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Category: Healthy Living

What Is a Healthy Diet?

Just like we know we have to sleep for 8 hours and brush our teeth every day, we also know that we need to eat healthily. So, the term healthy dieting is not new. Unfortunately, not all of us follow a healthy diet plan. Some are hesitant to do it because they are scared of the budget. They have the notion that healthy foods are expensive.

Others just can’t drop high sugars, bad fats, and other junks they are addicted to. There are also a few others who think that healthy dieting is too complicated. What they don’t understand is that it is the key to living a disease-free and happy life. We are going to emphasize the elements, keys, and importance of a healthy diet.

Elements of a Healthy Diet

To help you determine if you are observing a healthy diet or not, here are the basic elements you need to include in your meal plan:

1. Whole Grains

Unlike processed grains, whole grains have their nutrients intact. They are packed with iron, Vitamin B, and fiber. So, you can count on the food option to give your body maximum protection against diseases. They are also a basic source of energy. If you are looking to consume whole grain, you need to start shopping for:

  • Whole wheat
  • Brown rice
  • Whole oat
  • Millet
  • Whole barley

2. Proteins

Your body is like a car. It needs to be fueled daily to work at its optimum. The source of fuel is protein and you need enough of it to go through a physically-demanding day. Proteins also promote tissue repair and healing following an injury or a disease. Healthy protein options include:

  • Legumes
  • Nuts
  • Eggs
  • Fish
  • Lean meat

3. Fats and Oils

Fats and oils are beneficial to the body but not all options are healthy. Saturated fats and oils that are present in fried foods and fatty meats, for example, are a risk for stroke and heart attack. You need to take unsaturated options instead. They are rich in omega 3, which is not just good for your heart but also for your brain. Unsaturated oils are found in

  • Oily fish
  • Avocado
  • Nuts
  • Peanut

4. Vitamins

The major sources of vitamins are vegetables and fruits. According to research, they help immensely in protecting the body against heart diseases, among other functions. Vitamin C, for example, which is predominant in fruits, is good for the bones and teeth. Vitamin E, on the other hand, which is present in peanuts and greens, is important in boosting your immunity and hastening recovery.

5. Minerals

Your diet should be rich in essential vitamins like iron, calcium, and magnesium. While iron is needed for blood production, calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth. The same can be said about magnesium. You can find calcium and magnesium in dairy products whereas iron is present in dark chocolate and greens.

6. Dietary Fiber

Fiber is important in protecting you against diabetes and heart diseases. It can also help you lose weight, have youthful skin, and enjoy better digestion. You can find fiber in foods like:

  • Vegetables
  • Fruits
  • Whole grains
  • Legumes

7. Plenty of Water

Water is life and you need it for several body functions. The major ones are:

  • Energizes the body
  • Facilitates better digestion
  • Detoxifies the body
  • Prevents headaches
  • Softens the skin

Experts recommend taking at least 8 glasses a day. Of course, you can take more, especially during the summer when you sweat more.

Importance of a Healthy Diet

You probably are asking: After eating healthy, then what? Well, a healthy diet comes with some amazing returns. Here are the notable ones:

Healthy Weight

More often than not, obesity and uncontrolled weight gain are linked to poor feeding. Taking foods rich in fats and sugars is never healthy if you are hoping to lose weight. You need healthy components like fibers and lean proteins to manage your weight.

Disease Prevention

Major organs of the body like the heart and the brain depend on a healthy diet to function well. Failure to taking healthy meals may result in serious health issues. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, we can prevent 80% of cardiovascular diseases with healthy dieting. Another study by the American Society of Clinical Oncology shows that the risk for cancer can be reduced by eating healthy.

Sleep Quality

Do you know that you can sleep much comfortably if you eat healthily? Your body needs to be supplied with the right nutrients to avoid sleep disruptions. When observing a healthy diet, you are expected to limit caffeine intake and alcohol consumption as they are known to interfere with your sleep quality.

Physical Health

Different components of a healthy diet play different functions in your physical health. Proteins, for example, build your muscles and repair damaged cells. They also promote better immunity, which is important in putting your body in the right shape. Minerals, on the other hand, make your bones stronger while whole grains fuel your muscles. At the end of the day, you can enjoy a better-looking body because of healthy dieting.

Cognitive Health

A healthy diet is beneficial to your brain and you need it to boost memory and prevent brain slowness. One study shows that nutrients like omega 3, Vitamin C, and flavonoids which are part of a healthy diet can help fight dementia and other brain decline conditions. If you are also looking to boost your brain sharpness, you need to always eat healthily.

Keys to Healthy Dieting

According to WHO, the keys to healthy dieting include:

  • Food variety – WHO suggests that taking different foods in moderation is the simplest way to observe a healthy diet. You should include legumes, lean proteins, whole wheat, and vitamins in your daily meal plan.
  • More fruits and vegetables – According to the American Heart Association, you need at least 8 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. The two are a rich source of antioxidants, proteins, and minerals.
  • Unsaturated oils – Since saturated oils are not good for you, WHO insists on unsaturated options. They don’t pose a health risk and contain balanced energy.
  • Low sugar – Sugars are a leading cause of diabetes and weight gain. To manage your weight and avoid elevated blood sugar, you need to keep your blood sugar intake at a minimum. This means putting limitations on sodas and juices.
  • Low salt – Similarly to sugars, WHO recommends low levels of salt. This is another way to prevent hypertension and stroke.

Closing Thought:

There are no two ways to it – you can only live healthy if you eat healthily. It may not be simple and you may have to spend more but it’s all worth it in the long run. If you are not sure how to go about it or you want to find low-cost healthy foods, talk to a nutritionist about it but don’t do away with the idea of healthy dieting.

How Long Does a Chiropractic Adjustment Last?

One major concern among chiropractic patients is the duration that the treatment takes. Some are so cautious of their budget that they expect an adjustment to last them a lifetime or at least several years. Others are over-anxious to recover from their condition and so they want the treatment to kick-start its effects almost immediately. However, there are a few who don’t mind making regular trips to a chiropractor for wellness purposes provided they see the results. So, how long exactly should you expect a chiropractic adjustment to last you? Let’s try to answer below.

It’s Not a One-Minute Treatment

A chiropractic adjustment is done to clear disruptions on the spine that may be the reason why there’s a dysfunction on the nerve, the muscles, the bone or the joint. The disruptions are called subluxations and they are not easy to fix. So, don’t expect to walk into a chiropractor’s office and leave within a minute. Similarly, don’t expect your issue to clear within a minute of leaving the chiropractor’s office.

It usually takes time. Some take days to feel the effects and others weeks. Just think about this for a minute – How long does it take to recover from surgery? Of course, it’s never immediate. Some people are fortunate to take days while others take weeks or months. So, expect the same after a chiropractic adjustment. It all depends on the procedure and your body’s response.

