Most people think of inflammation as a temporary thing. It is the immune system’s natural response to a foreign threat to the body. You get sick or your gut flares up, you adjust some habits, and things eventually settle down. That isn’t exactly how biology works, though. Past inflammation may not come and go as you suspect. It’s possible that past inflammation can leave an imprint that can shape your health, specifically gut health, in years to come. 

Recently, this idea has been gaining traction because colorectal cancer rates continue to climb, especially among younger adults who are not normally “high-risk.” Emerging data now reveals a surprising culprit, and that is the “memory” that your cells carry after inflammation seems to have healed. 

How Did Researchers Discover “Memory” In Gut Cells?

A recent study aimed to help scientists understand why inflammation is linked to cancer, especially in the gut. Scientists used an animal model to trigger inflammation in the colon, which is similar to what happens in conditions like chronic colitis. They then allowed the tissue to heal, at least on the surface. Instead of stopping the study there, scientists observed individual cells. They used advanced tools to track active genes and how accessible different parts of the genome were. Additionally, they looked at how cells passed those changes down as they divided.

This level of detail is of particular interest because the body is not solely driven by DNA. The body is influenced by the epigenome, which is a layer of regulation that determines which genes are active and which are quiet. Scientists found that, even after the inflammation resolved and tissue appeared healthy again, some cells carried lasting changes in this epigenetic layer. That suggests that although the gut healed, certain cells “remembered” the inflammation. 

Why Does Past Inflammation Raise Cancer Risk?

Later in the study, researchers introduced a cancer-related mutation. The cells that carried the epigenetic memory behaved differently. In fact, they activated tumor-promoting genes more quickly and developed bigger tumors that grew faster compared to cells without history. That revealed that there is a two-step process taking place. First off, inflammation leaves behind some sort of molecular imprint. Then, if a second trigger shows up later, the primed cells are more ready to respond in a way that encourages tumor growth.

That helps explain why not everyone with cancer has a clear genetic cause. Additionally, not everyone with inflammation develops cancer. The combination of past exposures and later triggers may tip the scales. Scientists note that this reinforces the idea that your past environment, including stress, diet, infections, and gut health, can shape your future risk in ways that are not yet visible. 

How Can You Support Gut Health Right Now?

There is no reason to panic every time you experience inflammation, especially a mild bout. The body is designed to recover from stress, but you should know that chronic inflammation is something to take seriously, even if symptoms are not always present. Your goal should be to reduce unnecessary stress on the gut. Begin by:

• Limiting your intake of ultra-processed foods can help reduce unnecessary inflammatory responses. Pay attention to how your body reacts to certain foods!
• Engaging in regular physical activity, as research shows that it supports gut diversity and reduces systemic inflammation.
• Eating a diverse, fiber-rich diet with a lot of plant-based foods. Fiber encourages the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and helps regulate inflammation over time. 
• Considering a probiotic supplement, which may help support a healthier balance of gut bacteria, especially during periods of stress or illness. 

One bad meal or stressful few days will not be the end of you. This is more about patterns because the body keeps track of what it goes through. Over time, those patterns can either work for you or against you. Keep that in mind as you move forward in life.

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If you have ever experienced nausea, you know it feels like your stomach is spinning around and ready to send back and out whatever you ingest. No matter if it stems from indigestion, motion, surgery, gas, or chemotherapy, nausea is something that everyone experiences at some point. That is not very consoling, especially when it happens to you. Fortunately, there are several herbs (peppermint and ginger) that may help relieve nausea symptoms. 

Research notes that ginger and peppermint are two common natural remedies for nausea relief. Both can help relieve nausea, but they work in different ways. This article aims to identify when to use peppermint and when to use ginger for nausea relief. 

