According to the National Library of Medicine, there are over 2,500 scientific articles published in PubMed on the effects of bentonite clay on bodily functions. Since olden times, humans have used clays, both internally and externally, to maintain overall health. While there are few scientific articles reviewing the beneficial effects of clays on the body, bentonite clay is an available exception. 

What Is Bentonite Clay?

Bentonite clay is one of the most powerful and effective clays for detoxification. It is composed primarily of montmorillonite, giving bentonite clay its remarkable molecular structure. Once you hydrate bentonite clay, it generates a strong electromagnetic charge. That allows the clay to attract and hold onto toxins, heavy metals, and other impurities. Similar to distilled water, bentonite clay has a pulling effect, drawing impurities with it as it passes through the body.

In a face mask, bentonite clay acts as a deep pore treatment, drawing out blackheads and absorbing excess sebum. Both of those actions help to calm inflammation associated with acne. After a bentonite clay mask, the skin feels tighter, cleaner, and purified. 

Bentonite clay may help improve many aspects of your health, from clearing up the skin to improving digestion and liver function. Continue reading to learn how bentonite clay benefits various aspects of your health. 

For The Skin

• Oil absorption: The clay’s absorbent powers help draw out excess oil, helping to reduce shine and make pores appear smaller. 
• Exfoliation: Bentonite clay helps to gently exfoliate the skin, promoting skin cell turnover, improving skin texture, and promoting a healthy glow.
• Detoxification: By absorbing oil and drawing debris from the skin, bentonite clay temporarily reduces the appearance of pores and refines skin texture. 
• Antibacterial: Bentonite clay’s antibacterial properties may be effective for combating acne and preventing certain skin infections. More research is necessary regarding this point, though. 
• Calming and healing: Bentonite clay may soothe irritated skin and reduce the appearance of rashes. It may also provide relief as an insecticide or ingredient in insect repellent. 

For Digestion

• Digestive relief: According to limited studies, bentonite clay may help relieve diarrhea and other minor digestive disorders. That makes bentonite clay a popular ingredient in colon cleaning products. In fact, that is why bentonite clay is in the Dherbs 10-day Colon Cleanse. A study from 2024 found that bentonite clay may help absorb and kill multidrug-resistant E. coli, due to the antibacterial properties. 
• Improved gut health: Bentonite clay’s ability to bind with and remove toxins may promote a more balanced, healthier gut environment. 
• Toxin removal: Bentonite clay binds to toxins in the digestive tract, which may potentially help the body eliminate them. Animal studies suggest that consuming bentonite clay may help detoxify the kidneys and liver, but it’s worth noting that human studies are lacking.

Other Benefits

• Weight loss: Preliminary animal studies suggest that bentonite clay can improve gut microbiota, and separate human data links gut microbiota to supporting weight loss. At this time, there is no direct evidence supporting that bentonite clay causes weight loss.
• Hair care: Bentonite clay is traditionally used to cleanse the scalp and remove buildup in Iran. By encouraging optimal scalp health, bentonite clay may promote hair growth, but there is no direct evidence that supports that claim. 
• Cancer: In laboratory studies, bentonite clay exhibited effects on cancer cells, but no evidence shows that it prevents or treats cancer in humans. For this reason, more research is needed. 
• Dental care: Bentonite clay, similar to activated charcoal, can serve as a natural tooth cleaner and whitener. 

How To Use Bentonite Clay

Bentonite clay is either available in liquid or powder form. You can apply it topically on the skin or consume it by mouth. To use bentonite clay on the skin: 

• Mix the bentonite clay powder with water to form a paste. Make sure not to use a metal bowl or utensil for mixing, or else it will neutralize the clay’s negative charge, making it ineffective for attracting positively charged toxins. 
• Apply the bentonite clay paste to clean, dry skin. Do not apply the clay to sensitive areas, such as the eyes or genitals. 
• Leave the clay on the skin for 10 to 20 minutes and then rinse off with warm water. Pat the skin dry and follow up with a moisturizer to prevent the skin from drying out. 

