There is one rule about hydration that we feel needs to be erased from memory, and it is the 8×8 rule. This common rule encourages people to drink eight eight-ounce glasses of water per day. Although this can help a handful of people stay hydrated, hydration needs vary from person to person. If you are concerned about your daily water intake, or how much water you should be drinking, you clicked on the right article. 

Proper hydration helps support metabolism, cognitive function, energy, skin health, and exercise performance. In this article, we will explain how much water you should drink every day, and how to tell if you are dehydrated or not. 

How Much Water Should You Drink Every Day?

There is no one-size-fits all answer to this question. It all depends on age, activity level, and overall health. Understanding your individual needs can help ensure you drink a sufficient amount of water every day. On average, a healthy adult male requires about 125 ounces per day, while a healthy adult female requires about 91 ounces per day. Those recommendations can change depending on age, weight, activity level, and lifestyle. A simple rule is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily. If you are an active person or live in a hot climate, you will likely need to drink more water.

For children, water needs are lower, and the general recommendations are as follows:

• Infants (0-6 months): Typically get hydration from breast milk or formula
• Children (1-3 years): Roughly 4 cups (32 ounces) of water per day
• Children (4-8 years): About 5 cups (40 ounces) of water per day
• Children (9-13 years): About 7-8 cups (56-64 ounces) of water per day
• Teenagers (14-18 years): Between 8-11 cups (64-88 ounces) of water per day
• Adults (19+ years): For men, about 12.5 cups (100 ounces) of water per day; for women, about 9 cups (72 ounces) of water per day

What Do Health Officials Recommend?

Health authorities provide some recommendations, but, once again, there is no single recommendation that applies to everyone. The Institute of Medicine recommends people drink between nine and 13 cups of water per day for adults. Compare that to Harvard Medical School suggesting four to six cups for healthy people. That is a very low number to sufficiently hydrate the body, and that doesn’t even take weight into account. There are other factors that influence daily water intake, such as:

• Diet: If you drink a lot of caffeinated beverages or less hydrating drinks, you may need to drink more water. The reason for this is because you urinate more frequently, losing water in the process. Salty, spicy, and sugary foods can also increase your need for water, and you may need to consume more water if you do not eat hydrating foods. 
• Activity level: People who exercise and are physically active require more water than people who are sedentary or moderately active. 
• Overall health: There are certain medical conditions that cause greater water loss or dehydration. Diabetics, for example, tend to require more water and dealing with diarrhea can cause fluid loss. 
• Location: Living in the mountains at higher elevations, or in hot, humid, or dry areas may require you to drink more water. Additionally, seasons and temperatures play a role in how much water you need. 
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Women who are either pregnant or breastfeeding

Benefits Of Drinking Water

You need water for nearly every single bodily function. Water works to regulate body temperature, keep joints lubricated, aid digestion, remove waste, and transport nutrients. When you are properly hydrated, you can experience better cognitive function, including better alertness and memory. Water also helps break down food in the digestive tract and aids nutrient absorption. Sufficient water intake supports healthy kidney function by aiding waste removal. Additionally, drinking enough water can help maintain skin elasticity. 

Signs Of Dehydration

If you are thirsty, then the body is telling you that you need water. It is also a sign that you are partially dehydrated. Other indicators of dehydration include:

• If you pinch your skin and it doesn’t return quickly to normal, you may be slightly dehydrated.
• Pale yellow or clear urine typically indicates good hydration, while dark yellow or amber-colored urine may indicate dehydration.
• Headaches are a common symptom of dehydration
• Dry mouth or skin can indicate that you need more water. 

Understanding how much water you should drink every day is essential to maintain your overall health. Listen to your body and drink water accordingly, increasing water intake if you are more physically active.

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Most people have a love-hate relationship with cardiovascular exercise. On the one hand, they know that it benefits overall health, but on the other hand they do not want to do it because it isn’t as “enjoyable” as other exercises. When people think about it, they think of how long they can run, how quickly their heart rate returns to normal, and whether they can keep up in a high intensity interval class. It’s not often that people associate cardiovascular exercise with mental health. 

