For hundreds of years, different civilizations used their own versions of fire cider or herbal tonics to promote general well-being. These days, you can see people and “wellness gurus” alike making spicy fire cider on TikTok or Instagram. The claim is that it not only enhances immune function, but it is also a natural cold killer. 

What Is Fire Cider?

Fire cider is a spicy, homemade drink made with all-natural ingredients that help optimize immunity. The proponents of fire cider claim that when all of the ingredients work in unison, they create a super beverage that can help prevent you from getting sick. The term “fire cider” was coined by Rosemary Gladstar in 1970, when she published a recipe that used: 

• Raw apple cider vinegar
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Honey
• Horseradish root
• Onion
• Cayenne pepper

Since then, many people have published variations of the drink, with some including ingredients like:

• Elderberry
• Rosemary
• Turmeric
• Orange or lemon zest
• Jalapeño or habanero peppers

Once you have your recipe of choice, combine all of the ingredients (except honey) in a glass jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place. After the ingredients steep for one month, you strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and add honey to taste. That liquid is the fire cider, which sounds interesting, but how effective is it?

Are There Benefits? 

The predominant claims from people who love fire cider are that it helps fend off sickness and builds a healthy immune system. The unfortunate reality is that there is no scientifically-backed evidence stating that fire cider actually works. What is true is that the ingredients offer beneficial nutrients that can encourage healthy immune function. They do not, however, possess the abilities to prevent or cure illness. Continue reading to learn about the benefits of some of the ingredients. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

Since the times of the Ancient Greeks, vinegar has been used to help treat sores and clean wounds. In recent years, apple cider vinegar has received a lot of attention because people claim that it can aid weight loss, improve digestion, enhance immunity, and more. Test tube studies found that apple cider vinegar effectively killed certain disease-causing yeast and bacteria. Other studies found that consuming apple cider vinegar can help lower total blood cholesterol and blood sugar. More research is needed in both regards, though. 

Ginger

This is a common spice used to help soothe a sore throat and an upset stomach. Researchers have studied ginger extensively because it is effective at relieving nausea, easing period cramps, relieving muscle and arthritis pain, and reducing inflammation. Although ginger is thought to enhance immune function, there is no scientific evidence that supports that. Some people also claim that it aids weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness. There is no evidence that supports that either. 

Hot Peppers

You can include cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or other spicy peppers in fire cider. Peppers are naturally rich in vitamin C and contain active compounds that may help you live longer, according to some research studies. Capsaicin is the active compound that is responsible for the heat in peppers, but it also exhibits impressive antimicrobial activity. Capsaicin can irritate the skin, so make sure to wash your hands after handling hot peppers, as you don’t want to touch your eyes or other sensitive areas. 

Garlic

If you know anything about garlic, you know that it has a lot of “antis,” such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer properties. Garlic can be hard to digest for certain people because it contains fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs). For this reason, garlic can occasionally cause cramping, bloating, and diarrhea in certain people.

Honey

Many people celebrate honey for its antimicrobial properties, and it has been used in healing practices since ancient times. Medical grade honey may help remedy minor wounds, diabetic ulcers, and burns. You do not find medical grade honey on your average grocery store shelf, though. The honey you have in your pantry will not kill or prevent the common cold. It is possible for honey to soothe a sore throat and ease some symptoms of respiratory infection.

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It’s true that pumpkin may be the first ingredient you associate with fall, but we all know that fall is all about apples. Not only are apples a fall staple, but they are also highly versatile. Add them to salads, smoothies, desserts, entrees, sauces, spreads, jams, and more. They can be the featured ingredient or play a more subtle role. However you decide to enjoy them, even as a healthy snack, we encourage you to embrace all the apple varieties that you can. 