When consumed orally, bentonite clay draws water into the intestines. That action may help relieve digestive problems, such as bloating or diarrhea. To ingest bentonite clay:

• Mix a half or full teaspoon of food-grade bentonite powder in a glass of filtered water. Stir well to combine. 
• Drink the full glass of bentonite water on an empty stomach. Follow that up with another glass of filtered water. 
• And remember that bentonite clay should be taken with lots of water to avoid intestinal obstruction or constipation.

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Get ready for a bright, lightly sweet, and refreshing juice made from grapefruit, carrots, and ginger root. Grapefruit’s tangy citrus bite is beautifully balanced by the earthy sweetness of carrots. Ginger root provides a subtly spicy kick and a warmth that helps enhance digestion and immune function. This simple combination of ingredients offers valuable nutrients, especially vitamin C, beat-carotene, and anti-inflammatory compounds. All of those nutrients together make this juice invigorating and supportive to overall health and wellness.

Grapefruit provides several key nutrients that are vital to immune function, heart health, metabolism, and liver support. Grapefruit is very rich in vitamin C, which encourages white blood cell production and collagen formation. Regarding heart health, the potassium in grapefruit helps regulate blood pressure, while the flavonoids work to reduce inflammation and enhance blood vessel function. Grapefruit also contains naringenin, which may reduce liver fat, aid detoxification pathways, and improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.

Carrots, much like grapefruit, work to support immune function, heart health, skin health, and gut health. They are naturally rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for night vision and maintaining healthy mucosal barriers. Finally, ginger contains key antioxidant compounds, including gingerol, shogaol, and zingerone. Researchers believe these compounds inhibit inflammatory pathways, helping to reduce muscle soreness and joint pain. They may also improve insulin sensitivity, improve gut motility, and encourage better circulation.

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Unless you avoid all things new (and we wouldn’t blame you if you did), you are probably aware of RFK Jr.’s inverted food pyramid. Federal officials released the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, emphasizing the importance of protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Is that a bad thing? It actually urges Americans to limit their intake of added sugars, explaining that “no amount’ is considered part of a healthy diet. 

The new nutrition guidelines also state that no meal should contain more than 10 grams of added sugar. Health officials are targeting highly- or ultra-processed foods and refined carbohydrates. They recommend consumers avoid packaged, prepared, or ready-to-eat foods because they contain excess sodium, added sugars, trans fats, and more. Additionally, health officials encourage Americans to “eat the right amount for you,” basing daily caloric intake on weight, height, age, sex, and level of physical activity. Portion sizes and proper hydration are just as integral to your health as what you eat. 

RFK Jr. states that his inverted pyramid acts as a guideline to help people return to the basics. He wants people to prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods and reduce the intake of highly processed foods. This sounds great in theory, but there are a few issues with the new guidelines. We will explore what health experts think about the pyramid in this article.

Fear-mongering About Plant-Based Diets

It is no secret that plant-based diets have their health benefits. All you have to do is look at the supporting research. The new guidelines single out vegetarian and vegan diets as risky, exaggerating nutrient gaps without sufficient evidence. Yes, vegan and vegetarian diets have limited food options that contain some vital nutrients. There are fortified foods and supplements that can fill those gaps, though. In fact, supplementing key nutrients, such as vitamin B12, is an inexpensive and safe way to eat. The guidelines also ignore extensive research revealing the substantial health benefits of plant-based eating. If more people were plant-based, the country could save hundreds of billions of dollars in healthcare costs. 

Should You Consume More Full-Fat Dairy?

The new guidelines recommend three servings of full-fat dairy products (with no added sugars) per day. The guidelines state that “dairy is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.” Health experts agree that one serving of full-fat dairy per day (about 1 to 1.5 ounces) is sufficient. There is not enough evidence to support the escalation of three servings per day. 

Plus, when you consider that roughly 65-70% of the world’s population is lactose intolerant, increasing dairy intake may not be the best idea. It’s also important to note that multiple servings of full-fat cheese can quickly exceed the recommended limits of daily saturated fat and sodium. Elevating cheese or full-fat dairy as a prominent health guideline may not benefit long-term health. 

