Finding the right gift for special people in your life can prove challenging. That is especially true for those fitness enthusiasts, who seemingly have all the hottest gear and gadgets related to fitness and exercise. You want your gift to be thoughtful and made to last, and it should help the person reach their fitness goals. Remember that your gift should also be the appropriate size for the person you have in mind. It should fit them or it should fit their space. 

In order to help you give the best fitness gifts to your fitness friends, we have compiled a list of helpful ideas. Some gifts are directly related to working out, while others are integral to proper recovery. Keep your budget in mind when perusing items from this list, as you don’t necessarily need to blow your bank account to make someone’s holiday season. 

Fleece-Lined Leggings

Rain or shine, snow or wind, active people are typically determined to exercise no matter the weather. Cold weather can be a big deterrent for some, but not if they have the right gear. Fleece-lined leggings allow for ease of movement, all while keeping the wearer warm. Great for morning jogs or steep winter hiking trails. There are probably some that are moisture-wicking or water resistant, which could benefit those who live in rainier climates.

Dherbs Active Hoodie

Perfect for the fit woman in your life, the Dherbs Active Hoodie is currently on super sale. It is a cropped, lightweight hoodie made for casual wear and active lifestyles. It has cuffed wrists, a small logo on the chest, and comes in gray and black. The hoodie offers a trendy, flattering silhouette that pairs beautifully with high-waisted leggings or jeans. Click here for more info about the hoodie. 

Personal Massage Gun

The great thing about massage guns is how accessible and affordable they have become. About ten years ago, you’d be lucky to find a personal massage gun for $400, and it was likely loud. Now, they are very affordable, quiet, and come with a variety of attachments to maximize recovery. Got a friend or family member that goes a little too hard on leg day? The soothing percussive pulses help alleviate sore muscles. You can even get travel size ones!

Boxing Gloves

Do you know someone who regularly takes boxing or kickboxing classes? Get them a new pair of boxing gloves to encourage their workout hobby. Make sure to get ones that have thick foam padding and ventilation holes to provide airflow to stop sweat from building up during longer sessions. 

Essential Oil Diffuser

Add a touch of zen or beautiful aroma to the home with a small, stylish essential oil diffuser. It’s a great little gadget to have, especially if the person loves yoga, meditation, self-care, or just breathing clearly. Pair the diffuser with some high quality peppermint or eucalyptus essential oils and they will be breathing easy in no time! 

Running Gloves

First of all, you do not need gloves to run. The gloves help keep your hands warm if you run outside in cold weather. Many of these gloves have touchscreen compatible fingertips that can swipe, touch, or whatever you need on your smartphone or tablet. Most of these gloves have a budget-friendly price point as well!

Resistance Bands

These are perfect for any fitness enthusiast, regardless of their gym membership status. Resistance bands can be used anywhere and help intensify any workout. Make sure you read the reviews, though, as some are cheaply made and tear after minimal use. You can get short-length bands or longer bands that have handles. 

The Dherbs Athletic Package

Unlike our other cleanses, you do not have to follow a raw vegan diet. The Athletic Package is a comprehensive pack of herbal supplements that aim to encourage optimal athletic performance. They work to build and nourish the musculoskeletal system for anyone who is looking to get in shape. The complete five-formula regiment also works to support joint health and flexibility.

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Most people know that they should move their bodies, especially after sitting all day. The problem is that it is too convenient to be lethargic and sedentary. Even healthy people can undo the positives of exercise with excessive sitting. Without mobilizing the body, it can grow tight, stiff, and sore. The problem is that going to the gym can be uninteresting, uninspiring even, especially if you are not a gym person. 

Perhaps you signed up for a gym membership for a New Year’s resolution and the membership is going to waste. You go every once in a while to feel like you are using your membership, but that does not count as staying active. The art of movement is making sure you move the body in different ways several times per week, or every day. One of the best ways to encourage more movement is to change how you think about exercise. Consider getting out in nature, attending different fitness classes, or other ideas that we’ll explore below. 