Ginger Is Usually Better For Nausea Relief

Both ginger and peppermint help to relieve nausea, but ginger has more research supporting its use. Studies confirm that ginger can effectively reduce nausea that results from motion sickness, surgery, and chemotherapy. Peppermint can be helpful, but lends itself more to nausea related to indigestion or bloating. Newer research found that peppermint oil may be able to reduce post-surgery nausea, or nausea during chemotherapy, but research is currently limited. 

How Does Ginger Help Relieve Nausea?

Researchers do not fully understand ginger’s role in nausea relief. Ginger contains active compounds, including shogaols and gingerols, that may help relieve nausea by: 

• Reducing inflammation in the digestive tract
• Improving gastric motility (how quickly food moves through the stomach)
• Working to block receptors that send nausea signals from the gut to the brain

There is extensive research on ginger and its ability to relieve nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. According to research, ginger is more effective than placebo for nausea that results from pregnancy. It may also perform a little better than vitamin B6, although the difference is very small. Ginger may also help relieve nausea related to motion sickness and chemotherapy. One review of studies in people with breast cancer found that while ginger may relieve nausea, it doesn’t really reduce the frequency of vomiting. Another study found ginger capsules to be effective at reducing nausea and vomiting after surgery.

Interested in trying ginger for nausea relief? It is available as ginger tea, ginger capsules/tablets, chewable ginger candies, and fresh or dried ginger. There are no official recommendations about proper dosage. Most studies typically use doses of 500 to 1,500 milligrams (mg) per day. Most adults may tolerate up to 4,000 mg of ginger per day, but you don’t need to eat that much. 

How Does Peppermint Help With Nausea?

The research on peppermint for nausea relief is more limited than ginger. Existing research focuses on peppermint’s ability to help relieve digestive-related symptoms. Menthol and menthone, two compounds in peppermint, exhibit antispasmodic effects on the digestive tract. That process may help relax the muscles of the stomach and intestines, which alleviate nausea that results from gas, bloating, or cramping. Peppermint may help by:

• Reducing feelings of bloating or fullness
• Providing a calming, cooling sensory effect
• Soothing muscles in the digestive tract
• Helping to block serotonin-related signals in the gut that trigger vomiting and nausea

A recent review observed the effects of inhaling peppermint oil’s aroma for postoperative nausea, in pregnancy, and during chemotherapy. Researchers noticed small improvements in nausea across all three groups, but the studies were small and used peppermint in different ways. However, another study found both ginger and peppermint essential oils to be effective at relieving nausea post-surgery. 

When One May Work Better Than The Other

As we’ve discussed, both ginger and peppermint can help ease nausea symptoms, but one may work better depending on the situation. Consider the following:

• Peppermint may be more helpful when nausea stems from gas, indigestion, or bloating.
• Ginger may work better for motion sickness, pregnancy-related nausea, and medication-related nausea.
• Peppermint’s cooling flavor may feel soothing if you are sensitive to strong flavors or smells.
• Ginger’s spicy, warming taste may be too strong for some people, especially when they are nauseous.
• Some people tolerate peppermint better, especially if ginger causes an upset stomach or heartburn.
• A lot of people find that ginger works better and has a long-lasting effect for nausea relief.

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

What Is Fire Cider?

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

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

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

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

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

Are There Benefits? 

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

Apple Cider Vinegar

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

Ginger

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

Hot Peppers

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

Garlic

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

Honey

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

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When you are sick, you’d give anything in the world to feel healthy. Are we right or are we right? You drink tea, hydrate beyond belief, take hot baths, gargle with salt water, do a sinus rinse or two, and nourish the body with healthy foods to accelerate your recovery. What if you took care of your body like that all the time, though? There is nothing wrong with giving your immune system a helping hand year-round. 

The immune system does a phenomenal job of protecting the body against microorganisms. Sometimes, it fails and a germ successfully invades the body and causes sickness. Now, it is enticing to strengthen and support the immune system to defeat invading pathogens. The first line of defense is to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, maintaining good sleep hygiene, and keeping stress levels in check. When you do these things, every part of your body functions better, especially the immune system. Boost immune function all year with the following healthy-living strategies. 