Healthy Fats Are Encouraged

Healthy fats are vital for heart health, brain function, hormone production, and inflammation reduction. Additionally, they help the body absorb essential vitamins and keep you full for longer. Encouraging the consumption of healthy fats is not a bad thing, but you have to be careful where you get them. Prioritize foods that contain essential fatty acids, such as olive oil, avocado oil, walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds, and other food sources. 

There are several contradictions about the consumption of healthy fats within the new guidelines, though. There is a numeric recommendation to limit saturated fat to 10% of your daily caloric intake. On the other hand, the guidelines emphasize meat and full-fat dairy consumption and varied portion sizes, so it is difficult to understand your limits in a real world diet setting. 

Not All Fruits And Vegetables Are Equal

The new guidelines encourage Americans to eat fruits and vegetables throughout the day, focusing on their whole forms. It is no secret that a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables can deliver valuable nutrients to the body. The suggestion is three servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit per day. 

While vegetables belong in any healthy diet, starchy vegetables (such as corn and potatoes) should be consumed in moderation. Additionally, fruits contain beneficial nutrients, but they can contain high levels of sugar, which will not benefit those with blood sugar issues. Berries are low-glycemic fruits and may be better than apples or bananas for people watching their blood sugar. 

The Best Advice For A Balanced Diet

Ideally, focus on simple, well-established dietary patterns that are supported by a large body of research. You don’t have to follow guidelines just because a guy said so. We believe it is best to focus on consuming a wide variety of plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains. Be mindful about your portions, especially if you choose to consume animal-based foods, such as meats and dairy products. Should you choose to consume meat, make sure the beef is grass-fed/grass-finished, your poultry is free range and organic, and your fish is wild caught. Dairy should be organic as well. 

Don’t focus on hitting specific nutrients or rigid targets. Make your goal to build a balanced, flexible diet that you can maintain over time.

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Brushing, twirling, heatstyling, and blowdrying can damage your hair a lot. That is why every hair care routine can benefit from a great detangler. A detangler is a type of leave-in conditioner (most commonly available in spray form) that smooths the hair, making it less likely to build up friction and stick to other strands. That’s a long-winded way of saying that it helps prevent your hair from tangling.

Hair experts agree that using a detangler can prevent further damage to hair, and may even reduce the risk of split ends and breakage. The outermost layer of the hair cuticle is most susceptible to damage from external elements. In addition to helping you avoid knots, a high-quality detangler can help protect your hair and strengthen strands. 

Tips For Using A Hair Detangler

Prior to experimenting with the detangler in this article, you should take a before picture of your hair. You will want to see what the transformation looks like after treating your hair with beneficial ingredients. When it comes to using the detangler, though, consider the following tips: 

• Use a wide-toothed comb because it is the perfect accessory to get rid of tangles and maintain hair health. You can use the comb to gently brush out tangles after applying the detangler. If you have knots, the comb makes getting rid of them easier and less painful.
• While you don’t have to spray it liberally, you don’t have to be ultra conservative with a detangler either. The secret to success with a detangler is to spray it evenly on all portions of the hair. The more evenly you distribute it, the easier and quicker it is to get rid of tangles. 
• When using a detangler, make sure that your hair is wet, as it works best on damp hair. It has a better chance of working quicker and more efficiently when you apply it to damp or wet hair. 
• The detangling process is much less painful when you start at the ends and work your way toward the roots. Hair tends to tangle in the middle section or ends of the hair. When combing through tangles, always be patient because slow and steady is better than yanking your hair out. 

Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary essential oil is a common ingredient in hair care products, specifically because it improves microcirculation to the scalp. That means that it helps deliver more nutrients to hair follicles more efficiently. Some evidence indicates that rosemary essential oil may exhibit hair growth effects, but more research is needed. That said, it is beneficial for improving the overall look and feel of the hair because it supports scalp health. The Dherbs Hair & Scalp Oil contains both rosemary and lavender essential oils for that exact reason!

Lavender Essential Oil

This essential oil does more than offer a lovely floral scent. It is a valuable ingredient in hair care products because it has conditioning and soothing properties. Lavender may also help calm scalp irritation and improve overall scalp health. Studies have found that it may improve circulation to hair follicles, which contributes to stronger, healthier hair. 