Hike For Better Mental Health

Working out benefits the brain and your overall outlook on life. The endorphin rush is real! You don’t have to go all out on the elliptical machine to reap those benefits, though. According to research, exercising outdoors can enhance both the physical and mental health benefits of the activity. Looking at greenery helps calm the mind, positively impact mood, and helps improve energy levels. All of those benefits make you more eager to exercise. Hiking immerses you in nature while simultaneously challenging the body. You can start out easy, but make sure to increase the difficulty of your hikes as you progress. 

Try New Workouts

Doing the same exercises can get you stuck in a workout rut. Consistent exercise is beneficial, but it is crucial to mix up your exercises. Changing your routine can not only keep the body safe, but also improve muscle strength, range of motion, and maximize workout results. Trying new forms of exercise or workout classes can also make you happier. Researchers note that novel experiences provide positive challenges and expose you to new perspectives. If you feel like you are stuck in a workout plateau, consider Zumba, spin class, HIIT workouts, Pilates, or other exercise classes that intrigue you. 

Adopt An Adventure-Based Mindset

Finding the motivation to exercise can often be the biggest obstacle. Adopting an adventure-based mindset can not only inspire you to work out, but can also improve overall health, according to researchers. In one study, participants stated that having the right mindset, i.e. focusing on resilience, controllable elements, and adventure, was more protective for their mental health. Other studies found that outdoor adventures increased positivity and overall life satisfaction. When you feel unmotivated to exercise, think about how you can turn your day into an adventure. That can be as simple as adopting a positive mindset during daily activities. Shift your perspective and you may find that your workouts are far more enjoyable. 

Posture Can Improve Your Stress Response

One of the most underrated aspects of fitness is proper posture and form. Anyone can do most exercises, but they render themselves useless if done improperly. Focusing on posture is an all-day challenge. Correct posture demands your full attention at all times because it is so easy to slouch and hunch. One of the best ways to expose yourself to proper posture is by engaging in yoga, which aids full body alignment. According to research, the posture of people who regularly practice yoga was significantly better than other people in the study. Adding yoga to your workout routine can help you not only improve your posture, but improve your form in other exercises you do.

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Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a type of palm that is native to the southwestern United States. It is commonly used in various supplements to improve prostate health, prevent hair loss in men, and balance hormone levels. Saw palmetto has actually been marketed as a natural remedy for an enlarged prostate. In fact, more than a third of all adults in the U.S. who take saw palmetto supplements do so specifically to improve prostate health. 

Although more research is needed on saw palmetto’s effect on men’s health, the existing research shows great promise. Some people, including those who may be pregnant, should avoid saw palmetto. Continue reading to learn about the top four benefits of saw palmetto.

May Support Prostate Health 

The prostate gland is located between the bladder and the penis. It is responsible for maintaining sperm health, but an enlarged prostate can get in the way of healthy urinary flow and sperm production. According to various research studies, saw palmetto can support prostate health and help prevent issues, such as benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer. Other studies indicate that saw palmetto may reduce BPH-related urinary symptoms and inflammation. One 15-year study of 30 participants with BPH found that 320 milligrams (mg) of saw palmetto extract per day may help prevent the progression of BPH. 

May Reduce Inflammation

There are numerous animal studies that suggest that saw palmetto exhibits anti-inflammatory activity, which may benefit certain health conditions. One study from 2015 in rats with BPH found that saw palmetto effectively decreased inflammation and improved antioxidant status. A separate 2015 study in mice with enlarged prostates found that saw palmetto extract decreased several inflammatory markers, including interleukin 6 (IL-6). Although these studies are promising, research on humans is lacking. For this reason, there isn’t enough scientific evidence to claim that saw palmetto reduces inflammation in humans. 

