Health

Vaginal yeast infections are a common health concern affecting millions of women worldwide. While many women immediately reach for over-the-counter treatments, a frequent question arises: can these infections resolve naturally without intervention? This comprehensive guide will explore the body’s ability to fight yeast infections, when to seek treatment, and effective management strategies.

Understanding Vaginal Yeast Infections

Before discussing whether a yeast infection can clear up independently, it’s essential to understand what causes these infections. A vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis, occurs when there’s an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, typically Candida albicans. While this fungus naturally exists in the vaginal area, various factors can disrupt the natural balance, leading to an infection.

Can Yeast Infections Resolve Without Treatment?

The short answer is: yes, mild yeast infections can sometimes clear up on their own. However, this comes with several important caveats:

• The body’s natural defenses can potentially restore balance in mild cases, particularly if the infection is caught early and the underlying cause is temporary
• Self-resolution typically occurs within a few days to a week
• There’s no guarantee that the infection will clear without treatment
• Waiting too long for self-resolution might lead to increased discomfort and potential complications

When Natural Resolution Is More Likely

Your body might be more capable of fighting off a yeast infection naturally under these circumstances:

• It’s your first yeast infection
• Symptoms are mild
• Your immune system is strong
• You’ve addressed the underlying cause (e.g., stopped taking antibiotics)
• You’re making lifestyle changes that support vaginal health

Risk Factors That May Prevent Natural Resolution

Several factors can make it less likely for a yeast infection to clear up on its own:

• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Compromised immune system
• Recurring infections
• Severe symptoms
• Underlying medical conditions

Signs You Should Seek Treatment

While waiting to see if the infection clears naturally, be alert for these signs that indicate you should seek treatment:

• Symptoms persisting beyond a week
• Severe itching or burning
• Unusual discharge color or consistency
• Fever or chills
• Pelvic pain
• Recurrent infections

Supporting Natural Resolution

If you’re hoping to give your body a chance to fight the infection naturally, consider these supportive measures:

Lifestyle Modifications

• Wear breathable cotton underwear
• Avoid tight-fitting clothes
• Keep the vaginal area dry
• Avoid scented products in the vaginal area
• Maintain good hygiene practices

Dietary Considerations

• Reduce sugar intake
• Include probiotic-rich foods in your diet
• Stay hydrated
• Consider probiotic supplements

Treatment Options

While natural resolution is possible, many women prefer to treat their symptoms promptly. Several effective treatment options are available:

Over-the-Counter Solutions

When it comes to treating vaginal yeast infections, there are several effective over-the-counter options available. Each type of treatment offers unique benefits and application methods to suit different preferences and needs:

1. Antifungal Creams

• Available in 1%, 2%, and 4% concentrations of active ingredients
• Common active ingredients include miconazole and clotrimazole
• Treatment duration ranges from 1 to 7 days, depending on concentration
• Often comes with an applicator for easy and precise application
• May provide quick relief from itching and burning sensations
• Best used before bedtime to maximize effectiveness

2. Suppositories

• Designed to dissolve slowly inside the vagina
• Usually contain miconazole or similar antifungal medications
• Available in single-dose or multi-day treatment options
• Often considered more convenient than creams
• May include external cream for symptom relief
• Should be used at bedtime for optimal results
• Can be messier than other options, so wearing a pad is recommended

3. Oral Medications

• Single-dose antifungal tablets
• Often containing fluconazole as the active ingredient
• Convenient one-and-done treatment option
• Takes 1-3 days to fully resolve symptoms
• May be more expensive than topical treatments
• Some women prefer this option for its simplicity
• Can be particularly effective for recurring infections

When choosing between these options, consider factors such as:

• Severity of your symptoms
• Personal preference for application method
• Whether you’ve used any of these treatments successfully before
• Cost considerations
• How quickly you need relief
• Any sensitivities to specific ingredients

Prevention Strategies

Whether your infection clears naturally or requires treatment, preventing future infections is crucial:

• Maintain good hygiene
• Avoid douching
• Change out of wet swimsuits promptly
• Choose breathable underwear
• Practice safe sex
• Manage underlying health conditions

Conclusion

While mild vaginal yeast infections can potentially clear up on their own, it’s important to monitor your symptoms and be prepared to seek treatment if necessary. The decision to wait for natural resolution or seek immediate treatment should be based on your symptoms’ severity, overall health, and comfort level.

Remember: When in doubt, it’s always better to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can recommend the most appropriate course of action based on your specific situation and medical history.

[Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.]

Explore more articles on health topics: Your Health Guide

The brain is a vital organ in the body that is responsible for the way we think, feel and act. Brain health is essential for overall wellbeing and cognitive function. In this article we will discuss the top tips for a healthy brain, including lifestyle changes, diet and exercise.

Getting Enough Sleep for a Healthy Brain

Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal brain function. During sleep, the brain performs several essential tasks, including consolidating memories, processing information and repairing cellular damage. Studies have shown that sleep is essential for brain plasticity, the brain’s ability to change and adapt over time. By helping the brain to consolidate and retain information, sleep is also essential for learning and memory. In addition, sleep plays a crucial role in the regulation of emotions and in decision making, both of which are essential for a healthy brain.

How much sleep do we need?

Several factors, including age, lifestyle and general health, can affect the amount of sleep an individual needs. However, to maintain optimal health and brain function, most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. Children and teenagers, on the other hand, need more sleep, with babies needing up to 16 hours of sleep a night. It is important to prioritise sleeping and make sure you get enough every night.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Because the brain needs nutrients to function properly, diet is important for brain health. The brain is made up of cells that need energy to perform their functions. This energy comes from the food we eat. In addition, certain nutrients have been shown to have a positive effect on the function of the brain and its cognitive abilities.

Eating an unhealthy diet can be detrimental to brain health. It may cause cognitive deterioration, memory problems and an increased risk of neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s. Sugar and processed foods are associated with inflammatory conditions and impaired cognition. Limiting these foods in your diet can help improve brain health.

Nutrients That Are Important for a Healthy Brain

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are important for healthy brain because they help build cell membranes in the brain. It may also reduce the risk of neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are important for brain health because they help protect the brain from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can damage brain cells and has been linked to neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.

B Vitamins

B vitamins are important for healthy brain because they help regulate brain function. They have been shown to have a positive effect on cognition.

Exercise on a Regular Basis

Exercising is proven as one of the most effective ways of improving our physical health, yet the benefits go much further than this. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that exercise can also have a positive impact on our brain health.

There are several ways in which exercise can have a positive effect on our brain:

1. Increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain
2. Promotes the growth of new brain cells
3. Improves mood and reduces stress
4. Improves memory and learning
5. Reduces the risk of cognitive decline

How Much Exercise is Necessary?

So, how much exercise do we need to get the benefits of a healthy brain? The good news is that even a small amount of exercise can have a positive impact on our brain health.

Adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This can be broken down into shorter, 10-minute bouts of exercise throughout the day.

Keep Your Brain Active

Mental stimulation is any activity that challenges the brain and requires mental effort. These activities can be as simple as solving a puzzle, learning a new skill, or engaging in a stimulating conversation. In order to maintain brain health and improve cognitive abilities, mental stimulation is important.

Mental stimulation plays a crucial role in brain development, especially in early childhood. Children who receive sufficient mental stimulation are more likely to have better cognitive skills, including memory, attention and language skills.

Various Types of Mental Stimulation

• Socialising: Engaging in social activities can help stimulate the brain and improve cognitive skills, such as group discussions, debates or book clubs.
• Mind games and puzzles: Solving puzzles or playing mind games such as Sudoku or crosswords can help improve memory and cognitive skills.
• Reading: Vocabulary, memory and attention skills can be improved by reading books or articles.

Managing Stress

Stress is a natural response to any situation that challenges our ability to cope. They may have many physical, emotional or environmental causes, including work stress, financial difficulties, relationship problems or illness. Stress has many different physical manifestations, including headache, tiredness and muscle stiffness, and emotional manifestations, including irritability, anxiety and depression.

When we experience stress, our brain releases a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol is needed to regulate our body’s stress response. However, too much cortisol can be harmful to the brain. Chronic stress can lead to prolonged activation of the stress response system, which can damage the hippocampus – a region of the brain that plays a crucial role in memory and learning.

Stress can have a significant impact on memory and learning. Chronic stress can impair our ability to consolidate new memories, which can lead to forgetfulness and difficulty learning new information. Stress can also interfere with memory retrieval, making it difficult to recall information that has already been learned.

Stress is a natural part of life and it is not something that we can completely eliminate from our lives. But you can learn how to manage and reduce stress to keep yourself healthy and happy.

