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Gluten free diet: Benefits and Risks

September 20, 2019 by Power of Positivity

There are many different diets that people try to go on to improve their overall health and to lose weight. One of the diets that are becoming popular in the United States and around the world is the gluten free diet.

Additionally, many restaurants now offer customers a gluten free menu if they ask for one. Packaged food is also starting to label their foods as being gluten free, if it does not include gluten, because of the increasing popularity of this diet.

Today, in the United States, there are about 3.1 million people who are following the guidelines of the gluten free diet. This number has drastically increased over the last few years. Researchers say that this number has tripled in the last ten years.

What Is Gluten?

People following a gluten-free diet must stay away from eating anything that has gluten in it. Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat, rye, and barley. The majority of things made in the United States are made with gluten so it can be a difficult thing to avoid if you are not careful about it.

While many people opt into the gluten-free diet in order to lose weight some people must follow this diet to prevent themselves from getting sick because of their allergy to gluten. These people have what is called celiac disease.

What Is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease affects nearly 1 percent of the United States population. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that is inherited from your ancestors, like your parents. When a person that has celiac disease, whether they know it or not, ingest gluten their small intestine cannot digest it. Their immune system in return attacks the small intestine and reduces its ability to process other nutrients.

Who Has Celiac Disease?

Although about 1 percent of the population has Celiac disease, only .4 percent of the population is diagnosed with it from a doctor. It takes approximately 4 years for a doctor to diagnose a patient with Celiac disease because they must first rule out other diseases that may be connected with the disease. The long wait time can result in many people being gluten sensitive or gluten intolerant before being fully diagnosed with Celiac disease.

Benefits Of A Gluten Free Diet

Some of the main benefits of a gluten-free diet include:

– Increased mood
– Less Acne
– Improved appearance of skin and nails
– Fewer gut and bowel issues
– Increased energy levels
– Decreased symptoms of Autism
– Decreased symptoms of epilepsy

Since gluten affects the digestion in your small intestine, avoiding gluten can have various effects on your bowel. People avoiding gluten often say that they do not have as many occurrences of diaherra, constipation, or pain. For many people stopping these unwanted things is enough to get them started on a gluten free diet. Those with irritable bowel syndrome often give this diet a try because it tends to help their symptoms. If you decide to go on a gluten-free diet and find that these occurrences stop when you do not eat gluten you may want to talk to a doctor to see if you have Celiac disease. While there is no cure for this disease it may help some people better understand their body if they know that they do or do not have this disease.

Other reason to go GF

Avoiding gluten can also significantly affect your mood. People find that they are happier after going on a gluten free diet. They often report feeling better and more emotionally stable. Things that may have made you upset in the past you can more easily brush off. A gluten-free diet can help improve your mood and keep you moving throughout the day.

While there are numerous benefits to this diet, you should always be careful before starting a new diet. Just because it is a diet does not mean that it is completely healthy. You still have to watch what you eat and ensure that you are eating a balanced diet with a variety of different nutrients.

Typically, people who start this diet are more likely to lose weight because they are changing their diet and avoiding more of the fattening foods, like bread and desserts. People on this diet also tend to eat more vegetables and fruits because these foods are always gluten free. Weight loss can be one added benefit to this diet if you do it right.

Although there is not enough research done on the topic, many researchers have found that avoiding gluten can also help reduce the signs of autism. While there is no concrete proof of this many people who have autism are starting this diet to see if it helps.

Risks Of A Gluten Free Diet

Here are the primary disadvantages of following a GF diet.

Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies

If you choose to follow this diet you may be putting yourself at risk for some nutrional deficiencies, like calcium, iron, folate, and fiber. Since you are avoiding certain foods that predominantly have these nutrients you may need to take supplements to ensure that you get all the nutrients that your body needs. It is always best to talk to a doctor before starting any new diet.

Following this diet prevents you from eating whole grains that are essential for heart health. Recent studies have found that those who eat this diet, without having Celiac disease, often have an increased risk of cardiovascular diseease. If you are choosing to follow this diet you still need to eat grains and some grains are gluten free, including quinoa, buckwheat, millet, and others.

Expense

If you are thinking about going gluten free you should also consider the financial toll that avoiding gluten can take on your budget. You’ll find it more expensive to eat GF foods than most other diets. And, that’s because you must find more expensive substitutions.

A recent study indicates that avoiding gluten in your diet can cost you 242 percent more than a regular diet. While this number is sure to vary across different states and vary for each individual you should expect to pay a little bit more for food if you choose to go on this diet.

Safe Foods That Are Gluten Free

If you are considering a gluten free diet you are likely trying to find new foods that you can eat that are gluten free. You likely already know you can eat all the fruits and vegetables you want since these items do not have gluten in them. You can also safely enjoy meats, nuts, and beans.

Like any allergy, you should always check with restaurants before ordering your food. Ask ahead if specific menu items contain gluten. If you have Celiac disease, you will likely have to be more careful and ensure that no gluten even came into contact with your food. If you are opting to follow this diet, but do not have the actual allergy, you can be a little more lenient when it comes to dining out.

Get Creative with Substitutes

Cutting out gluten is tricky. That is because we eat so many common foods that contain it. One of the most popular foods in the United States is pizza. If you are going gluten free you can try substituting a cauliflower pizza crust for a traditional crust. The great things about pizza are that while the crust changes the toppings can remain the same.