Apple Cider Vinegar 

Your scalp is not a bowl of salad, but applying some apple cider vinegar may help balance the pH of your hair and scalp. Apple cider vinegar helps preserve the hair’s natural oils, while simultaneously reducing frizz. It may also help combs or brushes glide through your hair with less breakage. Some research indicates that it may help smooth the hair cuticle so strands lie flat, which reduces frizz and enhances shine. 

Homemade Detangler

Ingredients:

• 6-8 drops lavender essential oil
• 4 drops rosemary essential oil
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 ounce distilled water
• 2-ounce glass spray bottle

Instructions:

• Add the lavender and rosemary essential oils to the glass bottle. 
• Pour in the apple cider vinegar and distilled water, screw on the top of the bottle, and shake well to combine. 
• It’s ready to use and you can spray your hair with it after you shower. Use a wide-toothed comb to brush it through your hair to get rid of tangles.

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Drinking tea is a relatively easy habit to adopt, and it comes with some potential health benefits. Some teas, such as green, black, ginger, turmeric, or oolong, contain compounds that may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Keep in mind that teas, alone, will not fix high cholesterol; rather, you need to pair your tea habits with a balanced diet. 

What Is Cholesterol?

What is cholesterol and what does it do? Well, cholesterol is a waxy substance in the body that is not “bad” unless you have too much of it. The body requires cholesterol in order to build cells and make vitamins and other hormones. The liver makes all of the cholesterol you need, while the rest of cholesterol in the body comes from foods, such as poultry, meat, dairy products, and processed foods. Those foods can also be high in saturated and trans fats, both of which can increase the amount of cholesterol in the body. 

There are two types of cholesterol: LDL and HDL. The former is “bad” and too much in the body can increase the risk of heart disease, while the latter is beneficial. LDL cholesterol is the type that can slowly build up in arterial walls, which can impair blood flow. Cholesterol can join with other substances to form plaque in the arteries, making them less flexible, which is a condition known as atherosclerosis. 

If your cholesterol levels are high, it’s advisable to limit your consumption of trans and saturated fats. By balancing your diet and drinking the following teas, you may help naturally lower cholesterol levels. 

Oolong Tea

This popular tea has a unique yet mild flavor that is enjoyable hot or iced. It falls between green and black tea and contains polyphenols and catechins that may help lower cholesterol. Researchers note that these compounds work by blocking lipase, an enzyme involved in the digestion of fat. That process may help reduce how much fat is absorbed by the gut. 

Green Tea

Green tea exhibits numerous health benefits, most notably for heart health. Just like oolong tea, green tea contains catechins, which may lower LDL cholesterol in the blood. One review of studies found that green tea consumption lowered total and LDL cholesterol by up to 5%. Even a reduction this small can make a difference when it comes to heart health. Studies found that a small drop of 1% in LDL cholesterol was associated with a 1% lower risk of heart disease. 

Hibiscus Tea

This is one of two caffeine-free teas in this article and it is made from dried hibiscus flowers. The flavor is somewhat tangy and sour, so some people refer to it as sour tea. According to research, hibiscus tea may help lower LDL cholesterol and boost HDL (good) cholesterol. Researchers largely attribute these benefits to the anthocyanin antioxidants in hibiscus. Higher levels of HDL have been linked to better heart health. 

Black Tea

Black tea is naturally rich in polyphenols, a group of plant compounds that may lower LDL cholesterol. Various studies found that these effects are potentially stronger in people who have a higher risk of heart disease. Other research suggests that the polyphenols in black tea may promote overall health by improving blood flow and supporting healthy blood pressure levels. Additionally, black tea may also reduce how much fat and sugar the body absorbs and support weight management efforts. 

Ginger Tea

It is common to drink ginger tea when you have a sore throat or an upset stomach. While it can benefit digestive health, it also contains compounds that may reduce inflammation and support overall heart health. Several studies found that ginger may help lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood, and high levels can increase the risk of heart disease. You can make fresh ginger tea by steeping freshly sliced ginger root in hot water. 

