Wormwood sounds like an herb that you would receive from a shaman during a medieval quest. Believe it or not, wormwood is one of the three key ingredients in absinthe, which Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas, and Vincent Van Gogh used to drink. Maybe that’s why they were such incredible artists!

What Is Wormwood?  

Wormwood, known scientifically as Artemisia absinthium, helps to eliminate intestinal worms, specifically roundworms and pinworms. The plant, which is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, has a bitter taste and has been used for centuries in medicinal applications. Researchers note that wormwood is a perennial herb that exhibits a wide range of health benefits. Continue reading to learn about six of the many impressive health benefits of wormwood.

Aids Digestion

According to historical evidence, wormwood has helped treat flatulence, indigestion, gastritis, and other digestive issues. Wormwood contains bitter compounds that stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which enhance the absorption of nutrients from the foods you eat. The terpenes in wormwood also stimulate saliva, stomach mucus, and intestinal secretions, all of which may ease digestive symptoms. Wormwood may also reduce stomach acids that contribute to acid reflux and peptic ulcers. 

It Exhibits Anti-inflammatory Properties

Wormwood contains artemisinin, a compound that researchers believe to have potent anti-inflammatory properties. A few studies suggest that wormwood may also temper the actions of cytokines, which are proteins that help instigate inflammation. In doing so, wormwood may ease redness, warmth, swelling, and other symptoms of inflammation. Most of the research about wormwood’s anti-inflammatory properties have been focused on people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. A 2016 study monitored people who took 150 milligrams of wormwood extract per day for 12 weeks. The results indicated that they experienced less joint pain than the group that took a placebo. 

It Has Antimicrobial and Anti-parasitic Effects:

Wormwood has exhibited potent antimicrobial properties against many pathogens, from bacteria to fungi, and even parasites. Studies show that wormwood is most effective when it comes to eliminating pinworms and roundworms from the body. Other studies found wormwood to be effective against gut parasites like Giardia lamblia and Helicobacter pylori. For these reasons, wormwood may be a promising natural alternative to traditional anti-parasitic medications or drugs.

Enhances Liver Function

Historically, wormwood was used to help support liver function. Wormwood contains compounds that help promote the secretion of bile, aiding in the breakdown of fats and toxins. Reports suggest that regular consumption of wormwood may help detoxify the liver, which helps protect it from free radical damage.

May Fight Cancer Cells

Several studies found that the artemisinin compound in wormwood may fight against iron-enriched breast cancer cells. It actually fights these cancer cells the same way it eliminates malaria-causing parasites. Cancer cells can be rich in iron because they soak it up, which facilitates cell division. A 2012 study tested samples of breast cancer cells and normal breast cells that had been treated to maximize iron content. After that, the cells were treated with a water-soluble form of artemisinin. Results revealed that normal breast cells showed little change. Within 16 hours, however, the cancer cells were dead, with only a few normal cells killed. 

May Offer Pain Relief

In the past, wormwood was used in herbal remedies as a pain-reliever. Because it contains analgesic properties, wormwood may alleviate various forms of discomfort, including headaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle pain. Researchers don’t fully understand the mechanisms behind these effects, so more research is necessary.

Precautions

Although wormwood offers a variety of health benefits, it is crucial to exercise caution when using it. Because wormwood contains thujone, a compound that can be toxic if consumed in excessive amounts, there are certain people that should avoid it. Pregnant women, individuals with seizure disorders, and those with liver disease should not consume wormwood. Should you want to incorporate wormwood into your diet, consider speaking with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a health condition or take specific medications.

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

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

What Are Wellness Shots?

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

What Health Claims Do These Shots Make?

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

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

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

What Does The Research Say?

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

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

What To Look For In A Wellness Shot

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

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

The Takeaway

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

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

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

Better Sleep

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

May Improve Dental Health

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

Balanced Brain Chemistry

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

Reduced Anxiety

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

Lower Blood Pressure

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

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With a limited season of availability, apricots should be on your summer grocery list. They are known for their distinctive orange color and signature sweetly tart flavor. They also boast an extensive list of health benefits, making them more than just a scrumptious summer snack. Health experts consider apricots to be a nutrient-dense food with lots of fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Some studies indicate that they may help reduce inflammation and even treat dry eyes. We will explore many of their benefits in this article. 

What Are Apricots?

