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4 Easy Ways to Heal Dry Eyes Naturally

May 3, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Dry eyes. It is a very common condition, occurring when there is no adequate supply of tears from the lacrimal gland, which sits between the eyeball and eyelid. These glands produce the fluid necessary to lubricate the eyes.

Certain settings can produce dryness, such as an airplane flight, an air-conditioned space, riding a bike, walking, or running. Staring at a digital screen for an extended period can also cause dry eyes.

Symptoms of dry eyes include:

blurred vision
dry, scratchy, and painful sensation in one or both eyes
eye fatigue
feeling like something is in your eye
sensitivity to light
mucus in or around the eyes
redness

According to Healthline, common factors contributing to dry eyes include aging, prescription medications, medical conditions, and the environment.

Traditionally, eye drops are used to moisten dry eyes and are considered “very safe,” according to WebMD. Additionally, eye drops may delay the onset of glaucoma and even help correct a lazy eye.

Some people really can’t stand the idea of putting anything in their eyes. Other people may have various reasons they can’t use eye drops. Don’t fret if eye drops aren’t an option.

Here are four natural ways to get rid of dry eyes:

1. Omega-3 Supplements

Research shows that augmenting your diet with omega-3 fatty acids can help alleviate (and possibly prevent) dry eyes. A study published in the International Journal of Ophthalmology involved 264 patients with dry eyes, who were randomly chosen to receive one 500-milligram capsule of omega-3s twice daily, or a placebo. A surprising 65 percent of participants in the omega-3 group – compared to 33 percent of patients in the placebo group – reported a “significant improvement” in symptoms after three months. “Omega-3 fatty acids have a definite role for dry eye syndrome,” the researchers conclude.

If you choose not to take omega-3s in capsules, you can also get those fatty acids naturally. Excellent food sources of omega-3s include anchovies, chia seeds, flaxseed, salmon, and sardines.

2. Modify the environment

As mentioned, environmental factors can play a role in developing dry eyes. In fact, the link between specific environments and dry eyes is so strong that experts sometimes refer to the resulting condition as Environmental Dry Eye Disease or EDED. EDED is caused by “pollutants and/or adverse climatic conditions.”

Protect your eyes by wearing the appropriate eye-wear when biking, motorcycling, skiing, and while working in dusty and dirty environments. Also, try to avoid areas where people smoke and stay inside during windy conditions. A good pair of sunglasses can also help, especially if you suffer from eye sensitivity due to dry eyes.

3. Give your eyes a break

You can logically infer that the leading cause of dryness is continued work in specific settings. You should take frequent breaks from any task that requires extended periods of visual concentration, such as reading, writing, using a smartphone or laptop, etc.

Close your eyes for a few minutes or blink to spread tears evenly over your eyes. Try never to go for more than twenty minutes gazing at a screen. If your work requires this, every 20 minutes, close your eyes for a full 20 seconds to give your eyes a rest. For a quick fix, you can also keep eye drops handy.

4. Look inside your medicine cabinet

Certain OTCs, or over-the-counter medicines, may cause dry eyes. Among these OTCs are antihistamines, birth-control pills, and nasal decongestants. These common medicines may disrupt the functioning of the Meibomian glands, which produce an oil that prevents tears from evaporating too quickly.

Some prescription medications are known to cause dry eyes, as well. These include antidepressants, beta-blockers (blood control pills), tranquilizers, and medications for Parkinson’s disease.

(Note: Never stop taking a prescription medication without approval from your primary care physician. Medical oversight is necessary to limit specific withdrawal symptoms.)

Prevention tips

Experiencing dry eyes is usually a short-term, non-serious, and avoidable issue. With this in mind, make sure to pay attention to conditions that may cause a case of dry eyes, as proven by science. Here are a few tips to help you out:

Use a humidifier, which can add some moisture to dry indoor air.
When using a hair dryer, heater, fan, or other device that expels air, re-direct the airflow away from your face.
Position your computer slightly below eye level. A computer screen set above eye level will cause you to reflexively widen your eyes, which expedites the evaporation of tears.
Don’t smoke, as it is directly linked to dry-eye conditions. As mentioned, stay away from areas where smoke – nicotine or otherwise – is prevalent.

