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5 Signs Someone Is Secretly Suffering From Bulimia

September 22, 2017 by Power of Positivity

What is bulimia nervosa?

Bulimia nervosa, most often referred to as ‘bulimia,’ is a severe eating disorder that involves frequent episodes of binge eating followed by radical efforts to avoid weight gain.

The condition is most commonly seen in young women, though male cases have been reported. Statistics show that the condition can also develop during any period of life, though bulimic patients of middle-age and older are exceedingly rare.

People who suffer from bulimia are pulled in two extreme directions – an overwhelming compulsion to eat, and a strong desire to not gain weight.

Many (though not all) bulimics engage in “binge-and-purge” cycles. When the urge to eat becomes strong enough, the person will binge eat. Binge eating is defined as “a disorder in which you frequently consume unusually large amounts of food and feel unable to stop eating.”

After bingeing, the bulimic usually feels a profound sense of guilt and shame, which leads to the need to purge. How the bulimic engages in purging is individualistic, but may involve the taking of laxatives, vomiting, or working out to the point of exhaustion.

What causes bulimia?

1.5 percent of American women suffer from bulimia nervosa in their lifetime. ~ National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders

Per medical experts, there is no single cause of bulimia. The individual’s genetics, self-awareness, and self-image are all thought to play a role.

Historically, low self-esteem and concerns about weight and body image are, by far, the biggest risk factors. Other risk factors include stressful life changes, history of abuse or trauma, or mental health complications.

What are the effects of bulimia?

Bulimics suffer psychological and physical effects both because of – and resulting from – their condition.

Having bulimia puts a person’s life at risk. Physicians concede that the most dangerous side effect of bulimia is dehydration from purging.

Vomiting, diuretics, and laxatives may cause an unhealthy change in the body’s electrolyte counts, usually as the result of low potassium levels. Consequently, the body may produce dangerous and potentially life-threatening symptoms, including irregular heartbeat and kidney failure.

5 Signs of Bulimia

Bulimia is a heartbreaking condition, both for the person suffering and their loved ones. Fortunately, there is help available, and we can take heart in knowing this.

If we know what to look for, we’re in a better position to help. With that said, here are five common signs of bulimia:

1. Swollen cheeks and eyes

Bulimics who purge themselves by vomiting will often have swelling around the cheeks and eyes. Also, many bulimics who induce vomiting will strain to the point of bursting blood vessels in the eyes. Bursting blood vessels will always swell, causing the vessels to appear more prominently.

2. Weight fluctuations

As purging is not an effective way of eliminating calories from the body, most bulimics will not appear underweight. It’s more common for them to be of average weight or slightly overweight. However, most people battling bulimia will display severe weight fluctuations. They may lose 10 to 15 pounds, even more, in a short period.

3. Withdrawal

Bulimia’s effect on an individual is not limited to physical appearance. Sadly, bulimia may lead to the development of anxiety and depression. Anxiety and depression, along with feelings of shame and guilt, will cause the person to stop engaging socially.

4. Listen for obsessions

Some bulimics may have trouble concealing their strong mental and emotional states. If you notice them discussing extreme ways of losing weight, insecurity about their body and self-image, or obsession over health and appearance in another way, it’s wise to take note of this.

5. Put everything together

Remember that not everyone suffering from bulimia engages in purging. Also, keep in mind that there is no way to disguise bulimia’s effects on the mind and body. Psychologically, the condition almost always leads to depression, anxiety, or withdrawal. Physically, you’ll almost certainly notice drastic weight changes if paying attention.

Getting help

If you or someone you love may be suffering from bulimia or another eating disorder, there is help available. Trained eating disorder professionals and other qualified medical personnel can help them regain health, eat normally again, and work through any underlying or resulting psychological issues.

In the U.S., the National Eating Disorders Association’s toll-free hotline can be reached at 1-800-931-2237. They can provide free advice, information, and referrals to anyone who calls. The consultation is completely confidential.

EDReferral.com provides a comprehensive list of eating disorder and bulimia treatment providers.

Sources:
http://www.anad.org/get-information/about-eating-disorders/eating-disorders-statistics/
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/binge-eating-disorder/home/ovc-20182926
http://www.wikihow.com/Tell-if-Someone-Is-Bulimic
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/eating-disorders/bulimia-nervosa.htm

10 Secrets to Weight Loss, According to The Experts

September 22, 2017 by Chris Butler

Achieving weight loss can be a pain and a half, especially when you consider all of the diet trends available. There’s so much information flying around that it can be hard to figure out what’s legitimate and what suggestion encourages you to buy a fancy product.

The truth is, experts have already figured out some tips and tricks that can help you lose weight, and it’s all about making easy changes to your diet. If you’re struggling to lose weight and keep that weight off, these tips will surely help you in your weight loss journey.