May Improve Urinary Tract Function

It’s possible that saw palmetto may benefit BPH, which is a condition that causes an enlargement of the prostate gland, leading to decreased urine flow. A small 12-week study including participants with BPH found that those who took 1,000 mg of saw palmetto oil mixed with beta-sitosterol experienced significant improvements in BPH symptoms. Another 24-week study of 354 participants found that supplementing with 320 mg of saw palmetto decreased BPH symptoms and improved urinary flow and sexual function. More research is still necessary to determine whether saw palmetto supplements aid urinary tract function in the general population. Current research is promising, though. 

May Help Regulate Testosterone Levels

Many people who want to naturally boost testosterone levels may turn to saw palmetto oil as an option. Testosterone affects body composition, sex drive, mood, brain function, and more. Testosterone levels naturally decline naturally with age and can interfere with quality of life. Some research suggests saw palmetto may boost testosterone levels by decreasing the activity of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT, to help preserve testosterone. A 2020 review found that saw palmetto may also block the uptake of DHT and reduce its ability to bind to androgen receptors by almost 50%. A smaller and older study found that supplementing with 1,200 mg of Resettin, a supplement containing saw palmetto and astaxanthin, increased serum testosterone levels by 38%. Looking to boost testosterone levels, consider the Dherbs Testosterone Booster as a natural alternative. 

May Prevent Hair Loss

Hair loss is very common among men and has numerous causes, from genetics and hormonal changes to certain medications and health conditions. Some people tend to use saw palmetto to balance hormone levels and reduce hair loss. As previously mentioned, saw palmetto may block 5-alpha reductase, which is linked to hair loss. By reducing the uptake of DHT in your hair follicles, saw palmetto may help decrease DHT’s ability to bind to specific hormone receptors. A 16-week study from 2023 involving people with androgenic alopecia who took a specifically formulated saw palmetto supplement found that saw palmetto reduced the rate of hair falling out. It also contributed to hair growth and improved scalp appearance compared to a placebo.

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If you feel that your sex drive has changed and your muscle mass is declining, you may be experiencing low testosterone (low T) levels. Low testosterone is not a life-threatening illness by any means; rather, it is a normal part of aging. If you are a younger man in his 30s and experiencing low T levels, then you may want to consider different approaches to boost your levels. 

The body naturally produces testosterone, which can be measured through a blood test. Symptoms can affect the quality of life, or they may go hand in hand with other health conditions. Getting tested can better inform you about your testosterone levels and how it affects the body. 

What Is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a hormone that the testicles or ovaries mainly produce. The adrenal glands produce dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which the body transforms into both testosterone and estrogen. Testosterone, however, is the primary androgen, meaning it stimulates the development of male characteristics. Males naturally have higher testosterone levels than women do, and it plays many roles in different stages of life, such as:

• Fetal development: the sex-related gene on the Y chromosome initiates the development of the testicles in male infants about week seven in utero.
• Puberty for male children: responsible for many changes in pubescent males, including increases in height, body and pubic hair growth, increasing libido, and enlargement of testes, penis, and prostate gland.
• Adulthood: it is essential for the production of sperm, signals the body to make new red blood cells, ensures muscle and bone strength, and enhances libido.

If you think that your testosterone levels are taking a nosedive, pay attention to the following signs. If you notice that you have one or more of them, consider talking with your primary healthcare provider to discuss ways to boost levels. There are many foods that aid testosterone production, in addition to other methods, so don’t think that options are not available. 

Your Libido Is Noticeably Lower

Testosterone plays a predominant role in your sexual desire. It also helps men maintain and get erections long enough to have sex. It isn’t uncommon for men to experience erectile dysfunction occasionally, but if it is a persistent problem, low testosterone levels may be to blame. A sudden drop in sex drive or sustained drop in interest in sexual activity can indicate low T levels. 

Reduced Muscle Mass And Strength

Testosterone aids in both building and maintaining muscle mass. Men with low T levels often notice a loss of muscle strength and a harder time building muscle, even with regular training. In addition to muscle loss, it’s common for men with low T levels to experience an increase in body fat, especially around the abdomen. That can be very frustrating if you are putting in a lot of effort at the gym. 