Get A Good Night’s Sleep

According to sleep experts, sleep and the circadian rhythm are strong regulators of immunological processes. One study found a bidirectional communication between the central nervous system and the immune system. This connection is mediated by shared signals (neurotransmitters, cytokines, and hormones) and direct innervations of the immune system via the autonomic nervous system. Basically, the body releases proteins (cytokines) during sleep. By boosting cytokine production, you can help strengthen immune function. Additional research found that people who do not get the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep per night are more susceptible to colds and respiratory infections. 

Keep Stress Levels In Check

Most people encounter stress, at least a small amount, on a weekly (if not daily) basis. The trick is to minimize the amount of stress that you experience, while also finding ways to handle the stress you cannot avoid. Stress can have a variety of effects on mental and physical health, especially the immune system. Chronic stress can decrease the production of lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that help the body fight off infection. If you want to reduce stress, consider adopting a variety of stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga, meditation, Tai Chi, grounding, and more. 

Exercise 

A lot of research indicates that exercising at moderate intensity for 30 to 60 minutes three to five days per week is highly beneficial to the immune system. You don’t have to hit the gym for hours every single day; rather, a brisk walk in the neighborhood, a bike ride, or laps at your local pool can be highly beneficial. Elevating your heart rate works to increase the circulation of immune cells. These cells are the body’s first line of defense for fighting off foreign invaders, so the more you have circulating, the better you are able to protect the body. As a quick note, though, long bouts of high-intensity exercise can actually weaken the immune system. So don’t think that a marathon a day keeps the common cold and flu away.

Eat Immune-Boosting Foods

It should not come as a surprise that eating a well-balanced diet benefits overall health. Supplying the body with a diverse mix of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, healthy fats, protein, fiber, and more can only benefit you. A balanced diet that consists of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, lean proteins, and healthy fats can eliminate the need for taking lots of supplements. If you want a few foods that help encourage healthy immune function, consider the following:

• Berries contain flavonoids, which are antioxidant compounds that have demonstrated an ability to reduce respiratory illnesses. 
• Leafy green vegetables offer lots of beneficial antioxidants that are vital to cellular health. 
• Ginger exhibits antioxidant and ant-inflammatory properties that may enhance immune function. 
• Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, lemons, and limes) contain lots of vitamin C, which supports the production of white blood cells. 
• Fermented foods, kombucha, kefir, natto, yogurt, and miso can help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which is linked to immune health. 

Maintain A Healthy Weight

Obesity, which is defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more in adults, has been linked to impaired immune function. Obesity may also lower the efficacy of numerous vaccines, including influenza, tetanus, and hepatitis B. If you are looking for safe ways to maintain a healthy weight, start first by assessing your diet. Develop a consistent aerobic exercise routine, watch your caloric intake, get sufficient sleep, and avoid being sedentary. The Full Body Cleanse may be an excellent option to kickstart your weight loss journey. 

Still need a little assistance optimizing immune function? Try the Dherbs Immune Booster Kit, which contains four of our signature formulas that aim to support optimal immune function. These supplements may assist your body in protecting itself from external threats.

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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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The flu, much like a wildfire, spreads very easily. All it needs is a little bit of wind, right? According to a 2023 study that involved the 2021 to 2022 flu season, you had a 50% chance of contracting the virus. If you or someone you know is sick, then, how long does the contagious period last? Although this is a difficult question to answer precisely, health experts have several guidelines that may help stop the spread. 

How Does The Flu Spread?

The flu is a viral respiratory illness that primarily spreads via close contact with an infected person. Infected flu patients expel germ-filled droplets when they cough, sneeze, or talk. When those droplets land in the mouth or nose of another person, that person is at risk of becoming infected. The droplets can also land on surfaces, such as doorknobs, TV remotes, or keyboards, which a healthy person can touch and then touch their mouth, eyes, or nose, thereby causing infection. 

