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Researchers Reveal Ultra-processed Foods May Cause Colorectal Cancer

January 8, 2023 by Kristen Lawrence

Ultra-processed food can cause many diseases in the mind and body, including colorectal cancer. Unfortunately, many Americans consume these foods daily since they’re convenient and don’t require preparation. However, they end up paying the ultimate price regarding their health.

The prevalence of prepackaged and instant meals makes it difficult to adhere to healthy eating habits. But researchers from Tufts University and Harvard University hope their findings will encourage Americans to eat more nutritious foods. Their study discovered a strong association between a high intake of ultra-processed foods and heightened colorectal cancer risk.

The research team found that men who frequently consumed heavily processed foods had a 29% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. However, they didn’t make the same discovery in women. Colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer in the U.S., partially due to the abundance of processed foods. The findings appeared on August 31, 2022, in the BMJ.

“We started out thinking that colorectal cancer could be the cancer most impacted by diet compared to other cancer types,” said Lu Wang, the study’s lead author and a postdoctoral fellow at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts. “Processed meats, most of which fall into the category of ultra-processed foods, are a strong risk factor for colorectal cancer. Ultra-processed foods are also high in added sugars and low in fiber, which contribute to weight gain and obesity, and obesity is an established risk factor for colorectal cancer.”

The team evaluated responses from over 200,000 participants — 159,907 women and 46,341 men. Data spanned three extensive studies performed over 25 years that analyzed volunteers’ dietary intake. Each participant received a food frequency questionnaire every four years asking how often they consumed nearly 130 foods.

Next, researchers categorized participants’ consumption of ultra-processed foods by lowest to highest intake. Those in the highest quintile had the most significant risk of developing colorectal cancer, especially in the distal colon of men. However, the study did not discover an increased risk of colorectal cancer in women who ate large amounts of processed foods.

How Ultra-processed Food Can Leads to Colorectal Cancer

The analyses discovered that men and women consume ultra-processed food differently, resulting in variations in potential cancer risk. Among the 206,000 volunteers followed for over 25 years, the team recorded 1,294 colorectal cancer cases among men and 1,922 cases in women.

The team discovered the strongest association between colorectal cancer and ultra-processed foods in men came from prepared meat, poultry, and fish.

“These products include some processed meats like sausages, bacon, ham, and fish cakes. This is consistent with our hypothesis,” Wang said.

They also found that a higher intake of sugar, such as from soda, fruity drinks, and milk-based beverages, led to increased colorectal cancer risk in men. However, they determined that some ultra-processed foods aren’t as harmful to health as others.

“We fouud an inverse association between ultra-processed dairy foods like yogurt and colorectal cancer risk among women,” said co-senior author Fang Fang Zhang, a cancer epidemiologist and interim chair of the Division of Nutrition Epidemiology and Data Science at the Friedman School.

The team concluded that ultra-processed foods didn’t impact colorectal cancer risk in women. They believe that the differences in processed food consumption in men and women might explain these results.

“Foods like yogurt can potentially counteract the harmful impacts of other types of ultra-processed foods in women,” Zhang said.

Mingyang Song, the co-senior author of the study and assistant professor of clinical epidemiology and nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, added that “Further research will need to determine whether there is a true sex difference in the associations, or if null findings in women in this study were merely due to chance or some other uncontrolled confounding factors in women that mitigated the association.”

While ultra-processed foods usually point to a poor-quality diet, other factors associated with prepackaged foods may increase cancer risk. For instance, food additives can adversely affect the gut microbiome, leading to chronic inflammation. Also, byproducts from food processing can trigger cancer growth, according to Zhang.

What the Data Revealed About Our Food

Each of the three studies had over a 90% follow-up rate, giving the research team plenty of data to analyze.

“Cancer takes years or even decades to develop, and from our epidemiological studies, we have shown the potential latency effect — it takes years to see an effect for certain exposure on cancer risk,” said Song. “Because of this lengthy process, it’s important to have long-term exposure to data to better evaluate cancer risk.”

The studies included:

The Nurses’ Health Study (1986-2014): 121,700 registered female nurses between ages 30 and 55.
The Nurses’ Health Study II (1991-2015): 116,429 female nurses between ages 25 and 42.
The Health Professional Follow-up Study (1986-2014): 51,529 male health professionals between ages 40 and 75.

After excluding previous colorectal cancer diagnoses or incomplete surveys, the researchers had data from 159,907 women from both NHS studies and 46,341 men. The team accounted for variables such as race, family history of cancer, history of endoscopy, and lifestyle factors. These included smoking status, alcohol consumption, daily calorie intake, frequent aspirin use, and menopausal status.

Zhang added that since these participants worked in healthcare, the findings for this group may differ from the general population. For example, healthcare workers may avoid ultra-processed foods since they witness their effects firsthand.

“But we are comparing within that population those who consume higher amounts versus lower amounts,” Zhang reassured. “So those comparisons are valid.”

