Ozempic, which is an injectable semaglutide, is one of the most popular type 2 diabetes drugs on the market. Within recent months, it has become more difficult to acquire because of how many people seek it out. There is one reason for the growing demand: dramatic weight loss, which is one of the common side effects. 

Wegovy, another drug and medicine, also contains semaglutide, which helps regulate blood sugar. Semaglutide helps people feel full and eat less because it curbs appetite and slows digestion in the stomach. Besides weight loss, other side effects of semaglutide include diarrhea, nausea, headaches, and constipation. 

Ozempic and Wegovy have been on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug shortage list for several months. Although there are other type 2 diabetes medications that work in a similar fashion, they don’t induce weight loss in the same way. Because of the shortage and high out-of-pocket cost, many patients decided to stop taking Ozempic. How could they maintain the same weight loss they experienced while taking the medication? That depends on each person, but it’s also possible to experience the following things after stopping Ozempic. 

Appetite Returns

While taking Ozempic, people eat less because semaglutide slows digestion. That keeps food in the stomach for longer and increases feelings of fullness. Ozempic also trigger changes in the brain that actually reduce hunger and curb feelings of satisfaction that accompany eating. For example, you may only be able to eat a few bites of pizza while using semaglutide, whereas you could eat half a pizza prior to using it. That rapid feeling of fullness goes away as soon as you stop taking Ozempic, causing you to eat more, so following a low-calorie diet becomes very difficult. 

You’ll Regain Weight

When you stop feeling full and your appetite returns, the first thing that you reach for is more food. The unfortunate reality is that medication, like Ozempic shouldn’t be the only treatment plan for people with type 2 diabetes or obesity. Healthy lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, are necessary for long-term success and health. Without those lifestyle changes accompanying the use of Ozempic, users will most likely regain weight and suffer from poor blood sugar control.

Blood Sugar Climbs

For those with type 2 diabetes who take Ozempic to manage blood sugar, halting treatment may cause blood sugar to return to pre-medication levels. Endocrinologists explain that Ozempic treats the chronic disease of diabetes, so people can expect the condition to worsen once they stop using it. As previously explained, Ozempic helps people eat less, so stopping treatment may cause them to eat larger portions and more calories. All of that amounts to an increase in blood sugar. Even if people manage to control their eating habits once they stop taking Ozempic, blood sugar may still rise because the drug boosts insulin production, a hormone involved in blood sugar control.  

Ozempic Face Will Go Away

Experiencing rapid weight loss from Ozempic use can affect the skin and reduce fat all over the body, including the face. Ozempic users who lost dramatic amounts of weight reported that their faces appeared shrunken, dehydrated, and gaunt. Dubbed “Ozempic face,” this physical change is contingent with other instances of dramatic weight loss. Stopping Ozempic can reverse these facial changes, especially if users regain weight. If the face doesn’t return back to normal after stopping treatment, injectable facial fillers from a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon can address the situation.

Side Effects Will Subside

In addition to weight loss, Ozempic users can experience nausea, constipation, vomiting, heartburn, gas, headaches, and dizziness. Not all users experience these side effects and some only experience mild versions of those side effects. How you eat and what you eat can also make a difference in whether you experience side effects or not. Reducing the consumption of dietary fat, consuming smaller portions, and not skipping meals can help reduce the chances of experiencing these side effects. Users that stuck with Ozempic treatment and still experienced those side effects would see them go away after stopping the medication.

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Get ready to eat just about every color of the rainbow with these raw vegan collard wraps. They are quick and easy to make and pack one of the biggest nutritional punches you’ll ever enjoy. The wraps include shredded purple cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, sliced avocado, and alfalfa sprouts, and a delicious tahini-based dressing that ties everything together. Feel free to swap out ingredients for others that you either have in your fridge, or ones that you enjoy better. Just make sure that the ingredients you use are cleanse-approved, provided you are cleansing.

The trick for wraps is rolling them without breaking the collard green leaves. In order to roll the collard leaves easily, remove the thick stems. Not only does this allow for even rolling, but it also gets rid of a bitter, unpleasant, fibrous bite. To do this, simply use your knife to cut away the thick stem at the bottom of the leaf. You can also shave off the back part of the stem that runs slightly up the leaf, creating a flatter surface for rolling.

