Page 1483

7 Intelligent Ways to Deal with Toxic People

February 28, 2017 by Power of Positivity

All of us experience the inevitable turbulence of life unfolding. We have our extreme ups, extreme downs, and everything in between. We will all behave in a way that can be perceived as toxic at one time or another. Does this make us toxic people? No, it does not.

One’s behavior does not necessarily indicate one’s identity. In fact, most times, they’re mutually exclusive. According to psychologists, a toxic person is not the whole person; but their behavior towards others, particularly those in any relationship, which often bears the brunt of such behavior.

Toxic people distinguish themselves by their propensity to “create drama in their lives, or be surrounded by it; try to manipulate or control others; be needy (“it is all about them all the time”); use others to meet their needs (such as “narcissistic parents”); be extremely critical of themselves and others, bemoaning their bad fortune and others’ good fortune, abuse substances or harm themselves in other ways, and be unwilling (or unable) to seek help,” according to Jodie Gale, MA, a psychotherapist and life coach.

In short, a toxic person negatively consistently and adversely affects people around them through their (intentional or unintentional) toxic behavior.

“When a toxic person can no longer control you, they will try to control how others see you. The misinformation will feel unfair, but stay above it, trusting that other people will eventually see the truth, just like you did.” – Jill Blakeway

Here are 7 ways to deal with toxic people – and toxic behavior – in a positive manner:

1. Do not rationalize their toxic behavior.

Many people do not like conflict, something that is known as conflict avoidance. As such, recipients of toxic behavior will allow the behavior to continue to pacify the toxic person. Recipients that wish to avoid contention will permit the toxic person to ramble. However, such an approach is short-sighted. Yes, the toxic person may “get what they want,” but guess who they’ll seek out the next time?

This brings us to the second point…

2. Make your voice heard.

Not everyone who displays toxic behavior is a “bully,” but some are. Toxic bullies will often spew their toxicity to others as a means to an end. When such behavior is evident, it is time to make your voice heard and oppose such acts of intimidation. Oftentimes, the “bully,” when confronted with resistance, will back down and move on.

On a related matter, sometimes it is necessary to…

3. Make a stand.

You deserve to be treated as a human being – with courtesy, respect, and dignity. When someone violates this socially-accepted contract, it should be considered an act of aggression.

This is when it is necessary to set clear boundaries. Fortunately, you don’t need to get into a long-winded dialogue with them. Abruptly walking away from a toxic conversation can be enough, for example.

4. Exude (sensible) compassion.

As mentioned, it is necessary to separate one’s toxic behavior from their “true selves.” When we know that someone is acting negatively due to whatever reason; personal problems, work-related stress, medical problems, etc., it’s appropriate to respond compassionately.

However, practicing sensible compassion does not mean becoming someone else’s pin cushion. When the line is crossed, it is necessary to speak up.

5. Move on from toxic people, if necessary.

Exposure to toxic behavior on an all-too-frequent basis can be mentally and physically exhausting. We’ll instinctively know when a person is pushing us past comfort zone – and it is sometimes necessary to get away.

While this “exit strategy” may require some fortitude on our part, it is instrumental for our well-being. Be strong, remain confident and simply let go.

6. Don’t take things personally.

It can be hard to “not taking things personally,” can’t it? Especially when said advice applies to a toxic person. This behavior is most evident in a direct attack (e.g., a verbal assault) towards you.

Interacting with a toxic person – at some point in time – will inevitably result in something being said that’s insulting, dehumanizing, embarrassing, and unnecessary. Exchanges of this type will almost certainly antagonize us in some way. Thus, it is important to remember that “it’s not me, it’s you.”

7. Get some alone time.

How we deal with toxic behavior strongly depends on the person involved.

For example, if a toxic colleague sits across the office, it’s easier to devise a plan to avoid negative rhetoric. If it’s a close friend or family member – a spouse, kid, “BFF,” etc. – the situation (and the “answer”) can be a bit (okay, a lot) more obscure.

The closer we are to someone, the more time we spend with them. As such, in addition to helping them, we must prioritize our well-being. One of the best ways to do this is to plan (and make known) your designated alone time.

