those who live in a region with limited amounts of sunlight are often deficient.

For these cases, it may become necessary to either take supplements or make certain lifestyle changes to achieve the same amount of vitamin D that others receive from the sun alone. In this article, we take a closer look at the health benefits associated with vitamin D. Additionally, we will explore the importance of getting the right amount from sunlight, food, and supplements for optimal health.

HOW DOES VITAMIN D BENEFIT THE BODY?

The primary benefits of vitamin D include enabling the body to absorb calcium and boosting the immune system. Each of these contributes to better overall health. In addition, healthy levels of this essential vitamin provide the following benefits:

Strengthens bones
Helping the immune system fight disease and infection
Supports nerves that transport messages to and from the brain
Improves muscle strength

HOW DOES CALCIUM IMPROVE BONE HEALTH?

Vitamin D is different from many other vitamins in that the body converts it into calcitriol. That is a hormone that allows bones to efficiently absorb calcium received from other sources like dairy, for example.

SOURCES OF VITAMIN D2 AND D3

Commonly referred to as ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3), vitamin D can be obtained from multiple sources. While sunlight is an excellent source of vitamin D2 and D3, not everyone can benefit from it. This is especially true for those who live in Northern climates like Iceland, for example.

The same applies to individuals with darker skin because the amount of melanin contained in the skin influences how much vitamin D2 and D3 they absorb. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), individuals with darker skin are naturally afforded better protection from the sun. However, it will take longer for their body to produce the minimum reference daily intake (RDI) of vitamin D2 and D3 based on FDA standards. To further put this into context, studies show that Mexican-Americans and African-Americans are more likely to have a vitamin D2 and D3 deficiency than their Caucasian-Americans.

MEASURING VITAMIN D2 AND D3

Because race and geographical location are factors in how well the body absorbs vitamins D2 and D3, it can be difficult to gauge just how much each individual needs. The Vitamin D Council, a California-based nonprofit organization, working to educate the public on vitamins D2 and D3, sun exposure, and overall health, provides the following examples to denote how much sun exposure an individual would need to achieve maximum health benefits:

A darker skinned individual residing in the city of Boston would need to spend a minimum of 2 hours of the summer sun to receive their daily intake of vitamins D2 and D3 per FDA guidelines. Also, one-quarter of their skin would have to be exposed for maximum absorption.

A medium skinned individual residing in the city of Miami would need to spend a minimum of 6 minutes during the summer to receive their daily intake of vitamins D2 and D3 per FDA guidelines. Similar to darker skinned individuals, one-quarter of their skin would also have to be exposed for maximum absorption.

This example further demonstrates the role that melanin plays when it comes to an individual being able to absorb vitamin D2 and D3 from sunlight. While fair-skinned and medium skinned individuals benefit the most from sun exposure, they should also avoid excessive exposure as ultraviolet rays cause skin damage. After all, the human body is limited when it comes to how much vitamin D2 and D3 it is capable of producing at any one time.

WHAT CONSTITUTES A VITAMIN D2 AND D3 DEFICIENCY?

To determine vitamin D2 and D3 deficiencies, scientist and physicians will measure the level of these vitamins in the blood based on per milliliter measurements. For example, an individual with less than 12 ng/mL of vitamin D2 or D3 in their blood would be considered deficient. That’s because 20 ng/mL and below is too low to support bone health. As such, it would be a good idea to consume foods rich in vitamin D2 and D3 to bring these levels into a normal and healthy range.

Some of these foods include:

Beef liver
Tuna
Mackerel
Salmon
Cheese
Eggs

Of course, this is not a comprehensive list. Moreover, it is a list of foods with the highest concentration of vitamins D2 and D3. Beyond that, these foods also provide additional benefits that can further improve your overall health.

If you’re in the United States, you will be happy to know that many of the foods that you already consume are fortified with these vitamins, so you could, in theory, meet your recommended daily intake of vitamins D2 and D3 without having to make drastic changes to your diet.

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS

A vitamin D2 or D3 deficiency can trigger a number of health problems including osteoporosis, which is characterized by fragile bones that are prone to fractures. Furthermore, individuals who are deficient in either of these vitamins may experience bone pain and muscle weakness. It is also worth noting that a vitamin D2 or D3 deficiency in children can lead to rickets, a health condition that causes the bones to become soft and susceptible to bending.

