Category: Uncategorized

Holistic Ways to Handle a Migraine

A migraine refers to excruciating head pain that varies in intensity. It’s commonly linked with sound and light sensitivity and nausea, lasting anywhere between four hours and a few days. The main causes of these are genes, as the symptoms run down through families and chronic stress. Therefore, it is important to handle them holistically to relieve the pain and prevent a re-occurrence. Some of these holistic methods include using therapy such as progressive muscle relaxation and acupuncture, using essential oils, doing yoga, and hydrating.

Therapy

Since holistic treatment methods work under the principle that all body parts are interconnected, therapy is an effective way to address migraines. This treatment type mainly involves stimulating other body parts to promote proper blood flow and induce relaxation, thus eliminating the throbbing head pain. The most common forms of therapy used in migraine treatment include acupuncture and progressive muscle relaxation.

Acupuncture is an ancient treatment method originating from ancient China. It entails using sharp needles lodged in specific body parts to stimulate proper blood flow. In a way, acupuncture effectively treats many diseases such as migraines because it minimizes pain and promotes good blood flow.

On the other hand, progressive muscle relaxation utilizes modern methods of body massage aimed at easing muscle tension. It is an effective method of lowering stress levels in individuals, thus alleviating stress-induced migraine.

Using Essential Oils

Some essential oils such as feverfew, lavender, butterbur, and peppermint are great in easing the pain and discomfort that comes with a migraine. Inhaling or applying tiny amounts of such oils goes a long way in calming the aura, alleviating nausea or pain resulting from the disease. This form of holistic treatment is known as prophylactic therapy, and it is effective in reducing the effects of other stress-related conditions.

Doing Yoga

Some studies suggest that since yoga mainly incorporates body postures, meditation, and focused breathing, it is an effective way of handling migraine. The exercise helps reduce the duration, pain, intensity, and frequency associated with migraine. Besides, yoga alleviates chronic stress and anxiety, making it an effective treatment for stress-induced migraines.

Generally, holistic treatment methods for migraines aim at addressing the root cause of the disease rather than treating the pain. However, they are great for preventing future re-occurrence and eliminating stress and tension that cause migraines.

Holistic Ways to Lower Your Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a notorious condition that may trigger cardiovascular complications such as stroke. Sadly, the disease is almost quiet with minimal symptoms hence making it a high-risk illness. The best solution to keeping away high blood pressure is by being proactive with one’s health.

People can do this by adopting a lifestyle that works towards lowering their blood pressure and is free from the use of medications. Below are some holistic ways to lower blood pressure:

Embrace Routine Exercise

Regular workout sessions can be pretty effective in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. When someone exercises, they strengthen their heart, increasing its ability to circulate blood.

The key to lowering blood pressure through exercise is to perform any fitness routine regularly. Simple activities such as morning walks or runs can be great for improving cardiovascular health.

Consume Fewer Amounts of Sugar and Refined Carbs

While eating too much salt is one of the common causes of high blood pressure, sugar increases blood pressure in more significant amounts. Moreover, sugary foods and refined carbohydrates can add to a person’s weight, increasing their risk of heart-related conditions. Substituting the intake of sugar and carbohydrates for proteins and healthy fats can lower one’s weight and blood pressure.

Increase Intake of Potassium

Potassium kills two birds with one stone in regards to lowering blood pressure. Upon consumption of potassium, the body maintains an average heart rate, consequently keeping the blood pressure low. In addition, potassium also eases the effects of salt and sodium levels that can increase blood pressure.

Potassium however healthy should so be consumed with care as high levels can cause kidney problems. Some food sources rich in potassium include:

  • Fruits like avocados and bananas
  • Low-fat dairy products
  • Potatoes and leafy vegetables
  • Beans
  • Nuts

Cut on Alcohol Intake

Drinking alcohol is one unhealthy indulgence to partake in, and one of the major reasons is its effect on blood pressure. Alcohol will increase blood pressure if one consumes more than the average amount of one to two drinks. Furthermore, alcohol contains sugar content that over time increase weight and raise blood pressure.
By watching one’s diet and getting involved in exercises, one stands a better chance of lowering their blood pressure and keeping a healthy heart. Try the above holistic methods and stay proactive and preventive in the fight against high blood pressure.