Thinning Hair

First of all, hair loss can happen for many reasons, so low T may not always be the culprit. If your testosterone levels dip, it’s possible to experience thinning hair on the scalp, body, and face. Any sudden changes in hair thickness along with other symptoms may indicate another cause, which you should determine in order to solve the issue. 

Depression And Mood Changes

Declining testosterone levels do not just affect your physical health; rather, they can also impact your mental health. According to research, men with low testosterone levels tend to report more feelings of sadness, irritability, and lack of motivation. It’s common to blame those feelings on work- or relationship-related stress, but that isn’t always the case. If there is no obvious reason for your mood changes, low testosterone could be to blame. 

Energy Levels Decline

If you have a great sleep schedule and maintain a balanced diet and still feel persistent fatigue, low testosterone is a potential and likely cause. One of the telltale signs of low T is a dip in energy. When testosterone levels drop, energy levels tend to follow suit. That ultimately leads to a general feeling of sluggishness or lack of motivation. Too tired to do the activities you used to enjoy? It might be time to get your T checked.

If you are looking for a natural way to boost your testosterone levels, consider the Dherbs Testosterone Booster. It helps maintain balanced testosterone levels, assists in building and maintaining muscle mass, and contributes to feelings of energy and stamina.

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It’s safe to say that Dherbs CEO A.D. Dolphin is no stranger to weight loss. He’s been referred to as “The King of Weight Loss” during his numerous appearances on Steve TV with Steve Harvey. With that title comes great responsibility, which is why he’s made it his mission to help Bigg Jah, Ryan Davis, and Onyika lose weight and transform their health and appearance as part of the ICAN Challenge.

What Is The ICAN Challenge? 

Now in its third season, the ICAN Challenge is Dolphin’s documentary series that follows two participants per season. For reference, season 1’s total weight loss came close to 300 pounds! It was one of Dolphin’s proudest moments in his career, primarily because it was the most intensive weight loss challenge he’s ever been a part of. The plan for the challenge was simple: 

• Use the Full Body Cleanse to help clean out participants’ bodies and get rid of that unwanted waste and weight.
• Help them develop smart workout and eating habits.
• Make sure they have the tools they need to emerge from this process and stick to a healthy lifestyle.

The Goal Of The ICAN Challenge

The primary goal is for people to change their lives for the better and emerge from the challenge more knowledgeable about food and exercise. With Dolphin’s assistance, contestants should leave the challenge and exercise the same way they did on the challenge, and eat better than they did prior to the challenge’s start. Naturally, it becomes more difficult to do that when you don’t have Dolphin watching your every move. Just to be clear, convenience is nobody’s friend! Losing weight is difficult, but the right plan makes anything possible. 

Season 1: Standout Transformations

To say that we were more than shocked by the final reveals and weigh-ins during the finale of season 1 would be an understatement. Bigg Jah and Onyika put in the work and gave it their all to leave the challenge not looking anything like they did prior to the start. After six months of living with A.D. Dolphin, cleansing, and exercising regularly, Bigg Jah lost a total of 162 pounds, while Onyika lost 90 pounds. Both contestants were nearly in tears after seeing numbers on the scale that they hadn’t seen in many years. 

Don’t just take our word for it, though. Feel free to watch their journeys by clicking here. All of the episodes are available on our YouTube channel. Both Onyika and Bigg Jah truly showed us that anything is possible!

Season 2: The Weight Loss Continues

The premise for the second season is the same, only it is half the amount of time as the first season. It follows Ryan Davis and Kim Kimble. Davis’ starting weight was 269 pounds and Kimble’s starting weight was 214 pounds. Tune in to follow their weight loss journey! You can stream all episodes now by clicking here.

For Dolphin, the ICAN Challenge is a pivotal moment in his career. Not only does it document the successes of the participants, but it also highlights the struggles and emotional toll that weight loss takes on people. It’s as emotional as it is uplifting and inspirational. In Dolphin’s words, “It is my goal to help people, and more importantly, give those following the journeys on the ICAN Challenge an insight into the world of cleansing. It is also my hope to inspire them, in hopes that they may change their lives in a more positive way after seeing the progress”

Weight loss is not linear and it is anything but easy. It looks different for every person, but each person has the ability and willpower to change for the positive. Subscribe to the Dherbs YouTube channel to catch a new episode every week. Thank you for the love and continued support. 