Average Expectation

If you are having chiropractic adjustments for prevention or wellness purpose, expect to go through at least one adjustment a week for about 9 weeks. In such a case, you can expect to start feeling the effects almost immediately.

For pains like headaches, joints pains, and muscle pains, expect to attend 3 sessions a week for about 4 weeks. Upon completion of your program, the adjustments can last you for weeks or months depending on these four factors.

The Patient

Every patient responds differently to chiropractic adjustments. Some are quicker than others and the variation is due to the following:

  • Age – Younger patients are expected to respond much faster to chiropractic adjustments and they are also expected to enjoy the effects much longer than seniors. This is because the older you are, the less flexible you become.
  • Activity – Individuals who are living an active lifestyle respond quicker to chiropractic adjustments. They also experience long-lasting effects if compared to individuals living a sedentary lifestyle. So, if you want your adjustment to last longer, get active.
  • Fitness level – The fitter you are, the likelier you are to respond quickly to a chiropractic adjustment. This translates to a longer duration of its effects. As a result, chiropractors will advise you to keep on exercising and eating healthy after an adjustment.

Injury Type

Some injuries are more severe than others. Therefore, expect the less severe ones to heal much quicker than the severe ones. For example, a bone injury is likely to take 5-6 weeks before you can find relief after a chiropractic adjustment. If the injury is to the tendons or ligaments, expect it to take about 8 weeks to start experiencing full relief.

In case it’s cartilage or a vertebral disc that’s injured, then you may have to wait for months. The same can be said about back injuries. In the meantime, you are expected to undergo several adjustments. It doesn’t mean that you only need one adjustment to find relief. The severe the injury is, the more the adjustments you are expected to go through.

Lifestyle Modifications

When living the office of a chiropractor, expect to go out with a dozen instructions. Often, the instructions are directed towards making lifestyle changes. It’s estimated that more than 60% of chiropractic patients start getting relief after their first session because they opt to make lifestyle modifications. This is concerning:

  • Eating healthy
  • Exercising more regularly
  • Quitting smoking

So, it’s generally advisable to live a decent lifestyle if you are looking to reduce chiropractic visits and be in a position to enjoy the effects longer.

Adjustment Technique

The technique used to adjust your body has a lot to stay about how long your treatment will last. For example, manual adjustments tend to take more time to yield results and their effects are often short-lived. Instrument-aided adjustments, on the other hand, are quick to yield results and the effects are long-lasting.

The problem is that not every chiropractor uses assistive devices to offer adjustments as they are expensive and come with a few risks. You may also be expected to pay a little extra for the adjustments. But if you don’t mind the cost and have a chiropractor you can trust, going for instrument-aided adjustments is not a bad thing.

The Bonus – You Can Make Your Adjustment Last Longer

Most patients are quicker to ask how they can make their treatment last longer once they hear about the expected duration. Here are the basic tips:

  • Hydrate – You need more water to get rid of body toxins like uric acid that are known to slow down your response time to chiropractic adjustments. The more you hydrate, the likelier you are to improve the effects of your adjustment.
  • Rest well – It’s not just about having to sleep for 8 hours but being able to enjoy your sleep. The healthier you sleep, the longer you enjoy the effects of a chiropractic adjustment.
  • Sit upright – Just like it’s important to sleep well, you also need to sit upright to enjoy longer adjustment effects. You have to maintain an upright posture, more so when sitting behind a desk for hours.
  • Epsom salt – Epsom salt is great in helping your sweat more and to get rid of toxins quicker. In chiropractic, it’s important in soothing your muscles. This helps you to respond faster to an adjustment.
  • Apply ice – Ice not only reduces inflammation and pains but it also enhances circulation. This is critical in responding quickly to a chiropractic adjustment and enjoying its effects for much longer.
  • Exercise – Exercises are important in boosting muscle flexibility and circulation. So, you should learn to exercise promptly as instructed by your chiropractor to enjoy longer effects.

Closing Thought:

The duration of a chiropractic adjustment depends on several factors as discussed above, so it’s hard to put a definite timeline on it. If you are unsure if it’s time for your next adjustment, contact Cool Springs Chiropractic in Franklin, TN, and we can help!

How to Eat Healthy on a Budget

Food can be expensive. There’s no doubt about that. However, it doesn’t mean that only healthy food is expensive. Surprisingly, junk foods are costlier at most times than healthy options. You may not agree with this if you’ve never taken time to consider healthy options that you can take on a budget. It all boils down to two key things; preparation and decision-making.

You have to prepare to only buy healthy options. You also need to be decisive on what you plan to buy on a budget. This not only saves you money but your health too. The primary source of defense for your body is the food you eat. So, the healthier your options are, the healthier your body is likely to be. Having said that; here are 10 steps to eating healthy on a budget:

Step 1 – Create and Stick to a Healthy Meal Plan

We’ve already mentioned planning as a critical point. To get you started, you need to establish your budget. Out of it, make a grocery list that features healthy food items. Ensure that it’s indicated how much you are willing to spend on every item on your grocery list. You should never visit a store on a budget if you are not decided on what to get.

Though it’s tempting to buy fancy foodstuffs when you visit a store, it’s paramount that you stick to your meal plan. In case you are left with some money after you’ve bought everything on your grocery list, you can buy the fancy stuff. But make sure they are not unhealthy.

Step 2 – Buy what’s Seasonal

Healthy foods, more so fruits, have seasons in which they are abundant in the market. This forces their prices to go down and thus affordable for someone on a budget. For example, berries, apples, and apples are normally in season during the summer. So, they are likely to be cheaper than in any other season.

On other seasons, fruits like oranges and bananas may be a cheaper option. It’s argued that foods bought in season tend to contain optimum nutrients and their flavor is desirable. This might be true considering that they are not transported or stored a lot as they are available locally.

Step 3 – Prepare Your Healthy Meals

Ordering a healthy meal from a restaurant or a meal service may be expensive. However, preparing the same meal at home may be cheaper. You are allowed to shop around for ingredients on a discount. If some ingredients are left after preparing your healthy meal, you can keep them for future use. Moreover, you can economize on expensive options like meat, butter, and spices.

Step 4 – Look for Sales and Discounts

In most stores, there are occasional sales for healthy foods. You just have to keep your eyes open when you visit them. You can also ask for the offers to save yourself some time. Often, sales are offered around holiday seasons. So, it’s a nice time to do your shopping. You should also look for discounts. Some come in the form of vouchers and others in the form of coupons. Both options will guarantee you considerable discounts. You can inquire about them at the stores that you visit.