Study Reveals the Importance of Healthier Eating Habits

It’s no secret that Americans generally eat suboptimal foods, which leads to poorer health. Wang and Zhang published a prior study that revealed an increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods in U.S. children and teenagers. Both studies highlight the reality many people find themselves in today: a reliance on processed foods for convenience or affordability.

“Much of the dependence on these foods can come down to factors like food access and convenience,” said Zhang, a member of the Tufts Institute for Global Obesity Research. “Chemically processing foods can aid in extending shelf life, but many processed foods are less healthy than unprocessed alternatives. We need to make consumers aware of the risks associated with consuming unhealthy foods in quantity and make the healthier options easier to choose instead.”

Wang realizes the challenges of changing dietary habits, especially for those who lack access to nutritious foods. However, he hopes this study will lead to large-scale changes in nutritional guidelines and eating patterns.

“Long-term change will require a multi-step approach,” Wang added. “Researchers continue to examine how nutrition-related policies, dietary recommendations, and recipe and formula changes, coupled with other healthy lifestyle habits, can improve overall health and reduce cancer burden. It will be important for us to continue to study the link between cancer and diet, as well as the potential interventions to improve outcomes.”

Final Thoughts on Study Linking Ultra-processed Food to Colorectal Cancer

A new study by Tufts University and Harvard University researchers found a strong link between ultra-processed foods and colorectal cancer. That doesn’t come as a surprise since processing changes the chemical structure of the foods, leading to adverse health effects. The team noted that men are more likely to develop colorectal cancer due to processed food consumption. They hope the study will encourage people to eat healthier foods and avoid prepackaged options.

What Are Your Strengths According to Your Zodiac Sign?

January 8, 2023 by Kristen Lawrence

Each zodiac sign possesses positive and negative qualities, but today, we’ll focus on their strengths. It benefits your mental health to practice self-love and compassion, anyway. You’ll find a plethora of information on the downsides of each astrological sign, but it’s not healthy to drag yourself through the dirt.

We’re all made of love and light, so we should do our best to magnify these qualities. According to an astrological sign, you may notice some of these personality traits reflected in yourself.

What are Your Strengths? (According to Zodiac Sign)

Do these strengths, according to the astrological sign, ring true for you?

Aries

As one of the most outspoken, fearless signs, this zodiac sign will go above and beyond to reach its goals. They take life by the horns and don’t shy away from a challenge, no matter how daunting it seems. Aries are known for being ambitious, courageous, and confident, and this volcanic energy attracts plenty of like-minded people. They don’t make excuses and make some of the best leaders because of their no-nonsense approach to life.

Taurus

The bull represents this zodiac sign for a good reason. People born under this horoscope have a mean stubborn streak and difficulty compromising. They’re some of the hardest workers you’ll ever meet, but it’s their way or the highway. Because of their inflexibility, they can sometimes get under people’s skin, especially more free-spirited folks.

However, their unmatched work ethic and indomitable will make up for any negative qualities. They also treat their friends, family, and significant other with incredible love and respect, one of their most attractive traits.

Gemini

Sadly, Geminis often get a bad rap because they seem to have two different personalities. For instance, they have an impulsive, creative streak but can also seem flighty and inconsistent. They’re always looking for a change of pace and want a sense of freedom. In short, they have difficulty knowing what they want in life. But, they overcome these personality traits with enthusiasm and willingness to think outside the box. People love them for their curiosity, outgoing nature, and optimism. They’re always in a positive mood and can instantly put people at ease.

Cancer

People born under this zodiac sign have beautiful hearts and souls, pouring all their energy into their loved ones. They care deeply about others and want to take away their suffering somehow. Cancers have a knack for making people comfortable enough to open up about their deepest struggles and worries. They provide a shoulder to cry on and a listening ear when people need it most. They’re some of the most loyal, compassionate friends you could ask for.

Leo

As the life of the party, Leo easily turns heads when they walk into a room. They have an irresistible smile and energy about them that instantly draws people in. People born under this zodiac sign can’t get enough of the spotlight and love entertaining others. They’re honest and lighthearted, and they will never turn down an invitation to socialize. Leos also have a wonderful sense of humor and can make anyone laugh, even on their worst days.

Virgo

As the analytical problem solvers of the zodiac, this sign lives from the head rather than the heart. They feel emotions, of course, but they don’t allow them to overrule logic and reason. Most people see Virgos as reliable and trustworthy because of their clearheaded approach to life. They’re grounded, responsible people with solid work ethics, and take their careers seriously. If you need advice, you can always count on Virgo for words of wisdom.

Libra

People refer to this zodiac sign as the ultimate peacekeeper and humanitarian. Libras typically steer clear of conflict and prefer not to ruffle any feathers. They’re loving, kind souls who only want the best for everyone. They use their energy to bring about positive changes in the world and try to eliminate suffering when possible. Libras make excellent romantic partners and friends because they go the extra mile to make people happy.