For most recipes that require flour, you can substitute the traditional flour for a gluten free flour that you can purchase in almost any grocery store. Since gluten free lifestyles are becoming more and more popular you can more easily find substitutions in the grocery store to help you with the process.

For example, if you enjoy fresh bread or soup you can purchase gluten free flour to make a loaf of bread or even gluten free noodles to put into your soup. You can substitute french fries for homemade fries that you make simply by cutting up and baking either yellow, russet potatoes or sweet potatoes. There are many alternatives available for people avoiding gluten.

One of the most difficult things for people on this diet must adjust to is dessert time. While you may not be able to eat as many cakes, brownies, or cookies as you once did you can enjoy their gluten free alternatives. You can still enjoy ice cream, jello, and pudding. This adjustment may after some people more than others but it is worth the change if you want to go gluten free.

Should You Go Gluten Free?

The key to any diet is to ensure that you are still eating a healthy, well-balanced diet. There are many advantages to eating gluten free. However, you have to be careful to ensure that you do not get a vitamin or mineral deficiency because these can lead to other negative side effects.

If you find yourself having gut and bowel issues, being more irritable than you would like, or feeling sick after eating certain meals you may have a gluten allergy or Celiac disease. Ask your doctor to test you for sensitivities. And, ask him or her to recommend the best diet for you..

Not interested in getting that allergy testing? You might still go gluten free to take advantage of the many benefits that it offers.

Gluten free diets allow people to feel happier, have fewer gut issues, have more energy, can help you lose weight, and can help your nails grow longer. There are endless health benefits to avoiding gluten.

Researchers Explain the Importance of Diet for Kidney Stones

September 19, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Kidney stones are small, hard mineral and salt deposits that form inside of your kidneys. Once they have formed, they can travel from your kidneys into your bladder, and sometimes, they get stuck along the way. Often times, they pass on their own with nothing more than some major discomfort and pain (as long as you follow your doctor’s recommendations), while other times more serious action is required to remove the stones.

Having a kidney stone isn’t entirely uncommon, although it isn’t extremely common, either, as there are more than 3 million diagnosed cases in the United States each year. A diagnosis requires that a medical professional order a lab or imaging test and, if necessary, treatment will follow. The number of diagnoses isn’t a proper representation of the actual number of people who suffer from stones, as many cases go undiagnosed.

A kidney stone can last for as little as one week, or it could last for months. It all depends on the severity of the stone, the size, and the treatment path being followed. Kidney stones can form for many reasons, but some of the most common reasons include:

dehydration
unhealthy eating habits
a change in your diet
hormonal changes
kidney infections
genetics
being overweight or obese
having a disease of the digestive system
medical conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, sarcoidosis, a urinary tract infection, yeast infection, or cancer

While some small stones can pass on their own with little problem, a stone of any size is extremely painful. As mentioned before, a kidney stone travels from your kidney. Once the stone reaches the ureter (which is the tube that connects your bladder to your kidney), you will notice the extreme pain begin and continue until the stone has passed.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

If you haven’t been professionally diagnosed by a doctor but believe you are suffering from a kidney stone, you may experience the following symptoms:

Intermittent renal pain
Blood or pus in your urine
Fever or chills (only in serious cases)
Pain that worsens when moving
Pain (in males) that radiates to the groin and testis
Back pain that moves around to your sides, just below your ribcage
Lessened urine flow
Trouble urinating although you have an urgent and frequent feeling that you need to do so
Feeling like you constantly have to urinate
Pain and/or burning while urinating
Urine that is pink, red, or brown
Nausea and vomiting (again, only in serious cases)
Cloudy urine
Urine that smells different

It is important to note that if you do think you have a kidney stone, you should see your doctor for a professional diagnosis, a treatment plan, and information about how large the stone is.

What Complications Could Occur From Getting Frequent Kidney Stones?

Usually, the only complication that can occur as a result of a kidney stone is intermittent pain but, normally, no long-term effects occur. You may find yourself needing over the counter medication for pain and lots of water to help you feel better and pass the kidney stone.

Even when the kidney stone is more serious and medical treatment is necessary, there will likely be no long-term effects from the problem. Surgery may be required for these more serious cases but, after surgery, you should be good to go.

Research Proves the Importance of Diet for Kidney Stones

What you eat and drink greatly affects kidney stone development, and according to researchers at Harvard University, this is due to high amounts of protein, sodium, sugar, and calcium causing your kidneys to work too hard trying to filter all of it out. When your kidneys can’t keep up, a kidney stone may develop and eventually grow larger in size as time goes on.

The same group of researchers proved just how important your dietary choices are when it comes to forming stones. They point out how different types of foods can cause different kinds of stones, which means that the food choices that work for one person may not work for another.

The Single Most Important Dietary Change to Prevent and Treat a Kidney Stone

No matter the type of stones you suffer from, however, water is the most important dietary change you can make. This is because water helps your kidneys filter out all the build-up and allows you to pass more urine, which helps pass a kidney stone and helps prevent future stones from forming. You will know you are drinking enough water if your urine comes out light and clear.

You should be drinking at least six 8-ounce glasses of water each day in order to keep your kidneys healthy and functioning properly. This one simple dietary change can make the difference between having a kidney stone and feeling great.