Step 5 – Grow Your Vegetables

If you have a kitchen garden at home, it’s time you make the most out of it. Start by planting your vegetables to consume at home. This will help to cut cost on the grocery. You can plant spinach, kales, onions, and any other vegetable you prefer. The advantage is that you can decide on what seeds varieties to use and what pest control methods to apply. Simply, you are in control of your yields.

Step 6 – Buy Economical Healthy Foods

Some greens and fruits are more economical than others. Therefore, you should focus on them as they also promise beneficial nutrients similar to what you find in costly options. For example, buying cabbage and kales may be more economical than buying lettuce and broccoli. Similarly, buying bananas and oranges may be more economical than buying grapes and apples. If you are on a budget, you have to do comparisons whenever you shop.

Step 7 – Substitute Meat with Cheaper but Healthy Alternatives

You don’t have to eat meat all the time just because you want some proteins on your plate. Meat is expensive and thus may mess up your budget. Instead, you should go for plant-based alternatives like legumes. Options to consider include beans and peas. They are rich in essential amino acids that you need for muscle boost and bodybuilding. You can also consider animal-based alternatives like canned fish and eggs. Like legumes, these options are also amino acid-rich and very economical.

Step 8 – Shop in Bulk

Generally, shopping in bulk saves you money. You just have to ensure that you don’t waste your money on foods that would go bad easily. Some of the best options to consider are frozen vegetables, cereals, and legumes. If you have the money to buy them in bulk, don’t hesitate to do it right away. It’s a great strategy for saving on your monthly grocery expenditure. Most stores offer you a discount when you shop in bulk. Others allow you to earn points that you can redeem for free foods.

Step 9 –Put Your Freezer into Use

A lot of times, we ignore the freezer without realizing how much it can save us financially. When you shop in bulk, especially healthy food items on sale or those in season, you should learn to store them in the freezer for future use. This is what a freezer is meant for. You don’t have to keep your healthy foods for a month but you can do it for days or a week. This ensures that they don’t go bad, translating to financial loss. The nutrients are also locked and preserved.

Step 10 – Shop Store Brands

Lastly, you should check out healthy food items that have store labels. Most stores usually put items that have their labels next to other brands. The difference is that theirs is mostly cheap. So, make sure you keep watch. You can also inquire from the store attendants.

Closing Thought:

From now onwards, you don’t have to waste money on unhealthy diets. You don’t even to struggle to buy some mouthwatering options that you know are not healthy. Just resolve to eat healthily and make it customary in the family. This will save you money and improve your general wellbeing.

How Effective Is Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractic is an old practice where hand-on spinal adjustments are done to realign a crooked, curved or compressed spine. From the spinal adjustments, other parts of the bodies such as the back, the neck, the legs, and the shoulders are manipulated. If you were feeling pain, muscle stiffness or a strain in any of these parts, calmness is initiated through chiropractic adjustments.

Chiropractic adjustments can also be done on specific affected parts and not just the spine. In this case, a chiropractor physically manipulates the affected part. The manipulation is meant to restore mobility, muscle flexibility, and stability to the affected part. It could be a painful joint, a torn ligament, a stretched muscle or a broken bone.

Chiropractic Diagnoses: Are They Effective?

You probably don’t know this but chiropractors are also known as Doctors of Chiropractic. Like regular medical doctors, Doctors of Chiropractic have to first diagnose a patient’s condition before designing and scheduling a treatment plan. The first step is to collect the medical history of the patient. This is followed by a physical exam where the expert assesses physical signs like spinal curving, tissue tenderness, muscle soreness, and inflammation.

The expert may also look at vital parameters like blood pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate, and body heat. In some cases, the expert may resort to neurological and orthopedic exams. The former is considered to assess problems with the nerves while the latter is considered to uncover health issues linked to the musculoskeletal system (muscles and bones). So, yes, chiropractic diagnosis is effective.

Chiropractic Treatment Techniques: Are They Effective?

Chiropractors employ different physical techniques to help patients recover from chronic pain, muscle distress, mobility restrictions, poor posture, among other issues. The most used technique, however, is a spinal adjustment. It’s done to address underlying issues like spinal curving and spinal nerve compression. The technique is very effective since it manipulates the spine to facilitate effective communication throughout the musculoskeletal system.

Other notable effective chiropractic treatment techniques are:

  • Joint mobilization
  • Soft tissue massage
  • Stretching exercises
  • Activity modification

Let’s look as some of the leading issues that chiropractic is effective against.

Back Pain

It’s estimated that about 74% of patients who visit chiropractors annually go there because of back pain. Doesn’t this sound effective to you? These people are either experiencing back pain from a muscle strain, wrong posture or a physical injury. Before a chiropractor can treat back pain, he or she has to run a successful diagnosis. The chiropractor will examine the patient, putting the focus on the back and the spine.

If things are not clear, a chiropractor may request the patient to go through a diagnostic imaging procedure. This is to obtain images that will show what is exactly wrong with the patient’s back and spine. After all, these are done, the chiropractor will settle on a conclusive diagnosis. The diagnosis will provide the basis of designing a chiropractic treatment plan for the patient.

The chiropractic treatment normally features spinal adjustments but it can also feature nutritional counseling, body rehabilitation, and lifestyle advice. It depends on the severity of the back pain. Generally, the primary objective of chiropractic treatment is to promote back pain relief. However, the expert also purposes to restore body functions and to prevent back pain from recurring.

Headaches

In terms of popularity, headaches are the second most popular ailments addressed by chiropractors, after back pain. These experts can treat headache types like migraines and tension headaches. Pieces of evidence show that chiropractic adjustments can help relieve and cure headaches in different people. Based on these studies, most patients experience a 90% drop in headache pain intensity.

As a result, chiropractic is recommended as an alternative to pain relievers. Unlike pain relievers which normally treat the main symptom (pain), chiropractic adjustments dig deep into the root cause of the headache. By attacking and fixing the root cause, chiropractic treats the main symptoms and prevents its recurrence.

Shoulder and Neck Injuries

One study shows that patients suffering from a frozen shoulder can benefit from chiropractic adjustments. According to the study, most patients experience a 50% improvement rate. Of course, combining chiropractic treatments with other effective manual therapies boost the recovery rate.

A different study done on patients with neck injuries show that chiropractic is very effective in relieving neck pain. The study concludes by expressing that a good number of the patients were satisfied with the results and wouldn’t hesitate to consider chiropractic is they faced a similar issue in the future. Chiropractic is not just effective but also cheaper than physiotherapy.

Other Conditions

Chiropractic is not just effective against back pain, headache, shoulder injuries, and neck injuries. It’s also effective against the following:

  • Joint pain
  • Insomnia
  • Vertigo
  • Scoliosis
  • Sciatica
  • Hypertension
  • Asthma
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Anxiety, among many others

Athletic Performance

Top professional athletes in the world consider chiropractic for performance-enhancing. It’s argued that a majority of NFL clubs have a permanent chiropractor on their team. This is because the team always need body stretches and adjustments before and after they step into the field. Arguments are that chiropractic is quite effective in alleviating pain and restoring the functionality of the muscles and joints. In the long run, this improves athletic performance.