References:
Tartakovsky, M., M.S. (2014, February 26). What’s a Toxic Person & How Do You Deal With One? Retrieved February 23, 2017, from https://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2014/02/28/whats-a-toxic-person-how-do-you-deal-with-one/

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

Researchers Reveal 10 Things That Make Kids Happier

February 28, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Childhood is a special time in one’s life. It is a time of discovery, play, wonder, and amusement at the world as the child gets to know the world around them. For the parents, this time can bring about a sense of worry as they seek to ensure the child’s health and raise them to be happier.

Of course, life happens – to both the child and the parents – which can affect one’s childhood years. Regardless of circumstance, the child’s happiness almost always comes first to those who love them.

Here, we combine scientific research and childhood happiness. More specifically, we will look at ten scientifically proven tips to help ensure a happy and healthy childhood.

Whether you’re a parent, a want-to-be parent, or someone who loves kids, we hope that what you read below will provide great insight into making for a healthier and happier child.

Here are 10 (scientifically proven!) tips to make the little one happier:

“One of the luckiest things that can happen to you in life is, I think, to have a happy childhood.” – Agatha Christie

1. Give Them Plenty of Play Time

The primary responsibility of a kid is – or at least should be – to play. Yes, the kid will eventually have homework, extracurricular stuff, and so on; but from toddler to adolescence, they should be given the freedom to have fun.

Peter Gray, a child psychologist and a professor at Boston College, states, “Children learn the most important lessons in life from other children, not from adults…they cannot learn, or are much are much less likely to learn, in interactions with adults.”

So, tell them to “go outside and play!”

2. Take Argument and Heavy Discussions Elsewhere

Kid’s brains develop at an extraordinary rate during early childhood. When they see and hear about adult-like problems and uncertainties, the child’s delicate psychological state can be negatively affected, potentially making them worried and insecure.

Children should not hear stressful conversations from adults – it is most definitely not the time.

3. Don’t Compare Them To Others–They Will Be Happier

The pressure to succeed in today’s society can make it enticing to instill an early sense of competitiveness – and some adults do so by comparing them to someone else. Sometimes, adults will also point out desirable personality traits in another child, hoping to duplicate them in the other.

Researchers say that such comparative tendencies can adversely affect a child’s confidence and sense of self.

4. Teach The Benefits Of Negative Emotions

Pointing out the obvious – a child is not very mature. Almost every kid will have spontaneous outbursts of anger, envy, sadness, etc. This behavior presents a good learning opportunity for the adult.

Dr. John Gottman at the University of Washington cites the popular tendency of adults to address a child’s perceived “misbehavior” – their negative emotions – by doling out some punishment. A better way is to acknowledge the behavior is by teaching the child that everyone experiences negative emotions, and finding ways to teaching the child how to deal with their emotions constructively.

5. Acknowledge Their Efforts

The child is going to reach the age when he or she knows that hard work is needed to get ahead. It is important to recognize when the child pushes themselves to accomplish something.

Talking about cognitive tasks during childhood, Dr. Carol S. Dweck at Stanford says: “Our message to parents is to focus on the process the child engages in, such as trying hard or focusing on the task – what specific things they’re doing rather than ‘you’re so smart, you’re so good at this…what (the adult) does early matters.”

6. Value Family Traditions

Having a variety of things that a family does together is a good sign of a stable household. Indeed, stability is an important aspect of childhood development.

According to the Child Development Institute, having regular family time induces five main benefits: the child feels important and loved; the child observes positive adult traits; adults can observe and learn more about their child’s weaknesses to guide them better; the child can verbalize their thoughts and feelings, and the parent and child develop a stronger bond.

7. Let Them Take Chances

Children require a certain amount of supervision. Still, adults can overdo it by monitoring their every move. This “overparenting,” however, is counterproductive to development.

Researchers, in an article published in the Journal of Psychologists and Counsellors in Schools, write: “Does an extreme attentiveness to a child and their imagined needs and issues, encourage parents to reduce their demands on their child, resulting in the child rarely facing adverse situations, learning to cope, and acquiring resilience, maturity, and other essential life skills? The current study raises the disturbing possibility that the answer is yes.”

8. Give Them A Sense of (Individual) Responsibility

Expanding on the last point, it is important to allow children to complete responsibilities (e.g. chores, homework) without micromanaging them.

Why? According to child psychologists, excessive oversight can manifest into the child developing an “I can’t do this alone” attitude. While some attention – and even, discipline – is necessary for a child to recognize the consequences of abdicating responsibility, inordinate supervision is ineffectual.