HOW MUCH VITAMIN D2 AND D3 DO YOU NEED?

For individuals with limited exposure to sunlight, the FNB (Food and Nutrition Board) recommends the following International Units daily based on an individual’s age:

0 to 12 months – 400 IU
1 to 70 years – 600 IU
70 and over – 800 IU

However, those individuals with a vitamin D2 or D3 measuring below 30 ng/mL should intake 1,500 to 2,000 IU for optimal health benefits. Also, some individuals require a daily intake of 50,000 IU to restore healthy levels of vitamins D2 and D3. Of course, individuals who are extremely deficient should see a physician before significantly increasing their intake of vitamins D2 and D3.

VITAMINS D2 AND D3 FOR INFANTS

Now that we have a general understanding of vitamins D2 and D3, let’s take a closer look at how these vitamins can benefit infants. If you’re a new mom who is considering breastfeeding your newborn, you should know that your baby will not be able to receive the minimum amount of vitamins D2 and D3 from breast milk alone.

That said, it is a good idea to give your baby vitamin D2 and D3 supplements. These are available as drops at most vitamin shops or in the health and beauty aisle at your local supermarket. Of course, if you opt to feed your baby using one of the many popular formulas currently on the market, supplementation may not be necessary. That’s because these products are usually already fortified with vitamins D2 and D3.

Getting vitamin D is a perfect excuse to spend a day in the sun.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU TAKE TOO MUCH VITAMIN D2 OR D3?

While it is impossible to overdose from vitamin D2 and D3 from sun exposure alone, some people do take unnecessarily high doses of vitamin D2 and D3 supplements. In most cases, it is because they believe they are severely deficient in these vitamins. If you share this mindset, it is important that you speak with your physician. He or she can outline a safe and effective treatment plan to help boost your vitamin D2 and D3 levels. High levels of vitamins D2 and D3 in the body can raise calcium levels in the blood, causing heart problems.

High levels of either of these vitamins can also cause the following conditions:

mental confusion
vomiting
nausea
constipation
kidney damage
fatigue
loss of appetite
weight loss
many other health problems.

It is also worth noting that vitamin D2 and D3 supplement can negatively interact with certain prescription-based medication. In some cases, vitamin D2 and D3 supplements can cause prescription-based medications to become either less potent or completely ineffective. As with any supplement, speak with your doctor before taking them.

Easy Tips to Take Care Of Your Teeth And Gums At Home

July 1, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Taking care of your teeth is the most important way of prevention you can adopt for yourself. Succumbing to poor oral health can result in facial pain, mouth infections, gum disease, and other health problems. These health problems include stroke, kidney disease, oral cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and irritable bowel syndrome.

The ADA deduces that nearly fifty percent of Americans do not go to the dentist. The reason could be fueled by money, fear or belief that they have healthy mouths. What you do not know is that your entire body involves the health of your mouth.

For your mouth to remain healthy, your body requires minerals and vitamins that are fat soluble. The minerals and vitamins produce saliva and support the body. The saliva is more abundant in mineral content. As a result, they provide the teeth with a protective coating.

However, for the saliva to work efficiently, there has to be a sufficient supply of nutrients in your body. Eating a balanced diet will also give you the nutrients the body requires to maintain proper teeth care. Additionally, you can use the natural methods listed below to maintain your oral health at home.

1. Oil Pulling

This ancient Ayurvedic technique has been used for centuries to keep the mouth healthy. The oils used are sesame and coconut oil. These oils have antibacterial properties that will maintain your oral health.

Another advantage of oil pulling is the fact that it whitens your teeth. Thus, use the method of oil pulling early in the morning. Put one tablespoon of coconut or sesame oil in your mouth.

Swish the oil in your mouth for about ten to twenty minutes. You can then spit the mixture in the sink. Make sure that you avoid swallowing the oil.

After spitting, rinse your mouth using warm water and follow your brushing routine as usual. Oil pull daily every morning on an empty stomach. Since it can be hard to swish the oil for the twenty-minute periods when you first start, you can build up as you get used to the process.