Generally, chiropractic is effective in promoting athletic performance in the following ways:

  • Relieving muscle stiffness and tension, resulting in relaxation
  • Boosting natural energy levels through muscle stimulation
  • Reducing oxidative stress
  • Improving heart functions and natural immunity

Also, chiropractic can address sports injuries to help an athlete recover quickly. We are talking about injuries like neck pain, back injury, sprains, and strains. In the end, chiropractic ensures that the athlete takes minimal time to recover and can perform at a higher level upon recovery.

The Bonus – Professional Backing

Different professional bodies support chiropractic as a treatment option. The American College of Physicians, for example, recommends it for back pain. The Journal of the American Medical Association, on the other hand, advocates it for surgery prevention. Furthermore, chiropractors are certified and licensed by the American Chiropractic Association in the United States and other chiropractic bodies in other countries. Those who are approved by these bodies are reliable, thus effective.

Closing Thought:

If we were to answer our title, we would say that chiropractic is effective. So, you don’t have to doubt its performance. You can consider it not just to treat and prevent musculoskeletal issue but also for performance-enhancing. All you have to do is go to a licensed and experienced Doctor of Chiropractic.

9 Health Benefits of Turmeric

Popularly known as the golden spice because of its color, turmeric is not new in our lives. This bright yellow spice is a constant ingredient in most kitchen shelves. It’s mostly found in products like curry powder, herbal extracts, and teas. For most people, turmeric is just another spice that makes food taste better. However, there is more to this spice.

In India where it’s native, turmeric is used as a medicinal herb for issues like inflammation, indigestion, and chronic pain. Today in the West, the herb is used to facilitate body healing and to relieve pain. These are just a few of the therapeutic applications of turmeric. Other than in powder form, turmeric exists in supplements and root forms.

Why is Turmeric Therapeutic?

Turmeric contains curcumin as its active ingredients. Curcumin has been researched and found to contain amazing anti-inflammation and pain relieving properties. Curcumin is also known to stimulate anti-oxidation effects and this is important in promoting natural healing. The spice comes nutrient-packed. It’s rich in therapeutic minerals like:

  • Iron (important for blood formation)
  • Vitamin C (important for fighting infections)
  • Potassium (important for blood clotting)

You should also not forget that turmeric also contains energy boosters like sugars and proteins which are important for your body and brain.

Top Health Benefits 

Due to its therapeutic properties, turmeric promotes the following health benefits:

1. Soothes Body Inflammations

body inflammation

Generally, inflammation is beneficial when it’s short-lived. It helps your body fight bacteria and other pathogens. However, it can be a problem if it’s long-term. In such a case, it starts attacking your own body instead of defending it. This is where turmeric comes in. Through curcumin, turmeric boosts anti-inflammation effects in the body. This is how turmeric fights inflammation diseases like Alzheimer, arthritis, and stress disorders. Unlike drugs, research shows that curcumin has no major side effects when fighting inflammations.

2. Boost Brain Functions

boosts brain function

For normal and improved brain functions, neurons have to divide and increase in number. This process is driven by a hormone called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Researchers argue that curcumin helps to boost the levels of this hormone in the brain. By doing so, you are able to either slow down or avoid Alzheimer, Dementia, and depression. This is not all. Curcumin is also known to enhance memory. Simply, it makes you sharper. However, this doesn’t mean that you should overdose curcumin just because you want to become smarter. The intake has to be regulated.

3. Relieves Different Kinds of Pain

pain

For both acute and chronic pain, turmeric has shown promising results in bringing relief. A certain study shows that the potency can match that of ibuprofen and other potent pain killers. Mark you; there are no worrying effects attached to turmeric as it’s often the case with most pain relievers. The turmeric dose for pain relief may vary but most experts tend to recommend 800mg/day. That’s if you are taking turmeric capsules. Examples of pains you can relieve with turmeric include burn pain, orofacial pain, arthritis pain, and sciatica.

4. Treats Digestion Problems

digestion

There’s no doubt that turmeric gives your food flavor. This is why it’s a constant ingredient in curry powders. However, you should expect more from it than just tasty food. It’s actually quite impressive in digestive functions. By facilitating proper digestion, turmeric prevents gut issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome and indigestion. It can also treat ulcerative colitis, bloating, and gut inflammation. Medical evidence shows that the reason behind this benefit is because of curcumin’s anti-inflammation effects on the digestive tract. For this reason, it’s advisable to include turmeric whenever you can in your food preparation.

5. Improves Heart Health

healthy heart

So many lives are lost in the world today because of Heart Disease. Surprisingly, a majority of cases are preventable by minor lifestyle adjustments like including turmeric in your diet. Due to its anti-inflammation properties, turmeric not only prevents Heart Disease but also Heart Attack. Curcumin present in the spice improves the lining and structure of blood vessels and this is crucial in regulating blood pressure and promoting blood clotting. If blood clotting is not regulated and blood pressure is not normalized, there’s always the risk of Heart Disease. Studies also show that turmeric boosts healthy cholesterol. This is important in improving your heart health.

6. Can Fight Cancer

cancer

We all know how terrible cancer is. The fact that tumor cells constantly multiply makes cancer more dreadful than any other disease. There’s good new though. Several studies show that turmeric may not only prevent but also treat some types of cancer. We are talking about colorectal cancer, colon cancer, multiple myeloma, and pancreatic cancer. Researchers have found that turmeric has inhibitory properties. This is quite important in stopping the proliferation of cancer cells. More importantly, it prevents cancer cells from forming in the first place.

7. Promotes Joint Health

joint health

A recent study done on patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis shows that curcumin is vital in managing the condition. According to the study, curcumin is more effective than the most prescribed anti-inflammatory drug and pain reliever, Diclofenac. Curcumin is able to reduce joint inflammation and swelling. It’s also able to soothe joint pain. However, the study advocates for the use of turmeric as a preventive measure as opposed to a treatment.

8. Boost Liver Functions

liver functions

The liver is your body’s detoxification center. Basically, it’s the organ responsible for fighting toxins. The problem is that some toxins are so powerful o fight back and so they end up attacking the organ. You can prevent such a scenario by taking turmeric. Due to the antioxidant properties of curcumin, turmeric helps your liver to develop resistance against the destructive toxins. In the end, your liver functions are naturally boosted and you are able to get rid of toxins effortlessly.