Conclusion

Making lifestyle changes for a healthier brain can seem overwhelming, but small changes can have a big impact. By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can improve brain function, reduce the risk of cognitive decline and promote overall mental well-being. Remember to eat healthy, limit alcohol consumption, quit smoking, challenge your brain, stay socially active, get enough sleep, manage stress, practice mindfulness, incorporate physical activity into your daily routine and stay hydrated. When you take care of your brain, you also take care of your overall health and well-being.

Saliva is an essential fluid that helps keep our mouth moist and protects our teeth and gums from bacteria. It contains important enzymes and proteins that aid in digestion and protect the teeth and gums. Our bodies produce enough saliva to keep our mouths moist while we are awake. However, when we sleep, our body reduces saliva production. This can lead to a condition called xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth. Some people may also produce excessive saliva, which can cause their mouth to become moistened while sleeping. In this article, we will explore the causes of excessive saliva in the mouth while sleeping and ways to prevent it.

Causes of Saliva in the Mouth While Sleeping

Excessive saliva in the mouth while sleeping, also known as drooling, can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

• Sleeping position: Sleeping on your side or on your stomach can cause saliva to collect in your mouth, which can lead to drooling.
• Medication: Certain medications, such as those used to treat allergies or depression, can increase saliva production.
• GERD: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause stomach acid to back up into the throat, leading to an increase in saliva production.
• Breathing through the mouth: Breathing through the mouth during sleep can cause the mouth to dry out, leading to an increase in saliva production.
• Pregnancy: Some women may experience an increase in the production of saliva during pregnancy.
• Neurological conditions: Certain neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease or ALS, can cause an increase in saliva production.

Symptoms of Saliva in the Mouth While Sleeping

The symptoms of saliva in the mouth while you are sleeping may include the following:

• Waking up with a wet pillow or bedding due to excessive drooling
• A constant need to swallow during sleep
• Bad breath
• Sore throat or hoarseness
• Sleep disturbance

Remedies for Saliva in the Mouth While Sleeping

If you are experiencing excessive salivation during sleep, there are several things you can try:

1. Improve your sleeping position: You can reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth by elevating your head while you sleep. Use a wedge pillow to elevate your head and upper body during sleep.
2. Use a humidifier: A humidifier can add moisture to the air, reducing dry mouth and excessive salivation.
3. Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy: Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy can stimulate the production of saliva, which can help to reduce the build-up of saliva in the mouth.
4. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly. This will help reduce the build-up of bacteria and bad breath.
5. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth moist and reduce excessive saliva production.

Excessive salivation may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. It is important to see a doctor if you regularly experience excessive salivation or drooling. Your doctor can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Saliva from Baby’s Mouth While Sleeping

Saliva from a baby’s mouth during sleep is the excess drool that can accumulate on the baby’s face or pillow during sleep. It can be a normal occurrence, especially during teething. However, it can also indicate an underlying health condition or discomfort, such as an allergy or infection.

Although saliva from a baby’s mouth during sleep is usually harmless, there are some risks associated with it, such as:

• Skin irritation: Excess drool can cause skin irritation and rashes on the baby’s face or neck.
• Choking: If baby sleeps on stomach, excess drool may increase risk of choking.
• Sleep disturbance: If the baby feels uncomfortable because of the excessive drooling, it can cause frequent waking during the night, which can lead to sleep problems for both the baby and the mother.

Conclusion

Excessive saliva in the mouth while you sleep can be uncomfortable and annoying. However, it is usually nothing to worry about. Changing your sleeping position, practicing good oral hygiene and staying hydrated can help prevent excessive salivation. If you are experiencing excessive salivation or drooling on a regular basis, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

We all want our hair to be healthy, shiny and full. But the reality is often different. So what happens when your hair is suddenly dry and brittle, or when it even starts to fall out? Many people use nutritional supplements. Zinc, in particular, promises to work wonders. In this article, we look at zinc for hair loss. We explain the causes of hair loss and how to recognise zinc deficiency.

What is zinc

Zinc is one of the most important minerals for healthy hair. It plays a crucial role in the metabolic processes needed to grow and maintain strong hair. Zinc is also essential for the building and structuring of our hair, so it’s no surprise that zinc deficiency can be the cause of hair loss. Fortunately, zinc supplementation can be an effective treatment for hair loss. It helps to rebalance the body and promote a healthy scalp.  The human body contains a very small amount of zinc, about 2-3 grams. Because the body cannot produce and only stores small amounts of zinc, it must be obtained from food.

Why does your hair need zinc and how does it work for you?

Hair has a considerable need for zinc. Without zinc, cell division cannot occur and hair cannot grow. Zinc is mainly involved in the formation of collagen, which helps to anchor the hair to the skin. It also plays an important role in the overall structure of the hair.