Holistic Ways to Handle Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is horrible and can lead to several different health problems. It can actually be life-threatening if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several natural and holistic ways that people can handle acid reflux.

Quitting Smoking

Most people do not realize that smoking can increase the chances of a person having acid reflux. Smoking reduces pressure on the sphincter of the esophagus, which allows for acid reflux. Quitting smoking will normalize this pressure.

Avoiding Substances That Trigger Acid Reflux

There are many substances that will trigger acid reflux. Spicy foods, coffee, mint, fatty foods, and alcohol can trigger acid reflux. If a person is going to indulge in these kinds of foods, they will want to make sure that they only do it once in a while to prevent acid reflux.

Ginger

Ginger can help to reduce acid reflux. To get the most benefits from ginger, a person should consume around 1,500 milligrams a day. To add ginger to the diet, a person can put it in salads, cereals, add to a stir fry, or make ginger tea.

Maintaining Weight

Managing body weight can also help to minimize acid reflux. Excess fat around the abdominal area will cause pressure to be around the stomach. This causes the stomach to have to work harder to keep the acid down. People who are overweight will want to start a diet plan to help them reduce their weight.

Herbal Tea

There are some herbal teas that will help with acid reflux. It is important to ensure that only decaffeinated herbal teas are consumed. Many of these herbal teas will help with nausea, dizziness, and digestion. Popular teas to try include green tea, fennel tea, fruit tea, licorice tea, and chamomile teas. Be sure to stay away from mint teas as they can actually cause acid reflux.

Sleeping With Your Head Elevated

Another remedy that can be done to help curb acid reflux naturally is to sleep with the head elevated. This can be done with pillows or a bed that has the ability to incline. When a person lays flat, this allows acid reflux to come up. Having that incline can help to prevent this problem.

If a person suffers from acid reflux, they should try some of the tips above to experience relief.

Five Benefits of Fasting

Fasting or Intermittent Fasting (IF) has been around since the 5th century. The Greek physician Hippocrates advised people to fast for better health. When you are fasting, you are giving your digestive system some rest. Too much food can harm the body. Although some people may feel miserable about fasting, the benefits are well worth the time and effort. Here are the five benefits of fasting.

Improve Blood Sugar

Researchers are saying that IF can improve blood sugar numbers. In four different studies, a fasting diet showed better glucose numbers within 12 to 24 months. Simply put, fasting is one way to help the insulin levels down. When you restrict the timing of your meals using IF, scientific evidence shows that you can improve your health.

Healthy Heart

An article by the Mayo Clinic states that some types of fasting “can potentially improve some risk factors related to heart health.” If you fast regularly, fasting may bring down your bad cholesterol. This will reduce the chances of you getting heart disease or a heart attack. Also, IF can also lower blood pressure. If the blood pressure is too high for long periods of time, it can damage the heart and other organs.

Weight Loss

Now, it does make sense to say that fasting will help you lose weight. This is true because you are taking in fewer calories. In general, doctors say less food is better for you. Our body will function better if we keep the weight down. If we eat too much, our bodies will get out of shape. Weight gain can also damage the heart. Fasting will help you lose weight fast. If for some reason, you want to lose weight quickly, you might want to try the fasting diet.

Fighting Cancer

IF animal studies have shown a decrease in cancer risk and growth. By reducing food intake, one study stopped obesity in mice. This same study also concluded that IF reduced type two diabetes in mice. Being overweight is a risk factor for cancer, thus losing weight may prevent cancer. In another study, fasting and chemotherapy delayed skin cancer and breast cancer.

Improve Your Health

IF can improve your overall health. If you want to stay healthy, you have to take action. You take action by developing healthy habits. You can cut your sugar intake and check your cholesterol numbers. Also, check your blood pressure. The normal blood pressure range is 120//80. This number may change based on your health. Do not forget to watch your weight and body mass index numbers. Researchers also say that IF may improve the human lifespan.