9. Prevents Weight Gain

weight gain

Are you aware that stress can make you gain weight faster? Research shows that stress promotes the secretion of cortisol (the stress hormone). The hormone makes you want to eat more and may stimulate fat accumulation around the waistline. The good news is that the secretion of cortisol can be neutralized by agents found in turmeric called adaptogens. As a result, turmeric makes you stress tolerant. In the long run, you are able to overcome the urge to eat a lot and waistline fat tends to be broken down more efficiently.

The Best Cup of Coffee in Franklin

We all have different tastes for coffee. Some of us like it black while others want it creamy. Some prefer to take with sugar and others like it without sugar. Whatever your preference is, coffee just makes your day better. Whether you want to stimulate your mind in readiness for a hectic day ahead or you just want to relax after a stressful day, a cup of hot coffee can offer you the escape.

Speaking of a cup of hot coffee; there’s no better place to have it than in Franklin. They have some of the best and budget-friendly coffeehouses that Tennessee has to offer. You can take your coffee there or on the go. Some coffeehouses even have delivery services when you book online or when you ring them. Wondering what spots we are talking about? Well, here are our top 10 recommendations:

  1. The Coffee House at Second and Bridge

When thinking about a local coffee shop that’s locally inspired, this coffeehouse has to top the list. Having launched in 2012, the Coffee House has expanded its menu to become the most desired breakfast joint on 144 2nd Avenue. They are open from 7 am to 5 pm and so you can have your coffee any time of the day. They also offer take-out services if you want to have your coffee on the go. Additionally, you can enjoy free Wi-Fi on site, outdoor sitting area, and ample parking. You can visit their Website to check the spot out.

  1. Franklin Coffee House

Franklin Coffee House is one of the recent entrants into the Franklin coffee market. The coffee house was launched in 2018. So, they are just a year old. But despite being young, the spot has the best coffee on Sparta, WI. They also offer a wide selection of bakery options to go with their coffee. The advantage is that you can make an online through their Website and have your cup of coffee delivered where you are.

  1. The Well Coffeehouse

Standing strategically on 1725 Galleria Blvd is the Well Coffeehouse. Many locals know the spot as an internet café since customers are allowed to enjoy fast free Wi-Fi as they sip their coffee. It’s open from nine to nine (am to pm) and you can have your coffee plain or with bread. The coffeehouse has a glamorous interior to inspire you. So, it’s great for special dates. You can visit their Website to familiarize yourself with their coffee specialties.

  1. Biscuit Love

Having launched in 2012, Biscuit Love is one of the most visited coffee spots in Franklin. It’s a family-owned business that’s known for the best local breakfast servings. Located at 132 3rd Avenue Street, Biscuit Love is open from 7 am to 3 pm. It has a casual but classy appeal and it’s quite spacious for group meetings. Additionally, the spot is wheelchair-accessible and kid-friendly. You can check them out here.

  1. The Good Cup

Just from the sound of the name, you can tell that coffee in this spot is good. A peculiar coffee spot on 2181 Hillsboro Road, the Good Cup is generally an amazing coffee shop. They open from six to six (am to pm) and they allow you to have coffee on a budget. They have free Wi-Fi and you can have your coffee outside if you prefer. So, if you work online, you can continue working as you sip your coffee. You can check what they have here.

  1. Starbucks

Whether you want the best cup of tea or coffee, you can get it at Starbucks. They are a popular spot on 5050 Carothers Pkwy. They are known to open early in the morning at around 5 am and close late at night. So, you are guaranteed the best cup of coffee any time you visit the joint. In fact, they have specially-branded takeaway coffee cups that are great for someone on the go. You can also ring them to make a booking. The coffee joint has an exciting modern style for anyone who cares about trends. You can see everything clearly on their Website.

  1. Café Latte

When walking on 1800 Galleria Blvd, it’s hard to miss this coffee joint. Known to have a simple design, Café Latte is quite popular for coffee lovers on a budget. They allow you to have an inexpensive take-out. The only problem is that it often gets noisy inside since space is small and they don’t have parking space for both cars and bikes. The spot is just great for someone who wants to grab their best cup of coffee and sip it on the way.

  1. Java Dreams II

Like Café Latte, Java Dreams II is generally a simple and inexpensive coffee joint. However, this doesn’t mean that their coffee isn’t good. On the contrary, they probably have the best coffee on 730 Cool Springs Blvd. So, you are guaranteed the best serving when you visit the café. They are open from 7 am to 2 pm every weekday. So, it can be your regular spot if you go to work from Monday to Friday. Space may not be that large, but their coffee is unquestionable. It’s that good.

  1. Tiny Little Donuts

Originally started as a donut joint, Tiny Little Donuts has grown to become an amazing joint for coffee lovers. Actually, most customers prefer to have donuts with coffee. They have an amazing outdoor sitting area for consumers. You can visit the spot any morning hour on any day to have your cup of coffee. They are located at 328 5th Avenue. Alternatively, you can make your order online by visiting their Website.

  1. Perch Westhaven

Known as a classy restaurant by many, Perch Westhaven always serves the best local coffee. Though the price at the joint is a little higher than what you pay in most coffee joints, you are guaranteed the best perks. For example, they have an amazing outdoor space where you can sit alone or in a group as you enjoy free Wi-Fi. They also offer coffee take-out through branded coffee cups. You can check out their Website for more information.

Closing Thought:

Historically speaking, Franklin is generally a coffee drinking city. So, it doesn’t surprise that there are coffeehouses on almost all streets. With the above spots topping the list, you are always guaranteed a good time when you sip your preferred caffeine drink. Each spot has its’ own fair share of advantages. So, you just have to go to the one that matches your expectation.

8 Health Benefits of Eucalyptus

Most people can tell eucalyptus from a distance because of its distinctive scent. It’s a pleasant one. Thus, it’s widely identified with home fragrances, deodorants, and scented soaps. But you should know that there is more to eucalyptus than a beautiful scent. The tree is therapeutic in all its forms. You can find it in forms like eucalyptus oil (popularly known as eucalyptol), eucalyptus ointment, eucalyptus leaves (either fresh or dry), eucalyptus spray, and eucalyptus ointment.

You probably know eucalyptus dry leaves as an ingredient for herbal tea. Their fresh form can be used as a natural fragrance. The same role applies to eucalyptus spray. For eucalyptus ointment, it’s applied on the skin to promote antibacterial functions. Eucalyptus oil can also be used the same way. Additionally, it can be taken orally or inhaled. Actually, eucalyptol is the most used form of eucalyptus. You’ll find it in over-the-counter products like cough syrups, mouthwashes, anti-rash creams, hair care products, and body rubs.