Nutritional Benefits Of Apples

Apples are some of the world’s most popular fruits. They are naturally sweet and juicy and offer a lot of fiber, vitamin C, and several beneficial antioxidant compounds. Despite their low calorie count, apples are very filling, due to their fiber content. Here are the nutrition facts for one raw, unpeeled, medium-sized apple:

• Calories: 94.6
• Water: 156 grams (g)
• Fiber: 4.37 g
• Carbohydrates: 25.1 g
• Protein: 0.473 g
• Sugar: 18.9 g
• Fat: 0.3 g

One apple provides approximately 16% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of fiber. Some of the fiber comes in the form of pectin, a soluble fiber. Soluble fiber has demonstrated an ability to help control blood sugar and manage cholesterol levels. The peel of the apple also contains insoluble fiber. 

Apples are predominantly composed of water and carbs. They contain a lot of simple sugars, including fructose, sucrose, and glucose. Because of that, they have a glycemic index that ranges from 42 to 44. A fruit’s glycemic index indicates how it affects the rise in blood sugar after consumption. Lower scores tend to have better health benefits, but a food’s glycemic load is often of more importance. The glycemic load accounts for all of the other health benefits a fruit offers, such as antioxidants, fiber, polyphenols, vitamins, minerals, and more. 

Apple Pie Chia Pudding

With the arrival of fall comes a lot of special seasonal dishes. If you love apple pie, then you are going to love this chia pudding! You get to have your pie (sort of) and eat it too!

Click here to make the recipe.

Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw

Brussels sprouts and apples are two of fall’s best produce items. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate fall slaw that’s nutty, sweet, and savory.

Click here to make the recipe.

Cucumber Apple Smoothie

This green smoothie is a combination of crisp cucumber, crunchy and tart apple, zesty lime, herbaceous mint, and hearty kale. It goes down smooth 100% of the time!

Click here to make the recipe.

Cabbage Apple Salad

Get ready for a new fall classic! This colorful cabbage apple salad is a great combination of textures and sweet and savory flavors.

Click here to make the recipe.

Avocado, Apple, And Walnut Endive Cups

You have to get creative on a raw vegan diet, and these avocado, apple, and walnut endive cups with a rustic dressing are truly to die for. The natural sweetness of the apple helps balance the more assertive, somewhat bitter endive flavor.

Click here to make the recipe.

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There is a common misconception about breast cancer, and it is thinking that you aren’t at risk if you don’t have a family history of it. The simple fact is that only 12% of people diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of the disease. There are other risk factors that you should be aware of, including a sedentary lifestyle and taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Health experts estimate that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Given that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s an important time for women to focus on prevention, education, and early detection. When you are knowledgeable about breast cancer, you can help reduce the risk of developing it and detect early issues. Continue reading to learn about five things every woman should know about breast cancer. 

Know Your Risk Factors

As is the case with many forms of cancer, risk factors vary from person to person. Family history, aging, and more are beyond your control, but understanding them can help you develop preventative measures. Statistically, women with close relatives (sister, mother, or daughter) who have had breast cancer have a higher risk. BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are genetic mutations, also significantly increase the chances of developing breast cancer. Early menstruation, late menopause, and not having children are other risk factors to consider. When you know your risk factors, you can work with your healthcare provider to create a personalized screening plan.

When To Start Screening

Ideally, you should have annual breast exams at the doctor’s office starting at the age of 18. Annual mammograms should begin between the ages of 35 and 40. Health experts also encourage women to examine their own breasts monthly at the end of their period when breasts are the most tender. You should know your breasts better than anyone, so you should alert your doctor if you notice any lumps, swelling, nipple discharge or inversion, or any other changes. 

Pay Attention To Breast Rashes

Inflammatory breast cancer is a very aggressive form of cancer that presents itself as a rash. Some of the symptoms include:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Pain and/or itchiness
• Severely enlarged pores on the breast(s)

Doctors tend to misdiagnose inflammatory breast cancer as dermatitis (a common skin infection) or mastitis (breast tissue inflammation) because it looks like a regular rash. If your rash does not respond to antibiotics within five days, your doctor may need to take a skin sample to test for cancer. 

