There is a condition that is very common to men as they age, commonly known as BPH. Since this is a fact of aging life, it is good to understand what is BPH about.
What is BPH?
BPH stands for Benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is also called prostate gland enlargement, which is a prevalent condition as men get older. An enlarged prostate gland can cause difficult urinary symptoms, for example blocking the flow of urine out of the bladder. It can additionally trigger bladder, urinary tract, or kidney problems.
The prostate gland functions within the male reproductive system. It is located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder.
The prostate’s main function is to generate the fluid(seminal fluid) that nurtures and moves sperm. For more information on the prostate gland, please see the article, All about the Prostate, on this website.
Enlarged prostate is a widespread circumstance. It affects an estimated 50% of men over age 50.
What is the Cause of BPH?
The cause of prostate enlargement is not known. However, it is believed to be related to hormonal changes as men age. The balance of hormones in the body changes as we get older, and in men, this may cause the prostate gland to grow.
Men produce both testosterone, a male hormone, and small amounts of estrogen, a female hormone, throughout their lives. As men age, the amount of active testosterone in the blood decreases, leaving a higher share of estrogen. Studies have recommended that BPH may occur due to the higher share of estrogen in the prostate contributes to the activity of substances that initiate prostate cells to grow.
Another hypothesis points to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a male hormone that contributes to prostate development and growth. Some research has shown that even when testosterone levels in the blood start to decrease, high levels of DHT continue to build up in the prostate. This scenario may allow prostate cells to keep on growing. Scientists have noted that men who do not generate DHT do not acquire BPH.
Diet is another underlying factor linking to BPH. For example, fats trigger the increased formation of testosterone and additional hormones.
What is BPH Symptoms?
When the prostate has become enlarged, it can disturb or even block the bladder. Requiring to urinate frequently is a general symptom of BPH. This timing might be every 1 to 2 hours, primarily at night.
Additional symptoms include:
Bladder not emptying completely after urinating
Urgency to urinate
A weakened flow of urine
Requiring to stop and begin urinating several times
Delayed starting to urinate
Difficulty initiating to urinate
Requiring to push or strain to urinate
If BPH becomes severe, an individual may not be able to urinate at all. This situation is an emergency that requires treatment immediately.
Who is at Risk for BPH?
BPH Risks
The main risks for BPH are increased age and a family history of BPH. Additionally, lack of exercise, obesity, and erectile dysfunction can also increase the risk.
Treating BPH
Since there is no cure for BPH, the treatment mainly focuses on reducing the symptoms. Therefore, the therapy is based on how severe the symptoms are, how much they affect the patient, and if there are any complications.
Medications
There are several treatment options for BPH. One option available is to take alpha-blockers such as terazosin (Hytrin) or tamsulosin (Flomax) to aid in relaxing the prostate and bladder muscles. There is also Alfuzosin HCL ER (Uroxatral).
Other drugs available include dutasteride (Avodart) or finasteride (Proscar). These drugs represent a different type of medication for reducing BPH symptoms. These operate by blocking the hormones that trigger the prostate to grow.
A physician may also recommend combinations of these two different types of medications. A physician may also recommend surgery to remove the extra prostate tissue. One standard surgical method for BPH is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).
Treating BPH Naturally
There are additional natural therapies that may work to combat BPH symptoms. Conversely, the confirmation on whether these treatments essentially work is debatable. The American Urological Association presently does not propose any herbal therapy for treating BPH.
Individuals who desire to try any of the natural remedies mentioned below should consult their doctor first since some herbal treatments can interact with prescription medications. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not control the value or integrity of herbal supplements. What this means is there can be short of consistent ingredients.
Saw palmetto – Saw palmetto is an herbal remedy that derives from the fruit of a kind of palm tree. It has been used in alternative medicine for centuries to mitigate urinary symptoms, together with those produced by BPH. As per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a few small-scale studies have suggested that saw palmetto might effectively relieve BPH symptoms.
However, the NIH states that when more extensive studies were performed, it was discovered that saw palmetto was not any more efficient than a placebo. However, research carries on looking into the anti-inflammatory and hormone-blocking properties that saw palmetto might have and its likely use in correlation with other medications. Saw palmetto is trustworthy to use, but small side effects can be upset stomach and headache.
Beta-sitosterol – This herbal medication is a combination derived from different plants that contain cholesterol-like substances called sitosterols or phytosterols (plant-based fats). Several studies have recommended that beta-sitosterol can mitigate the urinary symptoms of BPH, including the strength of urine flow. Additionally, some scientists have suggested that these fatty substances, such as beta-sitosterol, which is found in saw palmetto also, are actually doing the work.
There haven’t been any significant side effects conveyed with the utilization of beta-sitosterol. On the other hand, physicians even now do not know all the long-term effects of this natural therapy.
Pygeum – Pygeum is derived from the bark of the African plum tree and has been utilized in conventional medicine to care for urinary problems since ancient times. It is frequently used to treat BPH symptoms, particularly in Europe. Since studies on Pygeum have not been well-designed, it isn’t easy to determine whether it is effective with certainty.
According to the Canadian Journal of Urology, some small studies have recommended that the supplement can assist with bladder emptying and urine flow. Alternatively, the studies reviewed were lacking consistency. However, Pygeum does appear safe to use, but it may cause headache and upset stomach in some individuals who use it. There are no studies on long-term safety.
Stinging nettle – It is called stinging nettle because the hairs on its leaves can cause severe pain. However, stinging nettle can have some benefits when used as a medicine.
Nettle root is considered to improve a few BPH symptoms and is generally used in Europe. However, a 2007 review concluded that more studies were needed. Currently, there’s no solid scientific evidence to suggest that it’s more effective than no treatment at all.
Sometimes nettle is used in union with other natural BPH treatments, for example, Pygeum or Saw Palmetto. Side effects from nettle are generally mild, including upset stomach and skin rash.
Foods – The effectiveness of diet in the prevention of BPH as well as treating its symptoms continues to be explored.
A recent four-year study in China observed the effects of diet on BPH symptoms. Researchers discovered that men with diets excessive in fruits and vegetables — especially leafy, dark vegetables and tomatoes, had less BPH, fewer symptoms of BPH, and were not likely to have deterioration of their BPH condition. However, the researchers reason that it is not only one nutrient but, more accurately, the combinations found in a healthful diet and lifestyle that are beneficial.
It’s important to note that a supplement is labeled natural does not necessarily mean that it is safe, healthy, or effective. Again, the FDA does not regulate herbal remedies as it does with prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Therefore no one can be entirely certain that what is listed on the label is contained inside the bottle. For this reason, it is essential to obtain supplements from a reputable company.
Additionally, herbal therapies can also cause side effects as well as interact with other medications one might consume. Therefore, a patient should consult with their doctor before trying any natural supplement.
Conclusion
BPH can lead to severe complications if not treated, such as a sudden inability to urinate (urinary retention). An individual may need to have a tube (catheter) placed into his bladder to drain the urine. Other complications include bladder stones, bladder damage, kidney damage, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Individuals with this condition should monitor it carefully with their physician.
Any questions, comments, concerns, or experiences to share regarding BPH are welcomed to leave them below. You will receive a response.
The most universally used supplements in the world are multivitamins and multi-minerals. They have become increasingly in the past few decades. But what is the reason for this increased popularity? This article will shed light as you read all about multivitamins.
What are Multivitamins?
Multivitamins are supplements that encompass numerous varieties of vitamins and minerals, occasionally along with additional ingredients.
There is no standard for what comprises a multivitamin, so their nutrient composition varies by brand and product.
Multivitamins are additionally known as multiples, multis, or just vitamins.
They are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, chewable gummies, liquids, and powders.
Most multivitamins are to be taken once or twice per day. It is best to read the label and follow the recommended dosage instructions.