9. Create Happier Memories

In a multi-experiment study undertaken by two Harvard professors, adults who recalled good childhood memories “(seemed) to summon a heightened sense of moral purity.”

Researchers note the participants “were more likely to help the experimenters with an extra task, judge unethical behavior harshly and donate money to charity when they had actively remembered their childhood.”

So, in creating happy memories for the child, you may be preparing them to be happier and benevolent adults.

10. Be Happy Yourself!

Children learn by what they see and hear, for better or worse. The child is more likely to reciprocate if an adult exhibits positive behavior. According to Carolyn Cowan, a psychologist at the University of California: “children do not fare well if the adults aren’t taking care of themselves and their relationships.”

5 Things That Hurt Your Sleep (And How to Avoid Them)

February 28, 2017 by Power of Positivity

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society recommend that adults aged 18-60 years sleep at least 7 hours each night to promote optimal health and well-being.

Sleeping less than seven hours per day is associated with an increased risk of developing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and frequent mental distress. – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Did you know that lack of sleep is a public health concern or epidemic by U.S. public health institutions? Called sleep deprivation or sleep deficiency, the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) notes the condition affects “45 percent of Americans…(affecting their daily activities at least once in the past seven days.”

An immense amount of science and research subsists, yet nearly half of all Americans still do not get enough sleep on a regular basis. Part of this apparent disregard for the importance of sleep can be ascribed to the fact that unlike most epidemics (e.g. smoking), information pertaining to the importance of shuteye is not widely dispersed to the public.

But some of us have only ourselves to blame. Those that do not prioritize sleep almost always have some kind of habit that takes precedence over it.

Here, we take a look at five things that disrupt your sleep, including habits, and how to avoid them. We’ll also suggest how to overcome these difficulties.

Here are 5 things that hurt your sleep (and how to avoid them):

1. Problem: Feeling tired, but the mind will not stop racing.

Despite the mind/body connection that most of us accept as truth, at times they are at odds. Your body desperately needs shuteye, but your brain will not yield to the body’s demands. Instead, your mind races; reminding you of stuff that needs to be done, and other uncertainties that haven’t settled in your mind.

Solution: Allocate some time to “unwind.”

Most of us work hard and are pressed for time, but we still need to enjoy life. During the evening, many of us reach for the remote or do something else to procure some stimulation. Such activities are fine permitting that we understand our sleep schedule. To “ease into” sleep is the best way to do nod off. The best way to nod off is to do something relaxing, such as reading or taking a warm bath.

2. Problem: Waking up shortly before the alarm.

The circadian rhythm, aka the sleep/wake cycle, is an entrenched habit that we all have. For light sleepers, two things this cycle doesn’t appreciate is light or noise, no matter how subtle. A common example: waking up an hour before the alarm goes off feels atrocious. We’re still tired and dazed but can’t go back to sleep.

Solution: Practice having a regular sleeping schedule.

As mentioned, our sleep/wake cycle is a deep-rooted habit. For early risers and light sleepers who consistently wake up earlier than necessary, readjusting this cycle can be difficult. However, there are a few things that can help: refrain from anything stimulating; go to bed earlier; avoid ambient light and wear ear plugs or a night mask to minimize early-morning noise or light.

3. Problem: Restlessness during sleep time.

Experiencing consistent wakefulness during the night is considered a form of insomnia. While not everyone can be diagnosed as an insomniac, there plenty of reasons why someone may feel that way. Restlessness can be ascribed to a number of things: a high-fat diet, drinking before bedtime, stress, and body aches among them.

Solution: Eat a healthy meal before bed.

It can be challenging to pinpoint exactly what is causing this period of restlessness. One solution is to consume a meal of lean protein and complex carbs prior to sleeping. Lean protein and complex carbs help to stimulate certain neurotransmitters that produce a relaxing effect on the brain. If you’re knowingly violating certain sleep hygiene habits, such as those mentioned above, the fix is a bit easier. Just stop doing them. Should the cycle continue itself, it is advised to schedule a doctor’s visit.

4. Problem: Working at night or being a “night owl”

There are two types of people: those that thrive working during the daytime, and those more productive during the evening (again, part of that circadian rhythm thing.) In the event that your work requires production into the late evening hours, it can be burdensome to correct any sleep-related problems.

Solution: Adjust your schedule according to your sleep habits, if possible.