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With a limited season of availability, apricots should be on your summer grocery list. They are known for their distinctive orange color and signature sweetly tart flavor. They also boast an extensive list of health benefits, making them more than just a scrumptious summer snack. Health experts consider apricots to be a nutrient-dense food with lots of fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Some studies indicate that they may help reduce inflammation and even treat dry eyes. We will explore many of their benefits in this article. 

What Are Apricots?

An apricot is an edible fruit that comes from the apricot tree. Apricots belong to the stone fruit family, which includes peaches, nectarines, plums, cherries, and almonds. The belief is that they are either native to China or Japan, or Armenia, but now they are cultivated worldwide. Regardless of the tree’s origins, apricots have been a staple in many cultures for hundreds of years. Egyptians, for example, used apricots to make a traditional juice, while English settlers used apricot oil in the 17th century as a way to reduce inflammation. 

Nutrition

Raw apricots are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and other important micronutrients. Most of the calories come from carbs, not protein or fat. A one cup serving or raw apricots exhibits the following nutritional profile:

• 74.4 calories
• 17.2 carbohydrates 
• 0.6 grams (g) of fat
• 14.3 g of sugar
• 3.1 g of fiber
• 2.2 g of protein
• 15.5 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C
• 401 mg of potassium
• 15.5 mg of manganese
• 0.6 mg of iron
• 35.6 mg of phosphorus
• 0.9 mg of niacin
• 1.4 mg of vitamin E
• 149 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin A
• 5.1 mcg of vitamin K

Promotes Eye Health

As an excellent source of vitamin A, apricots are beneficial for eye health. In fact, a deficiency in vitamin A can result in dry eyes, vision loss, and night blindness. Apricots are also rich sources of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Additionally, they contain zeaxanthin and lutein, two carotenoids that support macular function and protect against oxidative retinal damage, which is a long-winded way of saying apricots do wonders for the eyes.

Enhances Hydration Efforts

Apricots are naturally rich in water (about 85%), meaning they may help maintain fluid balance in the body. They also contain a lot of potassium, an integral electrolyte that supports hydration by regulating fluid levels in the and out of cells. That makes apricots a great snack for warm weather and for people with active lifestyles. 

Rich In Antioxidants

Apricots provide a long list of micronutrients, but they also exhibit impressive antioxidant activity. These are plant compounds that protect against free radicals and damage to cells. It’s possible that the reduction of free radicals can reduce the risk of certain conditions, including heart disease and certain cancers. Apricots contain a lot of carotenoids, which give the fruit its signature orange hue. One study found that apricots are especially rich in beta-carotene, gamma-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin.

Supports Regularity

Fiber moves through the body without being digested, adding bulk to stool and preventing constipation. One analysis looked at research that showed how increasing fiber intake was able to increase stool frequency in patients with constipation. Sweet apricot seeds are actually sold as snack foods and can supply more fiber than the fruit itself. A quarter-cup serving contains five grams of fiber, which meets up to 20% of the recommended daily intake for fiber. 

May Reduce Blood Pressure

As we mentioned earlier, apricots provide a lot of potassium, a key electrolyte and mineral that helps regulate blood pressure. It does this by balancing sodium levels in the body. According to research, adding more potassium-rich foods to your diet may reduce the risk of hypertension and support cardiovascular health. A higher potassium-to-sodium ratio in your diet helps relax blood vessels, which ultimately reduces the strain on the cardiovascular system. 

May Relieve Menopausal Symptoms

Due to the fact that apricots contain phytoestrogens, apricots may help relieve menopausal symptoms. Phytoestrogens are compounds that support hormone balance and reduce hot flashes and mood swings. The potassium and iron in apricots may also ease certain symptoms of menopause. Plus, the antioxidant properties may also support hormonal balance and inflammation reduction, potentially helping with mood swings and hot flashes in menopausal women.