Here Are 10 Effective Changes To Help With Weight Loss

“Your diet is a bank account. Good food choices are good investments.” – Bethenny Frankel

1. Drink 3 liters of water with lemon every day without fail

We all know that drinking water is the way to go when getting healthy. It’s suitable for, keeps you hydrated, and your body needs it! Drinking water by itself is already good for your health, but when you add a slice of lemon, it can help detox your body.

Fitness expert Jackie Warner says, “Adding the lemon helps to detoxify the liver and metabolizes fat, so this can speed up metabolism by about 33 percent. That burns about 100 extra calories per day!” Drinking 3 liters of water throughout the day with added lemon can speed up your metabolism and help you lose weight.

2. Eat slowly, and stop when you’re full

The best way to lose weight is to eat less and make sure you’re doing this the right way. Instead of gulping your food, make sure to savor every bite to be fully aware of when you start to get hungry. When you eat too quickly, you may be consuming more than your body needs. When your body starts to feel full, it’s time to stop eating and let your body enjoy what you’ve given it.

3. Say no to diet food because it isn’t good for your health

All loopholes will allow companies to sell food as “diet food,” which isn’t always good for your weight loss. Instead, focus on choosing foods based on their nutritional value. When you buy and eat foods that are good for you and high in nutrients, you’ll lose weight more manageable than if you buy “diet foods.” There’s no fast trick to dieting and eating healthy!

4. Eat at regular mealtimes to promote weight loss

According to fitness expert Nicole Nichols, “So plan for one to two snacks a day as needed, and you’ll likely eat less and avoid binges later.” When you go too long without eating or think that skipping meals is the way to help lose weight, two things can happen. You may be encouraged to overeat later because you’re so hungry, and two, your body may go into starvation mode and preserve more fat just in case you won’t be eating again for a long time. Eating at regular mealtimes can help put your body in the correct rhythm to lose weight.

5. Drink fresh vegetable juice to regain your health

Vegetables are good for you, but sometimes we don’t have time to make a meal with all the right veggies. Another alternative is to drink fresh vegetable juice. It is suitable for you, but it’ll give you the energy you need to get through the day – and it tastes great! The founder and owner of Strala yoga studio, Tara Stiles, says, “Cucumber, kale, carrot, ginger…it is so good for you, gives you so much energy, and tastes good! The coolest side effect is that I stopped craving sugar and salts! Just like that, without trying. Amazing!”

6. Keep nuts on hand for a healthy snack that supports weight loss

Raw almonds, cashews, or walnuts can help you when you’re in a pinch and are starting to crave a snack during the middle of the day. When you’re on the go and your blood sugar drops, it can be tempting to get an unhealthy snack that can make it hard to keep your weight down. Luckily, raw almonds are the perfect snack: they’re healthy and keep your blood sugar up.

7. Improve weight loss by eating protein with every meal to help you feel full

Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or neither, protein is essential for every meal. It’ll help keep you feeling full, so you’re not tempted to go snacking in between meals or during the middle of the night. Tofu and beans are an excellent alternative to meat-based proteins for vegan or vegetarian diets.

8. Keep an eye on your carbs, especially when you’re eating out

Carbs are good for getting energy, but you want to ensure that you’re not getting too much. It’s easy to have a serving size of carbs that’s more than your body needs. Especially when you’re eating out at a restaurant, you want to see how many carbs you’re taking in, such as pasta or bread. The recommended serving size for carbs is ½ cup. According to fitness expert Linda LaRue, “Remember that a recommended carbohydrate serving—such as pasta, pizza, bread, or rice—is 1/3 to 1/2 cup. That’s the size of a golf ball or mouse. Most restaurants give you three cups of pasta. That’s the equivalent of six carb servings!”

9. Eat more Greek yogurt to boost the weight loss process

While yogurt is a relatively healthy snack, not all yogurts will give you the weight loss you’re looking for. The best choice is Greek yogurt. It’s a good choice for protein, and it doesn’t have as much sugar as other yogurts. Other yogurts, even those supposed to be low-fat, can be loaded with sugar that you don’t need. So, for a healthy snack, make sure your yogurt is Greek-style. For some flavor, you can also try adding pieces of fruit.

10. Say no to sodas because they pack tons of chemicals and calories

Eliminating sugary drinks and soda from your diet may be challenging, but it’s the best way to go when you’re looking to lose weight. They contain chemicals and calories, and because it’s a drink, you may not notice how much you’re taking in. Instead, go for water or vegetable juice. Your body will thank you!

Losing weight and keeping it off comes with its unique challenges for everyone, from dietary restrictions to health concerns. However, these tricks should be helpful for just about anyone who is looking to lose some weight and keep it off. If you don’t know where to start for weight loss, adding any or all of these tweaks to your diet will get you headed down the right track!