First addressing the mandatory work-related issue; the best course of action is to examine if and when you can produce work prior to the late hours. Should this scheduling become a serious problem, it may be time to discuss other options with your employer. Concerning the day lark/night owl thing, well, if you’re getting an adequate 7 to 9 hours of sleep, and not suffering any adverse consequences, keep on keeping on.

It all depends on your schedule, in other words.

5. Problem: Problems sleeping with another

We can see you married folk nodding your collective heads in agreement with this one: sleeping with your significant other can be disruptive. This is especially true if he or she happens to snore or toss and turn. Also, if one is a night owl while the other is an early riser, these problems exacerbate. There is actually a medical term used to describe all of the above: “sleep incompatibility.”

Solution: Try to treat the underlying issues of “sleep incompatibility.”

In the event that an underlying medical condition is causing sleep incompatibility, a physician specializing in sleep medicine, otolaryngology, or neurology can prescribe an appropriate treatment. For the night owl/morning lark couple, the solution requires communication and compromise. An agreed upon sleeping solution or arrangement shouldn’t be too difficult.

7 Things To Do If You’re Tired All The Time

February 28, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Are you tired all the time?

“Fatigue can be described as the lack of energy and motivation (both physical and mental). This is different from drowsiness, a term that describes the need to sleep…Fatigue is a very common complaint and it is important to remember that it is a symptom and not a disease.” – MedicineNet

Fatigue happens to us all, but especially as we age. Hitting middle age years (the mid-30s to late 50s), in particular, is when most people complain of feeling “worn down, “burnt out,” “overworked,” etc. Many of these folks are dealing with increased bouts of fatigue. The good news is that we can counteract this dreaded, tired feeling. All that’s needed is a bit of knowledge and willpower – and maybe a cup of coffee.

Here are 7 things to do if you’re tired all the time

1. Get a checkup if you are tired often.

Do you get an annual checkup – a thorough wellness examination – on a regular basis? Health exams and tests can detect problems before they start. In the event a problem exists, the physician can prescribe a treatment regimen.

Fatigue can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. A physical exam is necessary to determine this.

Duke Health – a medical institute of Duke University – recommends the following for each age group:

– Under 30: a check-up every two to three years. Sexually active women, at the age of 21, should schedule a Pap smear.

– Age 30-40: a physical every other year. Baseline mammograms are recommended for women beginning at age 40.

– Age 50 and over: a yearly physical. Men and women should schedule a colonoscopy at 50 and – in most cases – reschedule every 10 years.

2. Get your body in motion.

Exercise is often the last thing on someone’s mind who’s feeling fatigued. However, numerous studies have concluded that routine exercise is effective at boosting energy levels.

Kerry J. Steward, a professor of medicine and director of clinical and research exercise physiology at John Hopkins University School of Medicine, states:

“Exercise has consistently been linked to improved vigor and overall quality of life. People who become active have a greater sense of self-confidence. But exercise also improves the working efficiency of your heart, lungs, and muscles…(it’s) the equivalent of improving the fuel efficiency of a car. It gives you more energy for any kind of activity.”

3. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

Dehydration is when the body expels more fluids than it consumes; it is a mentally and physically taxing condition. Sweating, urinating, and even breathing causes the loss of water.

Frequently drinking water throughout the day will mitigate feelings of fatigue, as well as increase our alertness and concentration. Try to get at least 7 to 9, 8-ounce servings of water per day.

4. Have a regular sleep regimen

Inadequate and irregular sleeping patterns probably contribute to fatigue. They might also increase the risk of accidents and injury.

Experts recommend going to bed early enough to ensure a good night’s sleep. Healthy adults should aim for between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. Napping for 10 to 30 minutes during the mid-day is also a terrific habit for keeping fatigue at bay.

Also, try getting into the habit of going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.

5. Get some Omega-3

Omega-3 fish oil, besides being good for heart health, may increase alertness and combat fatigue. There are plenty of ways to get Omega-3s: fatty fish (e.g. halibut, herring, mackerel, salmon, sardines, tuna), flaxseeds, and nuts.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends you consume two portions of fish (of approximately four ounces each) weekly for a heart-friendly diet. Around 4-5 ounces of Atlantic salmon can supply 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids. While fish oil supplements generally offer around 300 milligrams in each capsule, the amounts can differ.