An apricot is an edible fruit that comes from the apricot tree. Apricots belong to the stone fruit family, which includes peaches, nectarines, plums, cherries, and almonds. The belief is that they are either native to China or Japan, or Armenia, but now they are cultivated worldwide. Regardless of the tree’s origins, apricots have been a staple in many cultures for hundreds of years. Egyptians, for example, used apricots to make a traditional juice, while English settlers used apricot oil in the 17th century as a way to reduce inflammation. 

Nutrition

Raw apricots are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and other important micronutrients. Most of the calories come from carbs, not protein or fat. A one cup serving or raw apricots exhibits the following nutritional profile:

• 74.4 calories
• 17.2 carbohydrates 
• 0.6 grams (g) of fat
• 14.3 g of sugar
• 3.1 g of fiber
• 2.2 g of protein
• 15.5 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C
• 401 mg of potassium
• 15.5 mg of manganese
• 0.6 mg of iron
• 35.6 mg of phosphorus
• 0.9 mg of niacin
• 1.4 mg of vitamin E
• 149 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin A
• 5.1 mcg of vitamin K

Promotes Eye Health

As an excellent source of vitamin A, apricots are beneficial for eye health. In fact, a deficiency in vitamin A can result in dry eyes, vision loss, and night blindness. Apricots are also rich sources of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Additionally, they contain zeaxanthin and lutein, two carotenoids that support macular function and protect against oxidative retinal damage, which is a long-winded way of saying apricots do wonders for the eyes.

Enhances Hydration Efforts

Apricots are naturally rich in water (about 85%), meaning they may help maintain fluid balance in the body. They also contain a lot of potassium, an integral electrolyte that supports hydration by regulating fluid levels in the and out of cells. That makes apricots a great snack for warm weather and for people with active lifestyles. 

Rich In Antioxidants

Apricots provide a long list of micronutrients, but they also exhibit impressive antioxidant activity. These are plant compounds that protect against free radicals and damage to cells. It’s possible that the reduction of free radicals can reduce the risk of certain conditions, including heart disease and certain cancers. Apricots contain a lot of carotenoids, which give the fruit its signature orange hue. One study found that apricots are especially rich in beta-carotene, gamma-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin.

Supports Regularity

Fiber moves through the body without being digested, adding bulk to stool and preventing constipation. One analysis looked at research that showed how increasing fiber intake was able to increase stool frequency in patients with constipation. Sweet apricot seeds are actually sold as snack foods and can supply more fiber than the fruit itself. A quarter-cup serving contains five grams of fiber, which meets up to 20% of the recommended daily intake for fiber. 

May Reduce Blood Pressure

As we mentioned earlier, apricots provide a lot of potassium, a key electrolyte and mineral that helps regulate blood pressure. It does this by balancing sodium levels in the body. According to research, adding more potassium-rich foods to your diet may reduce the risk of hypertension and support cardiovascular health. A higher potassium-to-sodium ratio in your diet helps relax blood vessels, which ultimately reduces the strain on the cardiovascular system. 

May Relieve Menopausal Symptoms

Due to the fact that apricots contain phytoestrogens, apricots may help relieve menopausal symptoms. Phytoestrogens are compounds that support hormone balance and reduce hot flashes and mood swings. The potassium and iron in apricots may also ease certain symptoms of menopause. Plus, the antioxidant properties may also support hormonal balance and inflammation reduction, potentially helping with mood swings and hot flashes in menopausal women.

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Flaking, itchiness, and dryness can be signs of a dry scalp. Perhaps you spend a lot of time in the sun, wash your hair too frequently, or use the wrong hair care products. Whatever the case, having a dry scalp can be a real bummer. You don’t want to have to worry about whether or not you have visible flakes on your shoulders or hair. The good news is that you can make a few simple changes to moisturize the scalp and hair.

What Is Dry Scalp?

Not to be confused with dandruff, dry scalp is different, even though it exhibits similar symptoms, primarily flaking and itchiness. If your scalp is dry, the skin becomes irritated and flakes off. Dandruff is the result of too much oil production on the scalp, in addition to an overgrowth of yeast, Malassezia, that already exists on the skin. You can tell the difference between dandruff and dry scalp because dandruff flakes are larger and may look oily and have a yellow tint. Dry scalp typically produces small, dry flakes. 

Dry Scalp Causes

The primary reason that a person experiences a dry scalp is due to lack of moisture, which can have several causes. Changes in weather, washing hair too frequently, using certain hair products, age, and different skin conditions (such as psoriasis or eczema) can cause dry scalp. Certain hair products may cause contact dermatitis, which occurs when the chemicals in those products react negatively with the skin. Some products also strip the hair and scalp of their natural oils, which reduces moisture content. Additionally, too much sun exposure without proper protection can burn the scalp, causing dryness and irritation. All of those things and more can harm the scalp’s natural moisture defenses. Basically, you can damage the outer layer of skin and experience flakiness and itchiness. 