You can know that a product has eucalyptus oil just by smelling it. Its scent is generally aromatic. The oil is obtained from the leaves of a mature eucalyptus tree. This evergreen tree originated from Australia but its popularity runs globally. In fact, it’s the most recognized medicinal tree around the world today and exists in more than 400 species. The most popular species in most countries is Blue Gum. It’s the primary source of eucalyptol. From a health perspective, research shows that eucalyptus is quite therapeutic. Here are 8 benefits that the evergreen tree species brings:

  1. Powerful Antiseptic/Disinfectant

Eucalyptus is generally a powerful antimicrobial agent. It’s able to get rid of microbes from the skin surface and inanimate objects. This explains why eucalyptus oil is a sought-after wound cleanser. It’s able to eliminate bacteria and fungi around an open wound. In the end, it’s able to help a wound heal much faster.

Moreover, it offers protection to an open wound against irritation from air exposure. Because of this benefit, Turkish Researchers support the use of Eucalyptus oil when you want to fasten the wound healing process. With respect to inanimate surface cleaning, you can use eucalyptus spray to clean kitchen countertops, bathroom floors, and other surfaces.

  1. Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammation

When eucalyptus oil is applied to the body, it’s known to ease joint pain and redness, muscle soreness, and general body swelling. There are also suggestions that eucalyptus oil can be inhaled to promote pain relief. So, you don’t just need to apply it topically to enjoy this benefit. This is more important if you have sustained a physical injury that’s characterized by joint or muscle pain and inflammation.

  1. Relieves Headaches

A headache occurs when pressure is placed on the sinus. This is actually the part that eucalyptus targets. It’s able to invigorate this part to release its tension. In the end, this helps immensely in alleviating head pain. According to a random survey, patients who inhale and apply eucalyptus oil on their head when they have a headache tends to experience fast relief even without using pain relievers.

  1. Encourages Hair Health

If you observe most hair products keenly, you’ll identify eucalyptus as one of the main ingredients. It’s known to exert powerful antimicrobial effects on the hair follicles. This is according to a 2012 report. The report shows that eucalyptus oil is able to prevent the buildup of pathogens around the hair follicles.

By doing so, you are able to avoid head lice, dandruff, and scalp irritation. Actually, you can apply eucalyptus oil directly to your scalp to promote this. The report concludes by suggesting that you could boost hair growth if you apply eucalyptus oil regularly.

  1. Stimulate Brain Activity

Sometimes, the brain’s activity can be slowed down by stress, fatigue, or a mental condition. In all these cases, eucalyptus oil can help. For example, it can help to calm your nerves and to increase blood supply to the brain when you are feeling mental sluggishness. This will stimulate your brain and you become more alert.

You also have to note that improved brain supply means greater brain power. In this case, the performance of your brain becomes much improved. This is why eucalyptus oil is employed in aromatherapy (mood enhancement). In such a practice, it helps to boost your concentration and attitude. For a student, the overall class performance improves as a result of eucalyptus-induced aromatherapy.

  1. Manages Respiratory Conditions

Over the years, people around the globe have used eucalyptus oil to manage different respiratory conditions. Research shows that eucalyptus oil makes it easy for you to breathe when your nose is congested and when you have a bad cough or common cold. For this reason, eucalyptus can be used as a natural expectorant and nasal decongestant.

According to a 2014 study, eucalyptus oil can also be used to reduce symptoms associated with bronchitis. Though the oil may not treat bronchitis, it can mask its symptoms. Basically, bronchitis is brought down to a manageable level. Other conditions that can be managed with eucalyptol include sinusitis and asthma.

  1. Promotes Oral Health

Are you aware that you can have better breath by consuming eucalyptus oil? According to a recent publication, this is quite possible if you use eucalyptus as a mouthwash. Since eucalyptol has a natural scent that’s very pleasant, you can use it to get rid of bad breath. This explains why it’s a popular ingredient in most toothpaste and mouthwash products. In addition to getting rid of bad breath, eucalyptus has amazing therapeutic effects against dental cavities, tooth decay, and plaque. Due to its antimicrobial effects, eucalyptus is able to get rid of bacteria and fungi in the mouth.

  1. Reduces Fever

Eucalyptus is an effective vasodilator. Simply, it helps to open up blood vessels to facilitate maximum blood circulation. This is very important when you have a fever. Because of this property, a lot of time s eucalyptus is referred to as ‘fever oil’. So, you can use it on your body or forehead each time your body temperature rises. There are actually two ways to do it:

  • You can rub it on your body and forehead
  • You can mix it with tepid water and soak a towel in the mixture to use as a compress.

Closing Thought:

Speaking matters health, eucalyptus is one of the most powerful health products out there. Whether you decide to consume it, inhale it or apply it topically, there are some amazing health benefits that it brings. And now that it exists in different forms, it’s even easier to inculcate it in your day-to-day routine.

Health Benefits of Sunshine

Studies show that Mother Earth has been exposed to the sun for at least 3 billion whole years. This confirms that all life forms depend on it. Sunshine is not just important for plants but also for us humans. However, our relationship with the sun is not as simple as of that between it and plants. Plants need sunshine to make food and grow. For us, we need it for other things, mostly health needs. We’ll look at these benefits later.

But for now, it’s important to know that we need sunshine in moderation. Too much of it is a risk of sunburn or worse, skin cancer. Of course, the level of damage by the sun depends on skin type and duration of exposure. For example, individuals with pale skins are more prone to damaging effects of the sun than those with tan skin. With this information in mind, here are the top 12 health benefits of sunshine you should be aware of:

  1. Bone Health

You probably know that sunshine is a good source of vitamin D. What you probably don’t know is the benefits that vitamin D brings about. Well, this vitamin has so many benefits of which bone health is one of them. According to research, vitamin D helps to build strong bones. In doing so, it helps to prevent rickets in kids and osteomalacia, osteoporosis, and other bone-wasting conditions in adults.

  1. Dental Health

The way that vitamin D from the sun strengthens the bones is the way that it strengthens the teeth. Studies show that people in sunny regions are not much affected with teeth cavities as people in locations that are not prone to much sunshine. The bottom line is that you need vitamin D for strong teeth. This is more important for the little ones as they like taking sugary stuff.

  1. Sleep Quality

When you are exposed to moderate sunshine during the day, your brain produces the hormone melatonin. This hormone is very important in helping you sleep soundly later in the evening. Your body is designed in such a way that it can tell when the time is right for sleeping. So, you don’t have to wear sunglasses or sunblock immediately when you go out to the sun. You should wait for some time to boost melatonin production.

  1. Promotes Immunity

A recent finding by Georgetown University indicates that sunshine helps to boost the activation of T-cell. They are immune cells that you need to fight invading microbes. Another finding shows that the reason why a person with diabetes struggle with insulin resistance is that of low vitamin D. The study concludes that you need vitamin D from the sun to reduce insulin resistance and to manage diabetes.