11. Skip the screen eating

Mindless eating causes you to overeat. It’s easy to nibble away without realizing how much you’re eating when you’re sitting in front of your computer or television watching a show. Focusing on your food means you’re aware of what you’re eating and how much you’re eating. Weight loss could be as simple as breaking the habit of sitting in front of your computer or television while you eat.

12. Skip those processed foods (they hinder weight loss)

Eating extra whole foods, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean meats, is one of the best secrets to weight loss. Processed foods, as you know, are high in sodium, fat, and sugar. Whenever possible, swap out natural foods for processed foods, including

Oven roast potatoes rather than buying frozen french fries
Grill your meats instead of frying them
Swap out a bowl of mixed berries for a cookie
Make your salad dressing with oil, vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. It’s tasty and healthier than store-bought salad dressings.
Use natural, healthy maple syrup instead of maple-flavored syrups that are corn syrup with flavoring.
Skip the fake coffee creamer and use real cream instead–tastes better without the chemicals of the coffee creamer.

13. Keep moving for faster weight loss

You know that exercise is an excellent thing to do for weight loss. Incorporating some exercise into your life will make you lose weight and feel better, too. Whether you try to walk more or go to the gym, the goal is to keep moving. There are simple ways to add a little exercise to your day, such as:

Parking your car farther out in the parking lot: This habit makes you walk farther to get into the store.
Running upstairs to get that thing you forgot: Make each trip up your stairs a little more strenuous by running up and down. The more forgetful you are, the more exercise you’ll get.
Clean your house: It’s hard to find the time, but cleaning your home is a great exercise.
Mow your yard: Mowing the grass in the sunshine improves your mood and gives you exercise.

14. Eat at home instead of at a restaurant

Eating out is a great convenience, but it’s hard on your diet. All the yummy foods and huge portions can ruin your good intentions to eat healthily. A simple weight loss secret is to avoid restaurants. Instead, eat at home where you can control what you’re eating and how much you’re eating. Create a menu for the week, and buy the foods on the menu, so when it’s time to prepare dinner, you won’t give up and order pizza.

15. Spice up your foods

Adding yummy spices like paprika and cayenne peppers to your dishes can increase weight loss. These spices contain capsaicin, which naturally speeds up your metabolism to lose weight. You can add these tasty spices to your morning scrambled eggs or lunchtime chicken salad. They pack a punch of flavor and excellent benefits. The best herbs to rev up your metabolism include:

Turmeric
Cayenne
Cinnamon
Ginger
Chili pepper

16. Choose soup instead of appetizers

Eating soup before your main course is a delicious weight loss habit to incorporate into your evening meals. Soup is a natural way to eat more veggies. You can make your soup by adding fresh cut-up vegetables, lemon juice, and spices to chicken broth to fill you up but without adding extra calories.

17. Brush your teeth after you eat

One of the best weight loss secrets is to brush and floss your teeth as soon as you finish eating dinner. This habit stops you from mindless snacking in the evening. Studies show that eating at night can lead to overeating and weight gain. It may surprise you to see the pounds drop off when you practice this little weight loss habit.

18. Eat your meals on smaller plates

Large plates give you room for extra food. Serving your meals on smaller plates and bowls limits how much you can eat. It’s a bit of a mind trick, but it’s a great weight loss secret to incorporate into your daily meals.

19. Eat your fiber to assist in weight loss

Dietary fiber doesn’t get digested in your small intestine. When you eat lots of fiber, you feel full, which helps you eat less. There are two categories of fiber.

Insoluble fiber

This is the fiber that won’t dissolve in water. Insoluble fiber bulks up your stools and helps you avoid constipation. It passes quickly through your digestive system. Examples of insoluble fiber include:

Whole wheat grains
Nuts
Cauliflower
Green beans
Potatoes

Soluble fiber

This is the fiber that dissolves in water and gets metabolized in your gut. These fibrous foods attract moisture, which turns into a gel during your digestion. It digests slowly. Soluble fiber can lower your risk of heart disease. Examples of soluble fiber include:

Peas
Oats
Apples
Citrus fruits
Carrots
Beans and lentils
Barley
Seeds

20. Don’t drink calories

If you’re trying to cut down to lose weight, the last thing you want to do is use up your calories on drinks. Sweet, milky coffees, fruit juices, cocktails, and beer are loaded with unnecessary calories. These drinks are high in sugar and low in nutrition. They lack protein or fiber, so you’ll feel hungry sooner. You may eat more because of the sugar. Choose to drink hot water or iced tea, plain coffee, or seltzer. These are lower in calories, which will help your weight loss regime.

Final Thoughts on Habits to Support Healthy Weight Loss

Weight loss is hard, but these secret tips make losing weight a little easier. These suggestions aren’t just gimmicks or trendy ideas that never work long term. They are life habits you can incorporate to be healthier and lose weight. By now, you know these ideas aren’t secrets at all. They’re actual life changes for a better, healthier you.