You cannot always avoid these droplets when you are around someone with the flu. You can, however, take cautionary measures to prevent the spread of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following tips to avoid spreading the flu:

• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then throw that tissues away
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated (especially high-touch surfaces)
• Avoid close contact with sick people, and limit contact with others when you are sick
• Stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever subsides
• Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth as much as possible
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when you don’t have access to soap and water

How Long Does The Flu Last?

Infected with the flu? Well, it can last a few days or a couple weeks. More often than not, people who decided to get a flu shot will get over infection quicker than people who did not get vaccinated. Flu symptoms, such as body aches, fever, or chills, typically come on quickly and subside slowly. According to health experts, the average time between exposure to the virus and the appearance of symptoms is two days. 

Statistically, days two through four are the worst, regarding severity of symptoms. You will know that you are nearing the end of your flu when your fever is down and you no longer feel body aches. At that point, the virus is controlled, but coughing, runny nose, and fatigue can stick around for a little while after that. You may even experience some flu dizziness that can last for a couple days or weeks, depending on the cause. 

How Long Is The Flu Contagious?

Typically, you are most contagious during the first three days of sickness, according to the CDC. That said, you are likely contagious for a day before the onset of symptoms and several more once they subside. That means an infected person can spread the flu one day before they experience symptoms. You can spread it and not know it, especially if you did not know that the person you encountered was infected with the flu.

You are the most contagious when your symptoms peak, which is days two through four. It’s possible that you can continue to spread the virus until symptoms go away completely, though. Basically, you are no longer contagious once your symptoms are gone entirely. You can expedite your recovery through various alternative remedies or over-the-counter (OTC) flu medications. Just keep in mind that those OTCs that only lower fever will not help you get over your sickness faster or make you less contagious. They only make you more comfortable and able to deal with symptoms.

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The common cold is an upper respiratory infection that causes symptoms that plague the nose and throat. Typically, most colds are harmless and you may only develop a few mild symptoms. Colds, more than anything, are very annoying and you just want to feel better to leave the sickness behind you. 

Common symptoms of a cold include runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, mild headache, sneezing, coughing, or low-grade fever. These symptoms usually last for about one week, but they can last longer in older adults, young children, or people with weakened immune systems. It is very common for adults to get two to three colds yearly, while children get them more frequently. 

It is very easy for a cold to spread. An infected person can sneeze or cough in your vicinity and you inhale microscopic droplets that contain the bacteria or virus. You can also touch a contaminated surface before touching your face and develop a cold that way. Given that there are over 200 viruses that can cause a cold, catching one is relatively easy. The rhinovirus is the most common, but  enteroviruses, human parainfluenza (HPIV), adenovirus, and coronavirus (the common cold version) can all cause common cold. Continue reading to learn more about the types of common colds. 

Enterovirus

Enteroviruses belong to a group of over 300 viruses, including echoviruses, polioviruses, coxsackieviruses, and rhinoviruses. These viruses can cause a range of illnesses, but the rhinovirus is the most common cold-causing virus. Other enteroviruses, including enterovirus D68 and coxsackievirus, can cause respiratory symptoms. There are non-respiratory enterovirus illnesses that can cause conditions such as hand, foot, and mouth disease, or aseptic meningitis. Common symptoms of enterovirus include cough, fever, runny nose, sore throat, wheezing, or pneumonia. 

Rhinovirus

Rhinoviruses account for about 50% of common cold cases. Although they can spread throughout the year, rhinoviruses are most active in the spring and early fall. They spread easily in crowded places, such as offices, schools, and public transportation. Symptoms, which can include cough, mild sore throat, sneezing, mild fever, or runny nose, tend to go away in seven to 10 days. Rhinoviruses can also cause other problems, such as ear infections, breathing issues, or sinus infections, especially in people with allergies or asthma. 