Multivitamins are available in a host of establishments: supermarkets, large discount stores, and pharmacies, as well as ONLINE.
What is Included in multivitamins?
Studies have shown that there are thirteen vitamins and about 15 minerals that are essential to health.
Many generate enzymes and hormones, boost the immune system, and keep organs and nerves performing correctly.
The body additionally requires these nutrients for maintenance, reproduction, growth, and regulating bodily processes.
Multivitamins can offer quite a few of these vitamins and minerals but in varying amounts. They can additionally contain added ingredients such as herbs, amino acids, and fatty acids.
Since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not police dietary supplements as strictly as prescription drugs, a few may contain higher or lower levels of some nutrients than stated on the label.
In addition, a few supplements can contain ingredients that can interact with medications, so it is advisable to speak with a healthcare provider before using a new supplement.
Moreover, the nutrients in multivitamins may result from natural foods or be manufactured synthetically, making it important to purchase vitamins from a reputable manufacturer.
Health Benefits of Multivitamins
There are in excess of 50 nutrients required for thousands of metabolic processes and the maintenance of optimal health. Below are a number of the key ones:
Vitamin A – Otherwise known as retinol, vitamin A is a potent antioxidant that sustains good skin, bolsters the immune system, and nourishes vision, especially in dim light. Excellent food sources include sweet potatoes, melons, and carrots.
Therefore, Vitamin A is first-rate for healthy skin, vision, and proper growth and development.
Vitamin B – The eight B VITAMINS assist the body in converting food into fuel, boosting energy levels, and promoting healthy concentration, memory, and brain function. They may additionally reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and low mood. Good food resources include whole grains, lean meats, and eggs.
Vitamin B is suitable for psychological wellbeing, brain function, and energy levels.
Vitamin C – Vitamin C sustains healthy connective tissues in the joints and skin and may accelerate wound healing and reduce bruising. It additionally aids in warding off colds. Excellent food sources include strawberries, citrus fruits, red peppers, and kiwis.
This vitamin is good for skin health, antioxidant protection, and strengthening blood vessel walls.
Vitamin D – Vitamin D controls the quantity of calcium and phosphorous in the body and plays an essential role in maintaining normal bone density. It is additionally crucial for the proper performance of the nervous and immune systems. Nearly two-thirds of the UK population severely lacks vitamin D. The bulk of our vitamin D comes from the sun. At the same time, a selection of foods may contain smaller amounts, such as eggs, oily fish, and mushrooms. Vitamin D supplements are prevalent in the UK during the winter months.
This vitamin is good for healthy bones, immune function, and mood.
Vitamin E – Vitamin E powers cell membranes and guards cells against oxidative damage from free radicals. It plays an essential role in maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune performance. Excellent food sources include almonds and sunflower seeds.
First-rate for antioxidant protection, skin health, and circulation.
Folic acid – Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is crucial for producing healthy cells and hemoglobin. It additionally aids in maintaining standard homocysteine levels, which sustains heart and cognitive function. Folic acid is so vital that it is frequently added to cereals and flours. Additional food resources encompass dark leafy greens, asparagus, and broccoli.
Folic acid is most suitable for cell renewal, heart function, and preventing neural tube birth defects.
Calcium – Healthy calcium levels are crucial for the growth and preservation of bones and teeth. It additionally controls muscle contractions (including the heartbeat), blood pressure, and hormone secretion. The most excellent foods resources are dairy products such as cheese and yogurt.
Most excellent for durable teeth, bones, and blood clotting.
Iron – Iron is required to produce healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin and helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to all cells in the body. It additionally supports the creation of neurotransmitters, hormones, and collagen. It is estimated that 32% of females of childbearing age (19-64) do not intake enough iron. High-quality food sources include shellfish, beans, and lentils.
Iron is good for preserving healthy blood and muscle function.
Zinc – Zinc is a crucial building block for enzymes, proteins, and cells. It plays an essential role in maintaining a robust immune system and sustains skin health and wound healing. Zinc is additionally vital for healthy taste and smell. Excellent food sources include oysters, spinach, and dark chocolate.
Zinc is best for immunity, fertility, and skin.
Chromium – Chromium aids in determining the quantity of energy we release from food and boosts insulin sensitivity. For this reason, it can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes. Best food suppliers of chromium include whole grains, broccoli, and oats.
Excellent for blood glucose levels
Magnesium – Magnesium contributes a role in the transfer of food into energy. It additionally collaborates with calcium to sustain average muscle performance, bone density, and blood clotting. Best food sources include pumpkin seeds, spinach, and black beans.
Who Benefits from a Multivitamin?
Athletes: individuals with a physically energetic lifestyle require more nutrients than the typical non-active person to sustain muscle recovery and any fitness-related goals. Creatine and amino acid supplements can maintain muscles during short bouts of intense exercise and aid growth and healing. Demanding activity is additionally linked with oxidative stress and tissue damage. Therefore, athletes need a higher intake of antioxidant nutrients such as vitamins C and E.
Deficiency: Several large-scale al studies have indicated that many individuals do not accomplish nutritional adequacy through diet alone. This observation may partly be caused by declining soil quality, which means fresh fruit, and vegetables are not as nutritious as they were 70 years ago. It may additionally be clarified by the increasing dependence on convenient pre-packed meals. However, a daily multivitamin with the recommended allowance of vitamins and minerals can assist in protecting against such deficiencies.
Pregnancy and lactation: The Department of Health advises all women who are thinking about becoming pregnant to take a daily 400mcg folic acid supplement to decrease the danger of neural tube defects and a daily vitamin D 10mcg supplement to support the growing fetus. A multivitamin high in iron, folic acid, and vitamin D is also suitable.
Children aged six months to five years: The Department of Health additionally recommends that all children between the ages of six months to five years be given a supplement containing vitamins A, C, and D. These vitamins are essential during the early years, especially if children are finicky eaters.
The Elderly: over the age of 65: nutritional needs change with age. This fact is partly because the stomach secretes smaller amounts of hydrochloric acid, which weakens the breakdown of food and the absorption of nutrients. Consequently, many mature adults are required to consume higher quantities of nutrients to absorb the same amount. As a result, all adults over 65 are recommended to take a daily vitamin D 10mcg supplement to maintain bone strength, while calcium, iron, vitamin C, and Coenzyme Q10 are additionally essential.
Menopause: During and after menopause, women require a more significant consumption of certain nutrients, specifically calcium and vitamin D. This is because the loss of protective estrogen during this period accelerates bone loss. Some women also find that phytoestrogen supplements such as black cohosh help relieve common symptoms of menopause, including night sweats, hot flushes, and irritability.
Smokers: Individuals who smoke regularly require high doses of vitamin C to maintain a steady body reserve. This antioxidant vitamin is crucial for the impeding of free radicals molecules formed by chemicals in cigarettes. Vitamin B12 is also essential, as smokers often have decreased vitamin B12 serum levels. However, it is crucial to remember that a daily multivitamin certainly does not cancel out a harmful habit. There is some evidence to suggest that smokers should steer clear of excessive degrees of beta-carotene as it can amplify the risk of lung cancer.
Restricted diet: If an individual’s diet is restricted in any way, they may be missing certain nutrients. For instance, vegans and vegetarians are often low in B12 since this vitamin is mainly contained in meat. Even paleo or Atkins diet trends can limit this intake and may be bolstered by a daily multivitamin.
Individuals with little exposure to natural sunlight: Vitamin D is a foundation to good health, but it is challenging to get adequate amounts from food alone. Also, during the winter months, the sun’s rays aren’t always strong enough for the skin to synthesize vitamin D. A daily 10mcg supplement can help ensure that vitamin D levels do not get too low.
Summary
We should strive to eat fruit and vegetables daily to fuel our bodies with the right food prior to taking a multivitamin. If we eat healthy and complete diets, a multivitamin may not offer much further protection. Chances are, daily intake requirements are met. On the other hand, at standard doses, it should not cause any harm either.