  1. Cancer Prevention

Even though excessive sunbath is a risk of skin cancers, moderate sunshine does the opposite. It helps to prevent skin cancers among other types of cancer. Researchers argue that having more daylight hours improves protection against ovarian and prostate cancer in women and men respectively. It also reduces the risk of breast cancer, cancer of the colon, and pancreatic cancer in both genders. This explains why most supplements meant for cancer patients are rich in vitamin D.

  1. Better Brain Function

One study shows that low sunshine exposure often causes cognitive impairment. In this case, your ability to think better and to stay alert is adversely affected. This is all related to not getting enough vitamin D. The brain has receptors that are very sensitive to sunshine. The energy from the sun stimulates them so that they can help your brain plan and process things.

  1. Brain Health

Sunshine not only enhances brain functions but also helps to protect against its disorders. For example, a certain study shows that moderate sunshine protects against schizophrenia later in life. Another study shows that sunshine helps to not only manage but also prevent Alzheimer. There are also suggestions that that sunshine exposure can be used to delay Parkinson’s disease. It also makes Parkinson’s less severe by improving the mood and motor functions of the patient.

  1. Enhanced Mood

Are you aware that bathing under moderate sunshine can make you happy? Well, it does. According to research, sunshine necessitates the release of hormone serotonin by your brain. The hormone naturally enhances your mood. It helps you to become calmer and more focused. Without enough sunshine, your serotonin levels reduce drastically and this affects your mood. You are likely to experience depression symptoms such as extreme sadness and mood swings.

  1. Stress Relief

Stress occurs when cortisol levels rise unexpectedly. This is mostly because of a sad or anxious moment. For you to achieve stress relief, your cortisol levels have to be managed. This is where moderate sunshine comes in. A recent report shows that moderate sunshine can reduce cortisol production by about 25%. So, spending a few hours outside on a routine basis is advisable.

  1. Heart Health

Medical studies show that the rate of cardiovascular morbidity, as well as that of cardiovascular mortality, can be reduced by 30-50% with sufficient vitamin D intake. This show that vitamin D is important in improving your heart health. It’s necessary for reducing heart attack and other relatable conditions.

  1. Reduced Blood Pressure

Sunshine is also important in lowering your blood pressure just as it’s important in boosting your heart health. Experts say that vitamin D from the sun helps to restore both your diastolic and systolic rhythms. This ensures that your blood pressure is normalized. Additionally, sunshine helps your body to secrete nitric oxide which regulates blood pressure.

  1. Skin Health

Contrary to expectations, the WHO actually recommends sunshine exposure for general skin health. This is widely supported by top dermatologist around the globe. They argue that UV exposure is great for treating skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and skin acne. But still, it should be insisted that the exposure should be moderate. You should consult your dermatologist nonetheless.

Closing Thought

Enjoy the sun wisely this summer and reap the many health benefits it can offer!

9 Indoor House Plants for Better Health

It’s estimated that the average person spends about 92% of their time indoors. The remaining percentage is occupied by the outdoors and time in transit. The Environmental Protection Agency is, however, disturbed by this statistic. They actually advocate for more outdoor time. They argue that most air pollutants are highly concentrated indoors than outdoors. So, you are more likely to experience health complications from indoor pollution than outdoor contamination. The conditions include bronchitis, asthma, heart attack, and lung cancer.

So, what do you have to do to be safe indoors? You probably are aware of artificial means of improving indoor air quality like the use of HVAC and fans. These options can be expensive to install and maintain. What if there was a cheap and eco-friendly option? Wouldn’t you want it? Actually, there are. They come in the form of houseplants. Basically, the indoor plants will not just beautify your home but will purify air to improve its quality. In the long run, these plants are able to improve your health. Here are 9 top considerations:

  1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

If you are the forgetful type of person, then your ideal household plant is Spider Plant. This plant grows at a high pace and does not demand so much light. Additionally, it grows in a variety of soil types and does not need so much watering. The soil is able to hold water for long and so you don’t have to irrigate it regularly. So, if you are looking for an option that won’t take much of your time, then you should go for Spider Plant. It’s great at removing xylene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and other serious air pollutants.

  1. Barberton Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)

Barberton Daisy is a plant species that originates from East Africa. It’s known for its colorful and lively flowers. Though it’s popular in the outdoors, it’s also an incredible option for the indoors. The plant purifies indoor air much faster than most plants. It’s able to get rid of powerful toxins like formaldehyde and benzene at a fast pace. To get the plant to flower and looking beautiful, you just have to keep the soil moist and give it maximum light. The advantage is that Barberton Daisy can withstand varying temperature. So, there’s no need trying to regulate it.

  1. European Ivy (Hedera helix)

Also known as English Ivy, the European Ivy is a great household plant that effectively filters indoor air to get rid of stubborn toxins like xylene, toluene, and benzene. Additionally, the plant can be used to get rid of mold. So, it’s a great option for individuals who are prone to respiratory complications like asthma and bronchitis. It’s an equally popular option for the outdoors. The plant is evergreen all year round and is naturally a climbing type. So, you can expect it to reach the roof over time if its growth is not controlled.

  1. Aloe Plant (Aloe Vera)

You must be aware of the amazing benefits of Aloe Vera on your skin and hair as most cosmetic products contain it. What you probably don’t know is the fact that Aloe Vera is a great absorbent of indoor air toxins. You can use it to purify your indoor air. Besides, you can always use a part of the plant to treat wounds and burns as it’s a powerful antiseptic. To get the best out of Aloe Vera, you have to moisten the soil regularly and provide plenty of sunlight.

  1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

Sometimes known as the Mother-in-Law Tongue, the Snake Plant is an evergreen plant that you would want to grow indoors. It’s actually one of the best absorbers of airborne pollutants and toxins like formaldehyde, xylene, and nitrogen oxide. The plant originates from West Africa but now enjoys global popularity because of its ability to purify indoor air. It’s able to tolerate low-light conditions, even though it prefers bright light. Provided that you don’t overwater it, Snake Plant will grow amazingly.

  1. Lavender Plant (Lavendula species)

Very few plants are as beautiful and aromatic as lavender. The flowers are pretty and emit a pleasant smell that creates an inviting aura at home. But this is not the only benefit attached to this decorative plant. Putting the plant in your bedroom allows you to sleep better. It provides relief from insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness. You just have to give it enough water and sunlight for it to thrive.

  1. Flamingo Lily (Anthurium andraeanum)

Sometimes referred to as Laceleaf, Flamingo Lily is one of the most gorgeous evergreen plants on the planet. The flowers are beautiful and are bound to inspire any indoor space. The plant is quite effective in eliminating pollutants like formaldehyde, xylene, and ammonia. The problem is that it’s too demanding. You have to provide it with enough indirect light and relative humidity. For example, if the relative humidity drops below 50%, the plant may easily die. Moreover, the plant is toxic and thus shouldn’t be ingested.

