Statins are prescription drugs that people take to lower their levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol. Health experts refer to LDL cholesterol as “bad” because of the fact that it builds up inside the arteries, making it harder for blood to move through them. Statins work by interfering when the liver produces cholesterol. They also help to lower triglycerides and may even increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol. Unlike LDL, HDL brings cholesterol to the liver, which gets it out of the body. 

Before getting on statins, some people want to see if they can lower LDL cholesterol with lifestyle changes. We encourage that decision and although diet and exercise may not lower cholesterol for everyone, a lot of people can benefit from healthier habits, some of which we detail in this article. If your cholesterol levels are already in normal range, you can help maintain them with the Dherbs Cholesterol Formula. To help lower cholesterol before statins, consider the following tips. 

Consider The Portfolio Diet

The Portfolio Diet is a plant-based eating plan that emphasizes foods that are naturally rich in fiber and healthy fats. Conceived some 20 years ago, the diet has a proven ability to lower LDL cholesterol, but none of the trials proving this lasted more than six months. For this reason, more long-term studies are necessary. When followed consistently, though, research suggests that the Portfolio Diet may lower LDL cholesterol by up to 30%, an effect comparable to a first-generation statin for some people. 

Move Your Body Every Day

Exercise is a powerful and easily accessible tool that may help lower cholesterol levels naturally. Ideally, engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, in addition to two days of strength training. Physical activity helps to elevate HDL cholesterol, lower triglycerides, and reduce visceral fat, which is metabolically active fat stored around internal organs that contributes to cardiovascular risk. People who lose between 5% to 10% of body weight can significantly improve cholesterol levels. 

Prioritize Fiber

Fiber is an often overlooked nutrient, with many people not getting enough every day. In fact, more than 90% of women and 97% of men do meet the recommended daily fiber intake. Not all fiber works the same regarding cholesterol, though. Soluble fiber exhibits the strongest LDL-lowering effect. It forms a gel-like substance in the gut, binding to cholesterol in the gastrointestinal tract and escorting it out to prevent reabsorption. Great sources of soluble fiber include:

• Apples
• Barley
• Beans
• Chia seeds
• Flaxseed
• Lentils
• Oats
• Psyllium husk

Build Your Plate Around Whole Plant-Based Foods

If you want to lower cholesterol levels in a meaningful way, eat more whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, legumes, seeds, nuts, and whole grains. All of these foods contain plant sterols, which are natural compounds that resemble cholesterol, which helps block the body’s absorption of it in the digestive tract. The sterols in vegetable oils, seeds, nuts, whole grains, vegetables, and certain fortified foods can all help lower cholesterol. In fact, getting two grams of plant sterols daily can lower LDL cholesterol by up to 12%. 

Reduce Intake Of Refined Carbs And Added Sugars

Health experts always suggest people to steer clear of saturated and trans fats if they are concerned about LDL cholesterol. Avoiding these types of fats can also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Refined carbs and added sugars are just as dangerous, as they can raise triglycerides and increase cardiovascular risk. Sugary drinks, white bread, packaged pastries, and ultra-processed snacks contribute to insulin resistance, which affects cholesterol levels. It is better to consume whole grains and limit your consumption of added sugars to help improve triglycerides and HDL cholesterol levels. 

Some Natural Supplements May Help

Before you decide to take supplements to help naturally lower cholesterol levels, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. Some products can come with side effects or may interact with other medications or supplements that you already take. Certain supplements, though, have some proven ability to lower cholesterol. For example, psyllium supplements can lower LDL cholesterol by about 7%. Omega-3 supplements can also help reduce triglycerides, but they don’t significantly lower LDL levels.

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Your heart beats over 100,000 times a day for you! But processed food, excess salt, sugar, stress, and no movement make its job harder than it should be. The good news? Your heart responds quickly when you support it. Leafy greens. Berries. Beans. Oats. Garlic. Beets. Real food. Daily movement. You don’t need perfection – you need consistency. Treat your heart right today, and it will take care of you for years to come.