Of course, do not forget to schedule visits to see your physician. When you use a fasting diet, you are taking steps to improve your health. Please keep in mind that fasting is not recommended for everyone. This information is not medical advice.

Noom: An Innovative Health App

There are so many fitness apps floating around. It can be hard to decide which one might best suit your needs. While Noom has many similarities to other apps, there are also some key differences. The cost of Noom is mid to high range at $59 per month or a $129 three-month subscription. While many of Noom’s key features feel similar to other fitness apps, its focus on the psychology of eating makes Noom stand out from the rest. The app will encourage you to use it for a certain number of minutes every day based on your personal profile. You’ll hit those minutes by taking mini-courses that build on one another.

How is Noom the Same?

Like many fitness apps, Noom uses tracking food and activity in order to help you achieve progress. After users set up a personal profile, Noom helps you set goals, pick courses and track changes. In order to work correctly, it links to your wearable device to track steps and physical activity. You will also track things like water, weight, and even—if you choose—blood pressure and blood sugar through the app. They also offer a coaching feature that will help you stay on track.

How is Noom Different?

Noom is focused on the psychology of eating and changing behaviors from beginning to end. Developed with the help of psychologists, Noom uses a combination of techniques to help keep users motivated. There are social features that help users feel like part of a club. The app also asks users to define a why for each goal that is set that is intended to help them create an appropriate mindset. Additionally, they help “#NoomNerds” – that’s what users are called – break courses up into smaller levels, so there is a continuous feeling of accomplishment, which is reinforced by an end-of-course quiz.

Conclusion

While many fitness apps can help users track food, activity, and water intake, Noom is different because of its focus on the psychology of eating. The app uses a combination of psychological techniques to help users progress. These techniques are based on cognitive behavioral therapy and include goal setting with reasons attached, social support, virtual coaching, and groups.

Change Your Lifestyle to Prevent Heart Disease

Heart disease is the number one killer in the United States. Nearly 655,000 people die of heart-related issues each year.

While there is a genetic component to cardiovascular disease, lifestyle plays a part — it can increase your chances of having heart problems, but it can also help prevent those problems.

The first step in preventing heart disease is getting a checkup.

Find out your blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Ask your doctor to take your blood pressure. Speak honestly with him or her about your family’s medical history. Do any of your immediate relatives have cardiovascular issues or diabetes? Those increase your risk of developing heart disease.

High blood pressure is sometimes called “the silent killer” because there aren’t any signs. You’ll need a test to make sure it’s in a normal range. Having abnormally elevated blood pressure can damage your arteries. Because they are less elastic than typical arteries, they become clogged more easily. They also need more effort to deliver oxygen and blood to your heart.

The liver produces enough cholesterol for the human body. However, we also ingest cholesterol in foods like milk and meat. When there is too much cholesterol, it can stick to the walls of the arteries, causing them to narrow. Sometimes, it causes blockages that prevent blood from reaching the heart.

High blood sugar levels damage nerves and blood vessels over time.

Once a doctor has tested your blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure, you should know where you stand. If any of those three things are out of control, you must make lifestyle changes to prevent them from leading to heart disease.

To lower your blood pressure, stop smoking and reduce your alcohol intake. If you’re overweight, losing the extra pounds will help. The more you use your heart muscle, the more efficient it will become. Simple exercises like walking and gardening are effective. Consider reducing your stress with meditation, yoga, or journaling.

Control your cholesterol and blood sugar by changing your diet — which should also result in weight loss. Lower your intake of sugar and foods that are high in cholesterol. Cut out packaged foods that are high in salt, which can raise blood pressure.

How the VA was Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Department of Veterans Affairs has never had the best reputation when it comes to delivering timely, high-quality care to America’s veterans. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the VA’s healthcare system took a massive hit, with millions of canceled or rescheduled appointments. More than a year after the start of the pandemic, the VA still hasn’t recovered.

Between March 15, 2020, and May 1, 2020, the VA canceled more than seven million appointments. Worse, the VA did not track the outcome of one-third of those appointments, so watchdogs do not know if the untracked appointments were rescheduled. In total, the VA has canceled or rescheduled almost 20 million appointments since the start of the pandemic. These appointments have caused a large ripple effect throughout the VA system as providers try to find a way to serve more veterans without sacrificing quality.