Scorpio

This astrological sign can seem aloof and mysterious because they don’t always speak their mind. They prefer to keep to themselves and only open up to people they implicitly trust. However, a Scorpio doesn’t see a problem with their attitude because they only want to protect their energy. People who know them well usually call them headstrong, passionate, and creative individuals. They’re also stoic and responsible, attending to life’s demands without complaining often. Finally, Scorpios are fiercely loyal to their loved ones and will cross oceans for them if necessary.

Sagittarius

This astrological sign is known for being free-spirited, adventurous, and spontaneous. The archer prefers to move around often because they can feel stifled staying in one place after a while. Therefore, Sagittarians live for new experiences and have an active lifestyle that suits their energetic personalities. You won’t ever feel bored around this zodiac sign because it’ll keep you guessing at every turn. When you hang out with a Sagittarius, make sure you’re prepared for plans to change at the drop of a hat. These bold, passionate spirits love to explore the world around them and take their friends along for the ride.

Capricorn

Capricorns have a reputation for being hardworking and trustworthy. Like the other earth signs, they have a strong work ethic and incredible willpower. They see any project through to the end and make reliable leaders in their respective careers. This zodiac sign doesn’t want to disappoint people, so they always follow through on their promises. Capricorns are also devoted to family life and take pride in supporting their loved ones. In times of crisis, the goat never falters and uses reason to overcome any obstacle.

Aquarius

As the astrological visionaries of the zodiac, this sign prides itself on thinking independently and unconventionally. They don’t like to follow trends and prefer to chart their own course in life. People see them as dreamers who refuse to conform to the status quo. This sign enjoys intellectual conversations about art, philosophy, and travel and constantly craves new knowledge. They’re the type of friends you can sit in a coffee shop with for hours talking about everything under the sun. Aquarians may seem quirky, but they draw people in with their charming, unique personalities.

Pisces

Like the other water signs, this zodiac sign possesses a rich, deep emotional world. They feel intensely and use creative outlets like painting or writing to express themselves. Pisces can put anyone at ease with their sensitive, gentle demeanor, and they show endless empathy to anyone they meet. They may have their head in the clouds, but this dreamy quality makes them attractive to those who are more grounded. Pisces often get lost in books or movies as a way to escape the harsh truths of reality. They’re beautiful souls with so much love to offer, but people may take advantage of their kindness.

Final Thoughts on Strengths of Each Zodiac Sign

Each astrological sign possesses both darkness and light, but in today’s world, we tend to focus too much on negativity. So, it’s important to remember the redeeming qualities that allow us to spread joy and love to others. For instance, fire signs bring passion and bravery to life, reminding us of our inner power. Water signs provide empathy and compassion, making us remember the importance of nurturing one another.

Furthermore, astrological signs keep us grounded and show us how to use reason to overcome struggles. Finally, air signs bring lightness and flexibility to life, reminding us that change is the only constant. Do you recognize any of the traits listed above in yourself?

5 Ways to Tap Into Your Unexplored Imagination

January 7, 2023 by Zane Landin

Can you recall when you were working tirelessly on something and couldn’t complete it? Or were you trying to write something and had difficulty figuring out how to begin? Something was missing, and you couldn’t connect the dots. You might need a dose of imagination and creativity to find a different solution.

Imagination comes in many forms, from the creative poet writing about his journey riding a unicorn on the sun to an engineer using nanotechnology to advance the blocks of our biological foundation. It is an excellent tool for recreating your world to what you want it to be. It can help you explore the past and envision the future. Think of unbothered imagination like dreams, a subconscious image of your deepest thoughts. Sometimes, dreams don’t make sense because they uphold a state of pure imagination, but if you dig deep into your consciousness, you’ll learn that dreams can teach you something about yourself.

Find a quiet place where you can be introspective and feel relaxed. Consider playing some light music. Make yourself feel grounded within yourself. Travel back in time to when you were a child–a place where you were innocent and unclouded by the world. When you visualize your past and inner childhood, proceed to create a land, planet, or even universe. There are no limits or boundaries to what is possible. Don’t exclude yourself from the reality of your existence. Traverse beyond what is possible here. What would it be like? What would it smell like? Who is there? What did you feel like? You want to consider these questions as you venture forth and paint this universe. Once you have a clear illustration, open your eyes and come back.

Five Ways to Tap Into Creativity and Imagination

How did you feel to imagine a world where anything was possible? This is an example of how you can incorporate imagination more into your life, but how can you cultivate even more imagination because being imaginative is not just a feeling but a mindset. Learn about these five ways to tap more into your imagination.

1 – Tell Yourself You Are An ‘Imagination-Based Being’

Thousands of people claim they don’t have a strong imagination. They have convinced themselves they aren’t creative or imaginative, so they don’t offer themselves the space or outlet. Give yourself opportunities to reflect and have imaginative moments, or even journal prompts where you challenge yourself to solve problems or live on an outer planet. Change your self-perception and accept you are an imagined, innovative being.