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When you think of breakfast, what comes to mind? Eggs, most likely, as they are some of the most common components on breakfast plates. Eggs provide potassium, protein, vitamins A, D, and B12, and choline, an essential nutrient for many metabolic processes. It’s common for people dealing with cholesterol issues to avoid them, as the yolk contains cholesterol. The research shows that the cholesterol in eggs does not seem to negatively affect healthy people, compared to other sources of cholesterol. 

Things take a turn for the worse when you start eating eggs with bacon, cheese, butter, bread, and hash browns. For some reason, that is the classic American breakfast, but it contains a lot of sodium and saturated fat, two things that increase the risk of heart disease. You can start your day with a lot of other breakfast foods that provide more fiber, protein, and antioxidants for cardiovascular health. 

Chia Pudding

Chia seeds contain a lot of soluble fiber, which creates a gel-like substance in the digestive tract. The seeds bloom in liquid to create a pudding that has a similar consistency to tapioca. Soluble fiber may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels by reducing its absorption in the digestive tract. Chia seeds also provide a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, which encourage optimal heart and brain function. Studies show omega-3s may help control inflammation within the body. You can incorporate nuts, nut butter, spices like cinnamon, and fruits into chia pudding for a balanced breakfast. 

Almond Butter Overnight Oats

Just like chia pudding, you can prepare overnight oats at night and have your breakfast be ready to go in the morning. That helps you save a little time and eliminates the “what should I eat?” question from your morning routine. Oats are naturally rich in protein, fiber, unsaturated fats, and magnesium. Combining oats with almond butter creates a fiber-rich meal that supports cholesterol and blood sugar control. The fiber in oats has been proven to naturally lower cholesterol levels. The magnesium in almond butter helps support healthy blood pressure and may reduce the risk of hypertension by relaxing blood vessels. 

Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

Quinoa for breakfast? Absolutely! It is not reserved for savory lunch or dinner options; rather, you can cook it with almond milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and pure maple syrup, or other options that you prefer. You cook the quinoa in the almond milk (or other liquid) with your ingredients of choice, creating a breakfast porridge of sorts. Quinoa is rich in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, and studies confirm that quinoa contains plant compounds that encourage optimal cholesterol levels. Plus, the fiber and polyphenol content may help fight oxidative stress that contributes to cardiovascular disease. 

Oatmeal With Flax Seeds And Blueberries

Let us first clarify that oatmeal from a packet that contains processed ingredients and lots of sugar is not a healthy breakfast. Oatmeal made with rolled or old-fashioned oats is what we are referring to. Oats are naturally rich in soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which is a type of fiber that forms a gel in the digestive tract to reduce cholesterol absorption. Research suggests that regular beta-glucan intake can help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Adding blueberries to your oatmeal provides necessary plant compounds that may improve blood vessel function and encourage optimal brain health. Finally, flax seeds provide omega-3s and lignans, which are plant compounds linked to lower risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Peanut Butter And Cacao Smoothie

Cacao powder contains beneficial plant compounds called flavanols, which work to encourage healthy blood flow and protect blood vessels from oxidative stress. Peanut butter contains beneficial fats and fiber, two things associated with healthier cholesterol levels. Just make sure you purchase healthy, natural peanut butter that is free of unhealthy oils and added sugars. Peanuts or roasted peanuts should be the only ingredients. Anyways, add some banana, spinach, cacao powder, peanut butter, and unsweetened almond milk to your smoothie and you’ve got yourself a great breakfast.

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The winter months can be a little dark and chilly. Why not invite some color and zest into your life by making a refreshing, seasonal fruit salad? This fruit salad will help brighten any gray, gloomy winter day. It contains crisp apples, juicy mandarins, bright pomegranate arils, soft pear, tart kiwi, and herbaceous mint. Now that’s what you call a bowl of nutrition! This bowl also offers you a little break from all of the heavy holiday dishes that are readily available this time of year. Set your body up for success when you enjoy this for breakfast.