2. Using Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices have been used for many years to clean the mouth and create fresh breath in the mouth. This is because many herbs have antibacterial properties that prevent infection from affecting your teeth and gums. Apart from oral health, herbs and spices can also alleviate pain.

Sucking on an entire clove, for instance, will reduce the amount of toothache you are experiencing. If your gums are inflamed, you can use Aloe Vera gel in small quantities to reduce the level of inflammation. However, remember that the taste of natural Aloe Vera is bitter.

Turmeric has also been known to maintain oral cleanliness and health. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties will ensure that you do not get any infections. Make a turmeric paste using a quarter teaspoon of turmeric and water and brush your teeth a few times in a week.

Turmeric will also help to prevent gingivitis and control plague. In a study that was done in 2011, two essential compounds were found in licorice. These compounds can kill the bacteria in the mouth that is responsible for gum disease and tooth decay.

The study was published in the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Natural Products. Therefore, to remove the tartar and plaque in your mouth, you may use a soft licorice stick as a toothbrush substitute.

3. Drinking Water

On average, one American will drink one cup and a half of water daily. To maintain hydration in your body, you need up to eight cups of water in a day. Therefore, if you find that you are often thirsty, it means that you are already dehydrated.

Apart from hydrating your body, water washes away the food and bacteria that are left in your mouth. Saliva is also made from water. In turn, saliva prevents tooth enamel erosion and weak teeth by neutralizing the acidity in your mouth.

Hence, try and adopt the habit of swishing water or rinsing your mouth after you have a meal. The water will remove the bits of food left in your mouth and speed up the remineralization process.

4. Chewing Xylitol Gum

Bacteria growth is very favorable in the sugar alcohol found in Xylitol. However, they cannot break down this compound. Therefore, they starve to death when they try to feed on Xylitol.

As a result, when you chew Xylitol gum, tooth decay, and gum disease are successfully reduced in your mouth. Chewing Xylitol gum also encourages the production of saliva. Increased saliva increases the amount of antibacterial needed for oral health in the mouth.

5. Brushing Teeth

Every dentist will tell you that brushing is an essential oral care routine. Additionally, it is crucial for the overall health of your mouth. Ensure that you brush at least twice a day for about two minutes.

You should start your brushing routine at the back of your mouth. Brush in a circular motion from the gums so that you can loosen the food debris and plaque that has built up on your gum line. Also, ensure that you brush on the backside of your teeth.

The indentations at the biting surface can have settled food. So be sure to brush these areas to loosen any food particles. The inside of the cheeks and the tongue are also sensitive parts of the mouth that should be brushed as part of the routine to promote fresh breath. You can even make your toothpaste to make the no fluoride paste safe for your children.

Also, you can use mouthwash to reduce plaque, tartar, and gingivitis. You can make your mouthwash by mixing half a cup of filtered water, two teaspoons of baking soda, three peppermint essential oil drops, and two tea tree oil drops in a glass jar. Then, clean your mouth with three teaspoons of the mixture shaken well for a minute or two.

6. Flossing

Over the years, you have heard continuously how vital flossing is for teeth care. However, many people still overlook the task; if they do it, they do it incorrectly. Evidence shows that flossing might not prevent the occurrence of gum disease.

Regardless, the risks associated with flossing are less compared to the benefits. You can use unwaxed floss since it is a natural floss that will get between your teeth and below the gum line. This is the region where bacteria, plague, and food particles are commonly found in the mouth.

To floss correctly, cut a length of floss that is enough to wrap around your fingers while leaving room to hold. Move it in an up-and-down motion and curve the base of each tooth in a c-shape so that you can work the floss below the gum line. Every time you move from one tooth to another, use a clean part of the strand.

7. Using a Tongue Scraper

The best type of tongue scraper you can buy for your teeth care is a stainless steel one. They are easy to clean, and you can find them online. The work of the tongue scraper is to reduce the amount of bacteria growth on your tongue.

Reduced bacteria growth reduces the amount of bad breath in your mouth. Fewer bacteria in your mouth also reduce the chance of tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, and other oral problems. You should also tongue scrap your tongue in the morning.

Use a mirror to watch what you are doing. The tongue scraper should be at the back of your tongue when you start. Pull it to the front part of your tongue and throw away the buildup.