Affirmations can be very influential. If you believe you are unimaginative, you will convince yourself to be true. And without knowing, you will prevent yourself from achieving an ‘imaginative state.’ Look back at the activity in the beginning. The activity’s purpose was to show you that you can be imaginative. Imagination is there and runs through your veins, but you need to activate it willingly. It is not something people just have; you need to practice with patience. Once you affirm that you are imaginative, you will already see a change in your thought process.

2 – Carefully Observe Your Surroundings

It may feel unimportant, but your surroundings can be a gateway to your imagination. There are millions of modalities for imagination, especially in nature. Even without nature, inspiration can come from anywhere–look at the buildings around you, listen to the songs birds sing, and even observe how people explore the world. Being mindful and appreciative of your surroundings allows you to think differently and feel grounded in your place in the universe. Doing this will help your soul feel awakened to limitless possibilities and trajectories.

3 – Be Unapologetically Curious

This might feel similar to observing your surroundings, but it goes beyond what your senses produce and more on where your curiosity can lead you. People are discouraged from asking many questions, but we should be encouraged. Knowledge is power, and it can help stimulate your creativity. Don’t worry about what people think, and be intuitively inquisitive. Learning more about the world doesn’t only support your imagination, but it can help you in other areas of your life. If you don’t know something, look it up or even invent a story about what it could mean.

4 – Play Without Purpose

Do you remember the term ‘play?’ That term is often associated with children, but adults need to play. There is no reason to play with toys, games, or coloring books but do it anyway. Don’t question why things are. Just have fun. Sometimes, you are your most creative version of yourself when you don’t have a purpose. You can get so narrowly stuck in your plans that you forget to use your creativity and live in the moment.

During the pandemic, thousands became podcast founders, entrepreneurs, and business owners. They might have needed a purpose or direction. Instead of sulking on that directionless path, they decided to chase that uncertainty to success. Sometimes, when people are at their lowest moments, they are the most imaginative they have ever experienced.

5 – Access Your Childhood Memories

In the beginning, the activity requested you to return to your childhood. For some, your childhood may have been traumatic. If that is the case, you don’t need to worry about this section. As children, you felt encouraged to explore uncharted territory and be imaginative. As adults, you forget those aspects of your imagination. Remember what you loved doing as a child, and go back to where you could be anything—accessing your childhood memories connected to your inner child can help you reminisce about your forgotten desires and feelings. Securing a time when you were most imaginative can carry over to you now. Don’t lose your childlike imagination.

Final Thoughts on How to Tap Into Imagination and Creativity You Didn’t Know You Had

Imagination is a significant gift that everyone has, but don’t explore what it could mean for them. You can use it for anything–if you have a problem, want to have fun, or just need to escape. Once you implement these small steps, more creativity and imagination will enter your life, and you will eventually change your habits. You will naturally just be more curious, mindful, and imaginative. This will transform how you work, navigate the world, and even impact your relationships. Don’t be afraid to be genuine and conduct a beautiful orchestration of your imagination.

Doctor Explains How the Power of Positive Thinking Improves Mental Health

January 7, 2023 by Dr. Kirstin Kraft

By now, we’ve all heard about positive thinking, and innately as humans, we intuitively know that it feels better to feel good than to feel bad. Did you know that your thoughts can impact how you feel, and the same thoughts repeated over time can impact your mental health for better or worse?

Yes! This is why it’s so important to be aware of your thought patterns and to make sure that your thoughts align with what you wish to experience in your health… and life.

What Is Positive Thinking?

Positive thinking boils down to having a mental attitude of optimism most of the time. It doesn’t mean that you’re always positive every second of every day but that overall you’re a positive person and your thinking follows suit.

Positive thinkers strive to make the best of situations, even unfavorable ones. They try to see the good in everything. So when something bad happens, they think about what they can learn from it and look for the silver lining. They look past the current circumstances to hope. They improve or make the best out of situations and focus on what they can control rather than what they cannot.

Positive thinking doesn’t mean you ignore life’s unpleasant circumstances; you approach these difficult circumstances positively and productively. Instead of thinking about the worst things that can happen, think about the best things that can happen, and when tough circumstances arise, try to ask yourself how you can learn and grow from it and take the time to work through those emotions.

There is power in positive thinking; when you harness your mind’s power to work favorably for you, your mental well-being will improve.

Good Health and Why it Pays to Think Positively

There are differing opinions on what a good life entails, but no one will envision a life that includes poor health and being mentally unwell. Thinking positively is an extremely powerful and free way to impact your mental health for the better.

The health benefits of positive thinking are highly impactful, and not only can it reduce stress, but it can also improve mental health. Some studies show that optimism and pessimism affect a multitude of areas of health and well-being. If your mind jumps to negative thought patterns, don’t worry; you can change this by learning positive thinking skills and implementing them.

Positive thinking starts with inner conversations or the conscious and unconscious thought patterns that make up those unspoken thoughts that continuously go through your head. Awareness of your dominant self-talk is so important. Indeed, you could very well operate in a dominantly negative space without this awareness. When the thoughts running through your head are mostly negative, you will see this reflected in your life; likewise, if most of the thoughts going through your head are positive, you will see positivity reflected in your life.