Various cultures have enjoyed fruit salads for centuries, typically adopting whatever fruit is in season. During the winter months, tropical fruits are harder to find, depending on your location. Temperate fruits like apples and citrus varieties take center stage. Pomegranate is also a classic winter fruit that is associated with renewal and abundance, especially in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures. In fact, those cultures use pomegranate arils to brighten both sweet and savory dishes. You’ll love this fruit salad for the following reasons:

• It is quick and easy to make, coming together in less than 15 minutes.
• The bright colors and sweet and tart flavors make it a hit at the breakfast table or holiday gatherings.
• You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it later because it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a couple hours.
• It pairs beautifully with chia pudding, overnight oats, or oatmeal.
• You can customize it by using other seasonal fruits that you enjoy.
• It is budget-friendly because it uses seasonal produce items, which are typically more affordable.

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Do you stuff your face with as much food as possible on Thanksgiving Day? If yes, you are not alone, but all that eating can put a lot of stress on the digestive system, in addition to other systems and organs in the body. Thanksgiving food is typically high in fats (more saturated than not), dairy products, sugar, salt, and packaged products. Fortunately for you, there are thoughtful Thanksgiving portion control tips that allow you to savor the dishes you want without overindulging. 

Why Does Portion Control Matter?

Sure, most people let themselves succumb to every temptation at the Thanksgiving feast. High-calorie dishes like mashed potatoes, buttery stuffing, dense pumpkin and pecan pies, oily ham, and so much more fill the table. It is perfectly fine to indulge in your favorite dishes, but excessive overeating can lead to bloating, stomach discomfort, and overall setbacks to your health goals. By practicing portion control, you can enjoy the holidays and family without derailing your health. 

Begin The Day With A Balanced Breakfast

That’s right, folks, portion control begins before any of your favorite Thanksgiving dishes are even made. Start the day on the right track by making a balanced breakfast. Opt for a fruit and vegetable smoothie, chia pudding, overnight oats, or plain Greek yogurt with fresh fruit and almond butter. 

Examine The Spread Before Grabbing A Plate

Before you grab a plate and begin your mission of eating, go over to the spread and give it a good scan. Identify your “must-have” dishes and locate the ones you can live without. That strategy will help you focus on enjoying your favorite dishes without eating unnecessary calories from dishes you are iffy about. 

Use A Small Plate

According to dietary research, using a smaller plate can help you naturally eat less while still feeling satiated. By using a smaller plate, you force yourself to be more mindful about your portions and food choices. It also reduces the temptation to overfill the plate. It just takes a little more effort on your part to avoid returning to the buffet table over and over again.

Employ “The Plate” Method

This method involves some simple calculations on your part when filling your plate. Keep half of your plate available for vegetables (not including potatoes), a quarter for starches or grains, and a quarter for lean protein. Filling your plate in this way ensures that you will enjoy a balanced meal with plenty of nutrients that support portion control. 

Practice Portion Awareness

Are there spoonfuls of dishes on Thanksgiving, or is everything served in piles? It is very easy to underestimate portion sizes, especially with rich Thanksgiving classics. One serving of turkey should be as big as a deck of cards. A serve of mashed potatoes should look like a half-cup measuring cup. 

Stay Hydrated

Water is a necessary part of life, but it is especially helpful on Thanksgiving Day. The reason to ensure proper hydration is to help you feel fuller and prevent overeating. Additionally, sufficient water intake helps optimize digestive function. Before you go back to the buffet for a second helping, drink a full glass of water. 

Choose Your Favorite Dessert

Most Thanksgiving desserts are often irresistible, but that doesn’t mean you have to sample them all. You probably know what most desserts taste like, so choose your favorite dessert and savor every bite. Either that or consider choosing two desserts in moderation. Maybe a relative or friend wants to split a dessert and that’ll work in your favor!

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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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We are back with yet another energy ball recipe, only this time it is for vegans because it has oats. The oats not only act as a binding agent, just like the dates, but they also help to fill you up. They are naturally rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats, iron, zinc, and other vitamins and minerals. Oats are one of the best sources of beta-glucans, a soluble fiber that may help lower cholesterol, especially bad LDL cholesterol. That soluble fiber also slows digestion, increases feelings of fullness, and may increase bile acid production. It may also help to reduce blood sugar and insulin after a carb-heavy meal.