You should repeat the process two times. Ensure that you are gentle on your tongue. It can be easy to hurt your taste buds if you are rough.

8. Drinking Herbal Tea

It is probably typical for green, white, herbal, and red tea to be consumed in your house after dinner. These teas are typically used as cleansers. What you do not know is that they also offer the advantage of preventing plaque growth in your mouth.

9. Herbal Breath Fresheners

There are different types of herbs that you can also use to keep your mouth fresh. You can consider using mint or parsley leaves. These leaves will leave your mouth smelling clean.

Also, you can rub the peel of an orange on your teeth. The orange peel will help to fight the growth of tartar while at the same time it will make your tooth white. Additionally, when garlic is mixed in a solution of two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and one cup of water stored in a glass jar, the mixture, shaken before use, can be used to rinse your mouth every two to three days to keep it fresh.

10. Supplements

Teeth care can also be accomplished naturally with the use of other supplements. Minerals, for instance, are very crucial for your overall oral health. Your diet might also be enough, but you might lack certain nutrients needed to keep your mouth healthy.

Therefore, supplements can fill this gap. You can add magnesium, cod liver oil, gelatin, and vitamins A, K, D, and C to your diet. However, ensure that your doctor has authorized the use of these supplements before you use them.

Learn ten reasons to sip green tea every day.

Final Thoughts on Caring for Your Teeth

While these natural methods are useful, they should not be substituted for standard oral care. Also, consult your dentist if you are bleeding and experiencing pain or sensitivity instead of using natural remedies for these health issues. After all, your dental care provider is the expert who can help you keep a healthy smile for life.

Researchers Reveal 10 Skin Benefits of A Charcoal Mask

July 1, 2019 by Power of Positivity

The charcoal mask is incredibly popular right now. Beauty gurus love it due to its ability to detoxify your skin and make it appear smoother and brighter. Adding to the skin benefits of a charcoal mask, it can be made with a combination of other ingredients to increase the perks.

Just to be clear, the charcoal used in face masks is different from the charcoal you use in a grill. Activated charcoal is the type of charcoal used in beauty products. This means that it will absorb toxic things and remove them from the body.

Activated charcoal can remove bacteria, toxins, dirt, chemicals, and oil from the skin. You don’t normally have to wash the charcoal face mask off when it’s time to remove it, as it is more common to peel it off of your face.

What Does a Charcoal Mask Actually Do?

Impurities such as dirt and oil clog your pores, giving you a dull complexion and potentially quite a few breakouts. The charcoal helps remove those impurities, cleanses your skin, and it also aids in regulating the amount of oil being secreted by your skin. All of this helps clear up skin issues while also preventing future blackheads and acne.

This is all possible due to the activated charcoal pulling bacteria, toxins, dirt, and oil out of your pores. Many times, charcoal face masks are the type that you peel off of your skin instead of washing off and, if that is the case, it will also work to exfoliate your skin.

Since your skin is your largest organ, it is important to take care of it by doing what you can to keep it clear of impurities, toxins, and bacteria. Aside from the benefits that were just listed, activated charcoal can also benefit your skin in other ways.

Skin Benefits of A Charcoal Mask

1. Brightens your skin.

By drawing impurities out of your pores, your skin will appear brighter after the mask has been applied and removed.

2. Exfoliates your skin.

Charcoal has a coarse texture, and by applying it and letting it sit on your face until it is dry, it works to exfoliate your skin. It effectively removes dead skin cells, which can lead to brighter, clearer skin.

3. Regulates the production of oil.

Charcoal promotes the regulation of oil being produced and secreted on your skin. If your skin tends to be oily, the charcoal will help lessen the amount of oil being produced. This can prevent acne outbreaks and also clear up existing breakouts.

4. Removes blackheads.

When you remove this mask, you will pull it off from your skin instead of just washing it off with water. Not all charcoal face masks are the pull-off type, but chances of it not being a peel-off are slim.

When you peel it off, it pulls all kinds of impurities from your pores. This includes blackheads, making your face clearer and brighter.

5. Keeps your skin tight.

Among the many other skin benefits of a charcoal mask, this ingredient can tighten your skin. You can have the clearest skin ever but if your skin is loose, it still might not look that great. Activated charcoal is one of the best products to use on your face when you want to tighten the skin.