Cardiorespiratory fitness is often captured via a person’s VO2 max, which indicates how efficiently the body delivers and uses oxygen. This process does not just power workouts; rather, it touches nearly every system that plays a role in keeping you mentally sharp and emotionally stable. 

Rather than treating exercise as something that helps you maintain physical appearance, researchers are focusing on a new area of interest. Could the way the body handles oxygen have something to do with how the brain functions in the future?

Cardiovascular Fitness And Long-Term Brain Health

In order to explore this idea, researchers gathered data from 27 large cohort studies, which included more than four million people of different age groups and backgrounds. These were not short-term experiments. Researchers observed participants over time, tracking baseline cardiorespiratory fitness levels and then looked at who developed conditions like dementia, depression, or other mental health disorders. 

Study authors used standardized methods to measure cardiorespiratory fitness, often tied to VO2 max. That is the maximum rate of oxygen the body can take in, transport, and utilize during exercise. Following this, participants were grouped into lower and higher fitness categories, creating a clear way to compare outcomes over time. 

The scale of this analysis makes this information very useful. Researchers did not rely on a single study population; rather, it layered multiple datasets together to help smooth out individual variability. That gave researchers a clearer sense of patterns that varied across different groups. It also allowed researchers to to look at dose-response relationships, meaning how subtle changes in fitness could relate to changes in risk of developing mental health conditions. 

Higher Fitness Levels Linked To Lower Risk

What researchers found most compelling was how consistently fitness tracked with mental health outcomes. They noticed that people with higher cardiorespiratory fitness had a 36% lower risk of developing depression, and a 39% lower risk of dementia compared to participants with lower fitness levels. 

What is even more surprising is how little movement it took to reveal a difference. A small bump in fitness resulted in a lower risk of both dementia and depression. Participants did not have to go from walking around the neighborhood to running marathons. It was as simple as nudging up a person’s current baseline just a touch, and continuing to build on that endurance over time. 

A person does not need peak performance to influence long-term brain health. Small, incremental movements count and add up over time. There are several reasons that that makes sense from a biological standpoint. Better cardiorespiratory fitness supports efficient blood flow to the brain, which translates to more consistent oxygen and nutrient delivery. It also leads to lower inflammatory markers and improves how the body regulates stress hormones, such as cortisol. Those things shape brain structure and overall function, especially those tied to memory and emotional regulation. 

The Takeaway

Keep a few things in perspective regarding this research. Although it shows a strong association, it did not guarantee results. Lower fitness does not cause dementia or depression on its own, and higher fitness does not make someone immune to those conditions. Both mental health and neurodegenerative conditions are influenced by lifestyle patterns, environment, genetics, and other things that surpass exercise. 

You do not have to go all out in the gym every day; rather, it is more important to maintain regular exercise. Walking more often, adding in more intervals in your workout regimen, or slowly building endurance over time are the factors that contribute to change.

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Most people think of inflammation as a temporary thing. It is the immune system’s natural response to a foreign threat to the body. You get sick or your gut flares up, you adjust some habits, and things eventually settle down. That isn’t exactly how biology works, though. Past inflammation may not come and go as you suspect. It’s possible that past inflammation can leave an imprint that can shape your health, specifically gut health, in years to come. 

Recently, this idea has been gaining traction because colorectal cancer rates continue to climb, especially among younger adults who are not normally “high-risk.” Emerging data now reveals a surprising culprit, and that is the “memory” that your cells carry after inflammation seems to have healed. 

How Did Researchers Discover “Memory” In Gut Cells?

A recent study aimed to help scientists understand why inflammation is linked to cancer, especially in the gut. Scientists used an animal model to trigger inflammation in the colon, which is similar to what happens in conditions like chronic colitis. They then allowed the tissue to heal, at least on the surface. Instead of stopping the study there, scientists observed individual cells. They used advanced tools to track active genes and how accessible different parts of the genome were. Additionally, they looked at how cells passed those changes down as they divided.