Sources
https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/features/why-do-we-cry-the-science-of-tears-9741287.html
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/315854.php
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25295911
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3874521/
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eyedrops-an-ocean-of-uses#1

11 Things Psychologists Do to Get Rid of Stress

May 3, 2018 by Power of Positivity

For just about everyone, stress is an integral, yet undesirable, part of life. And while some of us seem to be able to take stressful situations in stride, others sometimes need some additional help. And since there’s no shortage of advice about dealing with stress, it can often be hard to know who to listen to.

Below, we’ve compiled 11 psychologist-recommended ways to reduce or eliminate stresses in your life–whether those stresses are caused by internal or external forces.

1.Progressive Muscle Relaxation

The mind and the body are incredibly connected, and this becomes very apparent when you’re dealing with stress. If you’ve ever noticed yourself clenching your teeth, carrying tension in your shoulders, or experiencing a new backache when stressed, then you too have felt the mind-body connection that stress tends to bring.

The good news is that, although mental stress can cause physical tension, deliberate physical relaxation can also lessen mental stress. Progressive muscle relaxation, a technique used by psychologist Kevin Chapman, involves deliberately tensing a group of muscles for 10 seconds, then relaxing them for 20 seconds before moving on. In order to optimally engage your muscles and breathing together, inhale while tensing and exhale while relaxing. This offers another stress-reducing benefit–the power of deep breathing.

Some experts recommend using an audio recording in which a narrator offers instructions on which muscle group to tense first. These recordings can help you ingrain the pattern of tension and relaxation. Once you have committed the exercises to memory, you may no longer need audio guidance.

2. Healthy Distractions

Foe many of us, when we’re under pressure, our main focus becomes trying to resolve the source of our stresses. And while a problem-solving mindset can be an asset, too much uninterrupted focus on the stressor can actually backfire, according to Dr. Kandi Wiens in the Harvard Business Review. People who constantly focus on their stressors tend to find it harder to get rid of stress and less able to focus, locking themselves into a challenging cycle.

Because simply telling yourself to take a break mentally can be tough, therapist Amy Przeworski suggests giving yourself some time each day to do something that makes you happy. Maybe that’s painting, or songwriting, or running. The point is to do something you enjoy. This gives your brain a respite, which can restore your emotional energy and help bring back your focus. Both of these things together will help you manage stress.

3. Regular Exercise and Time Outdoors

Exercise has long been lauded as a powerful stress relief. And that’s for good reason–according to Dr. Axe, physical exercise releases endorphins, which are extremely effective when it comes to reducing anxiety. If the stresses in your life are due to factors beyond your control, exercise can help you manage stress. And if what’s bothering you is due to a problem you need to solve, the reduced anxiety and improved mental clarity exercise brings will more than likely bring you the focus you need to resolve the issue. You don’t have to be athletically-inclined, either–even going for a walk or a leisurely bike ride has benefits, too.

While exercise has its own benefits, several studies have shown that spending time in nature–whether that time is spent exercising or not–has demonstrable effects when it comes to stress relief. A Japanese study found that students who spent two nights in a forest had significantly reduced stresses upon their return compared to students who spent time in a city. In Japan, these short nature trips are known as “forest-bathing,” and they serve as a kind of reset for the brain.

Even if you don’t have time to spend a few nights camping in the forest, getting out in any kind of green space has positive effects on mood. Multiple studies have found that being outside in nature–whether that means going backpacking in the wilderness or going for a walk in a city park–can elevate mood significantly.

4. Meditation

Dr. Axe also explains the benefits of meditation, or healing prayer for the religious. These activities help those trying to get rid of stress because they provide a focal point beyond the self. We all know how easy it is to get into a spiral of anxiety, and both of these activities help you to both refocus and calm down.

If you haven’t meditated before, an easy way to start is to focus on your breathing. This type of centering focus, coupled with deep, slow breaths, often helps to slow your heart rate and assuage anxiety. For the technologically-inclined, there are a variety of meditation apps available for free online.

5. Consciously Slow the Flow of Thoughts

It’s a common frustration to feel as though you have no control over your thoughts. In particular, those who seek out methods of stress relief may be searching for ways to help themselves embrace more positive thinking. One tip, recommended by psychologist Martin Seligman, involves loudly helping yourself switch your thoughts. Dr. Seligman recommends clapping your hands and yelling that you’ll think about your particular stressor later.

If you’re in public, or just prefer not yelling loudly, you can adapt this approach to suit your own style. You may want to try snapping a rubber band against your wrist, deliberately turning your focus to something outside yourself, or even doing a few pushups. The point here is to briefly shock yourself out of your thought pattern.