Researchers Explain What The Color of Your Tongue Says About Your Health

September 22, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Ever wonder why doctors examine your mouth during a regular checkup? When the doc asks you to say “Ah,” they’re glancing at your tonsils and tongue.

You may have noticed that this routine doesn’t take too long – a few seconds. That’s because doctors can gain valuable insight into the appearance of this muscle. Indeed, it reveals a lot about your wellness.

If you think about it, the tongue is often overlooked. It’s not visible to others (mostly); we don’t pay it much attention unless we’re brushing it, and, the tongue just kind of sits.

The tongue, however, is crucial to our health and function. Without it, we couldn’t eat, drink, taste, chew or talk.

In this article, we’re going to discuss what it can reveal about your health. As it turns out, it’s quite a lot.

“Any discoloration, lumps, sores or pain (of the tongue) should be monitored and evaluated by a medical professional if they don’t go away within two weeks.” – Dr. Daniel Allan, Family Physician at the Cleveland Clinic

Quick anatomy lesson

Our tongue doesn’t have “skin.”

Instead, it’s covered with a pink, moist tissue (mucosa) and maintained by a large flow of blood. The mucosa and high blood content give the tongue its red-pink coloration.

The tongue’s color provides the most valuable information. As such, its coloration is what we’re going to focus on here.

What Does Your Tongue Say About Your Health?

The tongue consists of three sections – the apex, body, and root. The apex is the tip; the body is the rest of it extends back into the throat, and the root fixes it to the mouth’s base.

Abnormal Colors

As mentioned, a healthy tongue always has a red-pink hue. Certain colors that may be considered unusual include:

Black
Blue
Bright red
Purple
White
Yellow

White

A whitish color is by far the most common type of discoloration. It is often related to continued, poor oral hygiene. Other conditions that may cause whitening of the tongue include:

Canker sores: visible white sores on the tongue. Canker sores often contain white to yellowish lesions at the center. Though painful, canker sores are usually rather harmless. Repeated cases, however, should be examined to test for possible underlying conditions.
Leukoplakia: a condition associated with irritation caused by chewing tobacco. The condition causes cells called mucous membranes to inflame. The discoloration is evident when the apex of the tongue or inner cheek of the mouth shows whitish-grey patches.
Oral thrush (candidiasis): manifests from a yeast called Candida albicans. This yeast creates white, creamy, textured patches on the surface. Thrush can happen to anyone, though people with a suppressed immune system, the very young, and the elderly are especially at risk.

Black

Strange looking as it may be, medical conditions don’t typically cause a black tongue. Sometimes, the tongue may appear black by elongation of the papillae, and small bumps on it’s surface. Black tongue can stem from certain OTC medications (e.g., antibiotics and bismuth), mouthwash products, lack of oral hygiene, or tobacco use.

Blue

A tongue that looks blue should always be considered a medical emergency. As is the case with other parts of the body, the color blue often indicates a cutoff of blood somewhere.

A blue tongue may be a sign of cyanosis, a serious condition that disrupts oxygen supply to our tissue. Blood disorders, blood vessel diseases, or cardiac conditions may cause cyanosis.

Bright red

Bright red coloring may be due to a couple of things. Glossitis, or inflammation of this muscle, is the most common. Bright red may also be a sign of nutrient deficiency. Family physician, Dr. Danial Allan, states, “Folic acid and vitamin B-12 deficiencies may cause your tongue to take on a reddish appearance.”

More severe conditions include Scarlet fever, which causes the surface to have a red and bumpy texture. Dr. Allan says, “If you have a high fever and a red tongue, you need to see your family doctor.” Scarlet fever can be easily treatable with the appropriate antibiotics.

Purple

A purplish color is uncommon when you compare it to other color variations. There are two “usual suspects” for a purple hue:

Nutrient deficiency, particularly when we lack vitamin B2 (riboflavin).
As a precursor to the blue, which is a potentially severe medical condition. Thus, a person whose tongue exhibits purplish colors requires monitoring by medical staff until the color recedes.
A purple hue may also arise from certain diseases, and you should speak with a licensed physician.

Yellow

As with a purple tongue, yellow is a rare tint for the tongue. It usually precedes the growth of the black tongue. Sporadically, yellow may be a symptom of jaundice – a medical condition causing yellowing or greenish skin pigmentation due to high bilirubin levels.

Final Thoughts on Tongue Color

When brushing your pearly whites, make sure you quickly check your tongue. Cleaning your tongue using a scraper can eliminate some white stuff hanging around.

Also, look for lumps, lesions, or other strange growths. Sores that do not recede within 14 days should be examined by a doctor.