Avoid Alcohol In Hair Care Products

If you notice alcohol on the ingredient lists of any of your hair care products, throw them out. The reason for this is because alcohol dries out the scalp. It tends to be used in a lot of styling products to help hair dry faster. Alcohol also wicks moisture from the hair and scalp. In addition to alcohol, look for other drying ingredients, such as menthol, eucalyptus, and sulfate. Those ingredients actually cause a pH imbalance on the scalp!

Protect The Scalp From The Elements

The scalp can experience sunburn, just like any part of the body exposed to sunlight. Once the scalp is burnt, you can experience irritation, but it doesn’t just become irritated from sun exposure. Extreme dry and cold weather can cause dryness and itchiness. To prevent this from happening, wear a hat in the summer and a beanie in the winter to shield the scalp from the elements. The more you protect your scalp and keep it covered when outside, the healthier and happier the scalp will be. 

Change Up Your Shampoo Routine

If you feel your scalp drying out on you, reduce the amount of times you wash your hair in a week. Over-washing can strip the scalp and hair of natural oils, which are already lacking if you regularly experience dryness. You may want to consider changing up your shampoo, especially if you notice dry scalp on a somewhat regular basis. As we mentioned earlier, steer clear of shampoos that contain sulfates and alcohol. Instead, look for nourishing, moisturizing ingredients, such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, or avocado oil. Some shampoos also contain ingredients that offer anti-fungal and anti-yeast properties. 

Hydrate 

Failure to drink enough water every day can do more than impair digestive function. The skin, including your scalp, can experience dryness, flakiness, itching, and irritation if you are dehydrated. The itching and dryness can actively damage the skin, making you more susceptible to dandruff. Make sure that you drink enough water every day by drinking half your body weight in ounces of water. Keep a water bottle next to you at all times, adding cucumber or lemon to it to increase your desire to hydrate. You can also drink herbal teas and eat water-rich foods to promote hydration.

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The mighty pineapple is more than a drink garnish or beach snack. It is as nutritious as it is delicious and tropical, delivering a hefty dose of vitamins and minerals in every bite. Pineapple provides lots of vitamin C, vitamin B1, potassium, manganese, and an array of other compounds that may offer protection from disease formation. In fact, pineapple has been used as a remedy for everything from allergies to indigestion.

What Is Pineapple?

Besides the health perks, pineapple is relatively easy to find, inexpensive, and very versatile. Researchers refer to pineapple as the most economically significant plant in the Bromeliaceae plant family. Most of the fruit’s healing powers come from bromelain, a protein-digesting enzyme, specifically a protease enzyme. Most of the bromelain is found in the core, with lesser amounts existing in the more edible fruit. 

For many years, pineapple has had a place in many homeopathic remedies. The reason for this is because its compounds work to break down proteins into smaller amino acids and peptides in the body. In fact, studies have found that pineapple acts as an anti-swelling and anti-inflammatory agent. It is also a great source of bioflavonoids, tannins, and phytochemicals, which work to fight oxidative stress. 

High In Fiber

Studies show that consuming foods that are rich in fiber can help lower your risk of chronic diseases, including colorectal cancer. Fiber also helps you feel full by regulating your blood glucose levels. The high fiber content and nutritional value means that you will feel full without consuming a lot of calories. Does that make pineapple a weight loss food? Not entirely, but it can help promote regular bowel movements and reduce bloating. 

Works To Protect Against Cardiovascular Disease

According to several studies, pure pineapple juice exhibits cardioprotective properties. Researchers attribute this ability to the high vitamin C and potassium content. High potassium intake is associated with lower risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and cardiovascular disease. Potassium also helps to protect against muscle loss, reduce the formation of kidney stones, and preserve bone mineral density. A randomized, single-blind, controlled study in Iraq observed 52 obese adults with type 2 diabetes. They were treated for over eight weeks, with the intervention group receiving 500-milligram bromelain capsules twice daily, in addition to their regular metformin regimen. The controlled group only received metformin. After eight weeks, the bromelain group showed significant reduces in body max index and improvements in insulin resistance. 