Now if rolling the leaves proves too difficult, you can always turn these wraps into tacos. That said, they are much easier to eat as wraps; not to mention, a lot less messy. The choice is yours and we don’t judge over here. The important thing is that you are making a great decision (and a healthy one at that) to enjoy this recipe as your next entree!

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The link between diet and the risk of developing dementia is not new. Various eating patterns can either reduce or increase a person’s dementia risk. For example, the Mediterranean and MIND diets prioritize foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and legumes, that improve cognitive function. On the other side of the equation, there are foods that increase the risk of cognitive decline. 

It should not come as a surprise that sugar is under a white hot light. Research indicates that excess sugar intake can harm both overall health, including brain health. According to the researchers behind this new study, sugar can interact with your genetics and impact long-term brain health. Continue reading to learn about key points of the study. 

About The Study

Researchers asked the following questions for this study:

• Does sugar intake (including added and total sugars) increase the risk of dementia?
• Does a person’s genetic makeup change that relationship?

In order to answer those questions, researchers observed dietary data from over 158,000 people in the UK Biobank, a massive study looking at how genetics, environment, and lifestyle habits influence disease. Researchers also calculated the genetic risk scores for sugar metabolism, dementia risk, and gut bacteria. The reason they examined gut bacteria is because of the role the gut-brain axis plays in disease development. They monitored the number of participants diagnosed with dementia for about 10 years. 

How Does Added Sugar Increase Dementia Risk?

The results of this study were consistent with previous studies: sugar intake increases the risk of dementia. Specifically, a higher intake of free sugars (the sugars added to foods or those found in syrups and fruit juices) was linked to a 43% higher risk of dementia. In fact, even natural sugars found in fruits and dairy products were linked to a minor increased risk of dementia. That said, the presence of fiber and antioxidants in those foods outweighs any potential downsides. 

Through the study, researchers noticed that genetics influence the risk of dementia. Participants who had genes tied to poor sugar metabolism, higher dementia risk, or certain gut flora were more vulnerable to the effects of sugar. Specifically, Oscillospira and Ruminococcaceae UCG-014, two types of gut bacteria, stood out as influential to dementia risk. 

Why Are Added Sugars So Problematic?

Added sugars and free sugars (found in pure sugar sources like honey, syrup, and fruit juices) are quickly and easily absorbed into the bloodstream. Because of that, they spike blood sugar and insulin. Additionally, these foods lack the fiber and nutrients that offer brain protection, which ultimately makes them more harmful over time. 

How To Reduce Your Risk Of Dementia

There are a number of ways to reduce the risk of dementia, such as exercising and taking certain vitamins. In the case of this study, you can protect your cognition by reducing the intake of free and added sugars. Perhaps you opt for plain Greek yogurt instead of sugary, fruit-flavored yogurt. You can replace unhealthy, carbs snacks with whole foods, such as apples and almond butter. Swap out the sugary drinks with unsweetened varieties. Cook your meals at home to control the sodium and sugar content. Other science-backed ways to reduce dementia risk include:

• Stay active: Exercise benefits the heart and the brain! A 2024 study found that being physically active every day, be it walking the dog, gardening, or household chores, can help improve cognitive processing speed, which ultimately keeps the brain sharp.
• Limit alcohol intake: Various studies show that excessive alcohol intake increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. If you currently drink alcoholic beverages, consider reducing the amount and frequency at which you do so. 
• Take a vitamin D supplement: According to one study of over 1,600 older adults, those with a moderate vitamin D deficiency had a 50-70% higher risk of dementia. Supplementing with vitamin D is an effective way to help prevent a deficiency. Consult your healthcare professional to determine the right amount to take. 
• Prioritize your sleep: Quality sleep matters, not just for energy levels, but also for your brain. In fact, it is one of the most powerful ways to maintain cognitive health. Sleep helps support memory retention and reduces brain inflammation.

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Depending on who you are, breakfast may or may not be the most important meal of the day. Some people skip breakfast as part of an intermittent fasting meal plan, while others require the nutrients from that meal to power them until lunch. Given that breakfast is the first meal of the day, it is your chance to give your body nutrient-dense foods for energy and focus. 