6. Eat regularly; poor nutrition can make you tired

The notion that eating 5 to 6 small meals throughout the day instead of three larger meals has been a topic of contention among the health community. Certain demographics, such as bodybuilders and athletes, often adhere to the five or six-meal regime. Most of us stick with the traditional 3-meal schedule.

Regardless of your preference, warding off fatigue requires adequate levels of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in the body throughout the day.

Eating wholesome foods like whole grains and complex carbs can help regulate blood sugar levels. It’s a good idea to have some snacks handy in case feelings of fatigue begin to surface.

7. Know your body clock

Understanding our circadian rhythm, the body’s 24-hour “physiological clock,” can positively impact our energy levels. Indeed, some people love mornings and get that “extra boost” to get things done. However, some folks are “night owls” and are most productive during the evening.

You probably know which of the two groups you fall into. Use this knowledge to your advantage by scheduling demanding tasks accordingly, preventing fatigue from setting in at the wrong time.

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

6 Things To Add To Your Water For Better Health

February 28, 2017 by Power of Positivity

“Water is importance to the mechanics of the human body. The body cannot work without it, just as a car cannot run without gas and oil. In fact, all the cell and organ functions that make up our entire anatomy and physiology depend on water for their functioning.” – Advanced Purification Engineering (APEC)

Our body weight is comprised of 60 percent water. Every cell, organ, and tissue use water for a myriad of functions, from protecting tissues and joints to providing necessary moisture for the brain and spinal cord. Water is required for removal of waste products, healthy digestion, and maintaining optimal body temperature.

We all know and understand the importance of water, yet some of us are not mindful of this fact. Some of us go an entire day without bothering to reach for a bottle or fill a glass with water. Needless to say, this is a bad habit that is harmful to our health and well-being.

“But I drink coffee, that has water.” Yes, and, unless it is decaffeinated (what’s that?), it also contains diuretic properties that negate most of its inherent nutritional value. Tea? Same concept. Beer? Well, we’ll leave that one alone.

Some of us just don’t “like the taste” of water. That’s fair, which is why we decided to research and write about things we can add to our water that not only improves health but also help improve the taste.

In adding these ingredients to your water, you’ll benefit in a couple of ways. First, your body will be replenished, and you’ll likely “feel” healthier. Second, it will help you think clearer and promote a healthier state of mind.

So here are the six ingredients (and why you should add them):

1. Apples

Apples are an excellent addition to water, as they are packed with iron and low in calories. They’re also rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, dietary fiber, and phytonutrients. The antioxidant and phytonutrients contained in apples “may help reduce the risk of developing cancer, hypertension, diabetes and heart disease.”

Apples also taste great, and as there are numerous varieties of the fruit, it can enhance the taste of your water depending on your palette.

2. Cucumbers

Fresh cucumber is also high in water content, providing our body with an additional “health bonus.” Nutritionally, cucumbers contain plenty of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, iron, and potassium. Cucumbers also have cancer-fighting ingredients, such as fisetin, caffeic acid, and lutein.

Cut a few thin slices and mix them with a cold glass of H2O for a refreshing drink.

3. Blueberries

Regarding antioxidants, blueberries are among the most potent sources. Antioxidants are molecules that serve a vital role in preventing cell damage and eliminating free radicals.

Blueberries are sweet, colorful, and make for a great ingredient in a glass of water. Just buy some fresh blueberries at the local market, rinse them off, and drop them in. Enjoy!

4. Lemons and Limes

If you enjoy a bit of a sour taste, reach for a lemon. If you appreciate a bit or tart, reach for a lime. Either ingredient serves as a great compliment to a glass of water.

Lemons are among the most nutrient-dense of any fruit; containing B-complex vitamins, vitamin C, calcium, fiber, iron, magnesium, and potassium. They also aid both your digestive and immune systems.

Limes pack a bunch of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They also promote healthy blood flow and heart health.

5. Oranges

A no-brainer here, right? Oranges are just plain delicious. They’re also excellent for health purposes. Of course, oranges are loaded with vitamin C which helps to strengthen the immune system. They’re also a sound source of B-complex vitamins, dietary fiber, calcium, copper and potassium.

Squeeze a fresh orange into a glass, or cut it into small sections. The latter option may help absorb some of the additional nutrients contained in the orange’s peel.