• Zinc is involved in the formation of keratin: Keratin is the most important component of hair. It is this protein that makes the hair elastic and gives it strength.
• Zinc promotes healthy growth of the hair: Energy metabolism is activated. This keeps the scalp healthy and hair growing faster by improving the supply of nutrients to the hair root cells.
• Zinc is involved in the metabolism of the amino acid cystine: Cystine is an important building block for hair and its structural strength.
• Zinc protects against inflammation at the root of the hair: it neutralises free radicals and calms overreacting immune systems.
• Zinc regulates the sebaceous glands: it prevents excessive sebum production, which is responsible for pimples, acne and inflammation.

A regular supply of zinc is essential for healthy hair. This can be done through zinc-containing foods or dietary supplements. A hair analysis will show if there is enough zinc in the hair structure.

If there is a deficiency, it should be corrected as soon as possible. Timely action can prevent greying and hair loss. Only if the hair is supplied with all the necessary substances can it remain strong and healthy for as long as possible.

What are the signs of zinc deficiency?

Because zinc has many functions in the body, a zinc deficiency can manifest itself through many different symptoms. It is very important for metabolic processes that we get enough vitamins, trace elements and minerals.

The symptoms can be divided into physical and mental symptoms.

The following physical symptoms are indicative of zinc deficiency:

• Dull and brittle hair.
• Dry and itchy scalp
• Increased dandruff
• Hair loss
• Early greying
• Weakened immune system

The main mental and emotional symptoms of zinc deficiency are:

• Feeling tired
• Listlessness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Low motivation
• Zinc deficiency can also trigger depression and worsen an existing depression.

You can find out if you have a zinc deficiency by having a blood test done by your doctor. On the other hand, you can take a zinc supplement and see for yourself how your symptoms develop. After four weeks, symptoms usually improve.

An unhealthy diet and eating junk food can lead to zinc deficiency. However, there are also some foods that can adversely affect zinc absorption. These include soft drinks, coffee and cola. The calcium in milk also inhibits the absorption of zinc.

If you take iron tablets, these can also cause zinc deficiency. In this case, you should see a doctor.

As you can see, zinc is very important for your body. Make sure that you are getting enough of it.

Which zinc is best for immune system?

The best form of zinc for the immune system is the one that is easily absorbed and utilised by the body. The most commonly recommended forms of zinc for immune support include zinc gluconate, zinc acetate and zinc citrate. It is also important to note that too much zinc can be harmful.

What types of hair loss can be helped by taking zinc?

Zinc supplementation can be helpful in the treatment of certain types of hair loss. If too many hairs get caught in the brush when you comb your hair in the morning, this is a sign that you have a zinc deficiency. This is called diffuse alopecia, and the hair loss is evenly distributed over the entire head.

A link between zinc deficiency and hair loss has been confirmed for circular hair loss in particular. This is an autoimmune disease in which round, bald patches appear on the head or in the beard. The bald patches become larger and more pronounced the greater the zinc deficiency. Zinc soothes the scalp and protects the hair root from inflammation caused by the immune system. Some researchers believe that zinc tablets can help with circular hair loss.

Conclusion

Taking zinc can help with hair loss caused by zinc deficiency. It depends on the right dose and how long you take it. Many studies have also shown that zinc is effective for circular hair loss. It supports the production of collagen and keratin. It also protects the hair root from inflammation, which can lead to hair loss.

Zinc Hydrolizine is particularly effective due to its high bioavailability. It promotes nutrient delivery to hair root cells and can fight harmful free radicals. Zinc, combined with a balanced diet, proper hair care and stress reduction, can stop hair loss and promote hair growth. You can also read our other article about hair loss after pregnancy.

After pregnancy, your hair falls out? This can be very worrying. But the good news is: the problem of hair loss will pass. Hair loss after pregnancy is normal. In this article, you will learn what hair loss after pregnancy is all about and what you can do about it.

Is hair loss after pregnancy normal?

Yes, it is absolutely normal. As with so many changes in the female body, sex hormones play a big role in hair loss. In the period between fertilisation and birth, oestrogen levels rise sharply. It gives most women, among other things, a particularly clear, beautiful complexion, strong nails and shiny, full hair. This is because oestrogen slows down the natural process of hair growth and loss, the hair cycle. More precisely, the hair stays longer in the growth phase.

Does hair loss after pregnancy grow back?