Lifestyle Choices Make A Difference

Although not all cases of breast cancer are preventable, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk. Statistically, people who consume a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds have a lower risk of cancer than those who consume a lot of processed foods, saturated fat, and refined carbs. Additionally, regular physical activity, such as 30 minutes of moderately-intense exercise per day, can help reduce the risk of breast cancer. Finally, health experts urge women to maintain a healthy weight, especially after menopause, because excess body fat can increase estrogen levels and contribute to cancer risk. 

Symptoms To Watch Out For

Most women know to look for lumps, as that is the most common indicator of breast cancer. Changes in breast size, shape, or skin texture (dimpling) can be red flags. It’s also possible for some women to experience redness or swelling of the breast, which could indicate inflammatory breast cancer (as we mentioned earlier). Early detection of these symptoms can lead to quicker diagnosis and treatment. If you notice something, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor about it. 

At Dherbs, we believe that Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to value the importance of early detection. That said, we don’t think that women should just focus on their health during October. Maintaining overall health and wellness is a year-round endeavor. Should you want to help cleanse the female reproductive system and optimize female health, consider our Female Cleanse.

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The leaves change, the weather gets cooler, and the scent of pumpkin spice emanates from almost every coffee shop. If those things do not indicate fall, we don’t know what will. A lot of people also spend more time indoors, due to colder weather, and that just so happens to coincide with the arrival of cold and flu season. If you like to take a more proactive approach to health, which includes strengthening the immune system, that can only benefit you this fall.

Why Prioritize Immune Health Now?

The immune system works round the clock to protect the body from harmful pathogens. There is no magic pill that guarantees full immunity, but there are many practical, science-backed methods that can help you enhance immune defense. Getting a head start on immune support is integral to having a vibrant fall and winter. Build up your resilience before you come down with the common cold or flu. Consider the following strategies to fuel your immune system this fall. 

Get Creative When You Feel Too Tired To Exercise

Movement is better than no movement at all, as physical activity improves circulation, lowers stress, and helps immune cells travel throughout the body with ease. Physical activity can also boost energy levels, enhance digestive function, and improve brain health. Sometimes, you don’t want to go to the gym or spin class on colder fall days. That’s completely fine, but it’s important to get creative in order to fit some movement into your day. That can be as simple as a 15-minute walk through the neighborhood, following a 25-minute yoga video in the living room, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Consistency is key, and even short bursts of activity can help encourage better immune function. 

Stay Hydrated

When the weather is colder, it is more common for people to avoid water. The reason for this is because they don’t feel like they need to hydrate because of the summer heat. Water works to carry nutrients to cells and helps the body flush out toxins, two processes that are vital to optimal immune function. By drinking plenty of water throughout the day (more than you think you need), you can help keep up the body’s natural defenses. You can also enhance hydration by eating water-rich foods and drinking herbal teas. Just remember that caffeinated beverages and sugary drinks can dehydrate the body. 

Prioritize Quality Sleep

Sleep is not a luxury; rather, it is a necessity. That is true whether you are discussing immune function, mental health, stress, or digestion. During sleep, the body produces cytokines, which are protective proteins that are essential for fighting inflammation and infection. Sleep experts encourage people to get seven to nine hours of sleep per night. To maintain healthy sleep habits, establish a consistent sleep schedule, even on the weekends, and create a relaxing bedtime routine to ensure restful sleep. Lastly, make sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet to facilitate healthy sleep. 

Keep Stress Levels Down

It’s common to experience stress every now and again. Maybe your in-laws are visiting or you have $20 riding on a football game. Problems arise when stress becomes chronic, as it can actually suppress the immune system and make you more susceptible to illness. Finding ways to manage stress can go a long way in keeping cortisol levels in check. Try spending time in nature, connecting with loved ones, meditation, yoga, or engaging in hobbies that take your mind off things. If stress becomes unmanageable and overwhelming, consider talking to your primary care provider or a mental health specialist. 

Don’t Forget Hand Hygiene

This is a simple act that offers a lot of protection, yet many people neglect proper hand hygiene. Perhaps their hands come in contact with many high-touch surfaces (shopping carts, doorknobs, etc.) and then they put their hands in the eyes, mouth, or nose. If those surfaces had germs on them, those germs could then enter the body and cause infection. If you touch something dirty, take 20 seconds to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. That is especially true after you cough, sneeze, or use the restroom.

