Physical Health Archives - Page 7 of 7

August 18, 2023August 19, 2023

Top 7 Smooth Move Tips for Bathroom Regularity

While it may be a topic that makes some blush, bathroom regularity is essential for both health and happiness. It’s like having your favorite song on repeat, keeping your digestive system in a healthy rhythm. Miss a step, and you could be dealing with discomfort, bloating, and other pesky gut issues.

Fortunately, there are practical strategies to help you hit the high notes of bathroom regularity. Let’s dive into eight evidence-based tips that can help you orchestrate more consistent bowel movements.

How to Have Regular Bowel Movements

1). Get Enough Hydration & Fiber

woman smiling eating vegetables and drinking cup of water

First off, hydration is key. Think of your body as a well-oiled machine with water as the premium oil that keeps everything running smoothly. Aim for 8-10 glasses of liquid daily to add groove to your move.

Liquids soften the stool and make the journey through the digestive tract feel more like a waterslide than a rocky road.

Secondly, let’s talk about insoluble fiber, the kind of fiber that adds bulk to your stool and helps food pass through your body. Make wheat bran, cauliflower, almonds, flaxseeds, and beans your new best friends. But remember, variety is the spice of life. Mix it up with some soluble fibers for a balanced, healthy gut.

2). Regular Meal Timing & Portion Control

man enjoying food at the table with friends

Not only is your body like a well-oiled machine, but it’s also like a finely tuned clock that thrives on routine. Establishing mealtimes and practicing portion control are golden tickets to bathroom regularity.

Overeating and haphazard mealtimes are mischievous twins that cause havoc in your digestive system. Smaller, balanced meals are easier for digestion and ward off those unpleasant surprises.

3). Move Your Body

Turns out, just like the rest of you, your gut loves a good workout. Regular exercise isn’t just a ticket to overall health but also a secret password to bathroom regularity. It’s like giving your intestines a gentle nudge, boosting bowel movements, and warding off constipation.

Whether it’s a brisk walk, a refreshing swim, or a calming yoga session, every bit counts. So, how about weaving in 30 minutes of exercise into your daily routine for that much-needed digestive harmony?

4). Stress Management

Stress can significantly impact digestive health, often leading to irregular bowel movements. High-stress levels can disrupt the digestive system’s normal functioning, causing constipation or diarrhea. Effective stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, and hobbies can alleviate stress and promote regular bowel movements.

5). Probiotics to the Rescue

Your body is a well-oiled machine… a finely tuned clock… and an exotic garden needing a balance of good bacteria to bloom. This is where probiotics come in. These little helpers can turn the tide in your gut’s favor, promoting smoother digestion and regular bathroom visits.

Probiotics can be found in yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi – but if they are not your cup of tea, try a quality probiotic supplement like Stonehenge Health® Dynamic Biotics™ to promote digestive wellness.

6). Avoid Trigger Foods

woman eating fruits and veggies and saying no to fried chicken

Some foods can be sneaky troublemakers, disrupting our digestive harmony and playing havoc with bathroom regularity. The usual suspects:

• Spicy foods

• Greasy or fried foods

• Dairy products (for lactose-intolerant individuals)

• Artificial sweeteners

Another approach is keeping a food diary and noting symptoms to help identify potential trigger foods. Eliminating or minimizing these foods can improve digestion and smooth your bathroom routine.

7). Take Your Time

Think of your bathroom visits as a mini wellness retreat. Listen to your body and give it the time it needs. Regular bathroom routines, ideally post-meals or when the call comes. Remember to unwind on the throne; it helps those pelvic muscles relax.

Consider a bathroom stool to elevate your feet and place your body in a more natural squatting position. Ready to ditch the rush and embrace mindful bathroom breaks for a happier gut?

A Word on Frequency

The frequency of bowel movements can vary widely from person to person, with a typical range of anywhere from three times a day to three times a week being considered normal. It’s important to recognize that individual habits, diet, age, and overall health play a significant role in determining what’s regular for each person.

Rather than focusing solely on a fixed number of times, it’s essential to be attuned to any significant changes in bowel habits, such as sudden increases or decreases in frequency, discomfort, pain, or signs of gastrointestinal distress, which could signal underlying health concerns.

If chronic or severe irregular bowel movements persist despite implementing the above steps, it’s probably time to consult healthcare professionals.

Gastroenterologists can provide personalized advice, conduct necessary tests, and suggest appropriate treatments or dietary modifications based on your needs. Seeking professional guidance can also help identify any underlying medical conditions contributing to irregular bowel movements and ensure comprehensive care.