This isn’t to say you should always turn your thoughts away from negative things. But if worries about your job are starting to encroach on your family time, chances are good that a method like this will increase stress relief by helping you curb stress-inducing thought patterns.

6. Do Something Useful

This suggestion, which is popular with many 12-step programs, is based on the premise that stopping yourself from being idle (and making yourself do something practical) is helpful when it comes to getting out of your head. Being useful can mean a variety of different things–maybe you want to volunteer in your community or bring a snack to a friend who’s sick. But being useful if often as simple as cleaning up your kitchen or finishing that DIY project you’ve been meaning to get to.

7. Watch What You Eat

It’s easy to give into cravings for junk food when you’re stressed out. But making an effort to eat a balanced diet with plenty of whole foods will most likely help you in your quest for stress relief. By eating enough protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, you will be optimally fueled to conquer challenges at work and in your personal life.

8. Watch What You Drink

When you’re excessively stressed out, it seems understandable to guzzle coffee to energize yourself in the morning and to drink a beer or some scotch to relax after a long day. Both of these things are fine in moderation, but too much alcohol and caffeine can also worsen stresses. Both can make you dehydrated, and they also can cause sleep difficulties, according to Dr. Axe.

9. Try Stimulating Your Parasympathetic Nervous System

Part of why you may be tempted to eat when stressed is because stimulating the nerves in your lips helps to activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to calm you down. Particularly if cravings for junk food (or alcohol or cigarettes) tend to come to you in times of mental struggle, give this method a shot.

10. Tap Into the Secrets of Eastern Medicine

Business psychologist Sharon Melnick suggests a few methods used in Eastern medicine when it comes to managing and reducing anxiety. Particularly in times where you are so stressed you can feel a flutter in your heart, taking your thumb and pressing it into the indentation between your second and third knuckles can help. This is because it activates a nerve that works to reduce the tight feeling we often get when we’re under pressure or extremely anxious.

11. Keep a Journal

Sometimes, just being aware of your daily stresses and how you respond to them helps you to adjust your reactions and cope more effectively. Plus, writing out what’s bothering you is often useful when it comes to processing. Journal entries don’t have to be long and complex, or even well-written. Just taking 10 minutes a day to write about your challenges is a step in the right direction.

Taken altogether, the stresses of even everyday life tend to feel overwhelming sometimes. But when you have physician-recommended management techniques at your disposal, you’re much more likely to be able to feel better and improve your quality of life and your productivity as well.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFdcCXmGpy4&t=11s

Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-management-doing-progressive-muscle-relaxation
https://hbr.org/2017/12/break-the-cycle-of-stress-and-distraction-by-using-your-emotional-intelligence
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2793341/
http://time.com/4881665/green-spaces-nature-happiness/
https://www.prevention.com/mind-body/emotional-health/13-healthy-foods-that-reduce-stress-and-depression
http://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-relax-instantly-2013-6

5 Differences Between Butter and Margarine (That People Don’t Know About)

May 3, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Bad news for Margarine fans: it’s not much healthier for you than butter. In fact, most evidence points to the product being far less healthy in the long run.

When margarine products began flooding grocery stores in the late 70’s and early 80’s, owners of Unilever stock (and other companies) got rich – and our health suffered as a result. We were told – by doctors, nutritionists, public health officials – that butter, because of its fat content, was an unhealthy dinner table choice. And margarine-producing companies reaped the massive market rewards.

Most of us don’t keep up with the butter versus margarine debate.

But here are a few differences between the two you may want to know about:

1. The Ingredients

Butter products are made from fermented milk or cream, water, and milk proteins. Dairy salt is added to some varieties of butter, though the product is commonly available as salted or unsalted. Margarine doesn’t contain any dairy at all and is instead made up of emulsifiers, salt, and vegetable oils.

In short, butter is a natural product and margarine is not. Margarine is heavily-processed, and butter is not. Which leads us the next point:

2. The Processing

Butter products undergo separation and churning, a manufacturing process wherein buttercream derived from milk fat is stirred in a giant industrial machine. The product is then pasteurized and aged 24 hours before churning. Afterward, the final product is shaped and placed into packages for shipping.