Pregnancy can cause many changes in a woman’s body, including hair loss. For some women, pregnancy-related hair loss can be temporary and the hair will grow back after the baby is born. For others, however, it may take longer for the hair to grow back. Fortunately, there are several ways to speed up healthy hair growth after pregnancy. These include eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, using special shampoos and taking supplements if necessary. With these tips, many women can look forward to regaining their pre-pregnancy hair volume in no time.

How long does hair loss last after pregnancy?

In most cases, hormone levels normalise after three to six months, and the hair life cycle returns to normal. In some cases, it can take up to a year for hair loss to disappear after pregnancy and hormone changes.

What to do against hair loss after pregnancy?

Unfortunately, there is not much you can do about hair loss. After pregnancy and birth, your body needs rest and time to regenerate. The exertions of childbirth, lack of sleep, stress and malnutrition can increase hair loss. Therefore, take the following advice to heart:

• Allow your body to rest.
• Eat a healthy and balanced diet.
• Use gentle shampoos to protect your hair and scalp.
• If you have longer hair, wear it loose. A plait or ponytail increases mechanical irritation and makes it easier to fall out.
• A scalp massage stimulates the blood circulation in the scalp.
• Avoid stress and situations that make you feel uncomfortable. 
• Use good combs and brushes that do not roughen the horny layer.
• Avoid hairstyles that are tied too tightly and pull on the scalp. They can increase hair loss or cause inflammation of the hair follicles, which can cause hair loss.

In medical terminology, two terms are used for bad breath: “Foeter ex ore” and “Halitosis”. They are often used synonymously. Bad breath is a big problem for many people and in many ways an uncomfortable taboo subject. Although bad breath rarely indicates a serious health problem, it is extremely unpleasant for those affected. For many of those affected, this is initially incomprehensible, as they often do not even notice the bad smell. Bad breath is usually caused by insufficient oral hygiene. Then the bacteria responsible for the bad breath multiply. Read here how to get rid of it.

Causes of bad breath

Bad breath usually comes directly from the mouth or throat. Only rarely can the stomach or oesophagus be the cause of bad breath. The most common cause is irregular brushing of the teeth. An unpleasant-smelling, shameful plaque forms. Dozens of bacteria from food residues, dead cells and blood accumulate in the mouth, which is unhealthy for dental hygiene. They adhere to teeth, gum pockets and defective fillings. Bacteria also settle on our tongue. Among other things, these microorganisms excrete sulphur compounds in our mouths that are unpleasant to the human nose. Bad breath can also be caused by low saliva flow. This happens, for example, when we sleep or talk too much, smoke or drink very little. Generally, unpleasant odours coming from the mouth occur after eating. The main causes are also: smoking, alcohol, garlic or onions.
However, if the bad breath lasts longer, you should see a doctor, because then there may be invisible diseases or inflammations. This could be caries or tonsillitis, for example. But the sinuses can also be affected. Diabetes, kidney failure and stress can also be the result of bad breath. However, this is a rather rare case. However, you must seek treatment immediately.
You can use a cotton swab to test if you have bad breath. Hold the cotton swab near your throat, scrape off some of the tongue coatings and take a sample of the smell. However, as you are already used to your breath, you may not notice the unpleasant smell. If you are concerned, you should ask someone you trust about your bad breath.

How to get rid of it

• Tip 1: Regular brushing is of course the most important prerequisite for fresh breath. Electric toothbrushes achieve better results than normal toothbrushes. You should also floss your interdental spaces once a day. Mouthwashes can also help.
• Tip 2: Not only your teeth but also your tongue should be cleaned regularly. Some toothbrushes have rubber elevations at the back of the brush head that makes it easier to clean the tongue. There are also special tongue brushes. Don’t be afraid to use toothpaste to clean your tongue.
• Tip 3: Drinking plenty of fluids is very important. Water or tea is best, especially black tea. This promotes fresh breath. The polyphenols in tea can inhibit the growth of specific bacteria that cause bad breath.

How to get rid of it with naturally

• Tip 1: Herbs are an old household trick against bad breath. The essential oils of parsley suppress annoying odours for a short time. If you chew on parsley, peppermint or sage for about ten minutes, your breath will become fresh again relatively quickly.
• Tip 2: Chewing ginger, fennel seeds, coffee beans, cloves or juniper berries also inhibits bad-smelling breath. That’s why peppermint and fennel tea are also good for bad breath.
• Tip 3: Chlorophyll binds bad odours and is available as lozenges in pharmacies.
• Tip 4: Natural yoghurt is said to dispel unpleasant odours. The yoghurt should not contain sugar and should not be sweetened.

