At-home fertility tests are designed to measure hormones and egg count. Compared to traditional testing, it's a lot cheaper, but the concept poses several problems. Companies don't always have scientific research to prove that their tests are accurate. After receiving results, you'll still need guidance from the doctor for a personalized game plan. Often, this can mean additional or repeat testing, potentially making at-home tests an extra expense.
The typical Western diet is abundant in high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), a highly processed food sugar that's hurting our health. In the body, HFCS disrupts hormones that control lipid balance and inflammation. The result is larger, bigger fat cells and increased inflammatory markers. HFCS even increases ghrelin, the appetite hormone that enhances food intake. You'll be more likely to feel hungry after eating, leading to a greater risk of weight gain and poor overall health.
Gut health may benefit from probiotics, but it’s more important to strengthen the intestinal barrier. Otherwise, a thin mucus layer will make it easy for gut bacteria to invade and cause inflammation. To keep the barrier strong, you've to eat right. Certain foods will feed gut bacteria so they don’t erode the mucus layer! Focus on getting enough fiber into your body and do so gradually to avoid other health issues.
Water-soluble vitamins include vitamin C and eight B vitamins: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, folate, and cobalamin. The body doesn’t store them, so your everyday diet should have enough. All B vitamins serve as coenzymes for essential functions like metabolism, energy production, and DNA synthesis. Many are also needed for a healthy nervous system and brain health. Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, supports the immune system by enhancing immune cells.
Sour cream might be tasty, but the high calorie and fat content might have you wanting something healthier. Try protein-rich alternatives such as Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead. You can find healthier options even if you are vegan, lactose intolerant, or just allergic to milk? Keep your diet in check without giving up on the taste with these healthier food choices.
Winter is the season of cold winds, snow, and the flu. Are flu shots your only way out? Not really. This winter, take the natural route and choose these flu shot alternatives. Certain plants and herbs can act as preventive measures and fight the virus, treat the symptoms if you're already sick, and boost your immune function. Be sure you include these foods in your regular diet to keep the flu at bay.
Fruit contains fructose, a sugar that stirs up a lot of controversy. However, it's totally different than high-fructose corn syrup, a highly processed form that also contains glucose. This addition makes it high in calories, posing a risk factor for weight gain and chronic diseases. In fruit, fructose is perfectly safe, so aim to eat 2 cups of fruit each day. The only thing to worry about is fiber, so be sure to increase intake slowly to avoid constipation.
Constipation is a common and a painful problem that drains you of immense energy. A combination of proper diet, exercise, and correct lifestyle can treat constipation. Fill your diet with the right vitamins like C, D, E, B12, and more. Choose foods that are rich in minerals along with fiber and nutrients, such as wheat bran, whole grains, cereals, seeds, green leafy vegetables, and fruits and vegetables with the skin on.