Researches at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (the NIH) have proven that water works wonders, but they also encourage dietary changes when it comes to the foods you eat, too.

Best Foods to Eat for This Condition

Now that you know how important the foods and drinks you consume are when it comes to forming or getting rid of a kidney stone, you may be wondering about the best foods to eat. Some of the healthiest foods to eat for kidney stones patients include:

water
protein sources that do not include animal product
a salt substitute
lemonade
kale
organic strawberries
blueberries
apples, in moderation
blackberries
Brussels sprouts
artichoke
cauliflower
lemon juice (which is easy to add to food while cooking)
apple cider vinegar
cucumbers
mint
honey
lime

Foods to Avoid

Of course, there have to be some foods to avoid, as well. Unfortunately, this list may contain some of your favorite foods:

beets
rhubarb
okra
sweet potatoes
tea
nuts
chocolate
anything containing soy products
spinach
Swiss chard
any food high in sodium
cheese
milk
alcohol
soda (also known as pop)
salmon
animal protein (steak, chicken, eggs, seafood, etc.)
oats
oat bran
red kidney, navy, and fava beans
tomato

Tips For Patients Based on Research

While your dietary choices are extremely important when it comes to the formation (or, hopefully, lack thereof) of stones, there are some other factors to consider, as well. If you suffer from a kidney stone or find yourself with a kidney stone repeatedly, this tip may help you.

It is important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another since there are different types of stones. While there are general guidelines to follow, you have to remember that everyone is different, and everyone’s bodies are made up differently. In order to know for sure which foods may cause a kidney stone to develop, you could keep a food journal.

With a food journal, you would write down what you eat for each meal (including snacks) every single day. Then, if you get another kidney stone, look back to see which foods you had been eating regularly just before the stone developed. To help narrow it down, pay attention to which foods you were eating during a stretch when you didn’t get a kidney stone, and compare to the foods that you had begun incorporating later on.

Final Thoughts on the Importance of Diet for Kidney Stones Patients

If you are or have ever suffered from a kidney stone, you know how uncomfortable and painful it can be. Suffering from them on a regular basis is downright miserable and is something no one wants to have to deal with. The pain and discomfort could affect your life by making it difficult to work or move around at home, so seeking medical attention is definitely worth it.

The best way to avoid this being a problem is to consider what you eat. What you eat and drink plays a huge role in the formation of kidney stones, so it is extremely important to pay attention to it. Research proves that by simply changing your diet, you could find relief from kidney stones.

If you find yourself getting stones frequently, making this lifestyle change could help you. It will help clear out any stones you currently have, and then it will help prevent more stones from forming in the future.

Dietitian Explains How Nutrition Can Help Clear Red Skin

September 19, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Medicine finds a myriad of things that can cause red skin, such as autoimmune disorders, allergies, acne, sun damage, and overexertion. And this skin condition can be a source of insecurity for many people. Fortunately, there is no shortage of over-the-counter or medical treatments available to those seeking relief.

There are also dietary changes that you should try to help restore the skin’s natural appearance. Fortunately, some of these tweaks lead to better overall health. In this article, we share advice from dietitians. These cover dietary changes and tell just how quickly you can expect to see results.

HOW EATING THE WRONG FOODS CAN CAUSE RED SKIN

Before detailing some of the foods that can resolve redness and help restore your skin’s natural, healthy glow, let’s take a moment to go over some of the foods that you should avoid:

GLUTEN

Gluten plays a critical role in foods like rye, wheat, and barley, insomuch that it contributes to the elasticity of the dough. However, it can also wreak havoc on your gut health. The same applies to other gluten-containing foods, such as cereals, pasta, and salad dressings, for example. Along with affecting gut health, gluten has been linked to autoimmune disorders that can affect the skin.

COFFEE

While coffee is not a food per se, it contains caffeine, a stimulant that can irritate the skin if consumed in excess. Beyond that, coffee also contains a fair amount of tannins, a polyphenolic compound, which, when combined with caffeine, can cause the following skin problems:

Blocked pores
Acne breakouts
Dry, irritated skin
Red skin

Also, because caffeine is a stimulant, drinking excessive amounts of coffee can lead to dependence. And as with any other substance, you may experience withdrawals symptoms when you finally decide to part ways with your morning pick-me-up, some of which include headaches, migraines, and irritability. All in all, too much coffee is bad for your skin and overall wellbeing.

FRIED FOODS

Overindulging in fried foods not only leads to high cholesterol but also heart disease. And the ill-effects do not end there as these foods can also affect skin health, according to several studies. Vegetable oil used to fry chicken, french fries, onion rings, and other food is extremely oxidative and reactive. In layman’s terms, this means that the oil can trigger the release of free radicals in the body, which can cause inflammation and the following skin problems:

Wrinkles
Blemishes
Age spots
Clogged pores

It is important to note that many of these symptoms can also give way to irritation that can cause red skin. To improve both your skin and physical health, it would be a good idea to substitute vegetable oil with olive oil or coconut oil whenever possible.

SUGAR

Although it can be difficult to avoid sugar, especially since it is in so many of the foods that we eat, consuming less of it can lead to healthier skin. As far as the science behind it is concerned, sugar causes non-enzymatic glycosylation, a clinical term used to describe the molecular bonding of sugar to proteins or lipids. When this happens, new molecules called AGEs (advanced glycation end-products) is formed in the body. These molecules can damage many of the substances that contribute to healthy, radiant skin, namely elastin, collagen, and fibrin. AGEs can also affect your cardiovascular health as well.