This recipe is just another way to show you that snacking can be healthy. You just have to use the right ingredients that provide valuable nutrition and sustenance. The problem with many store bought snacks, such as chips, cookies, or other packaged goods, is that they do not fill you up. You can eat an entire bag of chips and still feel hungry, but that is also because they contain ingredients that keep you coming back for more. These raspberry energy balls are completely sugar- and gluten-free, making them a great snack to power you up between meals.

From this recipe, you should get about 20 balls, but it depends how big you make them. Ideally, roll them into about the size of a tablespoon or smaller. When you place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper, make sure to space them out in order to prevent them from sticking together. After freezing them for about 30 minutes, remove them and roll in the desiccated coconut before placing them back in the freezer to harden. Enjoy when ready!

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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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One of the most challenging dietary feats, besides switching to a raw vegan diet, is to reduce your caloric intake. It’s possible to do, but many low-calorie foods can leave you feeling hungry or unfulfilled between meals. This is primarily because they do not contain healthy fats, fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates. That said, there are a surprising number of low-calorie foods that can keep you full. Continue reading to learn more about them. 

Berries

Low-calorie and low-carb alert, people! Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries  contain beneficial antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that benefit overall health. One cup of blueberries, for example, contains 86 calories but offers 3.6 grams (g) of fiber. Fiber, in addition to protein, has a big impact on your hunger and appetite. Berries contain a lot of pectin, a type of dietary fiber that has proven to slow stomach emptying and increase feelings of fullness in both human and animal studies. One study found that a 65-calorie afternoon snack of berries decreased total caloric intake later in the day compared to a 65-calorie snack of gummy candies. 

Air-Popped Popcorn

Before we tell you why you can have your popcorn and eat it too, please understand the difference between air-popped popcorn and buttered, movie theater popcorn. The popcorn you buy in packages that says “movie theater butter” on the label is not what we are referring to. Air-popped popcorn means that the kernels pop with heat and air, no oil or butter. You can put some kernels in a silicone bowl, cover the bowl, and microwave until they pop! Due to the high-fiber content, air-popped popcorn is one of the most filling, low-calorie snacks on this list. With only 31 calories in a cup, popcorn boasts 1.2 g of dietary fiber. In addition to slowing the digestive process to promote feelings of fullness, fiber also helps to stabilize blood sugar. Studies have found that popcorn can help enhance feelings of fullness more than other snack foods. 

Leafy Greens

On average, a one-cup serving of leafy greens contains anywhere from five to nine calories. This number will change if the greens are cooked or not, but the range we just specified applies to raw greens. That means you can consume a large serving of leafy greens without ingesting a lot of calories. Most leafy greens provide high amounts of folate, magnesium, iron, protein, and vitamins C, K, and A. You can enjoy large salads, add leafy greens to smoothies, or incorporate them into soups. 

Chia Seeds

Hailed as an incredible superfood, chia seeds offer a lot of protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. A one-ounce serving of chia seeds provides 138 calories, 4.7 g of protein, and 9.8 g of fiber. The soluble fiber in chia seeds absorbs liquid and swells in the stomach to create feelings of fullness. This can be observed if you mix chia seeds with liquid to make chia pudding. The seeds absorb the liquid to create a tapioca pudding-like texture. Some researchers observed that chia seeds can absorb 15 times their weight in water. They move slowly through the digestive tract to keep you full. 

Oats

A wonderful whole grain that is low in calories and high in protein and fiber, two nutrients that promote feelings of fullness. A half-cup serving of dry oats exhibits 154 calories, but the same cup packs 4 g of fiber and 5 g of protein. One study involving 48 adults found that eating oatmeal increased feelings of fullness and reduced hunger and caloric intake at the next meal. Another small study linked instant and old-fashioned oats to improved appetite control over a four-hour period. 