  1. Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum)

Often referred to as Golden Pothos, the Devil’s Ivy is a popular household plant around the world. It features beautiful heart-shaped leaves and evergreen vines. Its display is just magical. You’ll find this plant sold as decorations in most places. It’s not just beautiful but also purposeful in refining indoor air. It can comfortably eliminate benzene, formaldehyde, and other powerful toxins. You just have to ensure that it’s placed closed to the window for it to achieve optimal growth. Like Flamingo Lily, Devil’s Ivy is toxic when ingested, more so by pets.

  1. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum species)

Drawing suggestions from its name, Peace Lily is considered a peaceful indoor plant. It’s one of the easiest houseplants to care for and has a simple evergreen appearance. It does not need so much water and light. In fact, you shouldn’t direct so much light to its direction as the leaves may be scorched. Peace Lily is quite effective in getting rid of volatile toxins like Trichloroethylene and formaldehyde. The main concern, however, is that the plant is mildly poisonous when ingested.

Closing Thought:

Plants are generally important for your health. They are the closest thing you can have to Mother Nature when they are established indoors. In addition to improving indoor air quality and getting rid of airborne toxins, they are a great home décor. You are likely to draw motivation from them when you are at home relaxing.

Chiropractic Care for Seasonal Allergies

For some people, the arrival of spring means that they have to deal with seasonal allergies. Actually, the CDC reports that over 25 million people in the US suffer from different forms of seasonal allergies. Some are mild and others are severe. Of this population, at least 19 million are adults and 6 million are children. The problem is that not everyone knows that what they have are seasonal allergies and even those who do don’t understand the benefit of seeking professional intervention. So, what exactly are seasonal allergies and what’s the treatment?

Seasonal allergies are a collective term that refers to disorders that result when the immune system reacts to foreign substances (allergens) such as pollen, mold, grass, dust, specific foods, heat, cold, air pollutants, and weeds. In this case, it happens seasonally after contact with the allergen. So, it’s not just a condition of the spring season. The response from your immune system may present in the form of a running nose, cough, rashes, and skin itchiness. In some severe cases, it can lead to breathing complications, asthma attacks or sometimes death.

What’s the Solution?

A majority of people handle seasonal allergies by using medications. The medications (popularly known as antihistamines) tend to neutralize the natural immune response chemical (known as histamine) that is released by your immune system when a seasonal allergen is detected. The over secretion of histamine is what causes the negative responses mentioned in the opening remarks.

While antihistamines are very effective in countering the effects of excessive histamines, they are prone to side effects like drowsiness. However, this is not the main concern. The issue is that they do not treat the root cause but just the symptoms. If you are looking for a more practical alternative, then you may find it necessary to consider chiropractic care. It’ll help you significantly.

How Does Chiropractic Care Help?

Chiropractic care is a general term that includes spinal manipulation and other physical techniques meant to boost communication between the spine and the brain. The specialist (a chiropractor) applies hands-on techniques to treat spinal misalignments (what we call subluxations). This brings enormous benefits to your body. You are able to fight the allergen in a practical way without fearing for adverse effects associated with anti-histamines.

While there are no permanent treatments for seasonal allergies, a Dr. Hinz at Cool Springs Chiropractic may help you manage, alleviate or prevent the symptoms. Regular treatments help to equip and to balance your natural defense so as to neutralize the effects of seasonal allergens. Remember, when you suffer subluxation, it’s not just your immune system that’s affected but the nervous and respiratory systems too. Chiropractic care ensures that all these systems work to their full potential in fighting seasonal allergies.

Generally, chiropractic care helps in dealing with seasonal allergies in the following ways:

  1. Strengthens Natural Immunity

When there’s a subluxation along your spine, your immune system is severely compromised and can’t fight allergens naturally. Chiropractic care is meant to realign the spinal path so as communication to the brain is necessitated and your body gets to fight the allergen effortlessly. When the spine and the brain are able to communicate freely, clearance of the symptoms comes naturally. So, you are able to manage them completely as long as you continue with your chiropractic session. Besides, no medications or surgery is involved. The techniques are purely manual.

  1. Supports Respiratory Functions

Just like the immune system, the respiratory system highly depends on communication between it and the brain. A subluxation is likely to hamper the flow of information and the effects are symptoms like sneezing, running nose, and coughing. By treating subluxation, the communication paths between the respiratory system and the brain are cleared. They stay open, free of obstruction. This means that the body is able to fight off an allergen naturally as there’s nothing that interferes with the signals that flow between the two systems.

  1. Distressing Effects

Are you aware that the immune system can be stressed? Well, the reason why your immune system reacts in a negative way to allergens is that they (the allergens) stress it. Considering that the nervous system is closely linked to the immune system, psychological stress interferes with their association. Research shows that stress wears down the adrenal glands. The glands are responsible for secreting the anti-inflammation hormone called cortisol.

Without sufficient cortisol levels, allergic responses are bound to get severe. A chiropractor will help you control cortisol production during high-allergy seasons. The specialist will basically control inflammation responses related to a specific allergen. One major distressing effect is the suppression of overproduction of histamine. When the levels are controlled, it’s easier to manage stress and allergy attack in the long run.

  1. Nutrition and Lifestyle Advice

A chiropractor doesn’t just treat subluxations but may also recommend a few changes in your nutrition plan and lifestyle. Such changes are meant to either prevent allergic attacks or lessen the symptoms. For example, nutrition-wise, a chiropractor may ask you to avoid some foods. They include:

  • Fermented foods
  • Spiced foods
  • Tomatoes
  • Celery

However, it doesn’t mean that all seasonal allergies related to foods have the same response in all people. Different people show different responses to food triggers. For example, some people may develop itchy skin because of taking some foods and others may develop rashes for taking the same foods.

Additionally, a chiropractor may recommend the following nutritional adjustments:

  • Take more fiber-rich foods
  • Choose more organic foods over non-organic
  • Stay hydrated most times

In the case of lifestyle adjustments, a chiropractor may recommend the following:

  • Avoid certain environmental things which are known to promote an allergic attack, for example, strong wind.
  • Look for comfortable things to do to avoid allergic attack or to make the symptoms less severe.
  • Find the best sleeping position and sleeping habits to combat back pain.
  • Do at-home stretching exercises that are good for your spine.
  • Quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.
  • Practice mindfulness (meditation or yoga)

Closing Thought:

It takes proper communication between the brain and the immune system or the respiratory system to combat seasonal allergies. A chiropractor is able to facilitate this. Treatments from Dr. Hinz at Cool Springs Chiropractic may be your solution to avoiding the attacks or reducing the symptoms. Unlike the use of anti-histamines, chiropractic care addresses the underlying issue. Contact Cool Springs Chiropractic today!