Yes, sometimes bad or negative things happen that are out of our control, but many are within our control. Therefore, you must take the reigns concerning your mental health and decide that you want to impact your life positively. It all starts with your thoughts. Sometimes negative circumstances can lead us into a negative thought loop, and it’s okay to cry, sulk, and be sad when something bad happens. Still, it’s more important to come out of that space and make the conscious decision to direct your thoughts to positivity.

The Benefits of Positive Thinking

Researchers have found numerous benefits to positive thinking on overall health, including increased life span, reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer, and decreased likelihood of illness from viruses or the common cold. Specifically, as it relates to mental health, scientific research points to lower rates of stress, and depression, better mood, and better coping skills during difficult times, hardships, and distress. Positive thinking also improves psychological well-being, thereby improving mental health.

4 Easy Things You Can Do To Promote Positive Thinking

Everything in our bodies is connected in some way. How can you give yourself the best chance to engage in positive thinking think most of the time? Practicing these four things will increase the likelihood that you will lean toward positive thinking rather than negative.

1. Eat a Brain-Healthy Diet

Eat nutrient-dense whole foods and combine them to make interesting, delicious meals. Try to stay away from foods in packages or foods that are heavily processed. Buy organic whenever possible, especially foods with no skin or thin skin, such as berries, grapes, and spinach. Pesticides and herbicides can penetrate these kinds of fruits and vegetables easily since there is no thick skin protecting the inside of the fruit, such as you find on bananas.

Your brain loves healthy sources of fat (avocado) and omega-3 fatty acids (salmon). Consume more foods that your brain loves. Remember what foods make you feel good and energized after consuming them, and consume more of those foods.

2. Exercise

Most everyone knows that exercise is beneficial…but how is it so good for the brain? Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and promotes endorphin release. It helps keep your brain healthy by improving cognitive health by helping you think better, problem solve, learn, enjoy experiences, and foster emotional balance. It has also been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Regular physical activity can reduce your chances of getting dementia. One study found that cognitive decline was twice as prevalent in people who were inactive as compared to those who were active. That’s HUGE! This reason alone should be enough motivation to make it a point to be active.

3. Sleep

Quality sleep is one of those essentials to life and something that cannot be ignored. So many necessary processes occur while we sleep. Thus, it’s important to get the best sleep possible so that our bodies can successfully perform the tasks they need.

Sleep is critical to numerous brain functions, including how neurons (nerve cells that transmit information) communicate. Sleep is the time when the brain clears out toxins that build up while we are awake.

Research shows that sleep is essential to every tissue type in the body, and chronic lack of sleep negatively affects them. Lack of quality sleep has been associated with numerous mental health concerns, including depression.

4. Have a Relaxation Practice

We can all be guilty of being too busy and not taking any downtime. But these are necessities for sound emotional and mental health. Take some time to be mindful and focus on the positive things as you go through your day. When you struggle to do this, think about something you’re grateful for, even if it’s as simple as just having the ability to breathe.

Having time to relax and quiet the mind is vital to nurture brain health and stress. You can try deep breathing, yoga, journaling, mindfulness, and meditation.

Think Positively

It doesn’t matter how positive you are…you have had negative thoughts. We all have. When most people think about positive affirmations, they think about saying words out loud, and this is a major aspect of them, but there’s more. We think thoughts all day long and have inner conversations. These inner conversations and thoughts aren’t always uplifting or positive. Many times, it’s an unconscious process, but before you know it, you’re feeling down, negative, or downright depressed.

Use the way you feel as information as to which kinds of thoughts you’ve been thinking. When you’re feeling down, have the awareness to know that your thoughts (even if unconscious) are not serving you. Likewise, you can be sure that your inner thoughts serve you well if you feel uplifted and great. Your feelings are messengers and can quickly inform you of thoughts running through your mind.

So what are positive affirmations?

They are positive phrases and/or thoughts used to challenge negative or unwanted thoughts. For affirmations to be effective, they must be practiced with repetition. So, to see and feel the benefits of positively affirming in your life, you must repeat them daily until it’s second nature, until the new neural pathway has developed, and you are now thinking these positive thoughts on autopilot.

It’s important to be aware of these thoughts and monitor them accordingly. When you become more aware of these negative thoughts that may come across your mind, you have much more of a chance to switch that thought to a positive one immediately.

You can also practice reframing- when unwanted situations happen, take a deep breath and accept that at that moment, all you have control over if yourself. Simply smiling more can give you a positive frame of mind, even if you’re not in one already. When you smile, the muscles that contract send a signal to your brain to release happy chemicals. You always have this tool to use when you’re not in a positive state.

Neuroscientific research and MRI evidence suggest that certain neural pathways are increased when people practice positive thoughts and physical changes, specifically in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Think positively. It’s good for you!