DAIRY

Dairy products contain 1 of 2 hormones that can adversely affect the health of your skin, bovine somatotropin or bovine growth hormone. According to several studies, both of these hormones cause oily skin, which, in turn, can lead to acne, clogged pores, red skin, and many other skin-related problems.

CLEAR UP RED SKIN ONE BITE AT A TIME

We have all heard the adage “you are what you eat” at one time or another, but this age-old saying takes on a whole new meaning when it comes to skin health. After all, your skin can say a lot about your dietary habits and your overall health. That being said, let’s take a look at 10 foods that can resolve skin redness. And, as a bonus, they so improve your overall health in the process.

1. FATTY FISH

In addition to improved joint health, consuming foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as herring, salmon, mackerel, and other fatty fish can go a long way toward improving your skin’s health and appearance. According to a study published in the National Institute of Health, the omega-3 fatty acids found in these types of fish can reduce inflammation, redness, and acne. Consuming foods that contain these fatty acids can also improve skin problems related to autoimmune disorders, particularly lupus and psoriasis.

2. AVOCADOS

Avocados contain two healthy fats that can improve skin, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated. The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in avocados can help soothe irritated skin, protect against sun damage, and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. One study, which focused on Haas avocado, also revealed that these healthy fats do a great job in boosting elastin. And that allows the skin to appear more youthful.

3. SWEET POTATOES

In addition to adding a pop of color to your dinner plate, sweet potatoes are also a great source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into provitamin A. According to several studies, provitamin A helps keep the skin hydrated, protects against sun damage, and restores the skin’s natural rosy complexion.

4. BELL PEPPERS

Along with adding flavor to your favorite meals, red and yellow bell peppers both contain vitamin A, which helps keep the skin firm by stimulating collagen production. More than that, these delicious peppers also contain vitamin C and beta-carotene that act as antioxidants for the skin.

5. TOMATOES

The beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene found in tomatoes can do wonders for your skin. All three of these carotenoids can improve skin health and fend off premature aging. They also do a great job in reducing inflammation and clearing up existing skin problems. These include blemishes, red skin, and signs of sun damage.

6. SOY

Consuming edamame and other foods rich in soy can go a long way toward improving the health and appearance of your skin. In addition to stimulating collagen production, which tightens and firms the skin, soy also protects the skin against harmful UV radiation and certain forms of skin cancer. And as an added bonus, it also aids in soothing irritated, red skin from the inside out.

7. WALNUTS

While often praised as a delicious, heart-healthy snack, walnuts contain essential fatty acids and zinc that can reduce inflammation. More than that, they contain antioxidants, vitamin E, vitamin C, and selenium, all of which are essential for healthy, radiant skin.

8. SUNFLOWER SEEDS

Much like walnuts, sunflower seeds are chock-full of nutrition given their relatively small size. According to nutritiondata.self.com, an online resource for free and unbiased nutritional information, less than 1 cup of sunflower seeds provide 37 percent of the RDI (recommended daily intake) for vitamin E, not to mention 10 percent of zinc and 32 percent of selenium. What’s more, less than 1 cup of these delicious seeds delivers nearly 6 grams of protein. And all of these vitamins and nutrients contribute to healthier skin in one way or another.

9. BROCCOLI

Most will agree that you can’t go wrong with adding more green vegetables to your plate, especially in terms of more broccoli. Studies show that the edible green plant contains sulforaphane, a compound that contains properties that can ward off skin cancer. Beyond that, the compound offers protection against sun damage that can irritate the skin.

10. DARK CHOCOLATE

Consuming dark chocolate is definitely a treat to your taste buds. Additionally, the cocoa that makes up the delicious chocolate contains antioxidants that protect against UV radiation. Finally, these antioxidants also improve skin hydration, which keeps red skin and other forms of skin irritation at bay. However, there is a caveat in that the chocolate must contain a minimum of 70 percent to be able to reap these benefits.

THE CONNECTION BETWEEN BETTER NUTRITION AND RED SKIN

So, it doesn’t matter if your red skin stems from an autoimmune disorder, environmental factors, or allergens. Regardless, making changes to your nutrition can improve the health and appearance of your skin from the inside out. It is important to note that these changes will not happen overnight.

In most cases, it can take 10 to 12 weeks of consistently better nutrition before irritated, red skin begins to show signs of improvement. Nonetheless, good nutrition can eventually lead to healthy, clear skin, and better all-around health.

9 Things You Should Know About Your Friendship with a Scorpio

September 19, 2019 by Power of Positivity

The eighth sign of the Zodiac is the Scorpio. This birth sign gets its name from the Greek legend of Orion. The story says that he was stung by a scorpion, and it killed him.

It ascended into the heavens to become a constellation that this signed was named after. If you follow horoscopes and Zodiac signs, then you know that people born under the Scorpius sign are known for their sizzling intensity. Maintaining a friendship with people born between October 23rd through November 21st can be challenging.

You may find that it’s easy to become friends with them, but keeping a relationship on good terms with them is going to take lots of takes work.