Margarine undergoes a process called hydrogenation. Hydrogenation is less complicated, chemically converting liquid vegetable oils into solid or semi-solid fats. It’s actually only a few steps away from being plastic…

3. The Fats

All butter sold commercially in the United States must be at least 80 percent fat. Butter is, of course, an animal fat – containing higher amounts of saturated fat than margarine. Unlike the fats contained in most margarine, however, those included in butter are mostly of the omega-3 and omega-6 varieties.

Margarine and spreads found in the dairy aisle range from 10 to 90 percent fat, consisting mainly of the polyunsaturated and monounsaturated varieties. Some margarine products may also contain trans fats, which are notoriously bad for health.

4. The Taste and Texture

Regardless of what ICBINB’s (admittedly funny) commercials may tell you, there IS indeed a difference in the taste and texture of the two products. Put simply, a product manufactured entirely (and naturally) from animal fat will not, in most cases, closely resemble a wholly-processed substitute.

These differences are evident in baked goods, which traditionally use a large amount of butter or margarine. Products made with the latter tend to taste quite different (often, worse) from those made with natural butter.

5. The Nutrition

While neither butter nor margarine is “healthy,” the latter lacks important nutrients such as omega-3 and omega-6 fats which are vital for brain and heart health. Furthermore, margarine contains just trace amounts – if that – of vitamins A, D, and E.

Nutrition label stuff aside, heavily-processed foods – a category that includes margarine – is almost always worse for human health than minimally-processed and organic products (more on organic, natural margarine brands later.) Most of the processing at butter producing sites is mechanized, with the exception of added salt to buttercream.

The Verdict (Kind Of)

Kris Gunnars, BSc, in an evidence-based article written for Healthline titled “Butter vs. Margarine – Why I Trust Cows More Than Chemists,” recites what most nutritionists and scientists now understand the be true:

“Given that nutrition organizations have been warning us about butter and pushing us towards processed industrial margarine, you would think that there was at least a hint of evidence suggesting this to lead to better outcomes. Alas, no. Despite margarines being able to lower total and LDL cholesterol in the short term, they actually lead to the opposite effect when measuring hard outcomes.”

Still, there is a place for margarine (and there probably always will be.) Vegans, environmentalists, animal rights groups and other demographics make sure of this.

Fortunately, there are a number of good and natural margarine products. Becel margarine, for example, substitutes heart-healthy olive oil. Another company, called Earth Balance, produces an organic, 100 percent natural margarine spread.

The best advice (with apologies to Kris Gunnars): Do your research and consume certain foods in moderation.

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

Sources:
http://healthypage.info/2017/12/25/the-fat-facts-butter-vs-margarine-the-truth-were-not-being-told/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/butter-vs-margarine#section7
https://www.rd.com/food/fun/real-difference-butter-margarine/
https://www.thekitchn.com/whats-the-difference-between-butter-and-margarine-223410

Researchers Explain 5 Health Effects of Stress

May 3, 2018 by Chris Butler

We have mentioned this fact before: stress is the deadliest and most ubiquitous health epidemic in the world. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO), widely considered to be the most distinguished medical body on the planet, has labeled stress “The Health Epidemic of the 21^st century.”

So why is stress so underestimated and misunderstood? In part, this is because stress is unavoidable. We biologically experience stress as a means of self-preservation, so we’ve just (sort of) accepted it.

Basically, we don’t think about stress much – it just kind of brews under the surface. We also tend to categorize stress and disease as two different things. They are not.

The fact is that chronic stress negatively impacts our health and well-being. Abnormal stress levels can cause diseases, illnesses, and sicknesses of both the physical and mental variety. While we may be able to keep the effects of stress at bay for a certain period, if we ignore the symptoms and fail to take care of the core problem, it will rear its ugly head at some point.

Here’s the Mayo Clinic on the relationship between stress and health:

Indeed, stress symptoms can affect your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behavior … Stress that’s left unchecked can contribute to many health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

Shanna Levine, MD, a clinical instructor of medicine at the prestigious Icahn School of Medicine in New York City, makes this observation:

“When people are stressed, they get sick … because the immune system can’t suppress the virus.”

Here are 5 Effects of Stress on Your Health

Stress’s mental, physical, and psychological effects are thoroughly researched and documented, but have you ever wondered what being over-stressed does to your body and mind? Or considered the common risks that being over-stressed poses?