The unfortunate reality is that there are many breakfast foods in the Standard American Diet that do more harm than good. Fueling the body with bacon, eggs, and toast is not on par with homemade chia pudding, for example. Some breakfast foods provide all-day clarity, while others cause stress and wreak havoc on your brain. Continue reading to learn about a number of breakfast foods that can cause stress and make the brain tired. 

Loaded Coffee

What is a loaded coffee? We can assure you that it is not a velvety cup of black coffee that you made with a French press or pour over. A loaded coffee contains refined sugars (a lot of them), artificial flavors, and dairy, all of which increase inflammation in the brain and body. Inflammation can increase symptoms of psychological stress and impair cognitive functions. Avoid the sugary treat and consider straight black coffee or an almond milk cappuccino. 

Cereals

There are a handful of breakfast cereals that have their benefits, but most cereals are loaded with sugars. Are they easy to prepare in the morning? Absolutely, but that is because you only need to add your choice of milk or non-dairy milk. Unfortunately, cereal boasts no cognitive benefits, as most varieties are devoid of nutrients. It is better to nourish the body with whole grains, nuts, and healthy fats. A great example of that is a bowl of oatmeal or overnight oats. Don’t miss your opportunity to nourish your body!

Fruity Yogurts

You have seen the strawberry banana or vanilla yogurt with granola pack in the grocery store before. These are sugar bombs, but the yogurt aspect makes you think it is a healthy breakfast choice. Plain Greek yogurt with fresh berries, however, is a great breakfast option that can promote gut and brain health. Fruit-flavored yogurts are different, and you can see that difference by reading the nutrition label. For your reference, four grams of sugar equates to one teaspoon, so make sure that you are not consuming eight to 10 grams of sugar per serving on something that is supposed to be healthy. 

“The Detective”

We are giving this name to the classic combo of donuts and coffee, due to the stereotypical police officer/detective eating donuts and drinking coffee. Plain black coffee can provide some valuable nutrients, but that donut does away with it all. Not only does eating a donut make you want to eat more, but it also makes you crave unhealthy carbs. Donuts are loaded with pro-inflammatory carbohydrates and inflammatory oils. Both can set you up for short-term brain fog and poor memory outcomes in the long run. 

All-Fruit Smoothies

A smoothie is a great way to deliver a lot of nutrients to the body in one fell swoop. It is a great breakfast item, but the problem is when you only include fruit in the smoothie. You don’t want to make a sweet milkshake in disguise, which is why we encourage you to blend a mixture of fruits and vegetables. If you only consume all-fruit smoothies, you may experience a big blood sugar spike, which can cause an energy crash a few hours later. Don’t let yourself become a victim of fatigue, anxiety, and general irritability! 

Breakfast Burritos

A breakfast burrito can be made with healthy ingredients. If you only include eggs, bacon, potatoes, and cheese, though, you may wind up feeling bloated and run-down. The tortilla also introduces unnecessary simple carbohydrates and refined starches. If you want to make a breakfast burrito healthier for the gut and brain, consider skipping the wrap and enjoy some scrambled eggs with fresh vegetables, black beans, and a splash of salsa.

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Summer is approaching quickly, which means warmer days and an increased risk of dehydration. The intense heat calls for more water consumption, but plain H2O can bore the palate. Since water is still the ultimate hydrating beverage, you cannot abandon it completely, but you can enhance it by making detox waters.

What Are Detox Waters?

Detox waters are easy to make because all you have to do is include a variety of fruits, herbs, or vegetables in your water. Not only do these ingredients add refreshing flavors to your water, but they can also assist with fat burning and toxin elimination. Think of detox waters as a simpler version of homemade juices or smoothies without all the prep work. You still reap the benefits of the ingredients in the water! Additionally, people are more inclined to drink water that has flavor, as opposed to regular water. 

If a slimmer body is your summer goal, the best gift you can give yourself is a series of detox water recipes. Since hydration is one of the most integral components to weight loss, it is wise to drink up, but not with caloric-rich beverages. During warmer weather, people tend to eat less and sweat more. That’s great news if you want to lose weight. You do, however, have to replenish the electrolytes you lose via sweat. Add the following detox waters to your summer weight loss regimen and you could emerge a slimmer, healthier version of yourself. 