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Walking is one of the most underrated forms of exercise. Everyone can do it anywhere, any time. This form of exercise may not be as impactful as a full-body, high-intensity interval workout or long distance run, but walking does do surprising wonders for the body. Walking aims to improve cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart and improving circulation. Walking also benefits your mental health, releasing endorphins that boost your mood to improve the overall mental state. 

There is something to be said about getting out of the house or office to go for a walk. It’s like a release that frees your mind and body from the confines of home or work. Research confirms that changing scenery, especially if you can see nature, has positive effects on mental health. As far as from a physical standpoint, walking in the middle of the day can help reduce the risk of lower back and knee pain, particularly if you do it on a regular basis. 

It is very exciting to see more and more research emerging about the benefits of walking. Ideally, you should aim to get 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, which basically means each walk can last 30 minutes. Aim for about 5,000 steps or more per day. If you regularly hit that mark, consider the following tips to make your walk more effective. 

Try Interval Jogging Or Speed Walking

If you don’t want to engage in a full 30-minute jog, consider incorporating a faster pace at select times during your daily walk. Health experts suggest that doing interval-based training during your walk can improve cardiovascular health. You can walk for two minutes and then speed walk for 30 seconds to one minute. Continue alternating between walking and fast walking, or even light jogging, and you will notice the difference in how your body feels. You can increase the interval times as your body adjusts to the new walking regimen. 

Walk Along A Hilly Path

Sure, walking on flat ground is perfectly fine, especially if you have knee or foot issues. Walking downhill can help improve muscle strength in your lower extremities, in addition to reducing the stress on the cardiovascular system. If you don’t have hiking trails accessible to you, find a hilly neighborhood and you’ll be good to go. Interestingly enough, walking downhill puts less stress on your breathing and heart rate. Walking uphill, on the other hand, challenges the cardiovascular system and can benefit people with knee problems. No matter if you are going downhill or uphill, remain consistent with your routine so that your body can get used to walking in hilly areas. Lastly, don’t be afraid to return to a flatter path every now and again to make life easier on yourself. 

Maintain A Quick Walking Pace

Movement is better than no movement at all, but walking at a snail’s pace will not enhance your walk. Walking briskly counts toward your 150 minutes of moderately-intense aerobic activity that health experts recommend. It can be tricky to know your heart rate during your walk, but a great way to keep up the quick pace is by listening to upbeat music. Push yourself by listening to songs that are at least 100 beats per minute (BPM) and you will move with the music. You can search the web or streaming platforms for songs with that BPM. If that pace is a little too quick for you, you can slow down every other song to help maintain consistency. The last thing you want to do is stop walking!

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When the weather is warm and inviting, it’s hard not to be outside. That summer sun is just too amazing to ignore! Well, that’s true until you turn red like a lobster as a result of not applying sunscreen. Besides taking proper care of your skin, you have to be careful not to overheat and dehydrate when the weather is hot. That is especially true if you exercise or engage in hard labor in the sun. The simple tips in this article help you work out safely in the heat because there is no reason to not enjoy the outdoors while getting in your physical activity.

Plan Wisely

Now, if the temperatures are very hot, you should not exercise outside at the hottest time of day. No reason to go for a jog at two in the afternoon in peak heat. Make sure to choose a cooler time of day to avoid the sun shining on you at its hottest. Generally, mornings and late-afternoons/evenings are great times to workout to minimize direct sun exposure. If you are an early bird, consider getting up before the sun even rises to exercise outside. 

Hydrate And Then Hydrate Again

This seems like an obvious statement, but most people fail to realize how quickly they dehydrate in the heat. If you exercise outside, you will sweat out the water you drink, accelerating the dehydration process. According to research, going into a workout hydrated can decrease the risk of dehydration. Additionally, eating electrolyte-rich foods before and after your workout can help you retain and restore electrolyte balance. Pure coconut water, watermelon, cucumber, celery, citrus fruits, carrots, tomatoes, and other foods can help provide essential nutrients and aid hydration efforts. 