1. It’s more difficult to control emotions

A 2013 study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences concludes that stress has a “deleterious” (toxic) effect on one’s ability to manage their emotions. Emotional regulation depends on “intact executive functioning and engagement of the prefrontal cortex.” These cognitive processes grow severely handicapped when we’re under heavy stress.

When we have problems managing emotions, our cognitive skills and decision-making abilities are negatively impacted. This has a domino effect on every area of our lives – personally and professionally.

2. Your love life could take a hit

Everyone on the planet agrees that sex is a wonderful stress reliever. (Research backs this up, too!) However, stress – particularly performance anxiety – can lead to troubles between the sheets.

Studies have shown that higher-than-normal levels in men affect testosterone levels, body weight, and sexual desire. Women might also get less frisky when feeling the pressure.

3. You have a more significant sweet tooth

We can pretty much all sympathize with this one. Who hasn’t been frazzled only to beeline for the snacks? Your cravings are entirely normal, friend. Unfortunately, in this context, the word “normal” is not synonymous with healthy.

Per a University of Pennsylvania study, the elevation of stress hormones links directly to our sugar cravings. The research team concludes, beyond a doubt, that stress hormones trigger those mid-day chocolate binges.

4. You may get a bit itchier

A Japanese study of 2,000 people reveals that those with a skin condition called pruritis (“chronic itch”) were twice as likely to be over-stressed as the control group.

We all know that irritated skin can induce stress. Now, Japanese scientists claim that itchy skin and specific conditions – dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis – are aggravated by anxiety and stress.

5. Your belly is more sensitive

Anxiety and stress can manifest all sorts of gut troubles, including stomachaches, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and even ulcers. In one study, people “experiencing the highest levels of stress were more than three times as likely to have abdominal pain as their more-relaxed counterparts.”

These findings regarding the effects of stress are not so surprising. The gut-brain relationship is well established. When we feel relaxed and carefree, our digestion kicks into gear. Feeling stressed or overwhelmed can stall our digestive processes. When this happens, we’ll sometimes get a belly ache or need to head to the toilet.

Final Thoughts: Limiting and Relieving the Effects of Stress to Be Happy Again

The Mayo Clinic provides some quick tips on managing stress:

Regular physical activity
Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi, or massage
Socializing wth friends and family
Taking time for your hobbies
Limiting or cutting out alcohol and tobacco use

Mindfulness and meditation are two proven stress relievers. One of the quickest and most effective ways to get your emotions under control is to pay conscious attention to your breath. For an entire minute, focus on inhaling and exhaling. Make sure to inhale deeply and slowly exhale, centering your self and inviting calm into your mind.

21 Things Your Body Can Tell You About Your Health

May 2, 2018 by Power of Positivity

The body positive movement is in full swing and this is a good thing. Not only is it boosting people’s confidence, but it is also causing them to get to know themselves and their health better. Sometimes the smallest changes or characteristics in your body, physically, mentally, and emotionally, can tell you a lot about your overall health.

It’s good to take a close look at yourself and evaluate your health every week. What’s happening in your body and how you feel is a direct reflection of the state of health. Here are 21 things your body can tell you about your health …

1. Cracked and Dry Lips

Chapped lips happen, but if you experience this issue frequently, it might signal an allergic reaction or dehydration. When caused by an allergy, it is referred to as allergic cheilitis. The most common causes include lip cosmetics, medications, dental hygiene products, metals and foods, according to the New Zealand Dermatological Society.

2. Swollen Feet

Foot swelling is not uncommon. In fact, it is to be expected when women are pregnant or after people spend countless hours on their feet. However, when there is not obvious cause, talking to your doctor about heart failure might be in order. This condition is characterized by the heart not effectively pumping, resulting in fluid retention. Unfortunately, this condition is not uncommon, and it is estimated that every years in the United States, 550,000 new cases will be diagnosed, says Emory Healthcare. This condition can affect people of all ages, from children to the elderly.

3. Pale Tongue

Under normal circumstances, your tongue should be pink, moist and taste buds should be visible. If your tongue is dry and pale, this could indicate an iron deficiency, according to acupuncturist Katie Clifton. A quick blood test will tell you if your iron levels are too low.

4. Abnormal Sweat Smells

Your sweat and how it smells can give you a lot of information about your general health. For example, your blood sugar might be abnormal if your sweat takes on an acetone odor. Those with diabetes might also have a sweet smell due to the sugar accumulating on the skin. Liver or kidneys problems might be present if it smells like ammonia.