5 Detox Water Recipes

Green Apple, Cucumber, & Mint Detox Water

All of the ingredients in this detox water have a common denominator: they’re all green. Mint is a natural breath freshener and aids with digestion. Cucumbers enhance hydration and contain antioxidants that may reduce the risk of heart disease. Apples are rich in fiber and the minerals may work to enhance metabolism. In a pitcher, combine half of a cucumber (thinly sliced), half of an apple (thinly sliced), and a handful of mint. Fill with water and refrigerate for a couple hours before serving.

Lemon Blueberry Detox Water

Besides being one of the most beautiful detox waters on this list, this lemon blueberry detox water is rich in antioxidants. According to several studies, blueberries may help to improve memory, fight urinary tract infections, and reduce overall cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Both blueberries and lemons are naturally rich in vitamin C, which can enhance immune function. Lemons also help to promote alkalinity within the body, and they assist with toxin elimination. In 16 ounces of water, combine about 4-6 thin slices of lemon and 10-15 blueberries. Refrigerate for a couple hours and then enjoy.

Pomegranate, Mint, & Lemon Detox Water

There isn’t a negative thing to say about the ingredients in this detox water. Pomegranates have been known to decrease the risk of joint pain, heart disease, and certain cancers. Many studies attribute these abilities to the antioxidants. Lemon is the most used fruit during summer and it has been known to boost weight loss efforts. The vitamin C also works to rejuvenate the skin. Similarly, mint also contributes to healthier skin, and it may act as a stimulant for those who experience depression. Pour two liters of water into a large pitcher. Add in about one cup of pomegranate arils, the juice of half a lemon (then add in the half you juiced), and a handful of mint. Refrigerate this for a couple hours and then serve. 

Apple Cinnamon Detox Water

This classic dessert duo does more than make apple pie delicious. Cinnamon works to naturally boost metabolism and enhance your body’s fat burning power. As well mentioned earlier, applies are rich in fiber, which may assist with improving digestion. Additionally, apples are low in fat and can help alleviate breathing troubles for asthmatics. To make this detox water, add half of an apple (thinly sliced) and one teaspoon of cinnamon to 24 ounces of purified water. You can add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to the mix if you want to boost the fat-burning benefits. Just like the other recipes, refrigerate this mixture for a couple hours before serving. It works best if you drink this in the morning.

Grapefruit Mint Detox Water

For this final detox water, get ready to experience numerous health benefits and optimal hydration. Grapefruit is naturally rich in vitamin C and has been known to aid with liver cleansing, skin rejuvenation, cholesterol reduction, and fat burning. Additional studies found that grapefruit may increase metabolism, encourage optimal digestion, and protect against kidney stones. Mint may be able to treat your stomach woes, but it can also enhance immune function, given that it’s rich in vitamins A, C, D, & E, and phosphorus and calcium. To make this detox water, cut a large grapefruit into thin slices and add them to a pitcher of water that has four to five cups of filtered water. Add a handful of mint and give it a stir. Refrigerate for a couple hours before serving. 

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A new study investigated the release of microplastics from natural and synthetic chewing gums. According to researchers, chewing a single piece of gum could release hundreds to thousands of microplastic particles into saliva. Those particles originate from the gum’s base, which tends to contain synthetic polymers. The study suggests that regular gum chewers may be ingesting significant amounts of microplastics without knowing it.

What Are Microplastics?

As the name suggests, microplastics are small pieces of plastic that range from one micrometer to five millimeters long. These synthetic solid polymeric matrices are insoluble in water. They cause pollution by entering natural ecosystems through a network of different sources, including clothing, cosmetics, food packaging, renovation, and construction. The actual term “microplastics” differentiates larger, non-microscopic plastic waste from the micro fragments. 

What Did The Study Show?

The pilot study was presented at the American Chemical Society’s spring 2025 meeting, revealing the dangers of microplastics entering saliva via chewing gum. The microplastics in saliva are potentially ingested, posing a larger risk to overall health. Researchers at UCLA conducted experiments involving a single participant who chewed seven pieces each of 10 different gum brands. The gums were both natural and synthetic varieties. Researchers took saliva samples after chewing and analyzed them using filtration and chemical analysis techniques, including microscopy, to quantify and identify microplastics. 