Final Thoughts About How Positive Thinking Impacts Mental Health

It’s common for many to wake up in the morning with that ugh feeling or a feeling of I don’t want to get out of bed. These can quickly spiral into thinking negatively. It’s essential to be aware of this and fill your mind with positivity first thing in the morning. It sets the tone for the rest of your day.

Tell yourself it will be a great day.
Affirm positively over your life.
Express gratitude for things as commonplace as the ability to move your body or read this article.

Always remember that you control your thoughts, no matter what’s happening around you. Even when something bad happens, you can choose the thoughts you think about it. No one can take this away from you. You hold the power to think whatever thoughts you choose.

10 Reasons Men Fall for the Wrong Women

January 7, 2023 by Chris Butler

Falling in love with the wrong woman and being in a bad relationship is effortless. Maybe their beautiful looks or charisma draws you in, but you can’t help how you feel. Remember the old saying, “the heart wants what the heart wants?”

Sadly, it’s true, and men know firsthand that your heart can often lead you astray and cause you to fall for the wrong woman. Just because someone isn’t suitable for you doesn’t mean they’re not a great person. Take, for instance, the mixing of oil and water. Oil is excellent for frying things and baking.

Water is excellent for drinking and a million other uses. However, when you put them together, they don’t mesh well. Could it be that you’re falling in love with the wrong woman because you feel pressure or you’re lonely?

Ten Common Reasons Why Men Fall for the Wrong Woman

Sometimes people tend to bring out toxic characteristics in one another, and everyone has good and bad qualities. There are many reasons you might fall for the wrong woman, and here are just a few.

NOTE: We recognize that women also make similar relationship mistakes. However, they generally do so for slightly different reasons, which we address in a separate article.

1. The Wrong Woman Was There – You Were Lonely

Loneliness can do some horrible things to your mental well-being. How often have you made foolish mistakes because you let miserable feelings dictate your actions? When you’re lonely, making the wrong choice is easy, as it’s one of the worst places to be.

Sometimes falling in love with the wrong woman happens because she’s there. It doesn’t mean she’s the right one for you, but you’ve found someone who met your needs. It’s always important to live by the phrase that it’s better to remain a single person than to be entangled with the wrong one.

2. Your Libido Was Dictating Your Moves

Everyone has essential physical needs. The need for physical touch and companionship is just as real and necessary as the desire to eat. You were created with an intimate side to you, and when you don’t have anyone to help fulfill those desires, it can leave you lacking.

Maybe you’re not into her as much as what she can do for you. When someone is stroking the fires of passion, and you’ve been in a desert place, it’s easy to let feelings get in the mix. Some people can’t separate love from physical acts, as it’s very personal.

However, it’s usually thought that women are the ones who often can’t be intimate without falling in love, but men also struggle with such feelings.

3. The Biological Clock Is Ticking–Driving the Need for a Relationship

Women have a biological clock that dictates their desire to settle down. Once they get beyond a certain age, they start to feel the hands of time winding down on their window of opportunity for kids and a man. While men aren’t the ones who carry a child, you also feel the pangs of aging.

You don’t get pegged with derogatory terms like a spinster, but there’s certainly pressure from within to find someone and settle down. People make foolish mistakes when they feel they’re running out of time. It can make you do things that you never thought possible.

Instead of waiting for the person that completes you and is your other half, you might find yourself falling in love with the easy catch.

4. Pressure from Outside Sources

Though your family and friends love you, there’s often a lot of pressure from them for you to settle down. If your parents want grandchildren, it can be the topic of conversation when they see you. While they mean well and don’t want to hurt you, it’s still painful to have that constant reminder that you haven’t found anyone.

Many guys get into a relationship with someone because they feel pressure. It could be a friend you grew up with who is also available. If you’re feeling peer pressure from friends who’ve already settled down and parents who are tired of waiting, jumping into a situation that’s not the best for you is effortless.

5. Your Subconscious Mind Draws You to the Wrong Woman

It’s often been said that women like the proverbial “bad boy.” They know it’s the person that’s probably going to hurt them as they’re not going in the same direction in life. However, they can’t help falling in love because this person triggers something good or bad inside them.

Men are the same way when it comes to choosing the wrong woman. They know from the start that she’s not a good fit, and it will likely end badly, but they can’t help but feel this gravitational pull toward the wrong woman. She’s nothing you need, but you can’t help yourself because you’re being sucked in like a moth to the flame.

6. Hoping She’ll Make You Feel Better

Sometimes you get into a bad place and need a way out. Sure, women want a superhero that will save the day, but men also look for a lady that can help them get to a better place. According to Greater Good Science Center at Berkley University, people often romanticize the Western idea of marriage, but it doesn’t mean it’s the right thing for you.

The thought that one person can complete you and meet all your needs is a far stretch. Life is a kaleidoscope of drama; sometimes, you feel lost and scared in this big world. Things are much easier when you have a partner who’s helping you and encouraging you every day, but you can’t put that much pressure on one person.

Remember, she has needs, too, and she can’t create happiness for you. Many men fall for someone hoping she can save the day, but you will find that it’s usually the wrong person and only worsens matters.