The Right Probiotic

Stonehenge Health Dynamic Biotics is carefully formulated with a unique blend of probiotics and prebiotics, precisely chosen to help restore balance to your intestinal microbiota. This powerful formula may help regulate your digestive system and ensure smooth, effortless bowel movements by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in your gut.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

August 17, 2023August 17, 2023

Severe Dehydration: How to Recognize the Symptoms and When to Act

With day after day of record-breaking temperatures above 100°F, this Summer is one for the record books. It’s hot, and it looks like the heat is here to stay for a bit longer.

Along with the heat, a staggering number of people have experienced serious health dilemmas because, among the allure of sunny days, many don’t recognize the signs of severe dehydration.
You’re probably familiar with regular dehydration, but have you heard of its formidable cousin: severe dehydration? It’s like dehydration’s supervillain version.

While you’re out enjoying yourself playing pickleball, walking, or tending to the garden, dehydration can sneak up on you surprisingly fast. Severe dehydration is a silent threat, often underestimated and relatively unknown to many.

The blistering heat can cause this beast to strike with alarming speed, and before you know it, you might find yourself in a serious state – dehydrated and struggling.

Understanding Severe Dehydration

Dehydration is a condition that arises when the body loses more fluids than it consumes, disrupting the balance of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and chloride.

Severe dehydration is an advanced stage of dehydration where fluid loss becomes severe and can lead to critical health issues.

For most people, severe dehydration starts by not drinking enough fluids and is exacerbated by prolonged exposure to heat, exercising in hot weather, and excessive sweating. Drinking alcohol instead of water under these conditions fuels the fire. Anyone can become dehydrated, but kids and older adults are more vulnerable. Diarrhea and vomiting from illness are the likely culprits for young children. Older adults with medical conditions or who take medications are at a greater risk of severe dehydration.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Severe Dehydration

It is vital to recognize the symptoms of dehydration early to initiate timely intervention. The signs may vary depending on the individual and the underlying cause, but common symptoms include:

1. Extreme thirst: A persistent and intense thirst is the body’s way of signaling a need for water.

2. Dark yellow or amber-colored urine: Reduced fluid intake leads to concentrated urine, a sign of dehydration.

3. Dry mouth and cracked lips: Dehydration reduces saliva production, resulting in a dry mouth and chapped lips.

4. Fatigue and weakness: Dehydration can lead to decreased blood volume, affecting oxygen transport and causing fatigue and weakness.

5. Dizziness or lightheadedness: Reduced blood flow to the brain can result in dizziness or feeling faint.

6. Rapid heartbeat and low blood pressure: The body attempts to compensate for fluid loss by increasing heart rate, leading to low blood pressure.

7. Dry, cool skin: Dehydrated individuals may have cool, clammy skin due to decreased sweating.

Steps to Overcome Dehydration

If you have any of the above signs of dehydration, take the following steps to replenish and restore your body’s hydration levels.

1. Prioritize water consumption as it’s the most effective way to rehydrate.

2. Consider oral rehydration solutions if dehydration results from diarrhea, vomiting, or intense exercise; these solutions provide crucial electrolytes.

3. Sports drinks can also help replace lost nutrients.

4. Cool your body, find a comfortable environment, and avoid excessive heat. If you’re assisting someone, help them cool down and remove any excess clothing, allowing better heat dissipation.

Swiftly addressing dehydration is essential for maintaining overall health and preventing complications. Remember to monitor your fluid intake and stay hydrated, especially during hot weather and physical activity.

When to Go to the ER for Severe Dehydration

Recognizing the signs of severe dehydration is critical in determining when immediate medical attention is necessary. Certain situations warrant urgent action:

1. Extreme symptoms: If the individual experiences severe symptoms such as confusion, or loss of consciousness, seek medical help immediately.

2. Unsuccessful rehydration attempts: If attempts to rehydrate orally have not been successful, medical intervention is required. In some cases, drinking water cause you to throw up.

3. Underlying health conditions: Individuals with pre-existing health conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or heart problems should seek medical attention promptly if dehydrated.

4. Severe vomiting or diarrhea: Prolonged or severe vomiting and diarrhea can quickly lead to severe dehydration and require immediate medical attention.

5. Heat-related conditions: Extreme heat and sun exposure can exacerbate dehydration and necessitate urgent medical help.

Treatment of Severe Dehydration

In some cases, treating severe dehydration requires swift and comprehensive medical care, and immediate hospitalization might be necessary. The treatment may include:

1. Intravenous (IV) fluids are administered to replenish the lost fluids and rapidly restore electrolyte balance.

2. Monitoring vital signs, electrolyte levels, and urine output are monitored closely to assess the body’s response to treatment.

3. In some cases, medications may be given to address dehydration’s underlying cause or manage symptoms.

Preventing Severe Dehydration

Prevention is essential in avoiding the development of dehydration. Some practical measures include:

1. Drink enough fluids when you’re out in the sun. You will need more fluids to stay hydrated when it is hot out than you typically would on a cooler day.