Scorpio: An Astrological Force to Be Reckoned With

To help you understand the aggressive nature of this Zodiac sign, you should consider the terrestrial arachnid’s life on earth. They frequent the deserts because they crave the hot, scorching weather. They enjoy this kind of intensity, and they cannot survive without the heat.

Just as in your friendship, those born under this sign tend to be fiercely loyal and love deeply. If you want to make sure you don’t get burnt in an association with a Scorpio, then you must understand these nine things. They will help to prepare you for all aspects of your relationship.

1 – There’s No Way You Will Ever Impress a Scorpio

Friends often try to put their best foot forward. Of course, you want to showcase your attributes and life accomplishments. When it comes to this friend, don’t waste your time. You are never going to be able to do or say anything that is going to impress them.

It’s not that they are not appreciative of your talents and intelligence, but their high value of self-worth always gets in the way. They will always see their accomplishments as superior to yours. Though they may see you as flawed and someone who doesn’t measure up to their greatness, they will still be loyal and love you regardless.

If you ever try to one-up them, then you will find yourself in a bitter battle of wills. Just go along with their egotistical tendencies to keep the peace.

2 – They’ll Win Every Argument

When dealing with someone who has such a high self-value, it’s hard to win an argument. Remember, these people consider themselves to be on the level of a genius. If you should ever get into a verbal dispute over any matter, they will seemingly be the expert and know everything about it.

They demand that the balance of power always be on their side. There’s no way you will win an argument with someone who holds themselves in such high regards. It’s better to agree to disagree and walk away.

3 – They Don’t Easily Forgive

If things should hit a sour note in your relationship, then you will find that you are dealing with someone who has a vengeful and ruthless personality. They believe in paybacks and will stop at nothing to ensure they write the wrong. Since this sign is not known for their forgiving nature, they take disloyalty very personal.

You only get one chance with them. An altercation, either verbal or physical, will probably be the end of the relationship. There are no do-overs or apologies accepted. Once you blow it, there’s no turning back.

4 – You Need Them, but They Don’t Need You

Scorpios tend to be very independent. Their fearless nature means that they can survive with or without you in their life. If you choose to be with them, then they will be glad to have you.

However, if you choose to walk away, don’t expect them to come after you. They can manage just fine without you being their friend. They see every experience as a learning curve, and it will only make them better.

Since they are so fearless and ambitious, they don’t need you. Instead, they see you as the lucky one for having them in your life. You can see that they tend to be a bit narcissistic.

5 – Scorpio Is Highly Emotional

If your friend happens to be a woman, be prepared for plenty of waterworks. These people tend to be highly emotional and easily upset. They can turn on the tears at a moment’s notice.

It’s best to keep a tissue handy when dealing with this sign as they are excellent actors and have a flair for the dramatic. When something significant happens that alters or disturbs their views of their awesomeness, you should know that they will need ample time to recover. Their emotional state can be quite exhausting to all involved.

To combat them when they become overly emotional, just keep reminding them how great they are and how they will be better than before. Remain positive no matter how much they are acting like a child and being over-the-top.

6 – Jealousy Comes Natural to Them

Whether as friends or lovers, Scorpios are going to be possessive of your time. They usually don’t have many friends because they are so demanding that most can’t handle their strong nature. They tend to put all their energy and devotion into a select few.

Additionally, you will find that it’s hard to have a relationship with anyone else when you are friends with this sign. If they chose you, then they will be possessive and demanding of your time. You may find them a tad bit obsessive. Should you ever need to go your separate ways, then you should be prepared for drama and a massive meltdown.

7 – They Must Keep Things Mysterious

The incredibly mysterious Scorpio has a complex personality. They like to be secretive and tend to keep things a bit strange. If you are deceptive, it can be devastating to them. They want a bit of mystery and intrigue, but they don’t like trickery.

Due to their inquisitive nature, they don’t like secrets. Forget throwing surprise birthday parties and such as this type of happy madness can send them into overdrive. If you ever lie or are deceptive to a Scorpio, then you should know that it will be the end of your relationship.

However, having a little bit of mystery in your affiliation will keep their attention. Scorpios are curious by nature, so they don’t do well with surprises. When they have a secret, however, they will drop hints to keep you dangling. Should they get a new job offer or love interest, they won’t just come right out and tell you.

They like to keep things under wraps if possible. Their goal is to keep you guessing and intrigued by their changes. They will keep you dangling like a fish on a hook for as long as they can.

8 – You Will Never Be Their Equal

Some find it hard to be friends with someone who doesn’t need them, and they will never be their equal. Scorpios have such a hard time finding and maintaining relationships because no one can measure up to the image they create of the perfect friend.

These people are ferociously independent, and they can manage with or without you. Their ambitions in life make them fearless. You will be along for the ride, but they will never see you as an equal to their greatness.

Since they have such a high self-image, they only choose friends that they view as close to perfect. Because their expectations are so high, they are selective with their inner circle. Only a few will pass their rigorous screening.

9 – Their Loyalty Is Fierce

Lastly, with everything you’ve read about a relationship with this sign, you may want to shy away from being friends. However, if you have broken through the barriers and have an association with the eighth sign, then you will have the truest devotion.

When you are friends with Scorpios, they will be fiercely loyal to you. Since you’ve already passed their test of high standards, they have found some perfection in you. If your relationship were to end, then they would feel that their selection was less than perfect, which is impossible in their eyes.