Consider A Pre-Workout Shower

Does showering before a workout make sense? In your mind, maybe not, but research suggests that manipulating pre-exercise body temperature can influence workout performance. It may also be an effective strategy for athletes who compete in stressful environments. Taking a short, cold shower or quick swim before exercising in the heat can help reduce body temperature. 

Listen To Your Body

Knowing your limits can benefit your body when exercising in the heat. If you notice that you feel light-headed, nauseous, dizzy, or something similar, take time to rest and drink water. Excessive sweating can quickly lead to heat exhaustion, which can have serious consequences. Make sure to monitor your water intake and energy levels at every stage of your outdoor exercise routine. 

Allow The Body Time To Acclimate

If you are not used to exercising in hotter weather, you have to give the body time to adjust. Gradually increase your exposure to heat over the course of one to two weeks. Start with shorter, less intense workouts in the cooler parts of the day. Increase the intensity and change the time at which you exercise as you progress. Starting slow, though, helps your body improve its ability to regulate temperature and increase sweat efficiency. If you skip the acclimation period, you run the risk of getting a heat-related illness.

Wear Light-Weight Clothing

The goal is to stay as cool as possible when you exercise in the heat. Try to wear light-weight clothing and moisture-wicking garments that bring sweat to the outer surface. Loose-fitting shirts also help you remain cool. In addition to the type of clothing you wear, consider the color as well. Avoid dark-colored clothing because black and dark blue clothing, for example, can cause you to overheat. Opt for white clothing or even bright options that reflect the sun. 

Keep It Short

If you are not used to exercising in the heat, especially for longer periods, make sure to keep your workout routine short. Start with a 20-30 minute low-to-medium-intensity routine to allow your body to acclimate to the heat. That advice holds true whether you are exercising in the outdoor heat or in a heated yoga class.

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Kraft Heinz, a food manufacturing giant, will remove all artificial dyes from its brands in 2027. This comes in response to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s scrutiny on synthetic dyes. It was only a couple months ago that U.S. Health officials urged food manufacturers to phase out petroleum-based artificial colors in the nation’s food supply. Now, it seems that food makers are moving in the right direction. 

Kraft Heinz is the maker of Heinz ketchup, Kraft Mac & Cheese, Jell-O, Capri-Sun, and other brands. Kraft Heinz made a recent claim that almost 90% of its U.S. products are currently free of food, drug, and cosmetic colors. Pedro Navio, Kraft Heinz’s North America president, stated, “The vast majority of our products use natural or no colors, and we’ve been on a journey to reduce our use of (artificial) colors across the remainder of our portfolio.” The products that still contain dyes will be removed by the end of 2027. It should be noted that the company removed artificial colors from Kraft Mac & Cheese in 2016.

A Step In The Right Direction

The call for the removal of artificial dyes from food products is not recent news. Many studies have cited that these dyes can cause neurobehavioral problems, such as hyperactivity and attention issues, in some children. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has maintained that the approved list of dyes are safe and that the total evidence indicates that most children have no adverse effects after consuming foods that contain them. 

Currently, the FDA allows 36 food color additives, including eight synthetic dyes. In January of this year, the agency announced that Red No. 3 would be banned in food by 2027 because it caused cancer in laboratory tests. Red No. 3 is common in foods such as cakes, candies, and even some medications. 

The unfortunate reality is that artificial dyes are widely used in U.S. foods. Europe and Canada require synthetic colors to carry warning labels, so they mostly use natural substitutes. California and West Virginia, however, have already passed laws that restrict the use of artificial colors in foods. And U.S. food manufacturers are already reformulating their foods. Instead of synthetic dyes, food makers can use natural hues made from algae, beets, and crushed insects and pigments from radishes, red cabbage, and purple sweet potatoes. 