In order to ensure accuracy, microplastics that were present in initial rinse samples were subtracted from the ones researchers found in chewing gum saliva samples. The researchers tested 10 popular chewing gum brands of synthetic and natural gums. For clarification, synthetic gums are made from plastic-based polymers, while natural gums are derived from plant-based materials, such as chicle.

The participant chewed each type of gum, and this person’s saliva was analyzed after chewing each piece. The goal was to quantify the number of microplastics released while chewing each type of gum. Study authors focused on the initial minutes of chewing, the time during which most microplastic release was expected to take place. 

The Study’s Key Findings

Researchers observed that, on average, one gram of gum released approximately 100 microplastic particles. Some brands even released up to 600 particles per gram! That means that a large piece of gum could potentially release more than 3,000 microplastic particles. The majority of the identified microplastics were released within the first eight minutes of chewing. 

Both synthetic and natural gums released similar amounts of microplastics, averaging 100 particles per gram. The particles that researchers identified included polymers, such as polyolefins, polyacrylamides, polystyrenes, and polyterephthalates. These materials are commonly found in consumer plastics. For people who chew around 180 pieces of gum annually, that could result in ingesting over 30,000 microplastic particles per year. 

Dangers Of Microplastics

It should be noted that the study did not identify a direct link between microplastic ingestion from gum and certain health conditions. That said, other studies have found microplastics detected in various human tissues, including the lungs, placenta, bloodstream, and brain. The presence of microplastics in the body is linked to inflammation, organ dysfunction, and DNA damage. 

More research is still necessary about the specific risks from gum-derived microplastics. Health experts suggest that you avoid regular gum chewing due to the potential health risks associated with microplastic consumption. Some of those risks include:

• Chemical toxicity: Microplastic particles can carry environmental toxins, including heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which can be released into the body after ingestion.
• Gastrointestinal issues: It’s possible for microplastics to irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to general discomfort and inflammation. 
• Endocrine disruption: There are certain chemicals leached from microplastics that can interfere with hormone functions. That could lead to metabolic disorders and reproductive health issues. 
• Cellular damage: There are several studies that suggest that microplastics can cause DNA damage and oxidative stress.

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During the summer months, melons are the freshest they will ever be, no matter if it is a watermelon, cantaloupe, or honeydew. The honeydew, and other melons, have a rich water content, aiding your hydration efforts during those hot summer days. Most melons are over 90% water and in the case of honeydew, it also offers iron, calcium, zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, fiber, vitamin A, lutein, folate, and beneficial fatty acids.

Honeydew isn’t the only hydrating ingredient in this smooth. Cucumber also brings with it a boatload of water and other integral nutrients that contribute to healthy bodily function. It provides vitamin K, vitamin C, and other antioxidant compounds. The chia seeds offer beneficial omega-3 fatty acids that work to enhance brain, gut, and heart health. We don’t just want to bore you with a long list of nutritional benefits, though. Ultimately, this smoothie is about the incredibly refreshing flavor!

Because this smoothie contains honeydew and banana, you probably do not need to add the maple syrup. That is entirely up to you, but consider omitting it first, taste the smoothie, and add the maple syrup if you really crave a sweeter flavor profile. The spinach is also optional, but adds more nutrients. You don’t have to worry about that leafy green ruining the flavor of the smoothie at all. You can’t even taste it! As long as you have a sweet and scrumptious honeydew, that’ll be the primary flavor you taste when you enjoy this smoothie.

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People have been searching for ways to boost their immune systems forever. Researchers continue to investigate supplements, nutrients, and diet modifications that can encourage healthy immune function. The good news is that the lack of scientific evidence hasn’t stopped new products from emerging, usually with creative delivery systems. 

One of the more recent and popular items for healthier immune function is wellness shots. These are not alcoholic shots, nor are they the kind administered via a needle, just to be clear. These little shots claim to deliver immune-boosting nutrients via one gulp of liquid. They are readily available in grocery stores, health food stores, and juice bars. And because people want quick and efficient ways to make it through cold and flu season unscathed, these little shots are very popular. 

What Are Wellness Shots?