2. When exposed to high temperatures or engaging in intense physical activities, consume electrolyte-rich drinks or sports drinks to maintain proper electrolyte balance.

3. Schedule any physical activity during cooler periods of the day.

4. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and use an umbrella to shade yourself.

5. Never leave children or pets in hot cars, even for a minute.

Listen to your body and recognize the early symptoms of dehydration to take corrective actions promptly.

Severe dehydration can lead to life-threatening complications if not promptly addressed. Recognizing the signs of severe dehydration and knowing when to seek urgent medical help are crucial steps in preventing severe consequences.

Maintaining a balanced approach to fluid intake, especially during periods of increased risk, can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing dehydration. We can ensure optimal hydration and overall well-being by being attentive to our bodies and taking preventive measures.

Sources:
1. Crouch, M. (2022, August 2). 8 signs of dehydration that you shouldn’t ignore. AARP.
2. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (n.d.). Dehydration. Mayo Clinic.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

August 1, 2023August 1, 2023

You Won’t Miss the Bun – 3 Delicious Lettuce Wrap Recipes

Are you looking for delicious and nutritious meal ideas that won’t weigh you down?

Lettuce wraps are a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional bread-based sandwiches. Not only do they provide a refreshing crunch, but they also offer a low-carb and gluten-free option for those looking to watch their carb intake. Lettuce wraps provide a versatile and nutritious twist to your favorite handheld meals.

Anything you can make with a bun, you can recreate using a crisp lettuce wrap. When it comes to wrapping, opt for large, flexible lettuce leaves like iceberg, romaine, or butter lettuce. To assemble, lay out the lettuce leaf and pile on your desired fillings.

Wrap a juicy beef patty with cheese, tomatoes, and onions for a delectable burger alternative.

Craving a savory taco? Fill your lettuce wrap with seasoned ground meat, salsa, and avocado.

Love sushi? Swap the seaweed for lettuce and roll up fresh fish, rice, and veggies.

The options are endless!

Get creative and enjoy a delightful twist on your favorite flavors. And to help you get started on the lettuce wrap revolution, we’ve included three low-cal, low-carb recipes below.

Thai-Inspired Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cubed chicken

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 2 teaspoons lime juice

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves

• 8 large lettuce leaves (iceberg, butter, or romaine)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk until well combined.

2. Place the chicken cubes in a skillet over medium heat, and cook for 4 minutes.

3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and stir-fry for 3 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and well-coated with the sauce.

3. Remove the chicken from the heat and let it cool slightly.

4. To assemble the wraps, place a spoonful of chicken in the center of each lettuce leaf.

5. Top with shredded carrots and cilantro leaves.

6. Roll the lettuce leaves tightly, securing the fillings inside.

7. Serve immediately and enjoy these refreshing and flavorful Thai-inspired lettuce wraps.

Nutrition:

Makes 8 wraps | Per Serving: 114 calories, 3.4g fat, 3.1g carbohydrates, 1.9g sugar, .4g fiber, 16.9g protein

Grilled Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Diced Tomatoes

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• 1 teaspoon of paprika

• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 8 large lettuce leaves (iceberg, butter, or romaine)

• 1 cup of diced tomatoes

• 1 cup diced onion

• ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro

• 2 tablespoons of lime juice

• Lime slices for garnish

• Optional toppings: sliced avocado, diced red onion, hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

3. Place the seasoned shrimp on a preheated grill pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from the pan.

4. Assemble the lettuce wraps by laying the lettuce leaves on a plate or serving platter.

5. In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, onions, fresh cilantro, and lime juice. Mix well to combine.

6. Take a lettuce leaf and spoon a portion of the diced tomato mixture onto it.

7. Top with a few grilled shrimp.

8. Optional: Add sliced avocado, diced red onion, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor and texture.

9. Repeat the process with the remaining lettuce leaves and ingredients.

10. Serve the grilled shrimp lettuce wraps immediately and enjoy this refreshing and light dish.

Tip: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and toppings according to your taste preferences. These lettuce wraps make for a delicious appetizer or a light and healthy meal option.

Nutrition:

Makes 8 wraps | Per Serving: 84 calories, 3.6g fat, 2.8g carbohydrates, .9g sugar, .5g fiber, 11g protein

Delicious Tumeric-Spiced Lettuce Wraps

Tumeric Spiced Lettuce Wrap Recipe - Stonehenge Health

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground turkey (or any protein of your choice)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

• Juice of 1/2 lime

• Lettuce leaves (such as Bibb or Romaine)

• Optional toppings: sliced avocado, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

2. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through.

3. Stir in the turmeric powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.

4. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes are heated through.

5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice.

6. Spoon the turmeric-spiced turkey mixture onto lettuce leaves, creating lettuce wraps.

7. Top with your desired optional toppings, such as sliced avocado, shredded carrots, and sliced mushrooms.

8. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of these turmeric-spiced lettuce wraps.