Due to geographic limitations, the VA system cannot provide necessary services to every veteran. Under federal law, the VA must pay for third-party care for any veteran who must drive more than 30 minutes for primary care and more than 60 minutes for specialty care. The VA does not always communicate these requirements to veterans, nor does the VA pay third parties in a timely manner: Over two million claims from non-VA community care providers have not been paid. Without timely payment to third-party providers, the VA may create a situation where veterans are turned away from private doctors, just like Medicaid patients.

The VA is mandated by law to provide primary care appointments within 20 days of a veteran’s request. Over the past year, veterans have waited 41.9 days—more than double the maximum allowable wait time—to receive appointments with community care providers. The VA’s metrics for tracking wait time also lag behind the legal requirements of the MISSION Act Community Care Program, making it hard to know exactly how far behind the VA is.

Currently, the VA has not communicated a clear plan to improve its services. While the VA deserves some flexibility due to the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, millions of veterans are anxiously waiting to know how much longer it will take for them to get the healthcare services they’ve earned.  

Ways To Make Your Home Look Bigger

Living in a small home is the reality for many individuals these days. Although the smaller home may be more ideal for convenience sense, for the home decor aficionado, it can feel restrictive. Living in a small house can be even more difficult for the decor junkie. The clutter starts piling up, and a small space can seem even more cramped. However, there are many simple ways to trick the eye into seeing a room as more significant than it is. 

Trick The Sight

There are many ways to trick the eye into making things look better. Although we always trust what we see, sight is often more about perception than objectivity. Here are a few simple ways you can alter the space:

  • Paint the woodwork, walls, and ceiling all the same color.
  • Place a large rug under the furniture instead of in the middle of the floor.
  • Leave the shelf space clear and remove clutter. Removing the clutter creates the presence of negative space that makes the area appear more than it is. 

Simple Is Key

When it comes to decorating, simple is key. Focus on a few pieces of simple furniture that isn’t flashy or too decorated. It’s a wise idea to stay away from bulky furniture that takes up too much space. Try to look for sofas or chairs with raised legs, that will provide more of the negative space effect that was previously mentioned.

De-clutter

It’s very easy to hold onto belongings that seem worthy to hang onto in the moment. Try to schedule a time to regularly de-clutter your area. Try to be objective about the things that you want to keep versus the things you need to keep. 

If you’re attempting to make a smaller space seem larger, it can be hard to rewire your brain. Try putting small habits into place, and the results will show. 

The Basics of Neurology

The brain is, by far, one of the most complex and fantastic organs in the body. Although those of other study areas may not agree, the mind should be studied steadily over a lifetime. If we were to look at another well known and complex organ, perhaps the heart can be an adequate comparison. Although the heart is fantastic, it can be boiled down to four valves, four chambers, and some electrical wire. Not only that, but the heart can be transplanted to another body. However, the brain has been studied for centuries, and the study is still barely in its infancy of research. Emerson Pugh spoke about the mysteries of the brain the best:

“If the human brain were so simple

That we could understand it,

We would be so simple

That we couldn’t.”

Neurology is simply the study of the brain. The title Neurologist refers to a medical doctor with specialized training in treating, diagnosing, and managing disorders of the brain and nervous system. A child (pediatric), neurologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of neurologic disorders in children from birth through adolescence. Some of the conditions can overlap with those seen by adult neurologists, and some are solely unique to the pediatric range.  

To better focus on what is handled within neurology, we can break down the previously mentioned neurologists’ duties. A very significant role of the doctors is to diagnose any issues, illnesses, or diseases. Neurologists are highly trained specialists with the authority and knowledge to make educated diagnoses using a plethora of tests: 

  • Computed tomography (CT) or computer-assisted tomography (CAT) scans
  • Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (NCS/EMG)
  • Lumbar puncture (LP) for cerebral spinal fluid analysis
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Electroencephalography (EEG)

The study of neurology is a wonderfully vast and beautiful field. Committing yourself to the study of this field, or even an interest, is an excellent way to spend your time.