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

7 Signs Your Partner Respects You

September 22, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Successful relationships are like buildings: you can build them up as much as you like, but the foundations need to be strong so that the construction can withstand it. Fulfilling relationships have two main pillars as their foundations: love and respect. Sometimes they relate to each other, but most of the time, you have to regard them separately and work on both to make sure your relationship won’t tumble.

Oddly enough, respect can be much more challenging to identify than love. Your partner may be showing you many signs of love, but that may be just a way to blind you in the ways they disrespect you. You excuse it because you think they love you more than anything. But that’s a recipe for disaster in the long term. That’s because relationships only built on love are very egotistical and self-serving.

A person who only shows love but no respect is only interested in reaping the benefits of a relationship but not working towards making their partner happy as well. A truly caring partner will respect and recognize you as a human being that’s not dependent on them. If you’re having doubts or second thoughts, here are seven signs that your partner respects you.

Here Are 7 Signs Your Partner Respects You

“The truest form of love is how you behave toward someone, not how you feel about them.” Steve Hall

1. They aren’t overbearing

If your partner isn’t trying to control who you go out with or insert themselves in every social interaction, that’s a good sign that they respect and trust you. They are confident in your relationship and believe in you not to overstep any boundaries that you’ve already set. That shows that they respect your independence and stature as self-sufficient. If they want to hang out with your friends – great – but if they try to control who you see or when you see them, that’s possibly a red flag.

2. They know that no means no

A good, respectful partner will know what you don’t like and do everything possible to avoid it. That means if you’re uncomfortable with being tickled, they won’t tickle you, or if you don’t want to try a certain thing in bed, they’ll respect that and stick to what makes you happy. When your partner doesn’t pressure you to do anything you’re not 100% keen on, then there’s a chance that they respect you and your choices regarding your body.

3. They’re honest with you

A good partner will never try to spare you from bad news because they know it’ll make you sad or upset. They’ll be frank with you if something’s wrong, which shows they respect your intelligence and decision-making ability. It also shows that they’re confident enough in your relationship to be fully and completely honest with you. It’s never nice being lied to; if someone respects you, they’d never do that.

As psychotherapist Dr. Barton Goldsmith mentions, “What honesty gives you is a great deal of comfort. Knowing you can implicitly trust your mate allows you to be your best self, and your relationship will continue to thrive because you are able to give each other the positive energy you need to navigate life’s ups and downs.”

4. A partner who listens to you and respects you

In a conversation with your SO, have you ever felt that you’re just talking at a brick wall? If your partner makes you feel like that, that’s a sign that they don’t respect or care for what you say. A committed partner listens carefully to you and replies accordingly – they don’t just wait for you to finish so they can say their bit. If they really listen and engage, that’s a good sign that they greatly respect you.

5. They’re proud of your achievements

A good, respectful SO will know the goals you set for yourself – physically, emotionally, professionally, academically, etc. – and will support you on your way to them. Once you achieve those goals, your partner will be proud of you and maybe even talk about your great achievements to their friends. That’s a sign that they truly care about your personal development and personal happiness.

6. They’re reliable

If your partner makes you wait for hours on your date night or never responds to your texts, that’s a sign that they aren’t invested in your relationship. A good, respectable SO will know your needs, and they wouldn’t flake out on your plans. They also wouldn’t ignore your texts or calls because talking to you wouldn’t be a chore for them.

7. They fight fair

Even with the most successful relationships, fights erupt now and again. And that’s normal when two personalities clash!

Licensed clinical psychologist Jennifer Kromberg, PsyD, says, “Some degree of fighting in a relationship is not only inevitable, but also necessary to create growth. The problem for couples is not that they fight—it’s how they fight.”

That being said, respect should never take a back seat. A respectful partner will fight fairly, with no striking under the belt, no derogatory names and no physical violence. They will try to listen to your argument and respond rationally – that’s a big sign of respect.

There’s nothing more satisfying than knowing that your partner loves and respects you. However, respect can sometimes be more difficult to foster than love – it can also be more critical. Love with no respect turns into an egotistic relationship, which would never last for very long and will end in tears.

Research professor and author Peter Gray, Ph.D., says, “To respect is to understand that the other person is not you, not an extension of you, not a reflection of you, not your toy, not your pet, not your product. In a relationship of respect, your task is to understand the other person as a unique individual and learn how to mesh your needs with his or hers and help that person achieve what he or she wants to achieve.”

Final Thoughts on Detecting Whether Your Partner Respects You

So, if you’re having second thoughts or even doubt that your partner doesn’t respect you as much as you deserve, your relationship may not be meant to be. And of course, respect should always go both ways like with every partnership. Start by respecting your partner yourself; soon enough, you’ll see the same come back to you. It will certainly make your relationship a lot happier.