Legumes

Due to the high protein and fiber content, legumes such as peas, lentils, and beans can be very filling. One cup of cooked lentils provides 230 calories, in addition to 15.6 g and 18 g of protein. Several studies found that legumes have a powerful effect on hunger and appetite. A small study involving 43 young adults found that a high protein meal with beans, and peas increased feelings of fullness. The meal also reduced appetite and hunger more than a high protein meal with veal and pork. A review of nine other studies concluded that people felt 31% fuller after eating pulses, a type of legume, when compared to high-carb meals consisting of bread and pasta.

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The hibiscus is a colorful, flowering plant that is not only stunning to look at, but also valuable in the world of health and wellness. It can be made into teas, extracts, supplements, and more. You can even cook with the dried flower leaves, using them as a meat substitute. But we are not here to talk to you about the many uses of hibiscus today; rather, we come bearing an easy DIY facial scrub made with hibiscus powder, among other natural ingredients. 

Why Should You Use Hibiscus?

Hibiscus grows in tropical and subtropical regions, including Mexico, Thailand, China, Nigeria, Sudan, and Hawaii. Native to Malaysia and India, hibiscus is naturally rich in bioactive compounds, which researchers attribute to the plant’s purported health benefits. For example, some of the reasons to use hibiscus include:

• Anti-aging properties: Known for its ability to increase skin elasticity, hibiscus is sometimes referred to as “the botox plant.” Due to the vitamin C and antioxidant content, hibiscus works to firm and lift the skin, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 
• Rich in antioxidants: Hibiscus is particularly rich in anthocyanins, which work to fight free radicals and reduce the risk of oxidative stress. Some research shows that anthocyanins may also prevent premature aging. 
• Anti-inflammatory: Hibiscus contains anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe irritated skin, making it an ideal ingredient for people with acne or sensitive skin.
• Natural exfoliant: According to research, the natural acids in hibiscus, which include alpha-hydroxy acids, work to gently exfoliate the skin. They may also help remove dead skin cells and promote a brighter, even complexion. 
• Promotes collagen production: Due to the high vitamin C content, hibiscus helps support the production of collagen, which is necessary for maintaining the skin’s elasticity. 
• Hydrating: Researchers note that the mucilage content in hibiscus provides great hydration, which helps maintain optimal moisture levels. This leaves the skin feeling soft and supple.
• Natural cleanser: As we previously mentioned, hibiscus is a natural exfoliant. It is also a great cleanser, working to break down and remove impurities, helping to detoxify the skin and clean out pores. 

Pink Kaolin Clay

Yet another ingredient that works absolute wonders for your skin. Researchers note that pink kaolin clay’s gentle nature makes it optimal for softening the skin. It will help leave it soft and refreshed after every use. Similar to hibiscus, this clay helps exfoliate the skin on a mild level. It may assist with the removal of dead skin cells, resulting in a smoother, glowing complexion. Due to the natural soothing properties, pink kaolin clay is an ideal ingredient for those with sensitive or irritated skin. It may even work to reduce inflammation or redness. 

Pink kaolin clay, while gentle, works to absorb excess oil from the skin. That makes this clay beneficial for people with oily or combination skin types. What’s more, it doesn’t strip the skin of its natural moisture. Finally, because it is rich in minerals like silica, pink kaolin clay helps nourish the skin and give it strength, which contributes to the skin’s vitality. 

DIY Deep Cleansing Hibiscus Facial Scrub

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons oats
• 1/4 cup rose hips
• 1/4 cup hibiscus powder
• 3 tablespoon pink kaolin clay

Instructions:

• Grind the oats into a very fine powder. You can use a food processor or immersion blender to do this. Repeat the process for the rose hips. 
• Add the ground oats and rose hips to a small mixing bowl with the hibiscus powder and pink kaolin clay. Mix well and then pour the mixture into a glass jar. Screw on the lid and store in a cool, dry place.
• To use, slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, to the powder mix and rub onto your face in circular motions for two minutes. Rinse with warm water and then pat your face dry. Do this two times per week.

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