When eating moderately well, a multivitamin can provide some extra nutritional support. Conversely, suppose an individual’s diet is not as good as it should be and a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables is not consumed. In that case, a multivitamin will likely be beneficial. However, it is essential to remember that we cannot out supplement a poor diet.
Should we choose to take a multivitamin for its supplemental value, in that case, it may be beneficial in fortifying the diet and protecting against nutritional deficiencies. However, if they are taken to combat chronic diseases similar to pharmaceutical drugs, disappointment is likely.
Structure and characteristics can vary from product to product. Therefore, be sure to choose a HIGH-QUALITY MULTIVITAMIN. The nutrients will be available in their most bioavailable form to increase digestion and absorption. For that reason, choose a multivitamin targeted to your age, gender, and activity levels, and always take them with a meal to increase absorption.
The best methodology is to keep physically active, consume a balanced diet with at least five (5) portions of fruits and vegetables daily, and take a multivitamin to safeguard your nutritional intake.
Questions, comments, concerns, or experiences with multivitamins are welcomed below.
Some conditions occur in the body that we may not be aware of until they become critical. One of these is dehydration. It is essential to know the signs of dehydration in order to correct the situation before it becomes severe. This article will shed light on dehydration: the facts.
What is Dehydration?
Dehydration is the body not having a sufficient amount of fluid for it to function correctly. Dehydration takes place when there is a fluid deficit; the body loses more fluid than it is taking in.
What is the Cause of Dehydration?
Dehydration takes place when the body loses excessive amounts of fluid. Common causes can include:
diarrhea
excessive sweating
vomiting
The recommendation for women is to consume 92 fluid ounces (11.5 cups) per day and for men to consume 124 fluid ounces (15.5 cups) per day. Individuals on the go, athletes and individuals exposed to high temperatures need to increase their water intake to evade dehydration.
When too much water is lost from the body, the organs, cells, and tissues fail to function as they should, leading to dangerous complications. If dehydration is not corrected immediately, it may cause shock.
Dehydration may be severe or mild. Mild dehydration is usually treatable at home. However, severe dehydration needs treatment in a hospital or emergency care setting.
Sports contestants exposed to the direct sun are not the only ones susceptible to dehydration. Bodybuilders and swimmers are among the athletes who frequently develop the condition as well. It is even possible to sweat in the water! Swimmers leave behind a lot of sweat when they are swimming.
Some individuals have an increased risk for developing dehydration than others, which include:
athletes (especially cyclists, runners, and soccer players)
elderly adults
individuals who reside in high altitudes
individuals with chronic conditions
individuals working outdoors exposed to excessive amounts of heat (e.g., construction workers, landscapers, mechanics, and welders)
young children, and infants
The body loses water on a regular basis through sweating and urination. If the fluid is not replenished, dehydration takes place. Any condition or situation that causes the body to lose more water than usual can lead to dehydration.
Sweating
Sweating is part of the body’s normal cooling process. When the body becomes heated, the sweat glands activate to release moisture body in an attempt to cool off. The way this works is through the process of evaporation.
When a drop of sweat evaporates from the skin, it takes a small amount of heat with it. The more sweat produced, the more evaporation commences, and the more cooling takes place. Sweating additionally hydrates the skin and maintains the balance of electrolytes in the body.
The fluid in sweat encompasses mainly salt and water. Extreme sweating can cause dehydration since large amounts of water are lost. The medicinal name for extreme sweating is hyperhidrosis.
Illness
Illnesses that produce perpetual vomiting or diarrhea may result in dehydration. This condition occurs since vomiting and diarrhea can cause excessive water to be removed from the body.
Essential electrolytes are additionally lost through these processes. Electrolytes are minerals utilized by the body to manage the muscles, blood chemistry, and organ processes. These electrolytes can be found in urine, blood, and other fluids in the body.
Vomiting or diarrhea may impair these roles and cause dangerous complications, such as stroke and coma.
Fever
When an individual has a fever, the body loses fluid through the skin’s surface in an effort to lower the temperature. Frequently, fever can cause an individual to sweat to the point that if enough liquid is not consumed to replenish what is lost, they could become dehydrated.
Urination
Urination is the body’s usual way to discharge toxins from the body. A few conditions may cause chemical imbalances, which can increase urine output. If the fluid lost through excessive urination is not replaced, there is a risk of developing dehydration.
What are the Symptoms for Dehydration
The indicators of dehydration vary depending on whether the condition is mild or severe. Indications of dehydration can begin to appear prior to full dehydration commences.
Symptoms of mild to fair dehydration encompass:
constipation
decreased urination
dizziness
dry mouth
dry skin
fatigue
headache
increased thirst
less tear production
lightheadedness
Severe dehydration is likely to cause the following in addition to the symptoms of mild dehydration:
dark urine
excessive thirst
lack of sweat production
low blood pressure
rapid breathing
rapid heart rate
shriveled skin
sunken eyes
Severe dehydration is a serious medical emergency. An individual should seek immediate medical help if they are showing any of these signs and symptoms.
Further, the elderly, as well as children and, should receive immediate treatment, even if they are only experiencing symptoms of mild dehydration.
If an individual in any age group develops any of the following symptoms, they should seek emergency care:
severe diarrhea
blood in the stool
diarrhea for three (3) or more days
have the inability to keep fluids down
disorientation
How is Dehydration Diagnosed?
Before commencing any tests, a physician will review any symptoms present to rule out other conditions. After noting a medical history, the physician will check the vital signs, including heart rate and blood pressure. Low blood pressure and rapid heart rate may point to dehydration.
The physician may use a blood test to check the level of electrolytes, which can help be a sign of fluid loss. A blood test can additionally check the body’s level of creatinine. This test assists the doctor in determining how well the kidneys are performing, which is an indication of the degree of dehydration.
A physician may also use a urinalysis, which is an exam that utilizes a sample of urine to check for bacteria and electrolyte loss. The color of urine can additionally indicate dehydration when considered with other symptoms. Dark urine cannot alone produce a diagnosis for dehydration.
Treating Dehydration
Intravenous Rehydration Treatment
Treating dehydration includes rehydrating techniques, electrolyte replenishment, and the treatment of diarrhea or vomiting if necessary.
Rehydration – Rehydration by drinking may not be feasible for all individuals, such as severe diarrhea or vomiting. In this case, fluids would be given intravenously.
This function is performed by inserting a small IV tube in a vein in the arm or hand. It supplies a solution that is usually a mix of water and electrolytes.
For individuals able to drink, ingesting water along with an electrolyte-containing rehydration drink, such as a low-sugar sport or electrolyte drink (e.g., Gatorade), may be suggested. Children with dehydration are frequently advised to drink Pedialyte.
Oral Rehydration Therapy
In the event an electrolyte drink is not available, a solution can be formed using:
1/2 teaspoon salt
Six teaspoons sugar
1-liter water
Be sure to use precise measurements as using more than the recommended amounts of salt or sugar can be dangerous.
Preventing Dehydration
The greatest way to avoid dehydration is to consume plenty of fluids, especially when in a hot climate or playing, exercising, or working in the sun. It is advisable to observe the amount of fluid lost through perspiration (sweating) and urination. It is best to consume enough fluids to keep up with what the body is losing.
Additionally, fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables make an ideal hydrating
snack due to their high water content of 80–99% water.
For the sake of comparison, research has shown that highly processed foods such as crackers, cereals, cookies, and chips contain only 1–9% water.
Fruits and vegetables with the most significant water capacity include:
berries
cabbage
carrots
grapes
lettuce
melons
oranges
spinach
Keep various fresh fruits and vegetables on hand for easy and handy access.