Offers Nutrients For Mental Health

A study from 2020 found that consuming fruits and vegetables with a lot of nutrients may be crucial in preventing depressive disorders. Complex carbohydrates and antioxidants found in pineapple may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Tryptophan, an amino acid, in pineapple has demonstrated an ability to boost your mood and increase feelings of happiness. Consuming enough tryptophan, in addition to the other nutrients in pineapple, may benefit your neurological system by encouraging the production of hormones that boost your mood.

Reduces Inflammation

Pure pineapple juice may help those suffering from arthritis and joint pain. Once again, the enzyme bromelain is the reason! It exhibits strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is also beneficial for treating sports injuries, including sprains. Essentially, bromelain works to block metabolites that cause swelling. It also helps to decrease active swelling by activating a chemical in the blood that breaks down fibrin, which ultimately reduces swelling. One study on patients with sinusitis found that bromelain increased recovery time significantly faster than standard therapy. 

Aids Digestion

Yet again, you can thank bromelain for this! Pineapple works to break down protein into peptides and amino acids. In addition to benefitting overall digestion, pineapple may help ease the symptoms of acid reflux and ulcerative colitis. That suggests that bromelain can modulate inflammatory signaling in the colon tissue, potentially reducing inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis. Bromelain also seems to help prevent autoimmune responses that result from common food allergies. Several studies indicate that eating pineapple may help people who have celiac disease, an allergy to gluten, due to the presence of bromelain. 

Rich In Vitamin C

Although pineapple doesn’t have a lot of calories, it does boast a lot of vitamin C. Not only does vitamin C work to encourage the formation of collagen, but it also supports immune function and minimizes cold and flu symptoms. Several studies suggest that children and adults who consume fruits and vegetables with high vitamin C content may experience protection against infections, both viral and bacterial. Vitamin C is water-soluble that helps maintain the health of the body’s connective tissues. It also acts as an antioxidant, working to fight free radicals and synthesize collagen.

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With just four ingredients, this seasonal cherry smoothie is about to be your new summer favorite. It is creamy, raw vegan, and filled with more flavor than you can imagine. It is easy to prepare and what is most impressive about it is that it strikes a balance between the right amount of sweetness and texture. Rich in a variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other micros and macros, this smoothie is a new favorite.

Depending on where you live and which stores you have access to, cherries may be available throughout the year, or during a few seasons. For the most part, summer is the season of cherries, in addition to other stone fruit, such as nectarines, apricots, peaches, and plums. Cherries exhibit a high antioxidant content, which is beneficial for fighting oxidative stress, which can increase the risk of chronic illnesses. Cherries are especially rich in polyphenols, a group of plant compounds that reduce inflammation, fight cellular damage, and promote overall health. One study found that a diet rich in polyphenols can protect against diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, and cognitive decline.

Due to their anti-inflammatory properties, cherries may also improve symptoms of gout and arthritis. A systematic review from 2019 found that cherries may decrease uric acid levels in the body, making them useful for fighting gout flare-ups. A separate controlled study from 2023 found that a supplement of tart cherry taken for 12 weeks was able to lower inflammation in patients with gout. Due to their ability to reduce oxidative stress, cherries may suppress inflammatory proteins, which may reduce arthritic symptoms.

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One of the scariest things about heat stroke is that people are not aware of when they are in danger until it’s too late. By the time symptoms occur, you are too confused or delirious due to nerve damage. If you want to ensure that your health is never in harm’s way during hot weather, take preventative measures to hydrate the body and keep yourself cool. Additionally, avoid actions that increase your risk of developing heat stroke, such as engaging in hot yoga or exercising in direct sunlight. 

What Is Heat Stroke?

Heat stroke is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body is no longer able to regulate its internal temperature. That causes core temperature to rise rapidly, typically to temperatures above 104 degrees Fahrenheit. That is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate attention to save your life. Without prompt treatment, heat stroke can result in organ damage, brain injury, or even death. The two primary types of heat stroke are:

• Classic (non-exertional) heat stroke: This type of heat stroke affects vulnerable populations, including young children, older adults, and people with chronic illnesses. It usually occurs after prolonged exposure to high temperatures in poorly ventilated areas during heat waves. You do not need to physically exert yourself to develop this type of heat stroke. 
• Exertional heat stroke: This type of heat stroke affects healthy, active individuals, especially military personnel, laborers, and athletes. They perform intense physical activity in hot and humid conditions, and heat stroke can progress rapidly. 

Once the body’s core temperature rises, all of the innate processes that are in place to regulate core temperature break down. That creates serious, life-threatening problems, such as loss of consciousness or organ damage. If the heat index is higher than 90 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, the number of deaths caused by heat illness increases. Do your best to stay cool and prevent heat-related illness and heat stroke with the following tips. 