11 Signs of A Hidden Food Sensitivity

September 21, 2017 by Power of Positivity

“Food intolerance, also known as … mediated food hypersensitivity … refers to difficulty in digesting certain foods. It is important to note that food intolerance is different from food allergy.” ~ Christian Nordqvist, University of Illinois-Chicago, School of Medicine

Is there some food that just doesn’t “sit right” that you haven’t been able to put your finger on?

You may have a food intolerance (aka, “food sensitivity.”)

Please note that a food intolerance is not a food allergy. A food allergy is one that affects the immune system, which is – in general – the more dangerous of the two conditions. The problem with identifying an adverse reaction to foods is that the two conditions often have overlapping symptoms.

The “unofficial” rule-of-thumb: if symptoms are quick, it’s an allergy. Otherwise, it’s intolerance.

Usually, a food intolerance will affect the digestive system. Other common symptoms include cough, headaches, migraines.

The most common foods associated with food sensitivity include dairy products, legumes, or gluten (found in wheat products.)

Here are 11 signs you may have a hidden food sensitivity

1. You run to the toilet a lot

If you are always on the lookout for bathrooms, you may have a food sensitivity. By far, the most common symptoms of a food intolerance are of the gastrointestinal variety.

Bloating, diarrhea, excessive flatulence, and abdominal pain are the cruxes of many-a-food-intolerant person.

2. You experience bouts of muscle or joint pain

According to a study published in the journal Clinical Rheumatology, half of all fibromyalgia patients report worsening of symptoms following the consumption of certain foods.

While we can’t link worsening of muscle or joint symptoms outside of fibromyalgia, it’s certainly possible that “trigger foods” may worsen joint or muscle pain in people prone to such symptoms.

3. Caffeine makes things worse

Everyone metabolizes caffeine differently. For “slow metabolizers,” that cup of joe or spot of tea is less likely to feel satisfying.

That’s because caffeine is a stimulant – it excites the central nervous system (CNS). For individuals with a caffeine sensitivity, this may lead to digestive problems, higher blood pressure (hypertension), excessive sweating, and even an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

4. You get headaches or migraines

Aside from digestive problems, headaches and migraines may be the most commonly cited complaint.

If you always seem to get a headache after eating a certain type of food, it’s safe to bet there’s some kind of intolerance. It’s important to remember that headaches most frequently occur several hours after finishing a food or meal.

5. You’re always tired

There may be a link between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and dietary patterns.

CFS is “a debilitating disorder characterized by extreme fatigue or tiredness that doesn’t go away with rest.” The condition can’t be explained by an underlying medical condition, which makes it more difficult to treat.

Medical research has linked leaky gut syndrome and gluten intolerance to CFS.

6. Wheat doesn’t sit right

A condition called Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity or Gluten Intolerance, occurs in up to 13 percent of people who test negative for celiac disease. Unlike gluten intolerance, celiac disease can be uncovered with traditional medical testing.

Symptoms of gluten intolerance are similar to those of celiac disease, including digestive stress and other gastrointestinal problems.

7. You have an underactive thyroid

Hypothyroidism is the medical term used to describe an underactive thyroid, and is caused by an autoimmune condition known as Hashimoto’s disease. It’s estimated that over 15 percent of individuals diagnosed with hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s suffer some kind of food intolerance.

To add to the confusion, gluten-free diets have demonstrated a positive counteractive effect against hypothyroidism. Thus, it’s believed that gluten – and potentially wheat, in general – is more frequently experienced in those with an underactive thyroid.

8. Dairy upsets your tummy

Per the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, over 65 percent of people have some kind of lactose intolerance. Astonishingly, this number exceeds 90 percent in people of East Asian descent.

Symptoms produced by lactose intolerance are similar to those of irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, and include cramping, abdominal pain, excessive sweating, diarrhea, and vomiting.

9. You have skin troubles

It took a while for the medical community to link food sensitivities to certain skin conditions. After conducting a variety of studies, scientists have linked skin reactions to the food chemicals salicylate and histamine.

Eczema, or irritation and inflammation of the skin, is the most common skin condition related to food sensitivity. Peppers and tomatoes are the two foods eaten by patients who experience a skin reaction.

10. Garlic and onions are a no-no

A group of sugar alcohols and short-chain carbohydrates, called FODMAP’s cause an (food) additive or “additive-like” effect in the gut.

Scientific and medical research link FODMAP’s to irritable bowel syndrome and related gastrointestinal problems.

Of all foods, onions and garlic are the biggest troublemakers. This is probably because both are so commonly used to add flavor during cooking.

11. Arthritis feels worse

Inflammation from food sensitivities is commonly cited by rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients as a trigger for worsening symptoms.

Because of the complex mix of environmental triggers (including diet) and genetics, the link between RA and food sensitivity is quite arbitrary.