Cucumber is not only a super beauty weapon for a natural glow and fresh skin: the versatile vegetable can also help you lose weight. Cucumbers are the lowest calorie food and are healthy for the pancreas, support digestion. They are also rich in minerals, vitamins, enzymes and trace elements. In this article, we reveal how the cucumber diet works.

Is the cucumber diet healthy?

In addition to helping to lose weight, cucumber also helps many ailments such as joint pain and rheumatism. Due to its high water content, cucumber also fights constipation, calms the heart and strengthens connective tissue. 100 g of cucumber is only 14 cal in total. Therefore, the cucumber is a real slimming aid and can be eaten in large quantities during diets without a guilty conscience.

Cucumbers are good for our health and are especially refreshing in summer. Their high water content keeps the body hydrated. Cucumbers are rich in good nutrients and antioxidants that can help treat and even prevent some diseases. For all these reasons, we can conclude that the cucumber diet is healthy.

What makes the cucumber so valuable?

But why is the cucumber considered such a wonder weapon? There are several reasons:

• It contains a lot of bitter substances. These stimulate fat burning and the liver and curb the desire for sweets.
• Thanks to the tartaric acid contained in the cucumber, the body cannot store carbohydrates as fat but can convert them directly into energy.
• The enzymes contained in the cucumber kill bad bacteria in your intestines.
• Potassium and magnesium as alkaline minerals balance out, and the body now no longer has to store excess acids in the fat cells.
  The cucumber consists of 95 percent water. This means that many active ingredients are supplied to the body in an optimally diluted form.
• The cucumber has only 14 kcal per 100 g.
  Thanks to the fiber, digestion is promoted and the metabolism is relieved.
• As you can see, this vegetable can do a lot! However, you should not rely exclusively on cucumbers – because so-called mono-diets can lead to dangerous deficiency symptoms and health risks!

How the cucumber diet works

Unlike many other diets that quickly become monotonous, the cucumber diet has several variants to choose from. It is advisable to combine them. This provides variety on the table and helps to persevere with the weight loss variant. Cucumbers contain many valuable ingredients – so it’s worth integrating them into your daily diet! However, a mono diet in which only cucumbers are eaten is less advisable. If you return to your old eating habits afterwards, you will quickly put on the unloved kilos again.

Method 1: Incorporate as much cucumber as possible into your meals. Alternatively, you can replace one meal a day with a recipe that includes cucumber.

Method 2: Have a piece of cucumber before each normal meal, this will fill your stomach and make you feel fuller faster.

Method 3: Squeeze the cucumber and drink it as cucumber juice every morning. At lunch and dinner, combine the cucumber juice with cucumber salad (with little oil or yoghurt). Combine it as a side dish with all kinds of food, you will feel full faster and eat less.

Methods can be combined

Just try out which method suits you best to integrate cucumbers into your diet. You can also combine the different variants or change them daily. The only important thing is that you don’t just eat cucumbers. Even though vegetable contains many important nutrients, a diet that is too one-sided always carries the risk of deficiency symptoms.

However, the cucumber diet is a healthy weight-loss method that does not make you hungry and keeps you full.

Black cumin oil is a real secret tip from naturopathy and can have many positive effects on your health. As part of a healthy, balanced diet, it can have anti-inflammatory and blood pressure-lowering effects. In this article, learn how black cumin oil strengthens the immune system and your health and how you can use it.

What is black cumin oil?

As the name suggests, black cumin oil is extracted from the seeds of the black cumin plant, botanically called “Nigella sativa”. Black cumin has been cultivated for thousands of years in the West Asian region (Turkey, Iraq) and is valued as a spice and medicinal plant. Found Papyrus Scrolls prove that even the ancient Egyptians called black cumin oil “the gold of the pharaohs”. A bottle of it was even found in the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.

How to make black cumin oil

Two different types of oil can be obtained from black cumin: a normal edible oil and essential oil. To produce the edible oil, the seeds of the black cumin plant are first dried and then cold-pressed. This preserves the ingredients better. The essential oil is extracted through a special evaporation process. Up to 60 kilograms of black cumin seeds are needed for one litre.

Theoretically, you could also make the whole thing yourself: To do this, put about 500 grams of black cumin seeds together with one litre of olive oil in a preserving jar and leave the whole thing in a warm place for about three weeks. Then filter out the seeds again. However, the ingredients of the self-made variant cannot be compared with those of mechanically cold-pressed oil.