Avoid Sugary Drinks, Caffeine, And Alcohol

Hydration is the goal when the weather is hot, so there is no sense in drinking beverages that dehydrate the body. Avoid sugary drinks, alcohol, and caffeine because they dehydrate the body by increasing urination and expediting electrolyte loss. Consuming too much sugar can also lead to inflammation, which makes heat stroke even worse. Sports drinks are marketed to keep you hydrated during physical activity, but many of them contain excess sugar and added chemicals. Opt for a natural electrolyte drink instead, such as unsweetened coconut water, mineral water, and even pickle juice. 

Check Your Medications

There are many medications that can increase the risk of heat stroke. The reason for this is because they affect how the body reacts to the heat, or they interfere with your salt and water balance. Some medications that can alter the body’s ability to deal with hotter temperatures are:

• Laxatives 
• Diuretics
• Antihistamines
• Antibiotics
• Medications for seizures
• Antipsychotics 
• Antidepressants
• Drugs for heart disease, cholesterol, and blood pressure

Drink Lots Of Water

The most important thing you can do for the body when the weather is scorching is to drink a lot of water. The heat makes you sweat, which means that you lose both water and electrolytes. Drink two to four cups of water every hour when you are outside or exercising. If you wait until you are thirsty to drink water, you are already in a mild state of dehydration. Keep drinking water to lower your risk of heat stroke, and make sure that your children and those higher at risk do the same. 

Eat Hydrating Foods

In addition to drinking water, you can also eat water-rich foods. Many fruits and vegetables contain a lot of water, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other valuable electrolytes that benefit the body. These fruits and vegetables can help you maintain fluid balance, keep blood pressure levels in check, and aid with nerve signaling. Some of the best hydrating foods include:

• Watermelon
• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Grapes
• Kiwi
• Coconut water
• Zucchini
• Bell peppers
• Berries
• Pineapple
• Broccoli
• Avocado
• Radishes

Avoid Direct Sunlight

If you are sensitive to hot weather, avoid heat stroke by limiting your time in direct sunlight. If you have to be outside, do your best to find shade, or bring an umbrella and hat to keep yourself shaded. Midday heat is the worst, so do your best to avoid being outside during that time of day. If you want to exercise outside, schedule your workouts earlier or later in the day when the temperatures are cooler.

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Does the early bird in fact get the worm? It does if that bird knows how to get up without hitting the snooze button on their alarm seven times. How does a person actually become an early bird, though, especially if it doesn’t come naturally? In this article, we will unpack the benefits of waking up early and how to get better at it once and for all. 

Figure Out Your Sleep Chronotype

Chronotype…what an interesting and foreign word. Sleep chronotype refers to your natural sleep-wake pattern. Essentially, it describes when you feel most alert, productive, and then sleepy throughout the day. Your circadian rhythm influences when you feel energized versus when you feel sleepy. Once you figure out your sleep chronotype, though, you can find an optimal schedule for your circadian rhythm. If you struggle to get up in the morning, you are likely not aware of your chronotype.

Maintain A Daily Routine

The circadian rhythm thrives on a consistent routine. The more consistent your schedule, the more likely you are to wake up at the same time every morning with ease. Your meals, exercise routine, and when you wind down for bed all factor into the equation. Exercising at the right time of day is also helpful. A bear chronotype, for example, does better exercising first thing in the morning, while a wolf chronotype has a prime exercise window in the early evening. 

Give Yourself A Good Night’s Sleep

Some adults have no issues with finding seven hours of sleep per night. Others require closer to nine, but a general rule of them is that seven to nine hours of sleep per night is the ticket to waking up feeling rested. Consider exactly when you need to wake up and set a recurring alarm for that time. Don’t have schedule constraints? Pick a time that fits your lifestyle. Once you have that figured out, work backward to determine when you need to go to sleep. Stick with that schedule for a couple weeks, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Track how you do in a sleep journal because that’s a great way to identify your sleep habits and needs. You can tweak your sleep-wake schedule until you find a routine that works for you.

Watch Your Caffeine And Alcohol Consumption

It might sound obvious, but caffeine lingers in your system a lot longer than you realize. It’s also very common for people to drink caffeinated beverages throughout the day. You should avoid caffeine at least six hours before bed, or else falling asleep will be a bigger issue than it should be. Additionally, alcohol should also be avoided before bed because, despite its sleep-inducing effects, it can disrupt sleep. Alcohol increases symptoms of sleep apnea and can affect the body’s melatonin production.