Since it’s no easy task to win the trust of this sign, congratulations are in order. They are very picky about their friendships and intimate relationships. You have done the seemingly impossible by crossing their barriers.

Scorpios Make Good Friends and Lovers

Should you ever cross the line from friends to lovers with this astrological sign, then you will experience intense, deep, and passionate love. To put it in Hollywood terms, think of the romances between Clark Gable and Vivian Lee or Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. Some say that no romance novel could ever compare.

Whether friends or lovers, the Scorpio wants to know you on such an intimate level that they entangle with your soul. Romance tends to be another area in which these people excel. Some say that being in a romantic relationship with them is simply the best out there.

If you are a Leo and Aquarius, then you should steer clear of this sign as both friends and lovers. When you combine their intensity, passion, and loyalty, then you get everything they have to offer. If they choose you to be in their life, then you’re lucky as you have accomplished the seemingly impossible.

Scientist Explains How Intermittent Fasting Helps Weight Loss

September 19, 2019 by Power of Positivity

When it comes to losing weight, there is a myriad of diets that can help you shed unwanted pounds. Of those, you’ve probably heard of the Atkins, Paleo, and Mediterranean diets. However, there is one time-tested diet that seems to be getting more attention lately, intermittent fasting.

Let’s start with an overview for those who aren’t familiar with this form of dieting. Intermittent fasting entails cycling between periods of fasting and eating. This cycle allows individuals to consume fewer calories and lose weight.

In this article, we will take a closer look at what intermittent fasting entails. Plus, we will explore how benefits those who are obese or overweight.

THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF INTERMITTENT FASTING DIETS

When it comes to following an intermittent fasting-based diet, there is no such thing as a one size fits all approach. Those who are interested in this time-tested approach to dieting can choose 1 of 3 methods, including

The 5:2 diet – This method entails consuming no more than 600 calories two days out of the week. For the remaining days, you would return to consuming your normal number of calories.

The 16:8 diet – This method entails giving yourself an 8-hour window to consume food and then fasting for the rest of the day. And not surprisingly, it is a favorite amongst dieters who choose intermittent-based fasting to lose weight.

The eat-stop-eat diet– Unlike the 16:8 diet, the eat-stop-eat method is the least popular when it comes to intermittent-based fasting as it entails going 24 hours once or twice per week without eating anything at all.

In addition to taking in fewer calories, going long periods without eating forces the body to use fat for energy, both of which helps contribute to significant weight loss. Of course, there is a caveat in that you can’t overeat to compensate for those times when you were fasting.

INTERMITTENT-BASED FASTING AND HORMONES

To further understand how intermittent-based fasting contributes to weight loss, we should also take a look at how the diet affects hormone levels in the body. Along with triggering the body to tap into fat stores for energy, fasting also improves insulin resistance, which enables the body to burn fat even without exercise. However, the impact on hormones does not end there as fasting also leads to an uptick in HGH (human growth hormone).

According to a study published by the National Institute of Health, HGH, which helps contribute to fat loss and muscle gain, increases 5-fold while fasting. Also, during an intermittent fast, norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter and stress hormone, signals cells to break down body fat, which can be used for energy. All in all, short-term fasting is scientifically proven to increase fat burning, which, in turn, makes it easier to shed unwanted pounds.

What’s more, the same study published by the National Institute of Health found that short-term, intermittent-based fasting can boost metabolism by as much as 14 percent. However, researchers and scientists involved in the study also noted that fasting for more than 48 hours may have the opposite effect in that it may cause one’s metabolism to slow down. With that, intermittent-based fasting is an effective way to lose weight, but you don’t want to go overboard.

HOW CONSUMING FEWER CALORIES CAN HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT

Most medical professionals and personal trainers agree that to lose weight, you must burn more calories than you consume. While the combination of diet and exercise can help facilitate this goal, it can also be done with diet alone. That’s especially true if you’re following an intermittent-based fasting diet.

To further put this into context, in a 2014 study published by ScienceDirect, study participants following an intermittent, calorie-restricted diet were able to lose 3 to 8 percent of their body weight within 3 to 24 weeks, averaging about 0.55 pounds lost per week.

The results were even more impressive amongst study participants following the eat-stop-eat variation of intermittent fasting, which entailed eating every other day as opposed to daily. According to the study, this group lost roughly 1.65 pounds per week. And the impressive results did not end there as both groups were able to reduce their waist size by 4 to 7 percent, signifying a significant lost in abdominal fat, which, coincidentally, is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

FASTING FOR OVERALL BETTER HEALTH

While many people gravitate toward intermittent-based fasting as a way to slim down, several studies show that the benefits extend well beyond weight loss. Fasting has been linked to better metabolic health and has been shown to reduce the likelihood of developing chronic diseases, some of which include diabetes, heart disease, and multiple sclerosis. And unlike other diets, an intermittent fasting diet is easy to follow as there is no calorie counting involved. Instead, you decide on when and how long you are willing to fast and then stick to that commitment. To say that the benefits that come with an intermittent-based fasting diet are impressive would be a gross understatement.