Fuel The Body With Nutrition

What you eat impacts your overall health, including your immune system. Health experts suggest people focus on consuming an array of colorful fruits and vegetables as a way to diversify antioxidant intake. Whole fruits and vegetables also offer integral vitamins, minerals, and compounds that encourage healthy immune function. In addition to eating the rainbow, it is best to consume: 

• Whole grains: they provide sustained energy because of the fiber content. Fiber works to enhance gut health, which is closely linked to immune function. 
• Healthy fats: essential for reducing inflammation and enhancing nutrient absorption, you can find these in nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil, and avocado oil.
• Probiotic foods: sauerkraut, kefir, yogurt, kombucha, kimchi, natto, and miso are all rich in probiotics, which support a healthy microbiome. A higher presence of healthy bacteria in the gut has been linked to better immune function.

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Amla berry, or Indian gooseberry, is an ancient food that has a special place in Ayurvedic medicine. Exhibiting nearly twice the antioxidant power of acai berry and 17 times that of the pomegranate, amla berry contributes to better immune, heart, skin, liver, and kidney function. It also acts as a diuretic agent, which helps to balance stomach acids, fortify the liver, and enhance food absorption. 

What Is Amla Berry?

According to Indian folklore, this berry came from “…the first tree to appear on earth.” Manifested from the tears of Brahma during meditation, the amla berry has been revered by ancient health practitioners. It’s an extremely sour berry that grows on a tree native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Southeast Asia. It exhibits powerful antioxidant properties, which is why many people consume it to boost the health of the skin, hair, and immune system. Amla berry has a fibrous texture and people in India eat it with salt and chili powder. It is also available in powder, tea, pickled, and dried form. 

Amla Berry Nutrition

One cup of amla berries contains one gram of protein, seven grams of fiber, 15 grams of carbs, and less than one gram of fat. Amla berry also contains copper, vitamins B5 & B6, manganese, potassium, and lots of vitamin C. In fact, one cup of amla berries offers 46% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin C. Continue reading to learn how amla berry can benefit your overall health.

Supports Healthy Digestion

Some research indicates that amla berry may support a healthy digestive system. One study monitored 68 people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) who took two 500-milligram tablets of amla extract twice daily for four weeks. The results found that the participants experienced significant reductions in frequency of heartburn and regurgitation. Older animal studies found that amla extract may work to heal or even prevent stomach ulcers. Researchers believe that this is due to the antioxidant content. Amla berry also stimulates the secretion of gastric and digestive juices, helping the body digest food easily while absorbing nutrients optimally.

May Control Blood Sugar

Amla berry contains chromium, which has therapeutic effects for people with diabetes. Chromium works to stimulate the isolated group of cells that secrete insulin, which may reduce blood sugar in people with diabetes. By reducing blood sugar, cells can use glucose as functional energy, which prevents the plunges and spikes of blood sugar. Additionally, a 2011 study found that amla fruit exhibited anti-hyperglycemic and lipid-lowering effects on type 2 diabetics. 

Promotes Heart Health

Many studies suggest that consuming the juice of amla berries can positively impact heart health. One study found that supplementing with amla extract for 12 weeks helped reduce several risk factors of heart disease in overweight or obese adults. This study also found that cholesterol levels and inflammatory markers reduced after amla extract consumption. In a separate study, people consumed 500-milligrams of amla extract twice daily for 12 weeks. The participants, who had abnormal blood lipid levels, were able to reduce total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol. Additionally, the participants who consumed amla extract had a 39% reduction in atherogenic index of plasma. Atherogenic index is used to evaluate the risk of excess cholesterol build-up in the arteries. 

May Boost Immunity

The vitamin C, vitamin A, alkaloids, flavonoids (like quercetin and kampferol), and polyphenols in amla berry all contribute to optimal immune function. One study found that amla berry exhibited potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. According to Ayurvedic medicine, amla berry works to increase white blood cell production, helping the body defend itself against foreign invaders. A review of studies determined that vitamin C may help prevent certain infections and shorten the duration of the common cold, provided people consume it regularly.