This level of detail is of particular interest because the body is not solely driven by DNA. The body is influenced by the epigenome, which is a layer of regulation that determines which genes are active and which are quiet. Scientists found that, even after the inflammation resolved and tissue appeared healthy again, some cells carried lasting changes in this epigenetic layer. That suggests that although the gut healed, certain cells “remembered” the inflammation. 

Why Does Past Inflammation Raise Cancer Risk?

Later in the study, researchers introduced a cancer-related mutation. The cells that carried the epigenetic memory behaved differently. In fact, they activated tumor-promoting genes more quickly and developed bigger tumors that grew faster compared to cells without history. That revealed that there is a two-step process taking place. First off, inflammation leaves behind some sort of molecular imprint. Then, if a second trigger shows up later, the primed cells are more ready to respond in a way that encourages tumor growth.

That helps explain why not everyone with cancer has a clear genetic cause. Additionally, not everyone with inflammation develops cancer. The combination of past exposures and later triggers may tip the scales. Scientists note that this reinforces the idea that your past environment, including stress, diet, infections, and gut health, can shape your future risk in ways that are not yet visible. 

How Can You Support Gut Health Right Now?

There is no reason to panic every time you experience inflammation, especially a mild bout. The body is designed to recover from stress, but you should know that chronic inflammation is something to take seriously, even if symptoms are not always present. Your goal should be to reduce unnecessary stress on the gut. Begin by:

• Limiting your intake of ultra-processed foods can help reduce unnecessary inflammatory responses. Pay attention to how your body reacts to certain foods!
• Engaging in regular physical activity, as research shows that it supports gut diversity and reduces systemic inflammation.
• Eating a diverse, fiber-rich diet with a lot of plant-based foods. Fiber encourages the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and helps regulate inflammation over time. 
• Considering a probiotic supplement, which may help support a healthier balance of gut bacteria, especially during periods of stress or illness. 

One bad meal or stressful few days will not be the end of you. This is more about patterns because the body keeps track of what it goes through. Over time, those patterns can either work for you or against you. Keep that in mind as you move forward in life.

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Whether you need a healthy and refreshing breakfast or an afternoon snack to beat the heat, this blueberry flaxseed cacao smoothie fits the bill. It has a subtle hint of chocolate from the raw cacao powder that pairs beautifully with the sweetly tart blueberries and nutty ground flaxseed. You can stream in coconut oil at the very end of the blending process for an extra dose of heart-healthy fats.

A randomized controlled trial found that eating blueberries improved endothelial function (how blood vessels relax). Another study found that blueberries helped improve blood vessel function and reduces systolic blood pressure after consuming them for 12 weeks. A more recent clinical review links the anthocyanins (antioxidant compounds that give blueberries their color) to better vascular function and modest blood pressure improvements. Additionally. a systematic review of randomized trials found that blueberry intervention improved memory and cognitive performance.

Similar to blueberries, ground flaxseed works to enhance heart health. In fact, a meta-analysis of 28 randomized controlled trials found that flaxseed significantly reduced total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. A larger meta-analysis confirmed that flaxseed helped lower triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol. More recent studies suggest that flaxseed may help lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Flaxseed may also help lower some markers of inflammation.

Needless to say, this smoothie is one heck of a nutritional powerhouse!

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The world is filled with never-ending distractions. From the supercomputer in your pocket to pings from the group chat and worries about world events, any little thing can break your concentration. A distraction-filled environment is merely one element that stands in the way of your ability to concentrate, but your feelings also influence your focusing abilities. 

In order to maintain focus, you have to take care of your mental space and physical body. If you want to power through your work day with ease, make an effort to institute healthy habits that help improve productivity. For example, listening to bodily cues can help you from becoming distracted. If you are hungry, stressed, anxious, or tired from the night before, you will have a difficult time focusing. Managing these causes of your inability to focus can often help you resolve the issue. If you need more assistance focusing, the following tips should be of great help. 