6. You can use it to detox your face.

Charcoal is the key ingredient in a popular DIY face detox. The detox works to exfoliate your skin, open your pores and remove toxins, and then remove any bacteria, dirt, or excess oil. A recipe for this charcoal detox face mask is in the next section.

7. It’s all-natural.

Since activated charcoal is all-natural, you won’t be exposing yourself to unnecessary chemicals. You can give your face a deep clean and detox it in an all-natural way.

8. Minimizes your pores.

Your pores become filled with dirt and toxins from the air around you. This makes your pores appear larger. Using a charcoal face mask, you can pull the dirt from your pores, which minimizes the appearance.

9.Can heal and soothe bites, cuts, and other irritation.

By applying a charcoal face mask to a wound of any kind, you can speed up the healing process and ease any pain or discomfort caused by the wound. If you have been bitten or stung by an insect, you can apply charcoal to the area to ease the symptoms.

10. Reduce the appearance of acne scars.

You can lessen the appearance of acne scars by applying a charcoal face mask. The abrasiveness of the charcoal face mask can remove the dead skin and reveal new skin instead.

How You Can Make A Charcoal Mask At Home

While there are many charcoal face mask products available to purchase, you can also make your own mask right at home. You can customize the exact mask you make to better suit your needs.

Charcoal can be combined with other products to make a more effective mask. The process is simple, and there are many different methods and ingredient options.

Charcoal, Bentonite, Baking Soda, and Coconut Oil Face Mask

Ingredients

1 teaspoon of charcoal powder
A teaspoon of bentonite clay
1 pinch of baking soda
One teaspoon of coconut oil

Directions

Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl.
Mix the ingredients together until a thick paste is formed.
Apply the charcoal mixture to your face and leave it on for 10 minutes.
Pull the mask off and apply a face moisturizer.

Charcoal, Bentonite Clay, Water, Witch Havel, and Tea Tree Oil Face Mask

Ingredients

3 tablespoons of charcoal powder
3 tablespoons of bentonite clay
1 teaspoon of witch hazel
3 tablespoons of water
20 drops of tea tree oil

Directions

Mix all of the ingredients together.
Apply to your face and wait until you noticed that the charcoal mask is starting to dry. You should not let it dry completely
Peel the mask off, starting from the sides and pulling toward the center of your face.
Apply a moisturizer to your skin.

With this face mask, the water lessens the chance you will have skin irritation from the mask, and it evens out the pH levels. If you let the mask dry completely, however, your skin may still become irritated, and it may itch. This is because allowing the mask to dry all the way can quickly dehydrate your skin.

The Charcoal Detox Face Mask

Ingredients

One teaspoon of sea salt
1 teaspoon of clay (white or green)
Water
Eucalyptus and tea tree oil – 2 drops of each
1 tablespoon of apple juice
3-4 tablespoons of activated charcoal

Directions

Mix the clay and sea salt.
Add just enough water to make a paste.
Put the paste on your skin, and gently rub in circles to exfoliate.
Leave the paste on for about 3 minutes.
Wash the exfoliating paste off with warm water.
Put a stopper in your sink and fill the sink with extremely hot water (you could also use a bucket for this).
Add 2 drops each of the essential oils.
By holding your face over the hot water, steam your skin for 10 minutes.
Mix 3 or 4 tablespoons of charcoal with one tablespoon of apple juice and one teaspoon of clay. Stir them together until you have made a paste.
Put the charcoal mask on your face, and leave it on for 10 minutes before pulling it off.

Charcoal, Lemon, and Clay Face Mask

Ingredients

1 tablespoon of activated charcoal
One teaspoon of bentonite clay
1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice

Directions

Combine the charcoal and clay with water to make a paste.
Mix in lemon juice.
Scrub the paste onto your face gently
Let the paste sit on your face for 2 minutes and then wash it off with warm water.
Dry your face and moisturize.

How Often You Should Apply the DIY Charcoal Masks

Just like many other face masks on the market, these DIY charcoal masks should only be used once per week. If you use them any more than that, it can dry your skin out and cause more issues. However, if you don’t use it enough, you won’t see the many benefits offered by the consistent use of charcoal masks.

Are Charcoal Masks Safe?