Black cumin oil contains important nutrients

Black cumin oil consists of 60 percent polyunsaturated fatty acids, followed by 20 to 25 percent monounsaturated fatty acids. The highest proportion is oleic acid, linoleic acid and saponins (they belong to the secondary plant substances). It also contains essential oils and essential amino acids such as L-phenylalanine and L-tyrosine. These in turn are basic building blocks of the messenger substances adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine. In addition to the minerals biotin, selenium and magnesium, black cumin oil also contains various vitamins – such as provitamin A, various B vitamins, as well as vitamin C and vitamin E.

What is black cumin oil good for?

Black cumin oil is said to have innumerable health effects in the most diverse areas. In naturopathy it is used in particular for the following complaints:

• Allergies
• Asthma
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Digestive problems
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Alleviation of the side effects of chemotherapy
• Skin diseases such as acne or neurodermatitis

Black cumin is also said to strengthen the immune system and have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Intake, use and dosage

The uses of black cumin oil are manifold. It can be used both internally and externally. Since the oil tastes and smells very intense, it is rather difficult to integrate it into daily nutrition. Therefore, it is usually taken as a supplement and is also available in capsule form. Regarding dosage, it also recommends: “Studies have applied up to five milliliters of oil (equivalent to half a tablespoon to a tablespoon) or three grams of seeds.” However, experts say that the additional calories taken should not be ignored. For external use, for example against acne, the oil can be applied undiluted to the affected skin areas. However, if you suffer from neurodermatitis, you should dilute it with carrier oil. Argan oil, for example, is suitable for this.

Can side effects occur?

In principle, side effects rarely occur when using or taking black cumin oil. Studies have reported that occasionally itching or nausea may occur. Another study also mentions a slight drop in blood sugar levels. Only rarely have allergic skin reactions occurred. According to experts, a contact allergy cannot be ruled out in the case of local application. They also advise against taking black seed oil on an empty stomach, as it can irritate the stomach lining. Another reported side effect is increased belching.

In general, experts recommend stopping treatment with black seed oil immediately if there are signs of side effects. Pregnant women should also refrain from taking it in concentrated form to be on the safe side, as a labour-inducing effect cannot be ruled out.

You can check out our other useful articles about health here.

It is undeniable that aloe vera has a wonderfully cooling and truly refreshing effect on the skin. But why should you use the plant’s gel only for external application? Treat yourself to a glass of tangy, fruity aloe vera juice and get your digestion and immune system going. What freshly squeezed aloe vera juice is all about and what health effects the juice can have, we reveal in this article.

How to make the aloe vera juice

The gel of aloe vera works wonders when applied to the skin. The cooling effect and the anti-inflammatory effect have already made many sunburns heal faster. But it’s no secret that our skin is generally happy about the rich vitamins and nutrients contained in the gel. But aloe vera is not only suitable for applying to irritated skin, you can also drink juice from the fresh gel.

Meanwhile, many manufacturers sell freshly squeezed aloe vera juice even in conventional supermarkets. For the production, the leaves of aloe vera are thoroughly peeled. The greenish-yellow layer under the bark is also removed to get rid of unhealthy leaf substances. The gel is then cold pressed in mechanical processes and bottled – ready is the pure juice. However, the juices are also available as mixed juices, where aloe vera is blended with others, usually citrus juices. Aloe vera juice is rich in important nutrients, such as:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• Iron
• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Sodium

These health effects can have aloe vera juice

May stimulate digestion

When cold-pressing aloe vera juice from the fruit gel, it is impossible to avoid the transfer of some components from the marginal layers between the pulp and the leaf bark into the juice. Why is this important? There are many anthraquinones in the leaf rinds and the juice between the gel and the rind. These natural plant compounds have a laxative effect. Components of aloe vera have already been successfully used in preparations against constipation. But don’t worry, although some anthraquinones pass into the juice during juice production, it does not have a laxative effect. Rather, the juice is said to have a digestive effect. Sometimes the small amounts of anthraquinones seem to stimulate digestion.

It can help plump up the skin

The gel of the aloe vera plant, which is so wonderfully cooling, can soothe irritation and have an anti-inflammatory effect when applied to the skin. But can the skin also benefit when we drink tart, fruity juice? According to some small studies, yes! Researchers found in a 2020 study that skin’s protective function, elasticity and moisture content improved in volunteers and subjects who consumed 40 micrograms of aloe sterols daily over 12 weeks. Sterols belong to the group of membrane lipids. In other words, they are vegetable fats that are used to build cells. Taken orally, the sterols from aloe vera juice appear to have a positive effect on the collagen content of the skin.