These little one- or two-ounce bottles contain a mixture of fruit or vegetable juices, apple cider vinegar, and herbs and spices. Some of the herbs and spices in these wellness shots have been used in traditional and folk medicine for hundreds of years. A 2022 report on the beverage industry found that these beverages have become a preferred way to obtain vitamins, more so than pills or gummies. You can down them quickly, making them more attractive than smoothies or juices. 

What Health Claims Do These Shots Make?

Lots of juices are advertised as “immune-boosting” or “germ-fighting,” but how valid are these claims? Like most foods, immunity and wellness shots can be marketed with similar vague health claims. Because they are not subject to the approval of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), wellness shots can use these types of phrases. Marketing language, therefore, is often exaggerated. 

A few common phrases that are associated with wellness shots can include “boost immunity” or “strengthen your immune system.” That means that these wellness shots imply that they will help you not get sick, or recover faster if you are already sick. In reality, the immune system is a lot more complicated than that. 

According to dietary research, adequate vitamins, minerals, macronutrients, and calories play a role in how your immune system functions. Some nutrients do have more of an impact on the growth and function of immune cells. Getting “mega doses” of those nutrients doesn’t supercharge your immune system, according to health experts. That is because the body can only use a certain percentage of those nutrients.

What Does The Research Say?

Research shows that diet will not prevent you from catching a cold, flu, or even COVID-19. That said, there is some evidence that a wellness or immunity shot can help ease cold or flu symptoms if they contain certain nutrients. Research states that both vitamin C and zinc can help shorten the duration of a cold, provided you supplement with them before getting sick. Unfortunately, the dosages of those nutrients that have been studied are not the same as the amount in immunity shots. 

Some wellness shots claim to boost energy levels or improve mental clarity, but they don’t define what that means. We need not discount the positive effects of a balanced diet, though. Diet does help improve the way the immune system functions, but it’s not the end-all, be-all. The unfortunate reality is that no food or special diet can prevent all sickness and disease. Too many other factors are out of an individual’s control. 

What To Look For In A Wellness Shot

If you want to know if a wellness shot is worth the hype, you have to check the ingredient list. Focus on the first one listed because ingredients are listed by weight. The first ingredient is the bulk of the wellness shot, according to health experts. Researchers note that several ingredients have undergone lots of scientific studies and are great additions to wellness shots. Those ingredients are as follows:

• Turmeric
• Ginger
• Oregano oil
• Vitamin C
• Zinc

The Takeaway

If you are a healthy individual, wellness shots are not going to harm your routine, unless you’re allergic to the ingredients in the shots. Unfortunately, there is no proof that taking these shots will improve your overall health or shorten the duration of illness. That said, a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables will contribute to vibrant overall health.

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Caffeine…it’s the drug that has billions of people worldwide firmly in its grasp. In the United States, an estimated nine in 10 people consume caffeine at least once per day, with coffee being the most popular caffeinated drink. This is incredibly true when you consider the amount of products that say things like, “Don’t talk to me before coffee.” If you are one of the few people who enjoy a caffeine-free lifestyle, fear not because you are not alone. 

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that consuming 400 milligrams (mg) of caffeine daily is not linked to negative side effects. That is about two to three 12-ounce cups of coffee. Health experts actually confirm that there are several benefits of consuming caffeine, including faster metabolism and lower risk of diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. That said, some researchers found a wider range of benefits by completely eliminating caffeine from your diet. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of living caffeine-free.

Better Sleep

If you drink caffeine religiously, especially later in the day, your sleep may be affected. A 2023 review found that drinking caffeine during the day could reduce total nighttime sleep and affect sleep quality. Reduced sleep and poor sleep quality can result in daytime drowsiness, stress, and excess eating. That is especially true if you drink caffeine within eight hours of going to bed. You may also find that being caffeine-free helps you fall asleep more easily. 

May Improve Dental Health

How many of you have gone to the dentist for a teeth cleaning and realized that the hygienist spends extra time on the insides of your front teeth? That is primarily stain from tea or coffee, but it can be from other things as well. Many caffeinated beverages, including energy drinks, can stain the teeth. The reason for that is because caffeinated beverages contain a lot of tannins, which cause buildup and discoloration of tooth enamel. Additionally, the acidity of caffeinated beverages can also contribute to enamel wear and decay. 