Meditate

Meditation is a mindfulness practice that can take years to master, but practice makes perfect. Meditation demands concentration, and scientific experiments agree that it may help improve cognition. One study found that people who meditated regularly were less likely to engage in “mind-wandering,” and they were generally happier. Another study found that students who meditated for 20 minutes per day performed better on cognitive tests.

Establish A To-Do List

To-do lists are not just for parents with five children; rather, everyone can benefit from them. They help prioritize what tasks you need to complete first, while also serving as a record of the loose ends. Incomplete work can eat away at your concentration, so having to complete your tasks can help you stay focused. Researchers note that this stems from the Zeigarnik Effect, which was explored in a 2011 study. Participants who could plan their work and complete tasks one by one were more likely to stay focused, compared to those who went from task to task without completing them. 

Schedule Short Breaks

Trying to work through the entire day without a break is a fool’s errand. Everyone experiences dips in focus or succumbs to distractions because the brain is always alert. Taking short breaks throughout your day can help you return to your tasks with more focus and efficiency. Therapists suggest taking time-limited springs, which involve focusing on a task for 25 minutes and breaking for five minutes. You can also try to focus for 90 minutes and take a break for 10 minutes. Try to see what benefits your work most!

Put A Lock On Social Media

For many people, the idea of taking a break from work involves checking social media. The thing about social media is that it ropes you in and keeps you coming back after break time has concluded. If you struggle with putting your phone down, consider putting an app that blocks social media. Several apps work for your phone, tablet, or computer. Some of these apps can also put blocks on other distracting programs like games, YouTube, Netflix, text messages, and more. 

Get Sufficient Sleep

Surveys indicate that most American adults do not get enough sleep every night. A few nights of minimal sleep is completely normal, but insufficient sleep most nights of the week can negatively impact your short- and long-term memory. Waking up tired can affect your ability to concentrate as well. Ideally, adults between the ages of 18 and 60 should sleep seven or more hours per night. To help encourage healthier sleep, try to avoid caffeinated beverages after lunch, switch off electronic devices one hour before bedtime, keep the bedroom cool and quiet, and take time to wind down. 

Eat Foods That Boost Cognitive Function

What you put in your body can influence your ability to focus, as various nutrients can improve brain and body functions. For example, many people eat sugary treats in hopes of boosting focus, but they end up crashing shortly after. Simple carbs and refined sugars lead to a quick burst of energy, followed by serious fatigue. Although caffeine from a cup of coffee has been shown to help mental function and concentration, too much coffee can lead to anxious or jittery feelings, which get in the way of your focusing abilities. To improve your focus, include more fruits and vegetables at meals and snacks, and choose nuts, seeds, whole grains, and lean protein sources for major meals. 

Create A Distraction-Free Environment

Your work zone is unique to you. Some people require a neatly organized space, while others prefer clutter and background music. Some people can only get in the right headspace if their desks have photos of loved ones or personal mementos. There is no right way to set up a space for a get-things-done environment. Find what works best for your productivity and create that space, even if it means investing time and energy into it. Consider sights, sounds, and temperature of your environment and then build what’s suitable for you.

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Your brain is under attack every single day. Stress. Poor sleep. Processed food. Mental autopilot. If you don’t protect it, who will? Fight back with leafy greens that fuel cognitive power! Challenge it with puzzles that keep it sharp and resilient.! And give it deep, quality sleep so it can repair and defend itself every night! Your memory. Your focus. Your future. Protect your brain before it’s too late.

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It’s not secret that cherries offer numerous health benefits, given that they are nutrient-dense. Sour cherries, in particular, work to fight inflammation, may reduce muscle soreness, and boost immune function. Some research also suggests that tart cherries, or tart cherry juice, may help people improve their sleep. The key to a more restful night’s sleep could be in the refrigerator!

Why Tart Cherry Juice?