Protection through antioxidants

Antioxidants are natural substances that can inhibit the harmful effects of free radicals. With the help of antioxidants, which also include vitamins, highly reactive and aggressive free oxygen compounds, which are formed as by-products of metabolic processes in our body, can be rendered harmless. Free radicals cause cell damage through oxidation. The good news is that aloe vera juice is enormously rich in antioxidant substances. First and foremost, the super substance vitamin C, which strengthens our immune system and can protect the cells of our body from oxidation. In addition, aloe vera juice also contains cell-protecting vitamin E and vitamin A. The latter is enormously important for the health of our skin cells and hair. By the way, many studies have proven that aloe vera is very effective as an anti-inflammatory agent and supports the fat metabolism of the body.

Can soothe the gums

Those who frequently suffer from gingivitis, aphthae or other inflammations of the oral mucosa can sometimes accelerate healing with aloe vera juice. The anti-inflammatory components of the fresh and cooling juice support the regeneration of the mucous membranes. The mild antibacterial effect also prevents the proliferation of bacteria that irritate weakened gums and oral mucosa. So the next time you have discomfort, feel free to take a few sips of the refreshingly tart juice.

You can check out our other useful articles about health here.

If your scalp suddenly itches excessively, an infestation of head lice may be the cause. To feed on our blood, the tiny parasites nest in our hair. Read this article to find out which signs indicate an infestation of head lice and how you can treat it effectively.

What are head lice?

Head lice are widespread in any country, and children between the ages of three and twelve, in particular, are often infected due to close physical contact. Outbreaks occur mainly in schools, mainly between late summer and early autumn. But they can also be found in adults who have close contact with children. Head lice are not transmitted via objects or pets such as dogs and cats.

They are small, wingless insects that are usually only 2 to 3 millimetres in size. Since head lice feed on blood, they bite our scalp and cause an unpleasant itch.

An infestation of head lice should generally not be taken as a sign of poor hygiene. The nits nest in both dirty and clean hair. The length of the hair is also irrelevant and does not influence on the risk of infection. However, head lice are more difficult to detect in thick, curly hair.

Signs of head lice

The following symptoms show how an infestation with head lice manifests itself:

• Severe itching, which increases especially at night. This is because head lice are nocturnal.
• The feeling that something is moving in the hair.
• Bites and puncture marks on the scalp.
• The eggs – also called nits – of head lice stick firmly to the scalp, usually in warmer places like behind the ears or on the back of the neck. The nits are easily confused with dandruff. Unlike dandruff, however, they are not so easy to remove from the hair.

Head lice treatment

Simply washing your hair is not enough to remove lice from your head. To effectively remove the lice from the hair, you should get a special lice comb, which is available in pharmacies or drugstores. Wet the hair and carefully comb through each section from the roots to the tips. After each strand, you should wipe the comb with a clean kitchen towel. When you have combed through the entire head, you should rinse the comb thoroughly under hot water.

In addition to the treatment with the lice comb, you should apply a special lice remedy with dimethicone, a silicone oil. This agent coats the lice and their eggs with a thick layer of oil and suffocates them. Dimethicone contains no poison – it is used in many cosmetic products and food production. You should repeat the treatment after about 7 to 10 days, as some lice may survive the first treatment.

By the way: The use of insecticides is not recommended, as the aphids have built up resistance to the active substances in the meantime.

Combating head lice: What else you should consider

In addition to direct treatment of the infested scalp, you should also take other accompanying measures:

• Family members should also be thoroughly checked for head lice and treated if necessary.
• Wash used bed linen and worn clothing such as pyjamas and towels at least 60 degrees.
• Clothing as well as items such as cuddly toys that cannot be washed hot should be kept in a sealed plastic bag for three days. Alternatively, you can put them in the freezer for two days.
• Clean used brushes and hair clips with hot water and soap and do not use them for a few days.
• Upholstered furniture such as sofas and armchairs should be thoroughly vacuumed.

Head lice prevention: The best tips

To prevent the transmission of head lice, you should avoid close body contact as much as possible. Since lice cannot jump or fly, they travel from one head of hair to the next. Sharing brushes and headgear can also transmit lice. Since especially children are affected by a lice infestation and therefore outbreaks occur again and again in day-care centres and schools, a regular check of the head of hair with a lice comb can also be useful as a preventive measure.

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