To reiterate, these teas may help you naturally lower cholesterol, but they cannot cut through the damage of a poor diet and no physical activity. Additionally, to make the most of these cholesterol-lowering teas, avoid sweetening them too much. If you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor, add a small drizzle of honey, squeeze of lemon, or dash of stevia. If you need more help lowering cholesterol levels, consider the Dherbs Cholesterol Formula. It contains various herbs that may help maintain cholesterol levels already within normal range. It is suitable for adults looking to support overall cardiovascular health.

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There are many fad diets that focus on cutting out entire food groups, calories, and more. Unlike those diets, the portfolio diet focuses on strategically incorporating specific cholesterol-lowering foods into your daily meals. Don’t think of this as a diet; rather, it is more akin to a plant-forward way of eating that helps you maximize health benefits, particularly for optimal cardiovascular function.

What Is The Portfolio Diet?

Any smart business person knows that it is best to diversify investments. You want to make your portfolio perform as best as it can, which is why this diet focuses on combining a specific combination of functional foods. You don’t count calories; rather, you prioritize nutrient synergy. Basically, the foods you eat work together to deliver strong cholesterol-lowering effects.  The diet is built around the following food categories:

• Viscous (soluble) fiber
• Plant-based protein
• Plant sterols
• Nuts

Many studies indicate that each of those components can independently improve cholesterol markers in humans. When you combine them, their effects are amplified and they can better support lipid profiles, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiometabolic health. Although this diet is compared to the DASH diet or Mediterranean diet, it is different in that it places more emphasis on foods clinically proven to lower cholesterol levels. 

How To Follow The Diet

The beauty of this diet is that it does not require perfection. As long as you are consistent and thoughtful with your food choices every day, you can be successful. 

Core guidelines:

• Base most of your meals around plant-based foods
• Replace saturated fats with unsaturated fats
• Include multiple portfolio components daily
• Limit or avoid consumption of ultra-processed foods and refined sugars

Daily targets:

• Viscous fiber: 10 to 25 grams (g) per day
• Plant-based protein: several servings per day
• Plant sterols: 2 g per day
• Nuts: 1 to 2 ounces (oz) per day

Viscous (Soluble) Fiber Sources:

• Oats and oat bran
• Psyllium husk
• Eggplant
• Barley
• Rye
• Chickpeas
• Beans and lentils
• Okra
• Vegetables
• Whole grains
• Apples, berries, and citrus fruits

Plant-Based Protein Sources:

• Lentils
• Chickpeas
• Black beans and other beans
• Legumes
• Split peas
• Soy foods (tempeh, tofu, soybeans)

Plant Sterol-Rich Foods:

• Fortified yogurts
• Fortified juices
• Certain fortified spreads
• Fortified plant milks

Nuts:

• Almonds
• Walnuts
• Hazelnuts
• Pecans
• Pistachios
• Nut butters
• Peanuts

Foods To Limit Or Avoid:

• Red and processed eats
• Fried foods
• Sugar-sweetened beverages (such as sodas and juices)
• Refined carbohydrates
• Butter, cream, and full-fat dairy
• Packaged snacks high in trans fats

Health Benefits Of The Portfolio Diet

The primary benefit is that this way of eating helps to lower cholesterol levels. Clinical trials found that combining portfolio foods can significantly reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. In fact, the effects were comparable to low-dose statin therapy in some individuals. That is largely attributed to the plant sterols blocking cholesterol absorption and soluble fiber binding to bile acids. A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials involving adults with hyperlipidemia found that combining the portfolio diet with a standard cholesterol-lowering background diet significantly reduced LDL cholesterol by 17%. 

It’s possible that following the portfolio diet may help reduce inflammation, as many portfolio foods contain anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows that plant-based dietary patterns, such as the portfolio diet, is associated with lower inflammatory markers linked to heart disease.

Due to the inclusion of more viscous fiber in the portfolio diet, you may experience better gut health. This soluble fiber produces short-chain fatty acids that support both digestive and metabolic health. Research found that increasing soluble fiber intake improved microbiome diversity. In fact, systematic reviews of plant-based dietary patterns in adults, such as the portfolio diet, increased beneficial bacterial groups in the gut.