It is important to note that frozen fruits and vegetables have the same nutritional value as their fresh counterparts, and in some cases, they are more nutritious.
Because of the amount of the time involved for fruits and vegetables to reach our homes, oxidation can cause nutrient loss. In contrast, frozen fruits and vegetables are frozen soon after harvesting, retaining most of their nutrients.
For example, one study revealed that frozen green beans and blueberries included more vitamin C than their fresh equivalents.
Summary
Since hydration supports a host of bodily functions, affecting everything from mental cognition to sex performance, we must pay attention to our hydration condition.
Please feel free to leave any questions, comments, concerns, or experiences with dehydration below.
We hear a lot about high blood pressure but not so much about low blood pressure. However, it is as essential to be aware of both low blood pressure and high blood pressure. This article will illuminate the facts about low blood pressure.
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the power of flowing blood on the walls of blood vessels, mainly arteries. This pressure is primarily a consequence of the heart pumping blood through the circulatory system.
What is Low Blood Pressure?
Low blood pressure (Also known as hypotension) transpires when blood pressure decreases below the normal range. Physicians generally identify low blood pressure as 90/60 mm Hg or below, commonly stated as “90 over 60” typically, physicians only treat hypotension if it is critical enough to cause symptoms.
Low blood pressure may be temporary, or it can be a chronic or long-lasting condition. The main types of hypotension are:
Postprandial hypotension: This condition causes individuals to experience lightheadedness or dizziness after ingesting a meal as their blood pressure suddenly declines.
Orthostatic hypotension: Individuals with Orthostatic hypotension (sometimes called postural hypotension) will feel faint or lightheaded whenever they stand up or change position suddenly.
Neurally mediated hypotension: Individuals with this condition feel faint, dizzy, and nauseous post-exercise or standing for a lengthy time.
Severe hypotension linked to shock: Shock is the most severe form of hypotension. When an individual is in shock, blood pressure drops to critically low levels, and the brain and organs cannot get sufficient enough blood to perform.
Hypotension is relatively widespread, and various types are more probable to transpire in specific groups of individuals. For example, orthostatic hypotension is usual in pregnant women and older adults. Postprandial hypotension, on the other hand, is common in older individuals.
How is Low Blood Pressure Diagnosed?
After reviewing the symptoms, the doctor will observe blood pressure by placing a blood pressure cuff around the upper arm. The cuff will tighten on the arm, and the monitor will measure your systolic and diastolic pressure.
Systolic blood pressure, the top number, indicates how much pressure the blood is thrusting against the artery walls during heartbeats.
Diastolic blood pressure, the bottom number, indicates how much pressure the blood is thrusting against the artery walls while the heart is resting between beats.
A blood pressure reading of 90/60 mm Hg (or lower) is regarded as low blood pressure.
As mentioned earlier, low blood pressure can be a sign of an underlying condition. Therefore, a doctor will try to establish what initially caused the blood pressure to decline. The doctor may also check the heart using an echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, or stress test, depending on medical history and symptoms. The doctor may additionally perform blood tests to check for the following:
Low blood pressure is frequently an indication of an additional medical condition. Low blood sugar has a variety of causes. They include:
Blood loss or blood infection
Dehydration
Extreme emotions such as fear or pain
Heart disease or other heart problems include fast heart rate (tachycardia) or prolonged heart rate (bradycardia)
Pregnancy
Severe changes in body temperature
Specific medications, such as those for depression, Parkinson’s disease, or erectile dysfunction
Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure
Symptoms of low blood pressure may come on the scene suddenly or gradually become worse over time. They include:
Blurred vision
Dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting
Fatigue
Nausea
Quick, shallow breathing
Skin that is cold and sweaty
How to Relieve Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure
Depending on the type of low blood pressure diagnosed, an individual may be able to relieve some of the symptoms by the following:
Consuming a healthy diet with smaller amounts of carbohydrates and smaller meals
Increasing water intake and steering clear of alcohol
Rising slowly after sitting or lying down
Concentrating on breathing a few times before changing position
Using compression stockings
Who is at Risk for Low Blood Pressure?
Individuals of all ages can be affected with low blood pressure, even though it is more usual in elderly individuals who are frail or bedridden. Pregnant females and elderly adults are more likely to have the orthostatic version of hypotension. Children and young adults are most likely to experience the neurally mediated version of hypotension. However, they usually outgrow it.
Hypotension usually involves individuals that:
Are taking specific medications that trigger low blood pressure
Have certain hormonal imbalances or vitamin deficits
Additionally, have heart problems or liver disease
How is Low Blood Pressure Treated?
The treatments for low blood pressure greatly depend on the cause of the condition. Collaboration with a physician is the best route to take to address the cause of the hypotension. In severe cases of hypotension, a doctor may administer IV fluids to raise the blood pressure.
Depending on a variety of factors, such as age and the type of hypotension, a physician may advise one or more of the following: dietary changes, lifestyle changes, and possibly medications.
For the dietary changes, a physician might advise an individual to:
Drink less alcohol
Consume slighter, healthy meals and reduce carbohydrates
Increase salt consumption slightly as sodium raises blood pressure
Remain hydrated by consuming more water all through the day.
A patient can take several steps to avoid a sudden drop in blood pressure. A physician may suggest the following lifestyle changes:
Evade standing for long periods of time.
Rise up gradually after sitting or lying down.
Sit up and breathe thoroughly for a few minutes prior to getting out of bed.
For the lifestyle and dietary changes that can treat hypotension, there are no side effects.
On the other hand, the medications used to treat hypotension can have a number of side effects, some of which may be serious. For example, Fludrocortisone can make certain infections worse. Therefore, it is essential to discuss this medication with the physician. The most frequent undesirable secondary effects from Fludrocortisone are:
Dizziness
Increased risk of infection
Insomnia (problems sleeping)
Nausea, bloating, or other stomach problems
The most usual side effects with midodrine are:
Goosebumps and chills
Itching
Numbness or tingling
Complications from Low Blood Pressure
Although it is not typically a severe medical condition, low blood pressure-hypotension can cause injuries due to fainting and falling. Additionally, if low blood pressure-hypotension is left untreated, the heart, brain, and other organs cannot receive sufficient amounts of blood and cannot function correctly. Severe low blood pressure-hypotension can lead to shock, which can be fatal.
Preventing Low Blood Pressure
Hypotension is preventable by making changes to lifestyle and diet, for instance:
Eating smaller amounts of carbohydrates and choosing small, healthy meals
Staying hydrated and avoiding alcoholic drinks
Rising slowly when sitting or lying down
Engaging a few deep breaths before changing position
Wearing compression stockings
If an individual has recurring fainting, dizziness, or other symptoms of low blood pressure, they should visit their doctor. Abrupt declines in blood pressure can be dangerous. It is crucial to determine why the blood pressure is dropping and treat the cause.
Monitored and controlled low blood pressure does not generally cause serious or long-term health problems, especially since physicians can treat any underlying condition. Numerous individuals learn to control hypotension with dietary and lifestyle changes.
You are welcome to leave any question, comment, concern, or any experience with low blood pressure you would like to share below.
There is a chronic condition known as the silent killer. This condition is high blood pressure. But it doesn’t have to be. Find out why and read all about high blood pressure.
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of circulating blood against the walls of blood vessels, mainly arteries. The majority of this pressure is a consequence of the heart pumping blood through the circulatory system.
What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, aka hypertension, is blood pressure that is elevated higher than normal. It is a condition where the power or force of the blood against the artery walls is excessive. An individual’s blood pressure changes throughout the day based on their activities. However, having blood pressure measures that are consistently above normal may result in a diagnosis of high blood pressure (or hypertension).
The higher an individual’s blood pressure levels, the more risk they have for other health issues, such as stroke, heart disease, and heart attack.
There are more than three million cases annually in the US.