May Increase Hair Growth

There are several studies surrounding amla berry’s ability to prevent hair loss or contribute to hair growth. One study found that amla berry was able to block a specific enzyme that is involved with hair loss. A separate test-tube study found that amla extract may stimulate hair growth by promoting the growth of specific cells in hair follicles. Amla powder is a common addition to many hair tonics because it helps enrich hair pigmentation and growth. Applying amla oil to the roots may strengthen roots and help hair maintain color. Researchers attribute this ability to the carotene content of amla.

You can consume amla fruit fresh, as a fruit juice, or in dried powder form. It’s typically safe to consume, but consult a medical expert if you want to use it for medicinal reasons. Certain cautions may be advised, depending on the state of your health. Amla fruit is in both our Vitamin C formula and Anti-V formula, both of which are in the Immune Booster Kit. Snag your kit now to help optimize immune function for a healthier fall season.

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You have to keep your salads interesting if you want to keep your taste buds interested. A bland salad with the same ingredients and dressing is neither appetizing nor satisfying. In fact, you’ll probably seek out some more food shortly after eating it. That is why we recommend experimenting with different ingredients. Consider taking out leafy greens (even though we love them) and focus on a variety of other ingredients.

This salad takes inspiration from the classic Middle Eastern salad, which tends to have several variations from country to country. It is very simple, but the flavors are bright, powerful, and highly addictive. Plus, it is naturally rich in water-rich produce items, so eating it contributes to your overall water intake for the day.

Key Ingredients

Cucumber: Cucumber is a naturally detoxifying effect on the body, working to cleanse the liver. In addition to being a natural diuretic, cucumber also contains several integral nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium, and potassium, among others.

Tomatoes: They are plump, juicy, and naturally rich in lycopene, beta-carotene, flavonoids, folate, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Studies indicate that tomatoes may help protect the skin, eyes, ones, and heart, in addition to helping reduce inflammation.

Basil: The classic pesto leaf has many purposes, and several health benefits to boot. Many researchers attribute basil’s health benefits to the diverse antioxidant profile. Basil works to reduce inflammation, enhance immune function, protect the liver, and regulate blood sugar.

Red onion: Not everyone enjoys onion in their salad, but they do work very well with the other ingredients in this specific salad. They have a diverse and rich nutritional profile, offering lots of fiber, potassium, vitamin C, B vitamins, and potassium, a mineral that aids cellular function, fluid balance, muscle contraction, and more. Researchers confirm that onions are an excellent source of antioxidants, containing at least 17 different antioxidant compounds, including anthocyanins.

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It is not uncommon for people to seek out new ways to lose weight, get fit, or become healthier overall. From eating more vegetables and exercising daily to meditating, there are many ways to be healthier. But what practices unlock optimal gut health? Health experts suggest that adopting a consistent morning routine can set your digestive system on the right path every day. 

Starting the day with poor digestive function can make you feel uncomfortable, sluggish, and tired. If gut issues become chronic, you could face more serious health issues. Prioritize a morning routine to kickstart your metabolism, regulate bowel movements, and reduce bloating. Consider the following tips to enhance gut health, optimize nutrient absorption, and prevent constipation. 

Drink Water As Soon As You Wake Up

Mornings can be very hectic, and it is very easy to go straight for the caffeine if you feel very tired. You don’t need to start your day with an Instagram-worthy breakfast, but you should at least make it a point to drink 16 ounces of water before you put anything else in your body. Not only does this put you on a path to avoid dehydration, but it also positively affects the lining of the intestine. Studies show that properly hydrating can help prevent constipation and help the body break down food in the stomach. Ideally, you should drink half your body weight in ounces of water throughout the day, but starting the day with 16 ounces is the way to set your digestive system up for success.