5. Check the Length of Your Fingers

Women want to examine their ring and index fingers to see which is longer. A study in Arthritis & Rheumatism in 2008 concluded that women whose ring fingers are longer compared to their index fingers were twice as likely to develop osteoarthritis in their knees.

6. Loss of Eyebrow Hair

Full and dark eyebrows are all the rage in the beauty world, but if your eyebrows are becoming sparse, it might be due to thyroid disease, according to David Wolfe. This can happen with both overactive and underactive thyroid conditions. When thyroid disease is to blame, you typically notice the outer section of your eyebrows starting to thin out.

7. Stinky Feet

If your feet smell despite clean shoes, socks and proper hygiene, you might be dealing with athlete’s foot. This condition occurs as the result of a fungal infection and it is mildly contagious. It generally presents as a rash that is scaly and red, says the Mayo Clinic. Profound itching is common, and it tends to be at its worst when you first remove your socks and shoes.

8. Abnormal Hair

In women, if hair is growing where it typically does not, this can signal an issue with your health. One of the most common reasons for this is polycystic ovarian syndrome. This condition is characterized by different metabolic problems and a hormonal imbalance. The abnormal or excessive hair growth is generally due to your body producing too many male hormones. The hair may grow on the face, back and in the ears. It is estimated that throughout the world, approximately 8 to 20 percent of women have this condition, states the NICHD.

9. Dark Velvety Skin Patches

When these first occur, most people think they just need to exfoliate or scrub harder. However, the American Academy of Dermatology says that these patches might signal a medication reaction or pre-diabetes.

10. Smaller Calves

Women with calves under 13 inches around might be at a higher risk of having a stroke, according to a 2008 study in the journal Stroke. The increased stroke risk is associated with those with smaller calves tending to develop carotid plaques more often. Having more subcutaneous fat in the lower legs might reduce the risk of plaques by taking fatty acids out of the bloodstream.

11. Breast Size

Women whose breasts are a D cup or larger when they were age 20 may be 1.5 times more susceptible to developing types 2 diabetes compared to women with an A cup or smaller. The study, which was presented in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, theorized that this might be due to the hormonally sensitive fat in the breasts making women more vulnerable to developing insulin resistance.

12. Shorter Arms

Women who have shorter arms are said to be up to 1.5 times more vulnerable to Alzheimer’s disease, states a study in Neurology published in 2008. A short arm span is said to be 60 inches or less.

13. Puffy Eyes

Having some puffiness and minor swelling under the eyes is often attributed to lack of sleep and excess stress. While these can certainly be culprits, hormonal changes and salt intake also play a role. Dr. Sears states that food sensitivities or allergies might also be to blame for puffy eyes, especially in children.

14. BMI and Cognition

Your ability to maintain your cognitive abilities later in life is something most people are concerned about. If you are nearing or in your 40s and your abdomen is on the large side, your chance of developing dementia in your 70s is up to 3.6 times more likely than your smaller waisted peers, according to a 2009 study in Neurology. This is believed to be due to more inflammatory hormones being produced by the higher level of visceral fat.

15. Short People Live Longer

As long as a short person does not have major medical issues, they tend to live longer than their taller peers, says research presented in Anthropological Review. It is believed that this is associated one of the genes responsible for short stature also being partly responsible for longevity.

16. Blood Type Matters

Research recently conducted at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute shows that people with type O blood, either negative or positive, are less likely to develop pancreatic cancer. In fact, those with AB, A or B blood had a 44 percent increase in their risk of developing this type of cancer in life.

17. Stunted or Uneven Teeth

If you notice that over time your teeth become more stunted or uneven, this might tell you that you are grinding your teeth in your sleep. Teeth grinding is typically associated with increased stress, according to a report on Colgate.

18. Premature Facial Wrinkles

As you get older and collagen production slows, so it is natural for wrinkles to start forming. However, if you are in early menopause and you notice wrinkles, your bones should be your primary concern. In Boston at the Endocrine Society Meeting in 2011, research was presented that linked early wrinkling to osteoporosis. The research said that the quality of a woman’s skin was a clue into her bone mineral density, and that the distribution and severity of wrinkles often correlated with a lower bone density.