About one-third of Americans report that they do not get enough sleep every night. A lot of people suffer from insomnia, restlessness, and other health issues that impact sleep quality and quantity. Tart cherry juice enters the equation because, although it is not an insomnia cure, it may lead to better and longer sleep. Researchers attribute this to the melatonin and tryptophan in tart cherries. 

Melatonin is a sleep hormone that the body secretes at certain times of the day to signal the body that it is time for sleep. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that helps the body produce melatonin. Tryptophan is not just something people talk about during the holidays when turkeys are cooking. There are nine milligrams (mg) of tryptophan in a 100 mg serving of tart cherries. Evidence suggests that drinking tart cherry juice also increases the available melatonin in the body and promotes better sleep quality. 

How Much Tart Cherry Juice Should You Drink?

One study indicated that participants who drank eight ounces of tart cherry juice twice a day for two weeks experienced improved sleep. When you choose tart cherry juice, make sure to pick the one without added sugar. Adding too much sugar to your diet can negatively affect blood sugar levels and may cause energy spikes before bed. If the sour flavor of tart cherry juice is too strong, you can buy tart cherry extract as a supplement. 

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplement reports that there are no safety concerns with drinking up to 16 ounces in a single day for two weeks. It also states that it is acceptable to take 480 milligrams (mg) of tart cherry extract capsules once per day for up to two weeks. If you take a melatonin supplement, pill, or gummy, talk to your doctor before adding tart cherry juice to the equation. 

When Should You Drink Tart Cherry Juice For Sleep?

Just like a consistent bedtime routine, consistency is key. Drink the tart cherry juice at the same time every day to help increase the body’s melatonin production. Consider adding tart cherry juice to your bedtime routine, but don’t drink it right before you go to sleep. That said, researchers found that tart cherry juice can improve sleep no matter what time you drink it. If you prefer a glass at breakfast or lunch, you can still experience the same benefits as drinking it before bed. Should you choose to drink it at night, drink it about an hour or so before bed to prevent having to wake up and use the restroom in the middle of the night. 

Additional Benefits Of Tart Cherry Juice

In addition to improving your sleep, tart cherry juice may also provide the following health benefits:

• Reduced pain: It’s possible that tart cherry juice may help reduce pain in instances other than athletic recovery. Studies show that people with arthritis who consumed tart cherry juice experienced reduced pain and stiffness. Those same people also experienced improved biological markers associated with arthritis after drinking tart cherry juice consistently. 
• Improved muscle recovery: There are antioxidants in tart cherry juice that have demonstrated an ability to reduce muscle damage in athletes. Drinking tart cherry juice or taking tart cherry capsules before exercise may help reduce muscle pain and improve athletic performance. 
• Improved memory and brain health: One study found that older adults with dementia who consumed six ounces of tart cherry juice for 12 weeks experienced improvements in both short- and long-term memory. This is because the antioxidants in tart cherry juice work to protect against degeneration and help keep the brain healthy.

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Previously, various studies have indicated that resistance training and intense aerobic workouts can benefit brain health, among other things. Findings from a new study, however, reveal that regular exercise, even at low-intensity, can help older adults delay cognitive decline. This research promises big news for people at risk for dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. 

Light exercise includes stretching, balance, training, Tai Chi, aqua aerobics, or yoga. Earlier research suggests that intense physical activity could help prevent cognitive decline and dementia. This newer study focused on older adults already suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI). That is the stage between normal cognitive skills and dementia. People with MCI can experience mild memory loss and language issues, but it does not compromise day-to-day living. It is part of the EXERT study (Exercise in Adults With Mild Memory Problems), the largest rigorous trial of exercise ever conducted for adults with MCI.

Low-Intensity Activity Prevented Brain Shrinkage

• This study included about 300 older adults with MCI. These adults did not exercise regular and were divided into one of two groups:
• Moderate-high intensity: This group performed moderate-high intensity aerobic training, primarily by walking on a treadmill.
• Low-intensity: This group engaged in balance skill, light resistance training using resistance bands, and stretching. 