Engage In Gentle Movement

You do not have to engage in an intense interval workout first thing in the morning. In fact, most people don’t have the energy for that upon arising from a deep slumber. Try your best to incorporate 15 to 30 minutes of light cardiovascular exercise into your morning routine. Gastroenterologists agree that colorectal cancer (the second most lethal form of cancer in the U.S.) cases are on the rise. They encourage people to move their body to avoid health risks that stem from constipation and other serious digestive disorders. 

Eat A Balanced Breakfast

A lot of people are confused on what a balanced breakfast looks like. To some, a balanced breakfast is an egg on toast with some tomatoes and a glass of milk. To others, a balanced breakfast is a sugary bowl of packaged oatmeal. Ideally, you consume a variety of foods that contain healthy fats, fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates. Consider plain Greek yogurt mixed with almond butter and fresh berries. A fruit and vegetable smoothie is another great breakfast option. Steel cut oats with almond butter and diced apples is another option. Avoid processed foods like frozen waffles and refined, sugary carbs, such as white bread, donuts, and packaged baked goods. A nutrient-rich breakfast helps feed the good bacteria in the gut, which not only fuels the digestive system, but also keeps you energized and full until your next meal.

Drink Lemon Water Before Your Coffee

As we mentioned earlier in this article, it is best to start your day with 16 ounces of water. The next step could be drinking a cup of warm water mixed with the juice of half of a lemon. Sip this slowly and do not gulp it down for maximum benefits. Drinking lemon water can help stimulate bile production, which helps the body break down fats. It can also alkalize the body to reduce gut inflammation, while simultaneously hydrating the intestines for smoother, easier bowel movements. 

Practice Deep Breathing Before You Eat

Before you eat your healthy, balanced breakfast, make sure to engage in some deep breathing exercises. Stress can interfere with optimal digestive function, as it triggers gut-brain axis dysfunction. This can commonly lead to indigestion, so we encourage you to try five minutes of diaphragmatic breathing for five minutes before you eat.

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For centuries, people around the world have turned to a variety of herbs, tonics, and specialized drinks for health benefits. Tepache originated in Mexico and kombucha originated in northeastern China. So it’s safe to say that each culture has their own beneficial, gut-enhancing beverage. To this day, there is no shortage of drinks that promise better gut health. Some drinks have made this list due to clever marketing, but a growing body of research shines a light on the digestive benefits of certain beverages. With so many drinks that claim to support gut health, though, how can you know which one is really worth its salt? 

Why Should You Drink Gut-Healthy Drinks?

Your goal should always be to support the gut microbiome with prebiotics and probiotics. Your microbiome consists of good bacteria and unhealthy bacteria. The more good bacteria in the gut, the better your digestive and immune systems function. Researchers continue to learn all the ways the microbiome affects overall health via new studies. 

Gut-healthy drinks work to support the gut microbiome, but the benefits don’t stop there. The beverages in this article contain important vitamins and antioxidants that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Sure, probiotic supplements and foods have these benefits, but sometimes it is a little easier to reach for one of the following drinks. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

As a quick note, it’s imperative that you do not take a shot of apple cider vinegar. That can burn the throat and cause acid reflux. Instead, mix a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar in about 12 ounces of water. You can add a squeeze of lemon to mellow the intensity of the vinegar if you prefer, as lemon will only enhance the benefits. Apple cider vinegar, much like kefir or kombucha, is a fermented liquid. Make sure to purchase apple cider vinegar with “the mother,” which is a thick layer of bacteria and yeast that ferments the apple juice. It contains probiotics that encourage optimal gut health. Some research indicates that apple cider vinegar helps to ease bloating, while other research shows that it may worsen gastrointestinal symptoms. 

Green Tea

Green tea has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine, but it is a popular beverage in present day. There is a lot of research to substantiate green tea’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The gut breaks down green tea’s polyphenols to promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Enjoy green tea hot or iced, as the temperature does not affect the benefits. What does affect the benefits, however, is what you add to it. If you add tons of sugar, milk, or syrups, you essentially cancel out the benefits. 