Detecting High Blood Pressure
The best way to diagnose high blood pressure is to measure the blood pressure by having it tested.
Below is how a blood pressure test is usually performed:
A blood pressure reading is achieved with a pressure cuff (sphygmomanometer).
The cuff is then placed around the upper arm during the test before being manually or electronically inflated.
Once the cuff is inflated, it constricts the brachial artery, temporarily terminating blood flow.
The air in the cuff is then slowly released while the individual performing the measurement listens with a stethoscope or monitors an electronic readout.
The blood pressure reading is then recorded as two (2) numbers:
Systolic blood pressure (the top number) — indicates how much pressure the blood is applying against the artery walls during heartbeats.
Diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) — indicates how much pressure the blood is applying against the artery walls while the heart is resting between beats.
In general, more consideration is given to systolic blood pressure (the first number) as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease for individuals over 50. In most individuals, systolic blood pressure rises progressively with age, attributable to the increasing stiffness of large arteries, long-term buildup of plaque, and increased cardiac and vascular disease incidence.
However, a physician can use either an elevated systolic or an elevated diastolic blood pressure reading to diagnose high blood pressure. According to recent studies, the risk of death from ischemic heart disease and stroke doubles with every 20 mm Hg systolic or 10 mm Hg diastolic increase among individuals aged 40 to 89.
Note: the abbreviation mm Hg means millimeters of mercury. Mercury was utilized in the 1st accurate pressure gauges and continues to be used in medicine today as the standard unit of measurement for pressure.
Blood pressure categories
There are five (5) blood pressure categories as established by the American Heart Association, which are:
Normal – Blood pressure numbers less than 120/80 mm Hg are considered within the normal range. If the results fall into this category, stay with heart-healthy habits such as following a balanced diet and exercising regularly.
Elevated – Elevated blood pressure readings occur when they consistently range from 120-129 systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic. Individuals with elevated blood pressure are prone to develop high blood pressure unless they take steps to manage the condition.
Hypertension Stage 1 – Hypertension Stage 1 is when blood pressure regularly ranges from 130-139 systolic or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic. At this stage of high blood pressure, physicians are likely to prescribe lifestyle changes. They may consider adding blood pressure medication based on the possibility of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), like a heart attack or stroke.
Hypertension Stage 2 – Hypertension Stage 2 is when blood pressure persistently scales at 140/90 mm Hg or higher. At this level of high blood pressure, physicians are prone to prescribe a blend of blood pressure medications and lifestyle changes.
Hypertensive crisis – This stage of high blood pressure requires medical attention. If an individual’s blood pressure readings suddenly exceed 180/120 mm Hg, it is required to wait five minutes and then test the blood pressure again. If the readings are still excessively elevated, a doctor must be contacted immediately as this individual could be experiencing a hypertensive crisis.
Suppose an individual’s blood pressure is higher than 180/120 mm Hg and they are experiencing signs of possible organ damage such as chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness/weakness, change in vision, or difficulty speaking. In that case, they should not wait to see if their pressure declines on its own—call 911.
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
Generally, high blood pressure (HBP or hypertension) has no apparent indicators to denote something wrong. This is why it is labeled as “the silent killer.” The best ways of protection are being aware of the risks and making changes that matter.
Knowing the Risks and Causes
General genetic and physical risk Characteristics for high blood pressure encompass:
Family history. If an individual’s parents or other close blood relatives have high blood pressure, there is an increased chance that that individual will acquire it. However, it is important to note that it is not always HBP itself that runs through families, but the harmful lifestyles that lead to it (e.g., diet, lack of exercise, etc.). These lifestyle habits are often passed down through generations.
Age. The older the individual, the more likely they are to get diagnosed with high blood pressure. As individuals age, blood vessels slowly lose some of their elasticity, leading to increased blood pressure. On the other hand, children may also acquire high blood pressure.
Gender. Up until age 64, men are more prone to acquire high blood pressure than women are. At 65 and older, women are more prone to acquire high blood pressure. Find out more regarding women and high blood pressure.
Race. African-Americans tend to form high blood pressure more frequently than individuals of any other racial background in the United States. It additionally tends to be more acute in African Americans, and some medications are not as effective in treating HBP in African-Americans.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) HBP can become apparent as a result of kidney disease. Additionally, having HBP can also cause further kidney damage.
Modifiable risk factors that can be changed to help prevent and manage high blood pressure includes:
High Blood Pressure Prevention
Lack of physical activity: Not getting enough physical activity as part of a lifestyle increases the risk of acquiring high blood pressure. Physical activity is immensely advantageous for the heart and circulatory system in general, and blood pressure is no exception.
An unhealthy diet, particularly one high in sodium: Good nutrition from various sources is vital to one’s health. A diet that is excessive in salt consumption, in addition to calories, saturated and trans fat, and sugar, carries an additional risk of high blood pressure. Alternatively, making healthy food choices can effectively assist in lowering blood pressure.
Being overweight or obese: Carrying excess weight puts an additional strain on the heart and circulatory system, leading to serious health problems. It additionally increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Learn more about managing your weight.
Consuming excessive alcohol: Regular, heavy alcohol consumption may cause numerous health issues, including heart failure, stroke, and an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). It can cause blood pressure to increase radically and increase the risk of alcoholism, obesity, cancer, suicide, and accidents.
Sleep apnea: Obstructive sleep apnea can increase the probability of developing HBP and is frequent in individuals with resistant hypertension.
High cholesterol: More than half of people with HBP additionally have high cholesterol.
Diabetes: Most individuals with diabetes also develop HBP.
Smoking and tobacco use: Using tobacco may cause blood pressure to increase temporarily and may also contribute to damaged arteries. Secondhand smoke, contact with other individuals smoke additionally elevates the risk of heart disease for nonsmokers.
Stress: Stress is not inevitably a bad thing in and of itself. However, excessive stress can play a role in increased blood pressure. Additionally, undue stress can advance behaviors that increase blood pressure, such as physical inactivity, poor diet, and using tobacco or drinking excessive alcohol. Socioeconomic status and psychosocial stress can affect access to basic living necessities, medication, healthcare providers, and the capacity to adopt healthy lifestyle changes.
Controlling these conditions can prevent and even reverse high blood pressure. Discipline and persistence are the keys.
A minute number of high blood pressure cases are secondary hypertension, which is high blood pressure that is caused by another medical condition that was first present. Examples include certain heart defects, kidney disorders, and pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH). In most cases, if the situation causing the high blood pressure is resolved, the patient’s blood pressure will also normalize. Most of the discussion in this article and throughout this website refers to primary hypertension, high blood pressure with no condition linked cause. Most individuals with high blood pressure have a form of primary hypertension.
Questions, comments, concerns, or experiences with high blood pressure you would like to share can be left below.
What do we really know about fat other than to avoid it like the plague? This article explores fat: the good and the bad.
What is Fat?
In chemistry, nutrition, and biology, fat generally means any ester (a chemical compound derived from an acid) of fatty acids or a mixture of such compounds, most commonly those that occur in living beings and food.
Basically, fats are nutrients in food that the body utilizes to form nerve tissue, including the nerves, brain, and hormones.
What is Fat’s Function?
The body utilizes fat as a fuel supply, and fat is the primary storage form of energy in the body. Fat additionally has numerous other essential functions in the body, and it requires a modest amount in the diet for good health. However, too much fat or too much of the wrong type of fat can be unhealthy.
A modest amount of fat is a vital component of a healthy, balanced diet. Fat is a supply of crucial fatty acids that the body cannot make itself. Fat aids the body with the absorption of vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin E. These are known as fat-soluble vitamins.
Where is Fat Found?
Fats in food are found in several forms, which include saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated.
Some foods containing fats are butter, oil, nuts, meat, fish, and some dairy products.