Have An Accountability Partner

If you have a roommate, friend, or family member who also wants to become a morning person, consider making them your accountability partner. Wake up at the same time together, or wake each other up with phone calls. Take turns calling to hold the other person, and yourself, accountable. 

Get Natural Light During The Day

If you want to positively influence your circadian rhythm, use light to your advantage. Natural sunlight informs your circadian rhythm that it is day, not night. Getting just 10 minutes of sunlight in the morning can help wake up the body, in addition to letting the body know when it should wake on a consistent basis. There are also sunrise alarm clocks that can help with this! In addition to getting natural light in the morning, make sure to avoid light, especially blue light from screens, at night to aid healthy sleep. 

Make Mornings Enjoyable

You will probably wake up early in a better mood if you have something to look forward to at the start of your day. Perhaps it is your favorite breakfast, an intense workout, or a morning stroll with your dog through the neighborhood. If you enjoy a morning shower, remind yourself how good you’ll feel as the water cascades down upon you. You may find that a meditative stretch session in the morning is the thing that you look forward to. Only you can find what motivates you!

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It is common for muscles to contract, sometimes too much, when you experience a stressful event or anxiety attack. The body’s stress response, referred to as the fight-or-flight response, is the body’s way of preparing to face a perceived physical threat. The body is telling you that you either need to fight or run away. 

Although this stress response is designed to help you handle physical threats, it responds almost the same when the threat is not physical. Do your muscles ever tense up when you are stuck in traffic? They can do so in traffic and they can also tense up when managing pressure at work, or even when watching the news. Once the perceived threat or stressor has passed, your muscles and organs can relax. If you live with chronic stress, though, your muscles can remain tense for longer than necessary.

When you experience chronic stress, tension can accumulate in the neck and shoulders, which can increase the risk of back and shoulder pain. It’s also possible to experience more severe symptoms, including migraines, body aches, and tension headaches. Fortunately, there are stretches and yoga poses that can help relieve daily tension and tightness in the neck and shoulders. 

Neck Release

This is a gentle way to loosen the muscles in the neck and shoulders. To begin, stand up straight with both arms at your sides. Lower your head ,bringing your chin toward your chest. Tilt your head to the right side and pause for 30 seconds, allowing yourself to feel a stretch along the left side of your neck. Bring your head back to center and repeat on the other side. Complete three to five times on each side. 

Neck Stretch

Ease tension in the neck with this deep stretch that may also increase range of motion. Stand up straight with your left arm by your side. Grab the left side of your head with your right hand and gently pull your right ear toward your right shoulder. Only pull until you feel a gentle stretch along the left side of your neck. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds and then return to the center before repeating on the other side. Complete two to three times per side. 

Cat-Cow Pose

This classic yoga pose not only helps relieve tension in the neck and shoulders, but also in the back and torso. To begin, get on your hands and knees in a tabletop position, stacking your shoulders over the wrists and hips over the knees. While inhaling, enter Cow pose by dropping your belly toward the floor and lifting your Ching to direct your gaze toward the ceiling. Open the chest and shoulders and remain here for a few seconds. Exhale and transition to Cat pose, during which you pull your navel into your spine and round your back. Pause again for a few seconds. Continue alternating between these two positions for 10 to 12 times. 

Thread The Needle

This pose is a great way to relieve tension in the upper back, shoulders, and neck. Begin this pose the exact same way you started Cat-Cow pose, in a tabletop position on all fours. Slide your right hand (palm facing up) under your torso toward the left side. While doing this, rotate your torso slightly and lower your right shoulder to the floor as you look toward your left side. Hold this position for about 20 to 30 seconds before returning to the starting position. Repeat on the other side and then complete two more times per side. 

Child’s Pose

To round out the series, we have Child’s pose, which is a relaxing yoga pose that can help relieve neck and lower back pain. Some studies indicate that it may also help regulate hormones, manage high blood pressure, and promote sleep. Begin this pose the same way you did the previous two poses, in a tabletop position. Sit back on your heels and lengthen the spine as you walk your hands out in front of you. Hinge at the hips to do this. Once your arms are stretched out as far as you can comfortably get them, lower your forehead toward the floor and feel the stretch along your back. Hold this position for one minute, focusing on your breath throughout. Try to feel the release of tension in your neck and shoulders as you spend more time in this pose. Return to the starting position and repeat for a total of two to three times.

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