6. Mint leaves

While a mint’s taste may not be for everyone, fresh mint leaves are healthy for a number of reasons. Mint promotes healthy digestion, reduces indigestion and inflammation, and can counteract nausea.

Mint is a rich source of fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. Mint is also a decent source of antioxidants.

Oh, and it’s maybe the best option on the list for freshening your breath (of course!)

Sources:
Advanced Purification Engineering Corp (APEC). (2016). The Importance of water and Your health. (2016). Retrieved February 17, 2017, from http://www.freedrinkingwater.com/water-education/water-health.htm
Fanous, S. (2016, March 5). 8 Healthy Lime Facts (P. P. MS, RD, LD, CDE, Ed.). Retrieved February 17, 2017, from http://www.healthline.com/health/8-healthy-lime-facts
Laskey, J. (2015, February 16). The Health Benefits of Water (S. Sinha M.D., Ed.). Retrieved February 17, 2017, from http://www.everydayhealth.com/water-health/water-body-health.aspx
Occhipinti, G. (2015, April 09). 7 Fruits and Vegetables You Should Be Adding to Your Water. Retrieved February 17, 2017, from https://spoonuniversity.com/lifestyle/7-fruits-and-vegetables-you-should-be-adding-to-your-water

10 Signs Of An Unhealthy Gut

February 28, 2017 by Power of Positivity

The esophagus, intestines, mouth, and stomach are constituent parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) system, or gut. The gut’s primary tasks are to process food, absorb nutrients, regulate the immune system, and balance the GI’s mix of bacteria.

As recently as a few years ago, scientists and others in the medical community had a somewhat limited perspective on the gut’s effects on our overall health. However, a proliferating amount of research has linked problems with the gut (e.g., “leaky gut syndrome”) to a number of health issues, from allergies to rheumatoid arthritis.

Today, most experts within the medical community affirm the tremendous impact that a properly functioning gut has on our general health and well-being. This consensus can be attributed to a more thorough understanding of the human microbial system, or microbiome.

The Genetics Science Learning Center at the University of Utah describe the “micro-interactions” of microbes:

“Microbes interact in communities, and they respond to their surroundings. Just like organisms in the Earth’s ecosystems, our microbial populations shift than their environment changes…manipulating these interactions may help doctors understand and manage diseases.”

Our gut contains a disproportionately high amount of microbes, and they are essential to combating illness-causing agents such as bacteria and viruses. As such, preserving your gut health is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy mind and body.

Here, we talk about 10 signs of a possibly unhealthy gut:

1. Feeling anxious, dejected or depressed

On the surface, it seems odd to link our gut with emotions.

But did you know that 70 percent of your body’s serotonin is found in your gut? Low levels of serotonin have been linked to unstable mood, depression, and physiological functions such as digestion (of course), eating and sleeping.

2. Craving sugar-loaded foods

Leptin and ghrelin (what?) are proteins that act similarly to hormones that stabilize appetite – and our gut bacteria secrete a lot of them.

These proteins influence our food cravings; so if you eat lots of sugar, the bacteria adapt to this unhealthy type of sustenance. As a result, your gut will desire it’s daily dose of sugar.

Correcting these problems can eliminate bacteria that cause sugar cravings.

3. Pre-diabetes or diabetes

In a study published in the journal Endocrinology Connections, three Russian scientists demonstrate a connection between large intestine microbiota and the presence and potential development of type 2 diabetes.

Some gut bacteria incite an immune response that “cause inflammation throughout the body, including liver and fat cells that can affect overall metabolism and liver sensitivity.”

4. Skin problems

Skin rashes and the chronic skin condition eczema may suggest a problem in the gut; specifically, an imbalance in “good” bacteria. Leaky gut, a condition where excess foods “escapes” the gut rather than being digested, can provoke inflammation and suppress the immune system.

Inflammation, of course, is most evident on the skin’s surface.

5. Digestive troubles

A no-brainer, right?

Acute gut problems such as bloating, diarrhea, and gas can signify an imbalance in gut bacteria. Irregular bowel movements or gas may indicate low levels of stomach acid, adversely affecting your ability break down foods.

6. Autoimmune disease or suppressed immunity

Leaky gut and gluten intolerance are often cited as catalysts for autoimmune conditions. Gut problems can manifest into acute and chronic medical conditions.