HOW FASTING HELPS YOU MAINTAIN MUSCLE

One of the most frustrating parts of losing weight is losing muscle in the process. Unlike other diets, fasting can help you hold on to more muscle. After all, the more muscle you have, the more calories you can burn. And the more calories you burn, the more weight you can lose. That said, intermittent-based fasting and long-term calorie restriction diets are both effective when it comes to losing weight; however, fasting results in less loss of muscle. In short, those who choose to lose weight by fasting can retain as much as 25 percent of their muscle mass. Long-term calorie-restriction, on the other hand, would result in about a 10 percent retention.

FASTING TO STABILIZE BLOOD GLUCOSE LEVELS

For those with type 2 diabetes, fasting not only helps you achieve a healthy weight but also helps stabilize blood glucose levels, which can minimize the risk of complications from diabetes. Some of these complications can include

Kidney damage
Nerve damage
Retinopathy
Severe foot infections
Skin infections
Hearing problems

Also worth noting, it is not uncommon for these complications to give way to severe bouts of depression. Science links type 2 diabetes to obesity. Thus, most physicians and dietitians encourage individuals to control their weight. Not surprisingly, most will look for a diet that is not overly complicated. After all, they already have a lot to remember with taking insulin and avoiding high glycemic foods. The easier a diet is to follow, the more likely they are to stick to it. Fortunately, this is what an intermittent fasting diet offers.

The impact that fasting has on hormones is what makes it beneficial for those with dangerously high blood glucose levels. Fasting prompts the pituitary gland to increase HGH production, which, in turn, helps stabilize blood glucose levels.

Beyond that, fasting also leads to an increase in leptin. That’s a hormone the body’s fat cells produce to decrease appetite. In many cases, once an individual gets their weight under control, they not only become less reliant on insulin but also less prone to complications from diabetes.

The research

In a study published in Medical News Today, study participants with diabetes that fasted for a minimum of 24 hours were able to lower their fasting blood glucose levels and HbA1c. Even more impressive, study participants were able to lose between 10 to 18 percent of their body fat. And, they lowered their high blood pressure.

All in all, the study proved that fasting alters nervous system activity and prompts several significant hormone changes. All those factors serve to help individuals lose weight. These findings are impressive. However, scientists caution that they require more research to evaluate the long-term effects that fasting has on the body.

BOTTOM LINE ON INTERMITTENT FASTING AND WELLNESS

All in all, intermittent fasting is a great way to lose weight and better your overall health. That said, it is still important to make smart food choices as doing so will lead to even better results. As with any diet, however, it is always a good idea to speak with a physician or dietician first. They can confirm that a fasting diet is right for you. Also, note if you’re experiencing any ill-effects as a result of being on the calorie-restricted diet. Then, schedule an appointment with your physician as soon as possible.

Your Ultimate Guide to 30 Days of Self Care

September 18, 2019 by Power of Positivity

You can’t take care of others without caring for yourself first! Self care helps ensure that you’re ready to face anything that life tosses your way.

Natural caregivers and busy partners are well known for being able to handle their busy lives efficiently and effectively. They are the ones we come to with our problems and for a shoulder to cry on. It’s funny how we would feel lost without that mother figure or best friend in our lives.

However, what effect does this have on the caregiver? While they most certainly feel needed and loved at some points, do they not feel drained and overwhelmed at other times? Does it become too much at times?

It would be insulting and selfish to answer these questions with a “no” for we all know the truth. The human mind and body can only handle so much before it begins to feel the effects of being burned out and exhausted. At the worst of times, the human body becomes sick and starts to break down.

This is where self care comes into play. Over exhaustion and stress not only lowers your mood but also has a horrible, long term effect on your health. Heart disease being a major concern for many. Listed below are some ideas to do for a 30-day self care treatment.

30 Days of self care guide

1) Get plenty of rest

We have been told from an early age that getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night is important for growing minds and bodies. While many of us now may have reached our peak of height in the growth chart, our minds have not. The human brain does not stop growing nor working.

Depending on who you ask, mental exhaustion may or may not be worse than physical exhaustion. According to the human body, there is no difference. Long periods of mental exhaustion have the same power to cause the body to feel sore and sluggish just as psychical exhaustion can.

Getting plenty of rest, like the recommended 7-8 hours a night, will not only “recharge your batteries” but also do another thing that you, your family, and your wallet will thank you for- protecting your heart. As discussed slightly above, stress and lack of sleep are connected to heart disease. You may not be able to see the damage but when you start to feel the chest pain it may be too late to reverse the damage already caused and you will be forced to change some things in your life.

Besides protecting your heart, your skin will look better and those despised bags under your eyes will start to disappear if you have them.

2) Meditate

Meditation is one of the many great ways you can take care of yourself without having to spend a penny. The best thing about meditation is that there is no wrong way of doing it. You do what is most comfortable for you.

The most popular way of meditating that people think about is sitting somewhere quiet inside a comfortable location, early in the morning or meditating outside as the sun is rising and listening to the birds chirping. If you like to do it that way, then go for it for there is nothing wrong with it.

However, this is not the only way to meditate. If you are a night owl and find having the moonlight kissing your skin while you listen to some relaxing music is more your style, then that is the right way of mediation for you. Let your mind wander, think about anything that comes to you. Your mind does not have to be silent all the time.

On the other hand, when sitting still is impossible then you can find other ways to meditate. Activities like sewing, arts and crafts or going for a walk can serve you in the same way as sitting still can. Baking is another idea if the kitchen is more your speed and sanctuary.

Spending anywhere from 5 minutes to an hour a day meditating will help you in the long run.