Adenovirus

Adenovirus can cause cold symptoms that last for longer than symptoms that result from the rhinovirus. In fact, some people can experience these symptoms for weeks, or months. This virus is more common in the early spring and winter, although it can occur year round. Common colds caused by the adenovirus can spread easily in hospitals, schools, daycares, and military barracks. Symptoms can include cough, runny nose, fever, and sore throat. That said, adenovirus is also known to cause conjunctivitis (pink eye) and bladder infections or diarrhea. 

Coronavirus (Common Cold Version)

Before anyone even knew about COVID-19, coronaviruses were a typical cause of common colds. In fact, coronaviruses account for nearly 15% of seasonal colds, usually peaking in the winter. Coronavirus colds are usually mild and tend to last for one week, but they can lead to more serious issues, including pneumonia, for people with weaker immune systems. The common cold coronavirus is different from the coronaviruses that cause COVID-19. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 virus, however, you can test for your own safety and the safety of others. Common symptoms of coronavirus colds include sneezing, runny nose, stomach problems (not too common), mild cough, and occasional low-grade fever.

Human Parainfluenza Virus

Human parainfluenza virus (HPIV) can cause infections in the upper and lower respiratory tract. That can affect airways in children under five years old, immunocompromised adults, and elderly people. There are four types of HPIV, with types one and two being the most common in fall. Type three occurs annually and is most common in spring and early summer, while type four tends to affect people year round. Symptoms of HPIV include fever, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, cough, or chest pain, shortness of breath, and wheezing.

Determining which virus is behind your cold can be a little tricky, but certain patterns can clue you in to some degree. A barking cough usually indicates croup from HPIV, while a cold with pink eye comes from adenovirus. Your healthcare provider may want to run tests to detect the virus, depending on the severity of symptoms. 

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Just like anything in life, there is no magic, cure-all solution to immediately fix feelings of nausea. Your first course of action is to determine the cause of the problem. That can make it easier to choose the right natural remedy. Even if you don’t fully know why your stomach is upset, the natural remedies in this article may still provide relief. A few common causes of nausea are detailed below.

Motion Sickness 

Some people are very susceptible to motion sickness, no matter the mode of transportation. If you are traveling by car, get out for some fresh air to help relieve nausea. You can’t necessarily roll down the window on a plane or train, though. Motion sickness occurs when the inner ear, brain, and eyes receive mixed signals and cannot properly communicate with each other. You experience nausea as a result.

Pregnancy Nausea

It’s likely that you cannot wait to meet your bun in the oven, but that cute baby can cause some serious nausea. Pregnant women may experience morning sickness during the first trimester. It usually goes away after the early stages of pregnancy, but some women can experience it throughout all three trimesters. 

Cancer Drugs

Patients receiving chemotherapy, radiation, and conventional cancer treatments tend to get nauseous. These drugs are very hard on the body and can affect certain parts of the brain that control vomiting. Experts state that chemo drugs may irritate the stomach and gastrointestinal tract. Nearly 80% of chemo patients experience nausea. 

Food Poisoning

Sometimes, you just know when food poisoning is gonna hit. Something you ate was off, but it can also creep up out of nowhere. Suffice to say that food poisoning is no fun and it can cause serious nausea, indigestion, and vomiting. It occurs when you ingest harmful microbes, viruses, bacteria, or certain chemicals. 

Once you know the cause of your nausea, you can have an easier time choosing the right remedy. Below, you’ll find five natural remedies to relieve nausea. 

Essential Oils

There are various essential oils that may help relieve nausea. Peppermint essential oil is one of the most popular oils for nausea relief, but lemon is also helpful, especially during pregnancy. These oils have antimicrobial properties that work to fight harmful pathogens when you inhale their aromas. A 2021 study involved cancer patients who applied peppermint oil below their noses for nausea relief. A separate controlled group only used anti-nausea medication. The peppermint group experienced less nausea and vomiting than the other group. 