Ginger Tea

Ginger is a zesty spice that lends itself to a variety of different foods and beverages. Historically, it has been used in various medicinal applications because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help relieve nausea, soothe a sore throat, and promote stomach motility, which is the process the gut performs to digest food and liquids. Encouraging this process can ease symptoms of heartburn and bloating. All of that said, more research is still necessary to show ginger’s effect on gut health. The good news is that ginger and ginger tea are both widely available and affordable. You can boil ginger root on its own or steep the tea bags in hot water. It does have a kick, so feel free to sweeten it with raw agave or stevia.

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When the pipes are clogged, life is no fun. You sit and strain on the toilet, but nothing comes out, except intense grunts and frustration. The fact is: you are constipated. Constipation, in addition to being quite frustrating, is fairly common, affecting between 12 to 19% of the American population chronically. 

What Is Constipation?

Constipation is the most common digestive complaint and is associated with reduced quality of life and a substantial amount of economic costs. The Mayo Clinic classifies constipation as having fewer than three bowel movements per week. Additionally, people also have difficulty passing stool, and the stool is hard, dry, and lumpy. It typically stems from a lack of fiber and fluids in the diet and lack of physical exercise, but it can be caused by certain health conditions and medications. 

For a select number of people, constipation is a chronic condition. For others, it is a rare occurrence that can be remedied by changing routine, changing dietary habits, and exercising regularly. No matter the cause of your constipation, you can find relief; it just depends on how you do it. Continue reading to learn about several tips to relieve constipation at home. 

Adjust Your Diet

If you are struggling with constipation, look to your kitchen for answers. You need to enrich your diet with fiber in order to keep your stool soft and bulky. Some great fiber-rich foods include oats, lentils, chickpeas, broccoli, flaxseed, black beans, carrots, apples, pistachios, raspberries, kale, and pears. Additionally, eliminate highly processed foods, fried foods, and high-fat foods from your diet, as they have very little fiber and can contribute to cardiovascular disease. As a final note on fiber, it is possible for too much to cause bloating and gas. Always pair your fiber intake with water, or else constipation may worsen. 

Drink Lots Of Water

Water is essential for many bodily processes, including lubricating the digestive tract to help the body pass stool. Feeling backed up? Pour yourself a nice tall glass of water and drink it immediately. Additionally, reduce your intake of caffeinated beverages, as caffeine dehydrates the body by increasing urination. Health experts also warn against alcoholic beverages because they can irritate the digestive tract. 

Squat

You do not have to squat all the way down to the ground, which may be quite difficult for some, in order to poop. That said, the best position for pooping involves the knees to be above the hips. That position helps move things along without the need to strain. These days, there are many products that can help you get into that squatting position. You can also hug your knees or rest your feet on a small stool while you sit on the toilet. 

Do Not Hold It In

This seems like a no-brainer, but there are a lot of people who refuse to poop unless they are in the comfort of their own home. When nature calls, do not ignore it. Do not avoid a public restroom, unless it is unfathomably dirty. Additionally, do not become too busy for your body, as that is a common trigger for constipation.

Increase Physical Activity

If you want to get things moving, you have to move yourself. In fact, take your poop not moving as a sign to get moving! When you exercise, you accelerate several bodily functions, such as circulation and the amount of oxygen that exists in the blood. You also engage the muscles that are responsible for pushing waste out of the body. A 10-minute walk or several chair exercises may be enough to get things moving. 

Give Yourself Some Time

If you feel that your time to eliminate is in the morning, try to wake up a little earlier to give yourself more time. You can eat breakfast, read an article, or watch a show before allowing your bowels to move. Warm drinks, such as hot tea or black coffee, can encourage you to go. Plus, you probably feel more relaxed using your bathroom at home. Don’t get too relaxed, though, because the more time you spend on the toilet, the likelier you are to strain, which can cause hemorrhoids. Limit your toilet time to 10 minutes and don’t force anything out. 

Manage Your Stress

There is a connection between what goes on in your head and what happens in your gut. In fact, it is very common for people with depression or anxiety to experience constipation. When the body is stressed, it is in fight-or-flight mode. Excess stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, flow throughout the body and can slow digestion and other bodily functions. Long-term stress can lead to a sluggish gut, so learn to manage your stress with breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, or journaling. Find what works for you and run with it!