3) Eat healthy meals

It is common knowledge that eating the daily recommended amount of fruits and veggies is important for a strong and healthy body and mind. No matter your age, this still rings true for us all. However, do we all follow this medical advice truthfully?

With the accessibility of fast food places on nearly every corner and frozen meals taking up a few aisles of every grocery store, eating healthy home cook meals go to the wayside more often then what they probably should. We are all guilty of this at one point or another. Some steps can be taken to change this, however.

Part of this 30-day self-care “challenge” would be eating healthier. The first thing you should do is find a dietary plan you would like to try or follow. The second would be to create a meal plan so it will be easier to go grocery shopping. One thing you should leave off the meal plan is skipping breakfast.

4) A hot bath or shower

There are plenty of health benefits of taking a nice, hot bath or shower. The first thing that comes to mind is muscle relaxation. The second would be a few minutes of peace.

A few things that you can add to the bath to make it more relaxing and lovely would be to add rose petal and/or essential oils. You can spoil yourself with some lighted candles and relaxing music. Possibly have a glass of wine and read a book or eat some chocolate and cheese while relaxing in the tub.

If you prefer showers you can pour a bucket of water with rose petals over yourself while the candles burn in a candle holder on the counter. If anything, you can tie some eucalyptus to the neck of the showerhead. The steam from a hot shower will release the essential oils into the air that have the benefits of mental clarity, anti-stress and respiratory health to name a few.

5) Do a hobby you enjoy

There is nothing like spending what time you can on the hobbies you enjoy. They offer an escape from the everyday troubles. No matter what hobbies you enjoy, allow your mind to wonder about other things. To be creative and dream about what you can create with the tools in your hands, allows you to be alone in your little world.

Allow for those moments to happen. Besides relieving stress, they also bring important happiness. Uplifting your own emotions allows you to have control over your own life. Try to spend a little bit of time each day on your favorite hobby, whatever it might be.

6) Spend time with your real friends or with your romantic partner

Spending time with the ones you love and who truly care about you in return is one of life’s great pleasures. There is nothing wrong with needing someone else who you love to lift you when you are down. They can also do something for you that you can not do for yourself at that moment.

Your friends or your romantic partner can and will point out why you are amazing. They will show you your good qualities and have no qualms about accepting your faults. Rekindling those relationships will give you a much-needed break from your troubles for a bit and allow for a bit of fun.

Take the night or day off to go have dinner or go see a movie with someone or just by yourself. Enjoying a play at the local theater or visiting a museum, get out and take some time to clear your mind and do something fun once or twice a week!

7) Start to exercise

A healthy mind starts with a healthy body and a body that is in motion stays in motion. Besides building up muscles and protecting your heart, exercising has another positive link- protecting your brain. According to the research done by the School of Medicine and Public Health at the University of Wisconsin, exercise “boost[s] your brain’s protection against dementia.”

It is good to get out of the house and breath in some fresh air. Going to a gym or taking a simple walk around the block, getting out of the situation that is causing you stress or taking up a lot of your attention would be good for you.

If it has been a while since you have done any exercising it is best to start light. Doing a 5-minute walk with an exercise buddy or doing some light yoga would be the best advice before adding more to it.

8) Clear out the clutter

Having a cluttered house or working space can make the energy stale and heavy. Slowly tackling parts of the room or the house to de-clutter will make you and your surrounding area feel better. Not keeping things that no longer serve you not only will lighten the energy but also donating the things to charity or selling them for extra cash will only add to the feeling.

When it comes down to it.

Stress is a silent killer whether you like it or not. Taking some time off to change the energy around you and spending time doing the things that will benefit your health is the best medicine you can give yourself. Taking this list as advice for a 30-day self care project can bring you more benefits in different areas of your life then what you may think at first.

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SUGAR

DAIRY

CLEAR UP RED SKIN ONE BITE AT A TIME

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2. AVOCADOS

3. SWEET POTATOES

4. BELL PEPPERS

5. TOMATOES

6. SOY

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8. SUNFLOWER SEEDS

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Scorpio: An Astrological Force to Be Reckoned With

1 – There’s No Way You Will Ever Impress a Scorpio

2 – They’ll Win Every Argument

3 – They Don’t Easily Forgive

4 – You Need Them, but They Don’t Need You

5 – Scorpio Is Highly Emotional

6 – Jealousy Comes Natural to Them

7 – They Must Keep Things Mysterious

8 – You Will Never Be Their Equal

9 – Their Loyalty Is Fierce

Scorpios Make Good Friends and Lovers

THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF INTERMITTENT FASTING DIETS

INTERMITTENT-BASED FASTING AND HORMONES

HOW CONSUMING FEWER CALORIES CAN HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT

FASTING FOR OVERALL BETTER HEALTH

HOW FASTING HELPS YOU MAINTAIN MUSCLE

FASTING TO STABILIZE BLOOD GLUCOSE LEVELS

The research

BOTTOM LINE ON INTERMITTENT FASTING AND WELLNESS

30 Days of self care guide

1) Get plenty of rest

2) Meditate

3) Eat healthy meals

4) A hot bath or shower

5) Do a hobby you enjoy

6) Spend time with your real friends or with your romantic partner

7) Start to exercise

8) Clear out the clutter

When it comes down to it.

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Us

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