“There is growing evidence that increased intestinal permeability plays a pathogenic role in various autoimmune diseases including celiac disease and type 1 diabetes,” says mucosal biologist, Dr. Alessio Fasano.

7. Food allergies or increased food sensitivity

Food intolerances (e.g. lactose intolerance) are almost always the byproduct of a leaky gut. Remember that a leaky gut will not properly digest all food. Instead of staying within the closed loop of the gut, the food permeates the intestines and enters the bloodstream.

When this food “escapes,” the body interprets it as a threat and initiates an immune response. Developing or worsening food allergies, and sudden sensitivity to certain foods may indicate a problem.

8. Bad breath

Halitosis is the medical term for chronically bad breath. A microbial imbalance can transport to other areas of the body, including the mouth. Disparities or fluctuations in gut flora make the body increasingly susceptible to conditions that cause bad breath (e.g., kidney disease or diabetes).

9. Difficulty sleeping or insomnia

Troubles falling and staying asleep indicates some chemical imbalance in the brain. As mentioned, our gut stores and regulates serotonin. Indeed, it is an essential neurotransmitter for inducing and regulating sleep patterns.

When serotonin is lacking or out of balance, it can lead to bouts of insomnia or difficulty getting to sleep.

10. Fluctuating weight

Some gut bacteria promotes weight loss, and not of the good kind. Excess amounts of microbes within the small intestines, for example, can disrupt the absorption of fat, minerals and vitamins. In contrast, some bacteria causes weight gain by taking in more calories from food. It’s not uncommon for a person with a gut problem to see inexplicable changes to their weight.

The Community

Our Free Community of Positively Powerful SuperFans

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!

Here are 7 ways to deal with toxic people – and toxic behavior – in a positive manner:

1. Do not rationalize their toxic behavior.

2. Make your voice heard.

3. Make a stand.

4. Exude (sensible) compassion.

5. Move on from toxic people, if necessary.

6. Don’t take things personally.

7. Get some alone time.

References: Tartakovsky, M., M.S. (2014, February 26). What’s a Toxic Person & How Do You Deal With One? Retrieved February 23, 2017, from https://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2014/02/28/whats-a-toxic-person-how-do-you-deal-with-one/

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

Here are 10 (scientifically proven!) tips to make the little one happier:

1. Give Them Plenty of Play Time

2. Take Argument and Heavy Discussions Elsewhere

3. Don’t Compare Them To Others–They Will Be Happier

4. Teach The Benefits Of Negative Emotions

5. Acknowledge Their Efforts

6. Value Family Traditions

7. Let Them Take Chances

8. Give Them A Sense of (Individual) Responsibility

9. Create Happier Memories

10. Be Happy Yourself!

Here are 5 things that hurt your sleep (and how to avoid them):

1. Problem: Feeling tired, but the mind will not stop racing.

2. Problem: Waking up shortly before the alarm.

3. Problem: Restlessness during sleep time.

4. Problem: Working at night or being a “night owl”

5. Problem: Problems sleeping with another

Here are 7 things to do if you’re tired all the time

1. Get a checkup if you are tired often.

2. Get your body in motion.

3. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

4. Have a regular sleep regimen

5. Get some Omega-3

6. Eat regularly; poor nutrition can make you tired

7. Know your body clock

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

So here are the six ingredients (and why you should add them):

1. Apples

2. Cucumbers

3. Blueberries

4. Lemons and Limes

5. Oranges

6. Mint leaves

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

Here, we talk about 10 signs of a possibly unhealthy gut:

1. Feeling anxious, dejected or depressed

2. Craving sugar-loaded foods

3. Pre-diabetes or diabetes

4. Skin problems

5. Digestive troubles

6. Autoimmune disease or suppressed immunity

7. Food allergies or increased food sensitivity

8. Bad breath

9. Difficulty sleeping or insomnia

10. Fluctuating weight

The Community

Our Free Community of Positively Powerful SuperFans

Rise and Shine On! Master Your Day with the Ultimate Positive Morning Guide + Checklist

Stay Connected With

Us

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!

References:
Tartakovsky, M., M.S. (2014, February 26). What’s a Toxic Person & How Do You Deal With One? Retrieved February 23, 2017, from https://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2014/02/28/whats-a-toxic-person-how-do-you-deal-with-one/

Rise and Shine On!
Master Your Day with the Ultimate Positive Morning Guide + Checklist