19. Check Your Nails

Your toenails and fingernails can act as windows into your general well-being. If your nails develop side-to-side lines, this can indicate stress. Small cysts around the cuticles might signal arthritis. Kidney disease symptoms might in side-to-side lines, white spots or streaks and ridged nails, says the Cleveland Clinic.

20. Pungent Urine or Stools

What comes out of you can be just as telling as bodily changes and characteristics. When stools are especially smelly, consider what you have consumed recently. If you notice a correlation between smelly stools and eating dairy products, this could signal a lactose intolerance, according to AARP. Urine having a chemical smell could mean a urinary tract infection, usually due to the E. coli bacteria.

21. Dry Skin

Occasional dry skin is normal, especially when the weather is cold and dry. However, if your dry skin is not alleviated by moisturizers and drinking more water, an underlying condition might be at play. Nutrient deficiencies, diabetes and hypothyroidism are common causes of dry skin. The following nutrient deficiencies might contribute to dry skin: essential fatty acids, vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin A and potassium, says Susan Evans, MD.

Make sure to take a good look at yourself and evaluate your health about once a week. It is a direct reflection of your state of health. If you notice changes that are problematic, make an appointment with your doctor.

References:
https://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/allergic-contact-cheilitis/
https://bit.ly/2qQYJzI
https://drlwilson.com/ARTICLES/BODY
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/art.23237
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/symptoms-causes/syc-20353841
https://bit.ly/2HUo4js
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2683740/
https://www.degruyter.com/downloadpdf/j/anre.2016.79.issue-4/anre-2016-0032/anre-2016-0032.pdf
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/color-problems/acanthosis-nigricans
http://stroke.ahajournals.org/content/39/11/2958
http://www.dana-farber.org/newsroom/news-releases/2009/blood-type-study-sheds-light-on-biology-of-pancreatic-cancer/
https://news.yale.edu/2011/06/06/not-just-skin-and-bones-wrinkles-could-predict-women-s-bone-fracture-risk
http://www.cmaj.ca/content/178/3/289

How to Make Natural Energy Drinks to Boost Your Energy And Improve Your Mood

April 30, 2018 by Power of Positivity

About 90 percent of Americans consume caffeine in one form or another every single day. More than half of all American adults consume more than 300 milligrams (mg) of caffeine every day, making it by far America’s most popular drug. – Villanova University

There is nothing wrong with a bit of caffeine for extra energy. In fact, scientists often highlight its numerous benefits for the brain and body. In addition, caffeine does not appear to have adverse effects, even in relatively large doses. Per the Mayo Clinic:

Up to 400 milligrams of caffeine seems to be safe for most healthy adults. That’s roughly the amount of caffeine in four cups of brewed coffee.

You might find that bit of information surprising. What is more, the Mayo Clinic is not the only health center sharing this kind of data. Consider this comment by Harvard University’s Dr. Robert H. Schmerling:

Over the last several decades, coffee has been among the most heavily studied dietary components. And the news is mostly good. Moderate coffee consumption (three to four cups per day) has been linked with a longer lifespan.

(Coffee, by the way, has numerous research-based health benefits!)

The problem isn’t caffeine, but the wave of adulterated caffeine-based products. These have led to an alarming public health epidemic. Companies like Monster Energy, Red Bull, and Rockstar make energy drink products loaded with additives, which are known to be harmful the body. Sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, ginseng, gingko biloba, guarana, high levels of taurine, and an excessive amount of B vitamins enhance the physical and mental effects of caffeine. The problem is that the biochemical interaction between these ingredients can be very dangerous.

So how do you get the energy without the potentially harmful additives? Enter the better option: natural energy drinks. Because these are homemade, you can have full control over what you put inside your drink (and your body).

**These Healthy, Natural Energy Drinks can Improve your Mood and Boost your Energy Levels**

Apple-Banana Energy Shake

Yeah, this drink is as good as it sounds. Energy-wise, apples are the cream of the crop (or tree), as they are packed with vitamins, minerals and natural sugar. Bananas are a perfect complement, because they provide a quick-acting effect on mental stamina. This is one of the simplest natural energy drinks that you can make.

Ingredients:

1-2 peeled apples

2 bananas

¼ cup cold, non-fat milk (optional)

½ cup crushed ice

Directions: Mix all ingredients in a blender until smooth and serve chilled.

Kombucha Tea

Kombucha – a type of fermented green tea – contains probiotics, vitamin K-2, vitamin B-12, and fatty acids. The last two ingredients are very beneficial for cognitive energy and function.