However, it’s advisable to abstain from foods that you feel may worsen any arthritic symptoms.

https://youtu.be/yG-G9_LOkLA

Sources:
http://fodmapfriendly.com/what-are-fodmaps/
https://www.dietvsdisease.org/11-warning-signs-you-have-a-food-intolerance/
https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/lactose-intolerance#
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8 Warning Signs Your Body Is Lacking Water

September 21, 2017 by Chris Butler

Did you know that water makes up two-thirds of your body weight? With the amount of water in our bodies, it’s no wonder it’s so important to us. Water has a lot of vital functions in the human body, without which we wouldn’t be able to function. For instance, water lubricates our eyes and joints, helps maintain the balance of our body fluids, aids digestion, regulates body temperature, and much, much more. Perhaps most importantly, it helps flush unnecessary toxins out of our bodies.

Many people can mistake the feelings of thirst and hunger, which can lead to mild to moderate dehydration. When this happens, we must know the warning signs to take immediate measures and fill up on water before it gets serious. Here are eight signs to look out for when you think you might be low on fluids.

Eight red flags reveal a body that lacks water.

“Drinking water is like washing out your insides. The water will cleanse the system, fill you up, decrease your caloric load and improve the function of all your tissues.” – Kevin R. Stone

1. Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, and balance problems

When you drink enough water, you supply your brain with fluid, which surrounds it and protects it from movement and slight bumps. A drop in your hydration level means there’s less fluid to protect your brain, which results in headaches, feeling dizzy, and sometimes even losing your balance. It can sometimes trigger painful migraines as well. So, if you feel like your head hurts, don’t reach for the painkillers. Instead, go for your water bottle. As soon as you rehydrate, your headache will improve–if dehydration was the cause. However, if it persists, the issue may be more serious, so you should seek medical attention.

2. Bad breath and dry mouth

Water provides saliva production, which is essential for antibacterial protection in your mouth. When dehydrated, you produce less saliva, which means bacteria can grow, leading to stinky breath. Of course, brushing your teeth is essential, but the first step is to drink more water to improve your general mouth hygiene! Dry mouth and throat can also come from dehydration, so if you feel that, it’s a sign you need a drink of water!

3. Change in the color, smell, and consistency of urine

If you’re well-hydrated, your urine should always be a shade of pale yellow. If it looks dark yellow and appears to be more concentrated, that’s a sign that you need some water.

Also, dehydration can cause your urine to have a foul ammonia smell because the chemicals get more concentrated. After all, there’s not enough water to dilute them.

4. Constant joint and muscle pain

As we mentioned before, water is essential in lubricating our joints. In fact, joints and cartilage contain about 80 percent water! When you’re dehydrated, your joints are less lubricated, and that causes your bones to grind against each other, causing joint pain. However, your joints can withstand tremendous pressure when adequately hydrated, such as running a marathon, jumping, or sudden movements. Not just that, but studies have also proved that muscle cramps are caused by dehydration as well – so if you want good muscle tone, make sure to stock up on fluids!

5. Accelerated heartbeat

Liquids are essential to controlling blood plasma volume, and dehydration means your blood gets more viscous. High viscosity affects blood circulation, which in turn affects your heart rate.

Director of cardiac electrophysiology Dr. Shephal Doshi says, “Dehydration can cause changes in your body’s electrolytes and lower blood pressure. This puts stress on the body and, as a result, could cause an abnormal heartbeat.”

Therefore, with dehydration, the electrolyte level in your body changes, which affects the heartbeat and can also cause anxiety and panic. If you feel acceleration in your heartbeat, try drinking some water slowly, sip by sip, to see if you feel better. If it doesn’t improve, consult with your doctor straight away.

6. Dry, scaly skin

As the largest organ in our body, the skin needs a lot of hydration to stay healthy. If your skin is dry and lacks elasticity, that’s a sign that your body may need water. Not just that, but dehydration also causes excess sweating as the internal organs can’t wash away toxins due to the lack of water. It also increases the risk of acne and eczema. To ensure your skin stays healthy and well moisturized, use a good moisturizing lotion at home and drink plenty of water.

7. Sudden food cravings

As we mentioned before, we often mistake signs of dehydration as hunger. Keep an eye on your food cravings, as they usually indicate that you’re missing water rather than food. If you’re hungry for something salty, drink a sports drink with salt instead, or make your lemon water with salt. If you want to eat something sweet, opt for fruit like watermelon, papaya, or berries, as they have high levels of natural fructose.

8. Brain fog and fatigue

Our brains are made out of 90% water, so when we’re dehydrated, the brain can’t process information correctly, causing brain fog such as poor memory and loss of concentration.

Fatigue is also caused by dehydration, as lack of water limits oxygen flow to the brain. To improve these, try drinking water at regular intervals and take a break from what you’re doing.

Hydration is mainly water, but it can also come from fruit, veggies, flavored water, clear soups, and more!