You know the skin benefits of a charcoal mask, but you still may be wondering if this ingredient is completely safe. It is always best to do your own research before you try a product or DIY mask but we have done the research for you and it is determined that activated charcoal is safe for use as a beauty product.

While it is safe to use a charcoal mask on your skin, it is not so safe to consume. It can cause constipation, nausea, vomiting, GI obstruction, and issues with your intestines. Consuming charcoal can also cause problems with breathing.

Final Thoughts On Charcoal Mask

From clearing skin to preventing acne and blackheads, the skin benefits of a charcoal mask are endless. Your skin will look healthier, younger, and brighter if you regularly use them.

The only problem with using charcoal is that it is not safe to consume. This can be dangerous to your health and should be avoided completely. You also have to be careful to not let the mask dry completely on your skin or your face could become dehydrated.

As long as you use the activated charcoal appropriately, it is completely safe to apply to your skin. You can easily make your own charcoal mask at home, or you can find many types of beauty products at the store that contain charcoal.

18 Best Ways To Drink Your Morning Cup Of Coffee

June 30, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Coffee is a morning staple for so many of us. This morning beverage becomes so routine for us that we often find ourselves stuck in the same pattern of making the same drink over and over again.

18 Different Ways to Enjoy Coffee Benefits

While you may have a favorite cup of coffee that is your go-to drink of choice, there are countless other ways to get your daily fix. Don’t limit yourself to basic java. Try the following 18 ideas to get out of your caffeine rut:

1. With Coconut Water on Ice

This drink is a huge departure from your basic, black cup of joe. The ice and coconut water make. This drink oh-so-refreshing while the cold-brew brings it’s own sweetly caffeinated kick to the drink.

The coconut water is incredibly hydrating and contains a wide variety of electrolytes that help keep you energized throughout the day.

2. With Coconut Milk and Ice

Go the extra coconut mile with this alternative to your traditional caffeine routine. Make this drink using cold brew or conventionally brewed coffee—either way, you’ll pour it over ice once the drink is cool.

The extra shot of coconut milk will make you feel as though you just arrived at a tropical paradise.

3. With Condensed Milk Over Ice

This morning beverage is sure to give you the high-energy boost you need to start your day. While it is a little too decadent to consume every day (thanks to the condensed milk), choosing to partake in this drink every now and then will make you fall in love with java all over again.

Mix this drink together with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a freshly brewed pot of your favorite grounds. Add in the ice after it cools and mixes in the condensed milk.

4. With Tonic Water

Now, these are two things we didn’t see coming. The idea of turning your daily fix into a soda may not be initially appealing, but it’s a trend that is taking the barista community by storm.

The tonic water brings a bit of a punch to the espresso, making the best energizing soda alternative this side of Diet Coke. Make this yourself by combining a fruity espresso with tonic water.

5. With Chocolate as a Mocha Punch

If you happen to be throwing a brunch, this punch idea is a great take on the typical beverage options.

To make this drink (whether for you or for a group of people), all you need is your favorite brewed coffee, milk, and chocolate ice cream. If you want a healthier take on this blend, consider using chocolate Italian ice.

6. With Chocolate Chia Pudding

Pudding for breakfast? What better way to have your daily fix and dessert for breakfast than with this creative recipe!

This innovative take on chia seed pudding uses a brewed cup of joe, cacao nibs, coconut cream, almond milk, maple syrup, and chia seeds to make the best caffeine-infused pudding you’ve ever had.

7. With Nutella

Most lovers of Nutella have likely tried this caffeine idea at some point in their lives. As everything on earth tastes better with Nutella, it’s almost a shame to think you’re enjoying your daily fix without it.

One of the easiest ways to add Nutella to your fresh cup of java is to melt the Nutella in a saucepan with a bit of creamer and some fresh spices.

8. With a Kick and some Kahlua

If it’s cold outside and you need a bit of a kick to your day, why not try this heartwarming caffeine idea?

Spice up your cup of joe with your favorite spices and a bit of Kahlua. Not a fan of Kahlua? Consider using another liqueur to give your day the kickstart it needs.

Really make things spicy by adding a dash of cayenne pepper.

9. As a Protein Shake

Love drinking your shakes in the morning? Add a bit of caffeine to them. Can’t imagine putting your favorite beans in the blender? Thankfully, there’s a better way to make this drink.