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There is no doubt that you have seen or been to a smoothie establishment. There are healthy options, seemingly healthy options, and glorified milkshakes. Some of the recipes even state that they contain juice and ice cream. Those smoothies do not do anything for your overall health. In fact, they only make you crave unhealthy foods and increase your sugar intake. 

On the other hand, a smoothie can be an excellent source of easy-to-digest fuel for the entire body, especially your muscles. That should be of great interest if you are focusing on your gains in the gym. With the following ingredients, you can ensure your smoothies will be nutrient-dense, instead of detracting from your progress. 

Spirulina

It’s possible that this ingredient may not be a go-to selection for you, but it is one of the most nutrient-dense ingredients on this list. Familiarize yourself with spirulina, which is a blue-green algae that is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, B-vitamins, zinc, iron, beta-carotene, and so much more. Just remember that a little goes a long way and it can have a seaweed-like taste, so don’t treat this like protein powder. 

Beets

Yes, you can add beets to your smoothie and make it taste good! Beets exhibit anti-inflammatory activity and are rich in iron, folate, and several B-vitamins. A one-cup serving of beets also offers 442 milligrams (mg) of potassium, which may help lower blood pressure. The body can better absorb iron when you consume it with vitamin C, so pair beets with citrus fruits, apples, and carrots for better nutrient absorption.

Cinnamon

Fruits and vegetables get a lot of love and support as smoothie ingredients, but spices like cinnamon are typically neglected. Cinnamon is as versatile as it is aromatic and flavorful. According to several studies, cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar, making it an excellent choice for people with diabetes. It may also reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol. It is also a warming spice that goes great with bananas, almond butter, maple syrup, chia seeds, pears, and more.

Bananas

Believe it or not, every smoothie does not have to contain bananas, but it is a useful ingredient, both nutritionally and texturally. Frozen or soft, bananas bring both a natural sweetness and creamy texture to your smoothies. They are also rich in potassium, fiber, complex carbs, and vitamin B6, which is integral for optimal brain and immune function. 

Almond Butter

If you have the option to purchase raw almond butter, please do so because other varieties can include added sugars and problematic oils. Almond butter is a great smoothie ingredient because it contains monounsaturated fat and doesn’t have nearly as much saturated fat as peanut butter. It is also rich in protein and fiber, two nutrients that help keep those hunger pangs at bay. 

Non-Dairy Milk

Although water is a perfectly acceptable liquid to use in a smoothie, non-dairy milks make smoothies more creamy and filling. One of the primary benefits of non-dairy milks is that they increase calcium absorption. Regarding protein content, soy milk is the best option, but soy can be inflammatory for many people. Both almond milk and cashew milk are great options for smoothies as well. Whichever non-dairy milk you select, make sure to buy unsweetened varieties, as many contain added sugars, stabilizers, and other processed ingredients. You can also make your own non-dairy milks, which is the best and most nutritious option.

Chia Seeds

These seeds may be small, but they are mighty, packing a lot of heart-healthy omega-3s and fiber per serving. Research suggests that chia seeds may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Don’t add too many chia seeds to a smoothie, or else the texture of the smoothie may feel closer to chia pudding. As a side note, chia pudding is a great pre- or post-workout snack to fuel your muscles. 

Spinach

Popeye was leading the charge about popularizing spinach! It is a great green to add to smoothies because it doesn’t really flavor your smoothies. Add bananas and some other fruits and you won’t even know the spinach is there, besides the color. Spinach is a great source of protein, magnesium, folate, iron, and more. It also contains lutein, which promotes healthy eyesight. Spinach is also a great source of vitamin K, with one serving providing nearly 200% of the daily value. 

Raspberries

To round out the list, we have raspberries, which are low in sugar (five grams per cup) and full of fiber (eight grams per cup). Raspberries are also rich in potassium, vitamin C, and a variety of antioxidants. Pair raspberries with a protein source and your smoothie will be great for muscle building and anti-aging.

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