During the study, every participant exercised three to four times per week for one year. All of the training was completed under the supervision of a YMCA trainer. The study also included regular cognitive function assessments. The researchers compared this with an existing dataset of comparable people, who received usual care, including health checkups and medication management. All of that was through their medical provider.

Researchers expected to see a cognitive decline in the low-intensity exercise group compared to the moderate-high intensity exercise group. As it turns out, that was not the case. The key findings are as follows:

• Cognitive function was stable over the 12-month period in both exercise groups. 
• Both exercise groups displayed less loss of brain volume, including in the prefrontal cortex, over the course of the study. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for decision-making, executive function, and personality.
• Cognitive decline was significantly less for both groups during the study than for individuals outside the study. 
• Another interesting observation that researchers noted was that, in addition to slowing cognitive decline, exercise appeared to slow underlying brain changes typically associated with Alzheimer’s risk. 

No Sweating Required To Boost Brain Health

Researchers are hopeful because even lower intensity exercise can benefit brain health. Previous studies have made it clear that moderate- to high-intensity exercise is the minimum amount of exercise effort required to support memory and cognitive abilities. Unfortunately, that level of intensity is not feasible for every person, especially if they are older and not as mobile. If done correctly and regularly, any exercise can have cognitive benefits. 

If you have the ability to ramp up the intensity, you may experience benefits that extend beyond those that relate to the brain. The general recommendation is to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. Any kind of movement, however, will offer some protection to the brain, improve mood, and help mental health. 

Consistency Is The Answer

One of the key takeaways from this study is that consistency is key if you want to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. The exercise you should do is the one that you will actually do on a regular basis. Any form of movement is better than no movement at all. Make lifestyle changes that you can stick with, no matter how small they are, to get the ball rolling. Find a friend, an exercise buddy if you will, and go to fitness classes or find a fun activity to do together. You can also get a personal trainer, who will hold you accountable. Just remember to be consistent in whatever you decide to do.

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There is no shortage of different beverages in today’s world. From sports drinks and coffee to turmeric lattes and sugary sodas, you can drink a different beverage whenever you choose. Why didn’t we mention water right then? It may come as a surprise to you, but a lot of people dislike water. Some people even say that it tastes terrible. Well, water is life, people, and it benefits the body in so many ways, but so do various teas. 

While a lot of beverages are enjoyable to drink, they do not all contribute to hydration. That is particularly true for caffeinated beverages, which people consume a lot of. Drinking tea, however, is another story. Certain teas can help quench your thirst, promote hydration, and provide surprising health benefits. 

Water Intake Guidelines

The body requires adequate fluid intake in order for it to function optimally. Fluids help everything from cells to organs, lubricating joints, protecting tissues, and enhancing digestive function. How do you know how much water to drink to ensure proper hydration? You have probably heard of the eight by eight rule, which means that you drink eight eight-ounce glasses of water per day. This is somewhat of an outdated recommendation, as weight, age, and activity level influence your hydration needs. 

Hydration is a factor of total fluid intake, not just water intake. You can get water, electrolytes, and other fluids from soups, water-rich fruits and vegetables, and certain beverages. Health experts note that adults should aim to consume 91-125 fluid ounces of water per day. That equates to 2.7 to 3.7 liters, or about 11 to 16 cups. As a general rule of thumb, we encourage people to drink half their body weight in ounces of water per day to ensure proper hydration. If you weigh 150 pounds and divide that by two to get 75, you should drink 75 ounces of water per day.

Tea Vs. Water For Hydration 

The body needs water to survive, but you don’t always have to drink plain water to take advantage of its benefits. In fact, the Mayo Clinic notes that about 20% of your daily fluid intake should come from food. The remaining 80% can come from water or hot and cold teas. Black and green teas, however, contain caffeine, which is considered a diuretic. According to preliminary research, there is little difference between the hydration status of drinking black tea and drinking water. Those results came from a small study from March 2011, so more research is necessary. 