Balanced Brain Chemistry

Caffeine has an effect on your mood, which is why many people perk up after a cup of coffee. Caffeine alters brain chemistry in a similar way to drugs like cocaine, and the same can be said for sugar. Researchers note that caffeine can fulfill some of the criteria used to measure drug dependence. Consuming more than 400 mg of caffeine per day can result in caffeine withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking it. Some of these symptoms include anxiety, fatigue, headache, and sweats, and they begin 12 to 24 hours after consuming caffeine. After about nine days, the symptoms stop and you can start experiencing better alertness. 

Reduced Anxiety

If you consume too much caffeine (over 400 mg daily), you can experience feelings of anxiety and stress. Caffeine delivers a burst of energy, which is why many people consume it. That energy also stimulates the body’s fight or fight hormones, which can increase anxiety, nervousness, heart palpitations, and even panic attacks. If you are already prone to anxiety and stress, you may want to consider living a caffeine-free lifestyle. 

Lower Blood Pressure

Research on the relationship of caffeinated drinks affecting cardiovascular health and blood pressure is limited. The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests that drinking more than 12 eight-ounce cups of coffee per week can increase blood pressure, anxiety, and the risk of heart palpitations. That is most likely due to the stimulatory effect that caffeine has on the nervous system. The research is mixed because a 2023 review found that higher coffee consumption reduced the risk of  hypertension by 7%. The same report found that drinking one to three cups of coffee per day increased the risk of hypertension, so more research is needed.

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If you currently live with high blood pressure, health experts recommend taking measures to manage the condition. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, proper sleep habits, stress reducing techniques, and more can all help lower blood pressure levels. According to research, many herbs are helpful tools for regulating blood pressure and supporting heart health. In fact, many of the herbs in this article have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to benefit cardiovascular health. Continue reading to learn all about them. 

HIbiscus

Technically a beautifully stunning flower, hibiscus may be beneficial in lowering blood pressure levels when consumed as hibiscus tea. The antioxidants in hibiscus tea relax blood vessels and work to improve circulation. Some studies indicate that drinking one to three cups per day can significantly lower blood pressure. A small pilot study suggests that hibiscus may be as effective as certain blood pressure medications in treating mildly high blood pressure, but more research is needed. 

Holy Basil

Holy basil, or tulsi, is a common herb used for stress management. Since stress can contribute to high blood pressure, holy basil may be effective at lowering blood pressure. Researchers note that in addition to lowering stress hormones such as cortisol, holy basil contains compounds that help relax blood vessels and reduce inflammation. There is currently no dosage information for holy basil, but most studies have used doses of 250 to 1,200 milligrams of holy basil extract per day. 

Turmeric

The anti-inflammatory spice that makes everything nice has another benefit: potentially lowering blood pressure. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, supports the flexibility and function of blood vessels. That process can help maintain proper flow and reduce blood pressure in the process. Some studies show mixed results, but others suggest that turmeric may be effective at lowering systolic blood pressure. 

Flaxseed

Rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, flaxseed is definitely a super food. All of those nutrients have proven to be effective at lowering blood pressure and improving cardiovascular health. One meta-analysis found that supplementing with flaxseed reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Another study found that taking 30 grams of ground flaxseed daily over a 12-week period helped lower blood pressure and improve heart health. 

Garlic

Garlic’s active compound allicin works to relax blood vessels, improve circulation, and lower blood pressure, according to researchers. Studies indicate that garlic supplements, especially aged garlic extract, have been effective at reducing systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Additionally, garlic supplements, either alone or in conjunction with blood pressure medications, may reduce the risk of cardiovascular episodes related to high blood pressure, such as stroke or heart attack, by 15 to 40%. 

Cardamom

Cardamom seeds are naturally rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that help to improve circulation and relax blood vessels. One study found that cardamom supplementation led to modest reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. It is possible that cardamom may regulate blood pressure by acting as a calcium channel blocker and stimulating the production of nitric oxide, two things that support healthy blood flow.

Ginger

The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties reportedly help to lower blood pressure. It helps to improve circulation, relax blood vessels, and reduce inflammation. Several studies found that supplementing with ginger may reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure in a positive way. Small, short-term research studies suggest that it’s beneficial to supplement with three grams or more of powdered ginger daily to manage blood pressure.

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