Ingredients:

1 gallon of water

4 black tea bags

¾ cup of organic sugar or organic artificial sweetener

SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Yeast and Bacteria)

Directions: First, place the SCOBY in a glass jar and set aside. Bring the gallon of water to a simmer and mix in the tea bags. Add the organic sugar (or sugar substitute) and boil for about 15 minutes over low heat. Allow the mix to cool before pouring into the glass jar. Place a rubber band over a paper towel or coffee filter, which will allow the mixture to “breathe.” The culture will develop in seven-to-ten days. Finally, you have the opportunity to serve yourself and glass, and enjoy the health benefits.

Mint Tea Refreshment

A few refreshing mint leaves plus vitamin-C-packed lemon juice equals a serious energy kick!

Ingredients:

1 cup of cold-brew green, white, or mint tea

1 cup of cold water

A glass full of ice

1 whole freshly squeezed lemon

A few sprigs of fresh mint

Directions: First, combine all of the ingredients into a cocktail shaker. Shake thoroughly and then pour mixture into glass.

Coconut-Matcha Energy Drink

Matcha contains a natural calming agent called l-theanine. When combined with the right ingredients, it provides a calm, focused, and happy energy. (Think coffee without the jitters!) Coconut, while it doesn’t have caffeine, contains a fatty acid called medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These provide a super quick energy boost. Oh, and it’s delicious!

Ingredients:

1 cup coconut water

2 teaspoons matcha powder

Orange slice for garnish (optional)

A few ice cubes (optional)

Directions: Mix matcha powder with coconut water and mix thoroughly. If desired, garnish with orange slice and serve over ice cubes.

These natural energy drinks are sure to give you a lasting energy and mood boost! In addition, they make tasty homemade beverages. The only problem you’ll face is deciding which one to try first.

https://youtu.be/7BNGVmwxoHI

Sources
https://today.uconn.edu/2015/03/children-and-energy-drinks-a-growing-public-health-crisis/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-latest-scoop-on-the-health-benefits-of-coffee-2017092512429
https://www.rd.com/health/wellness/natural-energy-drinks/
https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/studentlife/health/promotion/goto/resources/drugs/caffeine.html
https://www.verywellfit.com/energy-drinks-89052

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Here are four natural ways to get rid of dry eyes:

1. Omega-3 Supplements

2. Modify the environment

3. Give your eyes a break

4. Look inside your medicine cabinet

Prevention tips

1.Progressive Muscle Relaxation

2. Healthy Distractions

3. Regular Exercise and Time Outdoors

4. Meditation

5. Consciously Slow the Flow of Thoughts

6. Do Something Useful

7. Watch What You Eat

8. Watch What You Drink

9. Try Stimulating Your Parasympathetic Nervous System

10. Tap Into the Secrets of Eastern Medicine

11. Keep a Journal

But here are a few differences between the two you may want to know about:

1. The Ingredients

2. The Processing

3. The Fats

4. The Taste and Texture

5. The Nutrition

The Verdict (Kind Of)

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Here are 5 Effects of Stress on Your Health

1. It’s more difficult to control emotions

2. Your love life could take a hit

3. You have a more significant sweet tooth

4. You may get a bit itchier

5. Your belly is more sensitive

Final Thoughts: Limiting and Relieving the Effects of Stress to Be Happy Again

1. Cracked and Dry Lips

2. Swollen Feet

3. Pale Tongue

4. Abnormal Sweat Smells

5. Check the Length of Your Fingers

6. Loss of Eyebrow Hair

7. Stinky Feet

8. Abnormal Hair

9. Dark Velvety Skin Patches

10. Smaller Calves

11. Breast Size

12. Shorter Arms

13. Puffy Eyes

14. BMI and Cognition

15. Short People Live Longer

16. Blood Type Matters

17. Stunted or Uneven Teeth

18. Premature Facial Wrinkles

19. Check Your Nails

20. Pungent Urine or Stools

21. Dry Skin

These Healthy, Natural Energy Drinks can Improve your Mood and Boost your Energy Levels

Apple-Banana Energy Shake

Kombucha Tea

Mint Tea Refreshment

Coconut-Matcha Energy Drink

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

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**These Healthy, Natural Energy Drinks can Improve your Mood and Boost your Energy Levels**

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Master Your Day with the Ultimate Positive Morning Guide + Checklist