7. Feeling Unworthy, Undeserving, Or Not Good Enough

If you have low self-esteem, you might settle for someone who isn’t right for you because you don’t think you can do any better. Entering a dissatisfying relationship to have someone on your arm is not the answer. Maybe you’re exhausted from the search for Ms. Right, and you don’t want to be alone anymore.

These feelings of desperation can cause you to make poor decisions. Before you get into any relationship, you must first love yourself. How can you expect anyone else to love and care for you when you don’t even do those things?

According to an article published by Southern Nazarene University, you learn to value your very existence when you love yourself. Reaching this place allows for growth physically, mentally, and spiritually. You will notice that you have more self-confidence and are happier. However, the most important thing that happens when you love yourself is the ability to love others.

8. It’s Your Only Goal in Life

Falling in love with the wrong woman may occur when you have no other goals in life. Your very existence is to go to work and find someone to love. You’re putting much unnecessary pressure on yourself, and you can’t expect to make good choices under so much stress.

It’s often been said that love happens when you least expect it. When you stop looking, this is when the person who’s meant to be with you finds you. When you’re on the trail of a lady like a bloodhound, you might find someone who isn’t the right match for you.

9. Ignoring All the Red Flags That You Met the Wrong Woman

Sometimes you make foolish choices and ignore red flags because you don’t want to see what’s right in front of your face. Maybe she’s lied to you more times than you can count, she’s not very dependable, and she’s had more relationships than you can trust, but you’re falling fast regardless. You know she’s not good for you, but you don’t make any attempt to turn around.

Do you ever feel like you’re just asking for trouble? You know what they need, but sometimes the constant cravings for something exciting and different cloud your judgment.

10. Thinking You Can Change the Wrong Woman into Mrs. Right

So, she’s not perfect and has some flaws, but you think you can change her into the woman of your dreams. Sadly, this usually only works in movies. If she comes with emotional baggage and many other issues from her past, the chances of changing her are slim, as she’s the wrong woman.

People naturally change over time, and it’s not to say that your love can’t make her a better person. However, you need to have realistic expectations regarding life and love. If she’s had an issue with being unfaithful in all her previous relationships, she will likely remain the same way.

There’s something fundamentally wrong under the surface, and she needs help beyond what you can provide.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Wrong Woman

Don’t beat yourself up too badly if you’ve chosen the wrong woman in your past. Life is about learning and growing and falling in love is an experience you’ll never forget. Each relationship makes you better, and you’ve learned valuable lessons about what you don’t want and need. Remember to watch for those red flags and use your mind and heart when choosing a partner.

13 Reasons Men Are Scared to Date

January 7, 2023 by Chris Butler

Are you a guy who complains because you don’t have a love life? If you dig a little deeper into why some men remain a party of one, the real reason might be fear. How many dates have you been on in the last six months? Serial dating in the quest for that perfect partner becomes exhausting! So, why not visit ListCrawler to find you perfect match?

If you can easily rattle off those numbers, something under the surface hinders you from meeting the partner of your dreams. When you don’t go out on dates very often, it’s hard to get into a groove and figure out what works. The fear of the unknown can be crippling if you allow it to be, but like driving a car, practice makes perfect.

You’re undoubtedly a good guy that any woman would be proud to have on her arm. The real problem is you’re afraid. The biggest fear is rejection, but it’s not the only thing you worry about with women. One way to boost your confidence and overcome this fear is by enhancing your online dating profile. Using AI dating pictures can help you present your best self, making a great first impression and reducing the anxiety of initial interactions. Cupid’s Canvas replaces a professional photographer to help you create realistic dating pictures

NOTE: We acknowledge that some women also fear dating. Because their reasons vary slightly from the guys, we share them in a separate article.

Thirteen Top Fears in Dating

The fear of dating, though not an actual medical condition, can be devastating. While your doctor won’t diagnose you with this issue, they might find an underlying anxiety disorder. A little bit of angst in these situations is warranted, but if anxiety is overpowering your life and causing you to live reclusively, it becomes a problem.

Anxiety causes a sense of impending doom or unrealistic fears, which can be why you’re not going out as much as you should. Here are the top worries of why men avoid dating.

1. Small Talk is Challenging on a Date

Once you’re on a date, there’s a lot of pressure to talk and interact with the other person. Will you say the right thing, or will there be an awkward silence where you want to hide under the table? Guys aren’t usually as good with small talk as women, but if you want to go out on the town, it’s a skill you need to polish.

2. The Ex May Reappear After You Start Dating

Everything is going well, and you’ve met the woman of your dreams, but suddenly, an ex that you thought was long gone has come back into her life. If this man is a person she talks about all the time, the concern is that he will return and take her away from you.

Some ex-lovers have a powerful hold on the heart long after they’re gone. So, the thought of this person returning after you’ve settled into a cozy routine is unnerving.