10 Ways to Drink More Water

1. Keep a water bottle nearby

One of the best ways to drink more water is to keep your refillable bottle handy. Refill it regularly so you’ll always have hydration when you need it. Keep it in the fridge at home or work if you like chilled water. Having your personal bottle with you is a simple way to stay hydrated during the day.

2. There’s an app for that

If you’re trying to remember to drink more each day, you might download an H2O app on your iPhone. When you take a sip, you record how much you drank. The app keeps track using the image of a person filling up with water. You can see how much fluid you consumed over the past weeks, which helps you see patterns of how you felt compared to how much water you drank. On some apps, you set reminders to remember to take a sip every so often. So, check out your app store for an app that works for you.

3. Serve water at meals

A simple way to increase your water intake is to serve water at every meal. If you serve wine with your meal, include a glass of water because alcohol is dehydrating. Serving water at meals is especially important for kids who often forget to drink water during the day. Making water a regular part of your meals motivates you and your family to drink more water.

4. Order water when eating out

Opt for water instead of soda when you go out to your favorite restaurant. You not only save money, but you consume fewer calories, which could prove helpful in losing weight in the long run. Sipping water instead of soda also helps you enjoy the flavors of your food. So, the next time you go out, ask for a tall glass with your meal.

5. Eat water-filled foods

Even though drinking enough daily fluid is essential, eating water-filled foods helps you stay hydrated. Include these foods in your daily menu to increase your intake.

Skim milk
Soups
Yogurt
Celery
Cucumbers
Lettuce
Tomatoes
Pineapple
Oranges
Tangerines
Grapefruits
Grapes
Watermelon
Strawberries
Kiwi

6. Bubbles are okay

If you’re not a big fan of plain water, you may enjoy the sparkling variety. The fizzy bubbles make drinking water more exciting and are very satisfying. Many flavored seltzers or sparkling varieties are now available. You can even buy a soda machine to make your own favorite at home. This eliminates throwing away cans or plastic bottles all the time. For years people worried that seltzer damaged the calcium in your bones because of the phosphate in the carbonation. According to studies, no evidence suggests that the seltzer phosphate content affects your bone density or metabolism.

7. Eat salt

Sodium is an essential nutrient for your body. A recent study warned that several health organizations’ suggestion that the entire population eats a low-sodium diet isn’t healthy or necessary. According to the survey, their recommendation for everyone to eat 2.3 grams of sodium a day is too low. A more beneficial daily range is 3 to 5 grams of sodium. There is no evidence that the entire population reducing salt long-term would lower cardiovascular disease or death. In fact, no study proves fewer cardiovascular events occur when sodium is reduced to 2.3 grams a day compared to 3 to 5 grams per day.

Unless they prove otherwise, researchers say people should consume three to five grams of sodium every day. So, if you’ve been reducing your salt intake, it’s essential that you increase your salt to an average level. When it’s hot and humid, you sweat during the summer months, causing you to lose sodium and fluids. One way to replenish your water and sodium levels during hot weather is to eat healthy salty foods. Choose healthy salty foods such as:

Sardines
Olives
Nuts
Goat cheese dip
Veggie chips
Popcorn with sea salt
Avocados drizzled with olive oil and salt
Homemade kale chips, olive oil, and sea salt

8. Drink water after you go to the bathroom

One simple way to drink more fluid every day is to refill your glass after each bathroom trip. People go to the bathroom frequently. This means you’ll be drinking water throughout your day regularly.

9. Water sleeve

Have you heard of water sleeves? It’s an insulated 12-ounce wet sleeve you wear on your arm. Most people use it when they’re out for a run or hiking. It’s a hands-free way to carry extra water with you when you’re outside. These sleeves make it effortless to sip water on the run. Water sleeves aren’t just for athletes. Check them out online or at sports stores near you.

10. Keep a water pitcher in the fridge just like grandma

When you were little and at grandma’s house, did you notice she kept a pitcher of cold water in the refrigerator? That’s because dispensers were not present in refrigerators back in the day. If you wanted a glass of cold water, you had to get it from the kitchen faucet and add ice cubes from the freezer.

Of course, sometimes, the little ice trays were out of ice. Grandma solved the problem by keeping a pitcher of cold water in her fridge. Why not keep a pitcher of water in your fridge like grandma did to drink all the water each day? Most household pitchers are 32 ounces. That’s four glasses of fluid a day. According to a Harvard study, most people should drink approximately four to six cups each day. So, you can drinking a pitcher and a half every day will meet your daily requirements.

Final Thoughts on the Signs of a Body That Lacks Water

Even though you know the significance of staying hydrated, getting enough hydration every day isn’t easy. If you are experiencing any of these signs that your body lacks fluids, try incorporating some of these suggestions to up your daily intake. Over time, as you make drinking water a daily habit, you’ll experience the benefits of being hydrated and feeling your best.

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