Note: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables or sauces of your choice to the lettuce wraps. Get creative and make it your own!

Nutrition:

Makes 8 wraps | Per Serving: 134 calories, 8.1g fat, 1.8g carbohydrates, .7g sugar, .5g fiber, 15.8g protein

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

July 28, 2023July 29, 2023

Unveiling the Path to Resilience: 6 Habits of Mentally Strong People

Mental strength is a valuable trait that enables a person to navigate life’s challenges with resilience, grit, and a positive mindset. Cultivating mental strength is not an overnight process; it requires consistent effort and the adoption of certain habits that foster emotional well-being.

Keep reading to explore the six practices of mentally strong people. Understanding and implementing these habits can enhance your mental resilience and lead a more fulfilling life.

Cultivating Self

One of the fundamental habits of mentally strong people is cultivating self-awareness. This habit involves deeply understanding one’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. By being aware of their mental and emotional states, mentally strong individuals can effectively manage their reactions to challenging situations.

Self-awareness begins with introspection and reflection. It involves recognizing and acknowledging one’s strengths, weaknesses, and triggers. Through self-reflection, mentally strong people gain valuable insights into their beliefs and values, allowing them to make better decisions aligned with their goals and values.

Moreover, self-awareness enables mentally strong people to regulate their emotions. They learn to identify negative thought patterns and replace them with positive ones, fostering resilience and maintaining a balanced mental state. This habit empowers individuals to respond to difficulties with composure and seek constructive solutions rather than succumbing to negativity.

Practicing Gratitude & Positivity

Mentally strong individuals understand the power of gratitude and positivity in shaping their perspective on life. They consciously practice gratitude daily, focusing on what they are thankful for, no matter how small.

By cultivating a positive mindset, mentally strong people maintain a hopeful outlook even in adversity. They understand that challenges are opportunities for growth and learning. This positive mindset allows them to approach setbacks as temporary hurdles rather than insurmountable obstacles.

Practicing gratitude and positivity also involves surrounding oneself with supportive and uplifting individuals. Mentally strong people seek relationships that nurture their emotional well-being and avoid those that bring negativity or drain their energy.

Embracing Change & Adaptability

Change is inevitable and mentally strong individuals embrace it rather than resisting or fearing it. They understand that adaptability is crucial for personal growth and success. Instead of dwelling on past mistakes or missed opportunities, they focus on finding innovative solutions and adapting to new circumstances.

Mentally strong people develop a growth mindset, believing their abilities and intelligence can be acquired through dedication and hard work. They view challenges as stepping stones towards personal and professional advancement, fostering a sense of resilience and perseverance.

Moreover, embracing change involves stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Mentally strong individuals are willing to take calculated risks, knowing that growth occurs outside familiar territory. They are not deterred by failure but view it as an opportunity to learn, improve, and try again.

Setting Clear Goals & Taking Action

Mentally strong individuals set clear, specific, and achievable goals. They have a sense of purpose that drives their actions and decisions. By defining their objectives, mentally strong people can channel their energy and efforts toward meaningful pursuits.

Additionally, mentally strong people break down their goals into smaller, manageable tasks, creating a roadmap to success. They understand that progress is achieved through consistent action and perseverance. They maintain focus and discipline, tackling challenges one step at a time.

Setting goals also involves maintaining a positive mindset when facing obstacles. Mentally strong individuals view setbacks as temporary detours rather than failures. They adjust their strategies, seek support, and stay committed to their aspirations.

Prioritizing Self-Care & Resilience

Mentally strong people prioritize self-care and resilience as essential habits. They understand the importance of maintaining their physical and mental well-being. Engaging in exercise, proper nutrition, quality sleep, and relaxation techniques help them build resilience and cope with stress effectively.

Furthermore, mentally strong individuals recognize the significance of balance in their lives. They establish boundaries, practice self-compassion, and allocate time for enjoyable activities. This self-care nurtures their overall well-being and gives them the strength to face life’s challenges head-on.

Support Your Brain Health

Brain health-boosting supplements can positively impact your brain function, ability to make decisions, adapt to change, and promote a positive mindset. *

Stonehenge Health® Dynamic Brain™ is a powerful formula enriched with essential vitamins and minerals such as the B vitamins, plus nootropics Bacopa extract, and Huperzine-A. Daily use supports a clearer mind, an upbeat mood, and sharper memory. *

Cultivating mental strength is a lifelong journey that requires conscious effort and the adoption of empowering habits. By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you may develop the resilience necessary to navigate difficulties gracefully and maintain a positive outlook. Remember, mental strength is not innate but a skill that can be honed through consistent practice and determination. Start cultivating these habits today and unlock your potential for a mentally healthy and fulfilling life.

Sources:
Article inspired by New Trader U 5 Habits of Mentally Strong People.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.