Other research suggests that caffeine does not become a diuretic until you consume 500 milligrams (mg) daily. Black and green teas typically contain between 30-50 mg of caffeine per eight ounces. That means that you would have to drink a lot of green and black tea in order to harm your hydration efforts. Coffee, on the other hand, usually contains 80-100 mg of caffeine per eight ounces. That means you can reach that 500-mg mark a lot quicker, which could impact your hydration.

Tea Benefits

You can get a few extra perks from drinking tea instead of just water to meet your hydration goals. The consumption of black and green tea has been linked to better heart health, including lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Certain teas can also help improve memory, reduce inflammation, contribute to weight loss, and contribute to longevity. There are so many herbal teas, from ginger and chamomile to peppermint and hibiscus, all of which offer different health benefits. Some work to soothe an upset stomach and sore throat, while others aim to reduce nausea and enhance immune function.

Be Careful About Your Sugar Intake

Although drinking tea can help you meet your hydration goals, you have to be mindful of how you prepare tea. Drinking water by itself means that you are safe from refined sugars, fats, and calories. What you add to your tea can affect your health, your overall hydration, and the tea’s health benefits. Added sugars can contribute to heart problems, obesity, and other health issues. Try to drink your tea without sweetener for a healthy beverage option. If you want to sweeten your tea, consider using a small amount of honey instead of white sugar, or stevia or raw agave nectar.

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Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that can get progressively worse. It is characterized by dopamine drops in certain areas of the brain. These dopamine decreases can cause people to experience tremors (the most common symptom), stiffness, and loss of balance. Because there is currently no cure for the condition, treatment tends to focus on reducing the severity of symptoms and improving overall quality of life. 

Health experts encourage people with Parkinson’s disease to engage in different activities that focus on fine motor skills and cognition. Additionally, physical exercises that require mobility and balance are also beneficial. Staying active, both mentally and physically, can help strengthen muscles that may prevent dementia. Continue reading to learn about beneficial crafts and activities for those living with Parkinson’s disease. 

Singing

Have you ever seen those videos of people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease who listen to a song that gives them a rejuvenating jolt? They know all the words and it triggers other memories that relate to that song. Singing, in addition to assisting with memory, works to strengthen the vocal muscles. That is especially important for people with Parkinson’s disease because vocal tremors or difficulty speaking can occur as the condition advances.

Playing Virtual Reality And Video Games

You can use technological advancements to exercise important skills. Virtual reality and video games require mind-body coordination. Most of these games also require problem-solving skills, memory, and strategy to win or complete. Depending on the game and gaming system, you may be required to use a controller or keyboard, which utilizes fine motor skills. There are also reflex games that do not involve screen time and yield the same benefits. 

Cooking

Cooking can help recall ingredients and measurements, and it offers the opportunity to follow steps in order. It can also be a social opportunity to connect with others while cooking and after when you enjoy the meal. As Parkinson’s progresses, it’s possible that patients may not be able to cook for themselves, or they may need assistance. Include someone with Parkinson’s disease in the cooking process as much as possible to enhance self-esteem and to create memories together. 

Knitting And Painting

Just like children, people with cognitive disorders can benefit from doing activities that require fine motor skills. People with Parkinson’s can experience tremors and have difficulty moving their hands. It’s also possible for them to experience feelings of depression as a result of declining physical and mental abilities. Creating something, such as a painting or a scarf, from scratch provides the opportunity to reduce stress, feel a sense of accomplishment, and focus on hand movements. 

Exercising

Daily physical exercise can benefit Parkinson’s patients. Walking, swimming, yoga, and cycling are all great physical exercises that can improve balance, mobility, and flexibility. According to research, physical activity benefits can continue for months after training ends. Some studies indicate that physical activity may slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease. 

Solving Puzzles

Be it a jigsaw puzzle or a crossword puzzle, puzzles require concentration and memory. Solving puzzles, then, is a valuable cognitive exercise. Crossword puzzles also require word recall, while word searchers can help with word identification. People with Parkinson’s may experience cognitive changes that can affect attention, mood, and motivation. That’s why it is important to engage the brain with problem-solving activities.

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