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A finger lime is not a common produce item in the average person’s kitchen. While it is not exclusive to Michelin Star restaurants, it is not as common as the standard lime. As the name suggests, it is similar in size to a human thumb. It comes in several varieties with skins in varying shades of yellow, green, purple, and red. And each of those colors exhibits a subtle variance in flavor. 

What Are Finger Limes?

The finger lime is endemic to Australia and although their outer skin is similar to a regular lime, the inside couldn’t be more different. When you cut one open, you will find tiny little pearls, also known as vesicles. It’s almost as if these fruits are like nature’s caviar! These juicy pearls exhibit a tart flavor and the texture is reminiscent of the classic Pop Rocks candy. Finger limes are also like kumquats, in that you can eat the entire fruit, including the skin, if you so choose. It is the pearls, however, that most people use when cooking. 

Health Benefits Of Finger Limes

Just like other members of the citrus family, finger limes offer some unique health benefits. Researchers attribute these benefits to the many phenolic compounds in the skin and vesicles. The primary phenolic compounds in finger limes are flavonoids, which offer potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which support the body in myriad ways. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of finger limes. 

High Antioxidant Activity

Antioxidants are substances that can help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. The body naturally produces free radicals, but you don’t want an excess amount in the body. Research shows that too many free radicals in the body can increase the response to smoking, stress, pollution, and other environmental factors. They cause damage to cells and contribute to chronic diseases, early signs of aging, and other health conditions. The antioxidant compounds in finger limes aim to protect the body’s cells and support overall health. 

They Have Antimicrobial And Antiviral Properties

According to emerging research, finger limes (among other native citrus fruits) may contain compounds rich in antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Researchers believe these compounds support immune resilience. More research is necessary to determine the efficacy of these compounds in relation to improved immune function. 

They Are Rich In Fiber

Health experts encourage adults to eat at least 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories consumed. That equates to about 28 to 34 grams of fiber per day for most men and 25 grams for women, although most consume less than half that amount. Fiber also helps balance gut microbiome, regulates blood sugar levels, and lowers the risk of certain cancers. One serving of finger limes (7 limes) offers three grams of fiber. Although they are not a high-fiber food, three grams is an excellent start on the road to the recommended daily intake. 

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Inflammation is the immune system’s normal response to stress, trauma, or infection. Problems arise when inflammation becomes chronic, as it contributes to issues such as arthritis, autoimmune disorders, heart disease, and other conditions. Some of the compounds in finger limes work to reduce inflammation by blocking the production of cytokines, which are made by the body during an inflammatory response. By reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines, you may help alleviate symptoms associated with chronic inflammation.

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We are a little over a week into 2026 and many people have already begun their Dry January journey, a month of abstaining from alcohol. There are many reasons that draw people to participating in this yearly event. It’s possible that the body is in desperate need of a break after a week of spiked eggnog and celebratory bubbles. It’s also possible that concerns are more serious.

According to research and surveys, alcohol has become more of a problem in society since the COVID-19 pandemic. Drinking to excess, including binge drinking, increased by 21% in the United States during the pandemic. Researchers project that a one-year increase in alcohol consumption will cause 8,000 deaths from alcohol-related liver disease. 

It makes sense that people resorted to alcohol during the pandemic, which was full of uncertainty. Alcohol hits the neurochemical pathways in the brain to release endorphins that make you feel good. Many researchers state that sitting down with an alcoholic beverage provides a temporary sense of ease and comfort, making it a popular go-to for people to unwind. 

Why Do People Do Dry January

January marks the start of a new year, a fresh start to wipe the slate clean. The culture has programmed everyone into thinking that it is a time to break habits that no longer support your health. If you are concerned about your use of alcohol, the New Year may be the fresh start you need. You can join the masses who participate in Dry January, especially if you notice that your drinking habits have increased. Drinking more than seven alcoholic beverages per week can lead to a slew of health issues, so a month-long break may kickstart your efforts into changing up your beverage intake. Come February, you may find that alcohol doesn’t have the same place in your life as it did previously. 

You May Reduce Bloating And Lose Weight

Depending on how much you drank prior to Dry January, you may or may not lose a few pounds this month. Boozy beverages add empty calories to your diet, meaning they don’t fill you up the same way food calories do. Because of that, you can either keep drinking, or you increase your consumption of unhealthy foods, which leads to a caloric surplus. A lot of people also feel bloated as a result of drinking alcoholic beverages, especially from beer. Research states that chronic alcohol use can inflame the gastrointestinal tract, which can wreak havoc on the body. 