Ginger

Whether you have a sore throat, nausea, or upset stomach, ginger may be the right natural remedy for the job. Ginger tea, ginger chews, and fresh ginger all work well at relieving various types of nausea, including pregnancy nausea. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends ginger as a safe alternative to nausea drugs in pregnancy. Some studies have found that ginger is more effective at relieving nausea than dimenhydrinate, an antiemetic drug. 

Move It (If You Can)

If you experience nausea from a stomach ache or overeating, exercise may help. A gentle workout, such as yoga or walking, increases circulation to your muscles and organs, including the ones that aid digestion. That boost of circulation may help improve digestion, which can then help relieve nausea. Just make sure to avoid bending over, as that will not feel good. 

Acupuncture

Acupuncture and acupressure work their magic by activating energy meridians in the body. During an acupuncture appointment, the acupuncturist administers thin needles to specific points in the body. One of the most popular nausea pressure points is on the hand, between the thumb and index finger. If you do not want to engage in acupuncture, you can apply pressure in this area for three to four minutes per side and repeat as needed. Sea Bands may also work to relieve nausea, as they are bracelets that apply pressure to an anti-nausea point on the inside of the wrist. 

Peppermint Tea

Similar to peppermint essential oil, peppermint tea may help ease nausea. It is safe to drink, even for children, and may also help relieve digestive problems, such as gas, bloating, or irritable bowel syndrome. If you have acid reflux, try not to consume a lot of mint, though, as it can relax the esophageal sphincter and worsen symptoms.

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Is a life without movement a life worth living? Movement makes your life and body much healthier, and failure to exercise can bring a host of unwanted symptoms. If you don’t exercise, you may expect to see the number on the scale rise, but that isn’t always a telltale sign of lack of movement. Difficulty sleeping, anxiety, mood swings, and joint pain can indicate that your body needs to move. 

Exercise doesn’t translate to having a gym membership or heading to a yoga studio. Taking a brisk walk through the neighborhood or doing an at-home workout counts towards your movement efforts. A simple 30 minutes of movement per day can keep your body happy. Even if it takes setting an alarm to stand up and move for a few minutes every hour, do it! Continue reading to learn about common signs that indicate your body is craving more movement.

Low Energy

If you feel sluggish at work or have trouble getting over the afternoon slump, your body wants more movement. Nobody has energy that they tap into at will; rather, the body needs to generate energy. Mitochondria are the organelles in the body responsible for generating energy and the best way to improve their function is by engaging in regular exercise. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts can help you accomplish this. 

Stress Or Anxiety

Tension in the shoulders, neck, legs, or even other areas can indicate that you need to move. Your body wants you to get up and go! Regular movement can help increase circulation and loosen up the muscles or prevent imbalances that result from sitting or standing too long. If you don’t regularly exercise, consider starting with gentle yoga to help reduce cortisol levels and elevate your mood. Regular physical activity also promotes relaxation, improves sleep, and helps reduce anxiety, according to a 2023 systematic review. 

You Frequently Get Sick

Now, if you have a toddler, getting sick is often par for the course. If you feel like you keep getting sick or cannot get over a lingering cough, though, you may need to move more often. A 2019 review found that moderate exercise triggered an anti-inflammatory response and regular exercise improves immune function, which decreases your risk of illness. Make sure that you don’t overdo it, though, because over-exercising may reduce immune response.

You Are Constipated

If you need to get things moving, one of the best natural remedies is to do just that: move. A 2019 review and meta-analysis found that people who engaged in 140 minutes or more of aerobic exercise per week improved symptoms of constipation. Other research supports this, presenting that people who move regularly are typically more regular. A 2022 meta-analysis found that moderate levels of activity decreased the risk of constipation. Movement stimulates your intestines to get moving!