More Companies Will Follow Suit

After Kraft Heinz’s announcement, General Mills soon followed suit. General Mills makes cereals such as Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Trix, Cheerios, and other brands like Pillsbury, Yoplait, and Nature Valley. It announced that it planned to remove certified colors from all of its U.S. cereals and K-12 foods by summer 2026, and out of all products by 2027. General Mills also issued a statement saying that 85% of its retail products do not contain these artificial colors. 

The transition to use healthier alternatives to synthetic food dyes is partially to retain customers. According to Kraft Heinz, both Lunchables and Capri-Sun have fallen out of favor with customers who want healthier food options. The company’s sales dropped 6.4% last quarter. Just last month, the company claimed to be evaluating strategic changes and potential transactions. Lastly, Kraft Heinz recently sold off Planters and its U.S. cheese business in order to simplify its business. Analysts believe that that announcement is a signal that the company may unload other brands or seek to merge with a rival. 

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Pride Month is a chance to celebrate the community, acceptance, and equality of LGBTQIA+ people. There are parades, events, parties, and more all over the world during Pride Month. It’s safe to say that this month can positively affect mental health by bringing more LGBTQIA+ people together as one community. The idea is that these celebrations bring hope for a brighter future, one that is united for LGBTQIA+ rights and equality. 

What Is Pride Month?

It was 1969 and the sun was shining…In all seriousness, Pride Month started with the Stonewall uprising in 1969. These protests were in response to police raids in gay bars in New York. These raids took place due to discrimination and persecution against the LGBTQIA+ community. After the Stonewall uprising, the first Pride Rally in the United Kingdom took place a few years later in London, England. 

Every June, Pride Month honors the history of Stonewall and the activism it sparked to push LGBTQIA+ rights to the place where they are today. Although Pride Month is somewhat of a mild protest, it is truly a movement, a chance for people to fight for equality and stand on the shoulders of the activists who came before them. Additionally, Pride Month is a celebration of the spaces that members of the LGBTQIA+ community can share. It’s hugely helpful, empowering, and a way to recognize queer lives. And the biggest benefit is that people of the LGBTQIA+ community get to unite together and remember that they are not alone.

The Context Of Pride Month And Mental Health

Mental health is important, regardless of the time of year or specific celebratory month. Regarding Pride Month, though, there has been a lot of discrimination and prejudice against the LGBTQIA+ community, and that still exists to this day. The rights for LGBTQIA+ members are still ongoing, and Pride Month continues to be somewhat of a catalyst for positive change and equality. 

It is often the joyous times and celebratory nature of Pride Month that benefit people of the LGBTQIA+ community. For example, the inclusion and unified efforts help combat social isolation, low self-esteem, and the homophobic or transphobic political stances in the media. It is truly sad that people still have these hateful or negative views toward the LGBTQIA+. 

A lot of LGBTQIA+ activists have observed two interesting things regarding Pride Month. The first is that the fight for equality and rights can be quickly weaponized against them. The second is that LGBTQIA+ people often dim their internal light for safety, depending on the setting, situation, or surrounding people. 

How Can Pride Month Enhance Mental Health In The LGBTQIA+ Community?

Whether it’s a publicized goal or not, Pride Month brings together the LGBTQIA+ community and all its diversity. There is beauty in diversity and community, but it can be tough for people to individually navigate their own isolation. Many organizations and peer spaces are available to the LGBTQIA+ community and are there for people, in good times and bad. 

Pride Month also helps undo what the negative media puts out against the community. A lot of people who may not be “out” yet or struggle with their own gender identity or sexuality. Pride Month, then, serves as a space of solidarity for those still living in the closet. 

At the end of the day, Pride Month is a time of acceptance, despite whatever homophobia, transphobia, or biphobia still exists in the world. It is for the LGBTQIA+ community, but allyship can help advance community efforts. Families and friends of LGBTQIA+ community members can help participate in events and empower everyone. Being a great ally can help advance the community, but it also means that you learn more about the issues that affect the LGBTQIA+ community. You are there for the people in your life who require support!

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