You May Sleep Better

A popular reason for drinking alcohol is to help relax the body and fall asleep. The reality is that while alcohol may put you to sleep, the sleep you get after drinking isn’t the best. You often wake up more frequently during the night and cannot get sufficient deep sleep. A small study found that drinking alcohol caused decreased sleep time and sleep efficiency. Dry January may benefit your sleep and energy levels, helping you feel more clear-headed and motivated. With that extra energy, you may have more energy for other activities, such as working out. 

You’ll Save Money

It is very easy to spend too much money when you hit the bars with friends. Shelling out $10 to $16 for a craft cocktail or pour of wine can put a serious dent in your wallet. Even if you don’t go out all the time, buying alcohol from the store several times a week can also add up. When you take a month off, you’ll notice that your bank account doesn’t decrease as rapidly. Realizing that may cause you to change your drinking habits once Dry January comes to a close. 

Your May Enhance Immune Function

A 2015 study found that healthy people who had an episode of binge drinking experienced a reduction in disease-fighting immune cells. Being intoxicated can suppress immune function, which makes you more vulnerable to pathogens. Chronic drinking, on the other hand, can increase your risk of inflammatory reactions throughout the body. Even one night of heavy drinking can impair your body’s ability to fight off infections for 24 hours. All that is to say that abstaining from alcohol may improve your body’s defense against viruses, bacteria, and pathogens. 

You’ll Have A New Relationship With Alcohol

When you hit the pause button on alcohol, you may realize that you don’t have to drink every day, or even at all. Learning that you don’t need alcohol in your life can be a valuable lesson for many people. Maybe you thought you needed alcohol to fall asleep, but you found that you slept better without it. The main thing is to analyze how you feel and assess the pros/cons of Dry January. It is very common that people view alcohol in a different light and have a more positive relationship moving forward. 

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Can too much stress in your life cause sickness? This was once thought to be a wellness cliché, but a growing body of research suggests that there may be real truth behind this theory. Chronic stress not only affects how you feel on an emotional level, but it also alters immune function on a cellular level. Ultimately, that changes how well the body defends itself against foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, pollutants, and other germs. 

A recent study published in Frontiers in Immunology found that insomnia and anxiety were linked to significantly lower levels of natural killer (NK) cells. These cells are among the immune system’s first line of defense. Findings indicated that the more severe the anxiety, the steeper the decline in NK cells. That means that stress and anxiety may actively thin your immune system’s army, in a way, making you more susceptible to illness. 

What Are NK Cells And What Do They Do?

NK cells belong to the innate immune system, which you can think of as the body’s rapid-response team. These cells monitor blood and tissues, identifying and destroying damaged, infected, or abnormal cells before problems arise. There are two subtypes of NK cells:

• CD16+CD56dim cells: These cells make up the majority of NK cells and are very cytotoxic, which means that they directly destroy harmful cells. 
• CD16+CD56high cells: These cells assist with regulating immune signaling and inflammation. 
• If NK cell numbers decline too much, the immune system may find it difficult to both contain infections and abnormal cell growth in the early stages. That ultimately raises long-term health risks. 

What Did The Study Reveal?

To begin, researchers examined 60 female university students aged 17 to 23. Participants completely validated questionnaires, assessing self-reported anxiety and symptoms of insomnia. They also provided blood samples in order for researchers to measure different NK cell populations. 

Researchers noted that mental health responses were very bleak, with 75% of participants reporting anxiety symptoms. Roughly 17% and 13% of participants fell into moderate and severe categories. Additionally, 53% of the participants experienced sleep difficulties that researchers found consistent with insomnia. Besides these startling findings, researchers noted that blood samples revealed a much clearer picture:

• The severity of anxiety mattered, with mild anxiety showing minimal, non-significant changes. Moderate to severe anxiety was associated with a notable reduction of NK cells. 
• Students who reported anxiety symptoms exhibited both lower numbers and lower percentages of NK cells, including cytotoxic types. 
• In students who reported sleep disturbances, higher anxiety scores revealed an even greater decline in total peripheral NK cells. 