Joint Pain And Stiffness

Most people avoid exercise because they think it will cause joint stiffness or general pain. Although you may experience some discomfort in the beginning, you will greatly appreciate the net positive effect in the long run. Physical inactivity is one of the most common causes of stiffness and joint pain. The reason for this is because being sedentary increases inflammation and reduces joint mobility. Regular physical activity, then, supports joint health by promoting the production of synovial fluid, which helps lubricate your joints. 

Brain Fog

Brain fog, although not a recognized medical condition, can be a symptom of many things. An inability to concentrate or difficulty solving problems at work may stem from inactivity. Lack of exercise can reduce blood flow and affect the brain’s ability to function properly. Not only does that affect concentration, but also memory and overall cognition. Researchers note that physical activity enhances blood flow to the brain and promotes neuron growth. That helps to enhance neural connectivity and boost brain health.

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When you come down with a cold, your first thought is that you wish it could go away immediately. A virus drains your body and it seems like you blow your nose for hours, yet you still see mucus in the tissues. Perhaps you rely on a few strategies when you feel sick, and it usually stems from advice that your parents, grandparents, or other wise people gave you as a child. 

The unfortunate reality is that a lot of the old common cold advice you hold near and dear to your heart is usually more myth than fact. There is no sense in faulting the people who gave you this old folk wisdom, but you can learn to separate fact from fiction in this article. Read on to learn about some of the most common myths about catching or recovering from the common cold. We’ll also provide the real facts from health experts. 

Myth: Feed A Cold And Starve A Fever

The fact of the matter is that you need to rest and hydrate when you fall ill. If you don’t have an appetite or you have a fever, continue to replenish the body with fluids, including water, herbal teas, and electrolyte-rich beverages. Soups are easily digestible and can also aid your hydration efforts. They also provide essential nutrients, and that warmth can aid your recovery efforts. 

Myth: More Dairy Means More Mucus

According to health experts, dairy can make mucus thicker and it may upset your stomach, especially if you’re running a fever. Dairy doesn’t necessarily increase mucus, though. If you are lactose intolerant or have a sensitivity to dairy products, it may not be a conducive food to your recovery. Enjoying frozen yogurt or a frozen dairy product while sick may help some and harm others. This varies from person to person.

Myth: Antibiotics Treat A Cold

Researchers note that antibiotics treat infections caused by bacteria, and colds result from viruses, according to physicians. Antibiotics work by killing or slowing the growth of all bacteria, both good and bad. They can treat bacterial infections, such as strep throat, ear infections, or bronchitis. They cannot, however, cure viral infections. In fact, they can actually cause dangerous antibiotic resistance if you use them too often or incorrectly.

Myth: Your Cold Isn’t Contagious Unless You Have A Fever

You don’t have to have a fever to pass your cold to other people. That means that you have very few symptoms and be very contagious. People became hyper aware of that during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many people contracted that virus and were asymptomatic. A cold can be dangerous a day before the onset of symptoms. Colds are usually the most contagious in the first four days after symptoms start. Although viruses can remain in the body for weeks after symptoms end, the chance of spreading infection lessens as time passes.

Myth: You Can’t Do Much To Prevent Colds

Do you gargle salt water, use a Neti Pot, or drink lots of fluids when you have a cold? Although these efforts may not prevent you from getting sick, they may help reduce the severity and longevity of symptoms. If you want to prevent colds, you have to take extra precautions against everything. Experts suggest that you wash hands with soap frequently, stay hydrated, get sufficient sleep, avoid other sick people, eat a balanced diet, and regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces. Taking these extra precautions can help keep you healthy during cold and flu season.

Myth: You’ll Catch A Cold If You Go Outside With Wet Hair

This old gem still gets passed around like a bad game of telephone. Going outside with wet hair will make you feel cold, but it won’t cause sickness or a cold. Health experts explain that viruses and bacteria cause illnesses, usually when you are in close contact with another sick person. If you live in a colder climate, take extra care to wear warm clothing to protect against the weather. There’s no need to get frostbite, people!

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