Types of Fat
For good health, in the long run, some fats are healthier than others. Good fats are composed of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. The bad ones contain industrial-made trans fats. Saturated fats land someplace in the middle.
All fats have a comparable chemical structure: a sequence of carbon atoms linked to hydrogen atoms. What makes one fat dissimilar from another is the length and shape of the carbon chain and the number of hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon atoms. Deceptively slight differences in structure transform into crucial differences in form and function.
Bad Fats
The worst type of dietary fat is known as a trans fat. It is a byproduct of a process called hydrogenation used to turn healthy oils into solids and prevent them from becoming rancid. Trans fats do not have any known health benefits, and there is no safe level of consumption. Therefore, they are banned officially in the United States and many other countries.
In the early 20th century, trans fats were found chiefly in solid vegetable shortening and margarine. As food makers discovered new ways to utilize partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, they commenced appearing in everything from commercial cookies and pastries to fast-food French fries.
Ingesting foods loaded with trans fats elevate the quantity of bad LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream and diminishes the amount of good HDL cholesterol. Trans fats additionally create inflammation, connected to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. They also contribute to insulin resistance, which adds to the risk of producing type 2 diabetes. Even minute amounts of trans fats can affect health significantly: for every two (2) percent of calories from trans fat consumed daily, the risk of heart disease rises by twenty-three (23) percent.
The In-between saturated fats
Saturated fats are a regular in the American diet. They are conspicuous in that they are solid at room temperature. For example, think bacon grease when it has cooled, but what is saturated fat? Known sources of saturated fat include whole milk, red meat, and other whole-milk dairy foods, cheese, coconut oil, and numerous commercially prepared baked goods and other foods.
Fats – some good, some not much!
The word “saturated” here represents the number of hydrogen atoms encompassing each carbon atom. The chain of carbon atoms contains as many hydrogen atoms as possible. They are saturated with hydrogens.
Is saturated fat bad for you? A diet rich in saturated fats can drive up total cholesterol and tip the balance toward more harmful LDL cholesterol, prompting blockages to form in arteries in the heart and elsewhere in the body. For that reason, most nutrition experts recommend limiting saturated fat to fewer than 10% of calories a day.
A handful of recent reports have clouded the connection between saturated fat and heart disease. One meta-analysis of twenty-one studies reported that there was not enough evidence to conclude that saturated fat increases the risk of heart disease, but replacing saturated fat with polyunsaturated fat can decrease the chance of heart disease.
Two (2) other significant studies narrowed down the prescription slightly, concluding that replacing saturated fat with polyunsaturated such as vegetable oils or high-fiber carbohydrates is the best course for reducing the risk of heart disease but substituting saturated fat with highly processed fats carbohydrates could do the reverse.
Good monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats
Good fats come primarily from nuts, seeds, vegetables, and fish. They are different from saturated fats by having a smaller number of hydrogen atoms bonded to their carbon chains. Healthy fats are not solid at room temperature but remain liquid. There are two main categories of beneficial fats: monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
Monounsaturated fats – When bread is dipped in olive oil at an Italian restaurant, that action yields mainly monounsaturated fat. Monounsaturated fats have a single carbon-to-carbon double bond. The outcome is that it has two (2) fewer hydrogen atoms than saturated fat and a bend at the double bond. This composition maintains monounsaturated fats liquid at room temperature.
Good resources of monounsaturated fats are olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil, avocados, and the majority of nuts, as well as high-oleic safflower and sunflower oils.
The finding that monounsaturated fat may well be healthful came from the Seven Countries Study during the 1960s. It uncovered that individuals in Greece and other parts of the Mediterranean region enjoyed a low rate of heart disease despite a high-fat diet. However, the primary fat in their diet was not the saturated animal fat common in countries with higher rates of heart disease. It was olive oil, which contains chiefly monounsaturated fat. This finding formed a surge of interest in olive oil and the “Mediterranean diet,” which is considered a healthful choice today.
Even though there is no suggested daily intake of monounsaturated fats, the Institute of Medicine offers using them as much as possible along with polyunsaturated fats to replace saturated and trans fats.
Polyunsaturated fats – When liquid cooking oil is poured into a pan, there is a good chance that it is polyunsaturated fat. Sunflower oil, safflower oil, and corn oil are typical examples.
Polyunsaturated fats are essential fats. This statement means they are crucial for normal body functions, but the body cannot produce them. Therefore, they must be obtained from food. Polyunsaturated fats are used to construct cell membranes and the covering of nerves. They are also required for muscle movement, blood clotting, and inflammation.
A polyunsaturated fat has two or more double bonds in its carbon chain. There are two (2) principle categories of polyunsaturated fats: omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. The numbers signify the extent of the distance between the beginning of the carbon chain and the first double bond. Both types offer health benefits.
Consuming polyunsaturated fats instead of saturated fats or highly refined carbohydrates lowers harmful LDL cholesterol and improves the overall cholesterol profile. It additionally lowers triglycerides (the main ingredient of natural fats and oils).
High-quality sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon, and sardines, canola oil, flaxseeds, walnuts, and unhydrogenated soybean oil.
Omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent as well as treat heart disease and stroke. On top of raising HDL, reducing blood pressure, and lowering triglycerides, polyunsaturated fats can aid with the prevention of lethal heart rhythms from arising. Data additionally suggests they can help diminish the need for corticosteroid medications in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Research linking omega-3s to a wide range of other health improvements, including reducing the risk of dementia, is inconclusive. According to a systematic review of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality evidence, some of this research has significant flaws.
Omega-6 fatty acids are additionally linked to protection against heart disease. Foods abundant in linoleic acid and other omega-6 fatty acids include vegetable oils such as walnut, safflower, sunflower, soybean, and corn oils.
For individuals who feel that their diet does not ultimately provide the benefits of consuming the good fats, supplementation may be an avenue to explore.
There is a premium supplement that:
Supports heart health and function
Supports proper inflammatory response
Reduces oxidation of cholesterol
Supports brain health
Supports circulatory health
Supports energy production
This supplement is called Cotrexin. Cotrexin is a premium CoQ10 and Omega-3 dietary supplement that sustains antioxidant function and
healthy heart activity. CoQ10 is an enzyme shown to help improve heart health and blood sugar regulation.
This advanced formula was produced by renowned Cardiologist Dr. Chauncey Crandall and includes Bioperine, which can drastically enhance the absorption and bioavailability of CoQ10. Higher absorption converts into strengthened support of the cardiovascular system, fewer free radicals produced, improved performance of the mitochondria, and increased energy, stamina, and endurance. These powerful ingredients in the Cotrexin formula may provide the above benefits.
We have already published an article on the original covid19 virus. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic persists globally, public health officials are watching specific coronavirus mutations and variants that can be more contagious or deadly than the original strain. Viruses continually modify themselves to adapt and survive, and variants emerge when a subspecies has one or more mutations that differ from others. As a result of these mutations, we face a more infectious virus named the Delta Variant. Why is it more infectious? The article is all about the Delta Variant.
The CDC and World Health Organization (WHO) observe these variations to ascertain if the transmission can lead to a surge in COVID-19 cases and deaths and whether current vaccines can provide protection. The U.S. classifies them and places them in one of three categories. They are either a “variant of interest,” which can lead to outbreaks but isn’t widespread in the country, a “variant of concern,” which exhibits evidence of amplified transmission and more acute disease, or a “variant of high consequence,” which causes vaccines and treatments severely less likely to work well.
As of this writing, the United States has not classified any coronavirus variants as “high consequence,” however, many strains have been categorized as “variants of concern” that require them to be followed closely. In particular, the Delta variant has attracted focused attention recently due to a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases in several countries, including the United States.
What is the Delta Variant?
The Delta variant was first recognized in India in December 2020 and contributed to significant outbreaks in the country. It has spread rapidly and is presently reported in 104 countries, according to the CDC.