An Important Note

The study focused on young women between the ages of 17 and 23. Sleep disorders and anxiety are rising the fastest in this age group. Although that makes the findings relevant, it also limits how broadly they can be applied. Researchers need future studies across different ages, sexes, and regions in order to fully understand how stress affects immune function. 

The Takeaway

Stress is not just something that lives in the mind. The constant edge that you cannot shake or racing thoughts may reshape the immune system and how it functions, leaving your body more vulnerable to illness. This study serves to remind people that having stress management practices can help your emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing. Allow your whole body to flourish in the immediate and long-term when you get your stress under control.

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Do you ever feel like the winter just slows you down? You wouldn’t be the first person to answer “yes” to that question. During the winter months, when daylight hours are reduced and temperatures are cold, it is common to feel more tired. Mental health experts estimate that about 5% of people meet the criteria for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

This type of depression is related to changes in seasons. SAD typically begins around the same time every year, if the person has it. Most people with SAD start to feel symptoms in the fall and continue to experience them through the winter months. SAD drains you of energy and can cause moodiness, sluggishness, or general sadness. It is possible to reduce symptoms of SAD via light therapy, which aims to counteract the lack of sunlight during the winter. Although this therapy can help reduce symptoms, so can several diet tips. Learn about specific food choices that may improve symptoms of SAD. 

Reach For Foods Rich In Omega-3s

It is never a bad idea to include more omega-3 fatty acids, or omega-3s, in your diet. They are beneficial for brain health, as they encourage serotonin production. Omega-3s may also aid heart function and inflammation reduction. Some research indicates that omega-3s may reduce symptoms of depression. A meta-analysis from 2019 showed that omega-3 supplementation with at least 60% eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) at doses of one gram or less helped reduce symptoms of depression. Omega-3 rich foods include walnuts, flax seeds, chia seeds, avocados, fatty fish, and more. 

Embrace Prebiotics

People like to focus on probiotics, which are incredibly beneficial to gut flora, but prebiotics are equally as important for a healthy microbiome. Prebiotics work to feed probiotics, and studies show that they exhibit mood-enhancing effects. Some common prebiotic foods include:

• Leeks
• Apples
• Garlic
• Onions
• Asparagus
• Jerusalem artichokes (sunchokes)
• Flaxseed
• Bananas
• Legumes

Eat More Probiotics

There are trillions of microorganisms that make up the gut microbiome. According to research, this community of microbes has close ties to the brain via a network of nerves that travel through what is known as the gut-brain axis. This can play a large role in your overall mood, or mood disorders like depression. Registered dietitians agree that eating more probiotic-rich foods can help increase the amount of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Not only does this support immune function, but it also influences the production of neurotransmitters and reduces inflammation associated with depression.

Avoid Alcohol

Statistically, spending more time indoors can lead to increased alcohol consumption. It is best to limit your consumption, or completely avoid, alcohol if you want to boost your mood. Alcohol is a depressant that can interfere with gut health, sleep, and the absorptions of micronutrients. All of those things can have an effect on mood, and may lead to other health complications. A 2020 study identified a link between higher levels of alcohol consumption and an increased risk of depression. 

Spice Up With Saffron

If you have a little extra income to spare, you may want to splurge on some saffron, which is one of the most expensive spices. Research suggests that saffron offers mood-enhancing properties. In fact, saffron may have antidepressant effects, helping to alleviate symptoms of mild to moderate depression. Saffron also contains croci and safranal, which are active compounds that may influence serotonin levels in the brain. 

Prioritize Vitamin D

If you want to boost your mood this winter, don’t try to make it through without vitamin D. Sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D for the majority of people, but it can be difficult to get sufficient sunlight exposure in the darker winter months. Meeting your vitamin D needs through food alone can be challenging. You can focus on fortified foods with vitamin D, such as orange juice and almond milk, or fish like salmon and tuna. Vitamin D is also found in certain mushrooms, depending on how they are grown. Lastly, you can take a vitamin D supplement, but you may need to consult your doctor about the right dose.

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