3. You’re Too Strapped for Cash to Date

Ladies don’t worry as much about the cost of the date as men do. As a man, you feel compelled to pay for the meal. You might have all these thoughts running through your mind about your credit card being declined or her ordering something you can’t afford.

While these are probably unrealistic fears, they’re still ones you must overcome. If one date turns into two and so on, can you take her out and accommodate her taste? Will going out too much buy you a one-way ticket to bankruptcy court?

4. You Lack a Sense of Humor – Or Have One That’s Quirky

Some guys love to tell jokes, and some women will appreciate the humor. However, what happens if she doesn’t laugh when you tell a riddle, and she looks at you like you’re strange? The fear of her not liking your personality or those eccentric little jokes you tell is real.

The flip side is that the right person for you will get all your little quirks, and she will love you for them. You connect with your soul mate on a deeper level, so she overlooks so much and sees straight to your heart. Consequently, you might only find her if you overcome some of these fears and get out there and start mingling.

5. You Don’t Know How to Ask Someone Out

So, you are attracted to someone, but you’re unsure how they feel about you. If you ask her out and she turns you down, you will feel like a failure. However, if she says yes, you might have a date with the woman of your dreams.

There’s a lot of anxiety about the initial invitation, as the fear of rejection can make you freeze. Things can get so bad that you can develop anthropophobia, which is the official term for fearing rejection till it becomes a chronic condition. According to the Cleveland Clinic, this is not an official diagnosis, but it usually occurs alongside social anxiety.

If you fear being in public places and with people, it might hold you back if you don’t get treatment.

6. Fear of a Humiliating Dating Experience

Anxiety causes all sorts of things to run through your mind that isn’t true. You may fear falling walking into the restaurant, or you’re afraid that you might leave your wallet at home. Anxiety can put all sorts of things into your head that make you paralyzed for no good reason. You want to go on a date and kiss her so badly, but letting your fears overrule you will destroy the possibility of having a good time.

7. You Have No Time to Date

Some guys don’t want to start anything because they fear they won’t have time. You might have no issues asking her on a date, and you’re not worried about her liking you. What you’re most fearful about is that she will leave you because you don’t have sufficient time to spend with her.

Work and responsibilities do take up a big part of your life. However, there’s an old saying that states that you make time for the things that are important to you.

8. You’re Afraid of Being a Fashion Don’t

While you probably think of women as the people who worry about their attire, guys are just as concerned. You may fear having the right clothes or style for dating.

You don’t want to be laughed at on a date so you may avoid them altogether. If you have feelings for someone but think she is out of your league, you might be fearful she won’t like you because of your clothes. You’ve dodged a bullet if that’s her reason for not liking you. No one wants someone so shallow that they are only interested in you for your style or the clothes on your back.

9. Getting Ditched Would Crush You

What happens if you’re into her, but she isn’t into you? Unrequited love and being stuck in the friend zone is not a good place to be. You’re terrified you will fall in love with her, but she won’t feel the same, and you would rather avoid the heartache.

10. Afraid You Can’t Please Her

Some ladies are picky, and you might need help measuring up. Asking someone out is a challenge but trying to please them seems impossible. You might be worried that you don’t have enough money, aren’t good enough in the romance department, and lack what she needs. Stay calm about all the things that can go wrong, as you might miss an opportunity to find someone who completes you.

11. Apprehensive of Commitments

Commitment is a huge issue for some guys, especially if they have past experiences that shed a negative light on the situation. If you’ve watched your parents struggle through a turbulent marriage, it’s only natural that you would be apprehensive. You can protect your heart by not getting involved, or so you think.

Another common issue is that you’ve been hurt in the past. Once you’ve had your heart broken, it’s challenging to move forward with the baggage you carry. You don’t want to be alone, so you must get out and date. Letting go of these apprehensions and preconceived notions about relationships is something therapy can help you overcome.

12. Toxic Women Irritate You

Some ladies are eager to express dissatisfaction with the men they’re dating. If a woman doesn’t see you as her equal, it can make for a toxic situation. Overall, men are turning away from women who aren’t focused on equality as much and have a negative view of men.

These feelings likely come from abuse or other trauma in their past, but you’re afraid to get yourself in a situation where you’re made to feel less than her.

13. You Don’t Know What You Want From Dating

Some guys are looking for a person to settle down with and start a family. Other guys want a one-night stand and a tussle between the sheets. However, you are still determining what you want as far as love is concerned.

The thought of marriage and forever sounds too big, but you know you want something more than a one-night ordeal. You may not be stepping out there because you’re scared and don’t know what is right.

Final Thoughts on Men Being Afraid to Date

You don’t want to spend all your days and nights alone. While it’s better to fly solo than to be with someone who makes you miserable, you know there’s a soul mate out there looking for you. Having a great partner makes the holidays brighter and vacations grander, and it’s comforting knowing that there’s someone there for you when the chips are down.

While overcoming the fear of asking someone out and dating is challenging, it becomes easier with time. You’ll find a groove and a type of lady that attracts you, and you may find that you’re happier than you ever dreamed possible.

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