As of early July, the Delta variant has become the main form of the coronavirus in the U.S., U.K., Germany, and other countries. In the U.K., for example, the Delta variant at present involves more than 97% of new COVID-19 cases, in accordance with Public Health England.
According to the CDC, The Delta variant, otherwise known as B.1.617.2, can spread more quickly. The strain has changes on the spike protein that enable it to infect human cells easier. What that means is individuals can be more contagious if they contract the virus and spread it to others more effectively. It is now the predominant strain in the United States.
According to the Washington Post, researchers have determined that the Delta variant is approximately 50% more contagious than the Alpha variant, first identified in the United Kingdom. Alpha, also known as B.1.1.7, was previously 50% more virulent than the original coronavirus, first identified in China in 2019.
According TO YALE MEDICINE, health experts estimate that the average person who gets infected with Delta spreads it to three or four other people, compared with one or two other people through the original coronavirus strain. The Delta variant may also have the ability to rise above protection from vaccines and some COVID-19 treatments, though studies are nevertheless continuing.
What is the Delta plus Variant?
According to CBS News, the Delta Plus variant, otherwise known as B.1.617.2.1 or AY.1, is considered a “subvariant” of the Delta version. It has a mutation that allows the virus to attack lung cells more effectively and possibly escape vaccines.
Initially identified in India, the Delta Plus variant has now been established in the United States, the United Kingdom, and nearly a dozen other countries. India has categorized it as a variant of concern, but the CDC and WHO have not.
Is the Delta Variant More Deadly?
According to a recent study published in The Lancet, scientists are presently tracking the data to establish how lethal it is. Based on hospitalizations in the U.K., the Delta variant does appear to be increasingly likely to lead to hospitalization and death, predominantly among unvaccinated individuals.
What Makes the Delta Variant More Infectious?
To infect human cells, SARS-CoV-2 has to enter the body and attach to receptors on the exterior of cells. The virus, studded with mushroom-shaped spike proteins, latch onto a receptor called ACE2 on human cells. This receptor is found on many cell types and includes those that line the lungs. It is comparable to a key fitting into a lock.
Mutations that help the virus bind more tightly can make transmission from one person to another easier. When an individual breathes in a droplet containing the virus and that droplet holds viruses with better binding capabilities, they will also be capable of discovering and infecting one of their cells. Scientists have yet to know how many particles of SARS-CoV-2 have to be inhaled for one to become infected, but the bar to cross would most likely be lower for a virus that is better at grabbing onto ACE2 cells.
Researchers study binding in the lab by creating simulated viruses. These are lab-engineered viruses that cannot replicate. However, researchers can fine-tune them to express the spike protein on their surface. That allows them to perform test binding efficiently without the need to use a high-security laboratory. The researchers combine these simulated viruses with plastic beads covered with ACE2 cells and then work out how much of the virus sticks to the beads. The better the quantity of virus, the more efficient the virus is at binding. A Preprint Posted in May, shows that some of the mutations present in Delta do enhance binding.
However, improved binding not only lowers the bar for infection. Since the virus is better at grabbing ACE2 cells, it will additionally infect more cells inside the body. This factor causes the infected individual to have more of the virus in them, as the virus is duplicating more efficiently.
After the virus binds to an ACE2 cell, the next step is to fuse with the cell, which begins when enzymes from the host cell (a cell infected by a virus) cut the spike at two different sites. This action is a process known as cleavage. Cleavage sets in motion the fusion machinery. If binding is like the key fitting in the lock, cleavage is like the key turning the lock. The virus is unable to enter cells without cuts at both sites.
The Good News!
The good news is we have vaccinations that yield strong protection against the Delta variant. A recent study from Public Health England illustrates that the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was 88% effective in preventing symptomatic disease due to Delta in fully vaccinated people. The AstraZeneca vaccine provides slightly less protection. Two (2) shots were 60% effectual against the variant. However, the effectiveness of one (1) dose of either vaccine was much lower— just 33%.
mRNA Vaccines are effective against the Delta Variant!
In any case, just around 42% of the population is fully vaccinated in the United States and the United Kingdom. In India, where the virus surged and was fueled in part by the rapid spread of Delta, only 3.3% of the population has achieved full vaccination.
At a press briefing, Dr. Fauci implored those who were not vaccinated to obtain their first shot and reminded those who are partially vaccinated not
Dr. Fauci
to skip their second dose. The Biden Administration hoped to have 70% of the population at the least be partially vaccinated by the Fourth of July. In the United Kingdom, Delta quickly replaced the Alpha variant to become the dominant strain, and cases are now rising. Dr. Fauci issued a forewarning, “We cannot let that happen in the United States.”
It is best to be vaccinated to be protected against this variant and any possible future versions. The technology used in formulating the current vaccines is safe and effective. For more information on this technology, read the article, What is mRNA Technology on this website.
Any questions, comments, concerns, or experiences with the virus or vaccines may be left below. You will receive a response.
Soy is commended as a health food by some, claiming the calming of hot flashes, defending against osteoporosis, and guarding against hormonal cancers such as breast and prostate. On the other hand, others reject soy for fear that it may cause breast cancer, thyroid problems, and dementia. So, in all fairness, this article covers soy: the good and the bad.
What is Soy?
Soy comes from the soybean, which is a species of legume local to East Asia, which has abundant uses. Conventional, unfermented food uses of soybeans involve tofu and tofu skin.
What is Soy used for?
Soybeans are harvested for their oil as well as meal for the animal feed. A smaller percentage is processed for human ingestion and made into products including soy protein, soy flour, soymilk, tofu, and many retail food products. Soybeans are additionally used in many non-food or industrial products.
For human consumption – Practically, all soybeans are harvested for their oil. Soy processors obtain the raw soybeans and remove the oil from the meal. The oil may be processed for cooking and other safe to eat uses or sold for biodiesel production or industrial services. The processors oven-bake the high-protein fiber after the oil is removed and sell it for animal feed.
Soybean oil is used in the cooking and frying of foods. Margarine is also a product made from soybean oil. Mayonnaises and salad dressings are produced with soybean oil.
Various foods are packed in soybean oil (i.e., sardines, tuna, etc.) Crackers, baked bread, cookies, cakes, and pies generally contain soybean oil.
Animal Feed – The high-protein fiber that remains after the oil has been removed is toasted and prepared into animal feed for cattle, pork, poultry, and other farm animals and pets. The swine and poultry industries are foremost buyers of soybean meal. More than half of the soybeans developed for livestock feed are fed to poultry, about one-quarter are fed to swine, and the balance is used for pet food, dairy cattle, and beef cattle.
Soy protein is found in fish food more and more, for both home aquariums and fish raised for eating. At one time, most marine species were fed fishmeal, but the scarcity and increasing cost of fishmeal has led producers to switch to high protein soymeal for various marine species. Presently, soy protein may be found in feed for most animals around the world.
Additional Uses – Soy additionally has a plethora of industrial uses.
Biodiesel — biodiesel fuel for diesel engines can be formed from soybean oil by a straightforward process known as transesterification. This procedure eliminates the glycerine from the oil, resulting in soy biodiesel. Soy biodiesel is cleaner burning than diesel oil that is petroleum-based. Using it reduces particulate emissions, is non-toxic, renewable, and environmentally friendly.
Biocomposites—Biocomposites are building materials produced from recycled newspapers and soybeans. They substitute other products conventionally prepared from wood, such as flooring, furniture, and countertops.
Laminated plywood, particleboard, and finger-jointed lumber are produced with soy-based wood adhesives.
Soy products are additionally established in many well-known home and commercial carpet brands and auto upholstery applications.
Soy oil yields an environmentally welcoming solvent that safely and rapidly removes oil from creeks, streams, and shorelines without causing harm to humans, animals, and the environment. Soy is also an ingredient in numerous cleaners, solvents, industrial lubricants, and paints.