Turn your daily fix into a protein shake by pouring in a batch of cooled coffee, some protein powder, a few ice cubes, a banana, and some vanilla extract. Light and simple, this smoothie is the perfect way to start the day.

10. As a Bubble Tea

What a match made in heaven! Bubble tea and your favorite brew at the same time.

All you need are the tapioca, some ice cold milk, and a shot of espresso. Once you add the famous bubble tea straw, you’re all set to take on the day.

11. Acid-Free and Smooth as Can Be

There’s no one way to make an icy blend of your favorite batch of java. However, this option will give you the creamiest cup you’ve ever tasted.

Neutralize the acidic flavor by making a batch of cold brew. After a full day of letting it brew, pour the brew over cream and ice, adding other flavorings according to your taste.

12. As a Dessert Cappuccino

We all love our cappuccinos but usually never dare to drink them outside of a cafe. Thankfully, you can make your own with just a few ingredients and your favorite blend of beans.

Have dessert for breakfast by brewing a fresh pot, mixing in some hazelnut flavoring, and adding in some cinnamon. Go the extra mile by topping it with some whipped cream and crushed cinnamon graham crackers.

13. As a Pumpkin Spice Latte

Tired of having to wait for pumpkin spice lattes to be in season again? Make your own any morning you want with these ingredients.

Use a pumpkin spice coconut milk beverage, organic canned pumpkin, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon sticks. To really add a kick to this drink, add in vodka and rum as you see fit.

14. Make it BulletProof

You may not be Superman, but you can likely benefit from this bulletproof version of your favorite beverage. Though this bulletproof trend has been going strong amongst celebrities for a while now, it is just as tasty and worthy of hype as they say.

Start getting bulletproof by mixing your freshly brewed cup of joe, a few tablespoons of grass-fed butter, and some coconut oil. If you want to add in flavorings, try cocoa powder, coconut milk, cinnamon, and cardamom or vanilla. Keep in mind that to take advantage of the true coffee benefits in this drink, the butter has to be made with milk from grass-fed cows.

15. Try an Arabic Blend

Are you a fan of super strong caffeinated beverages? Give yourself the early morning wake up call you deserve by trying the Arabic style of making your daily fix.

With cardamom, sugar, and Arabic beans, you can make your own daily fix in a saucepan to get one of the strongest brews you’ve ever tasted.

16. Over Frozen Caffeine-Infused Cubes

Tired of having to toss out your watered down icy drink after you’ve only taken a few sips?

These caffeinated ice cubes are the solution. Fill up an ice cube tray with your boldest flavor and favorite brew. If you really wanna stay caffeinated throughout the day, add these cubes to a fresh batch of cold brew. If that sounds like overkill, just add the cubes to some creamer or milk for a nice latte.

17. Using Spiced Grounds

Who’s to say you can only flavor your cup of joe after you make it?

Start spicing your grounds and putting in a teaspoon of your favorite spices before you brew your pot. This will make the grounds as flavorful as possible, without muting the taste of the grounds themselves. Then, brew your drink in a French press or on the stove to maintain your new flavor.

18. As Hot Chocolate

Are you a fan of drinking a nice cup of cocoa in the morning? Why not add in a shot or two of caffeine?

Breathe new life into your hot chocolate by mixing in your favorite caffeinated beverage. Be it cold brew or instant, you’ll be able to make your comfort drink into a pick me up as you get ready to take on the day.

Final Thoughts on Coffee Benefits

The daily grind has become such a significant part of our lives. Whether you’re an avid drinker or you like to partake in coffee benefits occasionally, there is the perfect cup of coffee out there for you. The best thing about coffee is that with a little bit of creativity, you can create a whole new drink that will make you fall in love with caffeine all over again.

However, you choose to drink it, make sure you enjoy it. Keep these 18 different ideas in mind to mix it up in the morning.

1. Oil Pulling

2. Using Herbs and Spices

3. Drinking Water

4. Chewing Xylitol Gum

5. Brushing Teeth

6. Flossing

7. Using a Tongue Scraper

8. Drinking Herbal Tea

9. Herbal Breath Fresheners

10. Supplements

Final Thoughts on Caring for Your Teeth

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