Candles that are made with soybean oil will burn longer but with less smoke and soot.
Soy ink is more excellent than petroleum-based inks for the reason that soy ink is renewable, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly, and it is easy to clean up.
Soy crayons made with soy oil replace regular crayons that use petroleum oil making them non-toxic and safer for children.
Soy-based lubricants are as good as petroleum-based lubricants, but they can also withstand higher temperatures. Additionally important, they are renewable, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly.
Soy-based hydraulic fluids and rail flange lubricants are together with the more up-to-date products produced with check-off funds.
Soy-based foams are presently being produced to use in automotive interiors, coolers, refrigerators, as well as footwear. Vehicles rolled off the production line with soy foam in the seats beginning in 2007. The latest automotive and equipment industry uses followed, including lubricants, body parts, interiors, and seating.
What are the Health Benefits of Soy?
Soybeans are innately plentiful in protein and have all of the essential amino acids the body requires. They are also rich in plant fats, fiber, and several essential minerals, vitamins, and valuable plant compounds.
In addition to their vitamin and mineral components, soybeans are a natural source of polyphenols, a class of antioxidants that may protect the body against cell damage and conditions like heart disease.
Soybeans are particularly rich in isoflavones, a subclass of polyphenols known as phytoestrogens, because of their ability to attach to and activate estrogen receptors in the body.
Soy isoflavones are thought to be one of the principal reasons behind the many professed health benefits of soy-based foods. Boiled soybeans have 90–134 mg of isoflavones per 3.5 ounces (100 grams), depending on the grade of the bean.
Due to their resemblance in structure, soy isoflavones are often considered to imitate the hormone estrogen. However, research suggests that soy isoflavones differ from estrogen in numerous ways, each having distinctive effects on the body.
As a result of the above, soy-rich diets have been connected to a few potential health benefits.
May aid in lowering cholesterol – Several studies propose that diets abundant in soy foods can aid with the lowering of LDL (bad) cholesterol and the raising of HDL (good) cholesterol.
For example, one recent analysis proposes that a median intake of 25 grams of soy protein daily may help reduce total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels by around 3%.
However, the report’s authors believe that, in practice, reductions may be more significant when individuals consume soy protein in place of animal protein. However, additional research is necessary to confirm this.
Another review proposes that soy-rich diets may help reduce complete and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels by 2–3%. They may additionally raise HDL (good) cholesterol by 3% and lower triglyceride levels by approximately 4%.
At this time, individuals with current risk factors for heart disease, such as high cholesterol, obesity, or type 2 diabetes, appear to be among those who benefit most from soy-rich diets.
Additionally, soy foods that are minimally processed, such as soybeans, tofu, tempeh, and edamame, appear to improve cholesterol levels more than processed soy products and supplements.
Can protect heart health – According to a study, diets that are rich in legumes that include soy may aid in lowering the risk of heart disease.
It additionally emerges that soy isoflavones may aid in the reduction of inflammation in blood vessels and improve their elasticity — two factors believed to protect the health of your heart (17Trusted Source).
A new study further links soy-rich diets to a 20% and 16% lower risk of stroke and heart disease, respectively.
Additional research proposes that diets plentiful in soy foods may reduce the risk of dying from heart disease by up to 15%.
Can lower blood pressure – Soybeans and foods produced from them are generally rich in arginine, an amino acid believed to aid with regulating blood pressure levels, according to a study.
Soybeans are additionally plentiful in isoflavones, which is another compound believed to offer blood-pressure-lowering benefits.
In one study involving postmenopausal women, eating 1/2 cup (43 grams) of soy nuts daily was found to reduce diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number of a blood pressure reading) by around 8% in some, but that does not include all women.
Other studies connect daily intakes of 65–153 mg of soy isoflavones to blood pressure reductions of 3–6 mm Hg in individuals with high blood pressure.
On the other hand, it is unclear whether these small blood-pressure-lowering benefits apply to individuals with normal and elevated blood pressure levels.
Some studies suggest both may benefit, while others offer that only individuals with high blood pressure would experience this effect.
Undoubtedly, more research is required on this topic, but in the meantime, the blood-pressure-lowering effects of soy, if any, seem to be minute.
Can lower blood sugar – A review including 17 randomized control studies, which is the gold standard in research, proposes that soy isoflavones may slightly aid to reduce blood sugar and insulin levels in menopausal women.
Soy isoflavones can additionally help lower insulin resistance, which is a condition in which cells no longer act in response to insulin normally. Eventually, insulin resistance can result in high blood sugar levels and lead to type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, there is some verification that soy protein supplements may help slightly lower blood sugar and insulin levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
Metabolic syndrome refers to a group of conditions, including high blood sugar, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and abdominal fat, that collectively tend to increase a person’s risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
However, these results aren’t unanimous, and several studies have failed to find a strong link between soy foods and blood sugar control in healthy people and those with type 2 diabetes (25Trusted Source, 26Trusted Source, 27Trusted Source).
Therefore, more studies are required before solid conclusions can be made.
Can improve bone health – The low estrogen quantities experienced during menopause can cause calcium to leach from the bones.
This resulting bone loss can cause postmenopausal females to develop weak and brittle bones as a consequence, a condition known as osteoporosis.
There is some evidence that suggests intakes of 40–110 mg of soy isoflavones per day can reduce bone loss and progress markers of bone health in menopausal women. However, additional research is required to confirm these findings.
Can reduce the risk of certain types of cancer – Soy-rich diets can also help lower the risk of certain types of cancer.
For example, studies propose that high ingestion of soy isoflavones can reduce the risk of endometrial cancer (cancer of the uterus) by around 19%.
Additionally, some studies have connected soy-rich diets to a 7% lower risk of digestive tract cancers and an 8–12% lower risk of colon and colorectal cancers, particularly in women.
Conversely, according to a recent study, men eating soy-rich diets can benefit from a lower risk of prostate cancer.
Lastly, one recent review of 23 studies connected diets plentiful in soy foods to a 12% lower risk of dying from cancer, mainly cancers of the stomach, large intestine, and lungs.
What Foods Have Soy?
Soy Foods
Various foods include soy, for example, soy sauce, soy meat alternatives, tofu, soy flour, and soybean oil, which may be found in supermarkets and natural, health, and Asian food stores.
The following foods contain soy:
Whole Soybeans – When soybeans advance in the pod, they ripen into a hard, dry bean, similar to other legumes. For the most part, mature soybeans are yellow, but a few are brown and black.
Whole soybeans are a first-rate supply of protein and dietary fiber. They may be heated and used in sauces, stews, and soups. Whole soybeans that have been soaked can be roasted for snacks and available in natural food stores and select supermarkets. When grown minus the chemicals, they are referred to as organically grown soybeans.
Tofu – Tofu, also called soybean curd, is a soft, smooth soy product made by curdling fresh, hot soymilk with a coagulant. Tofu contains a mild flavor and quickly absorbs the flavors of marinades, spices, and other ingredients. Tofu is full of high-quality protein and B vitamins and is low in sodium. There are two(2) significant varieties of tofu:
Water-packed tofu comes in extra-firm, firm, and soft varieties. This tofu is thick and solid and stands up well in stir fry dishes and soups, on the grill, or anywhere that it is desired for tofu to maintain its shape.
Silken tofu comes in extra-firm, firm, soft, and reduced-fat varieties. This tofu is made by a slightly different procedure that results in a smoother product. Silken tofu works agreeably in pureed or blended dishes.
Meat Alternatives – Meat substitutes containing soy protein or tofu are used to emulate meat, for example, sausages, burgers, hot dogs, and bacon. Usually, they are cholesterol-free and have less fat than meat. They are first-rate suppliers of protein, iron, and B vitamins.
Edamame – These soybeans are collected while the beans are still green and sweet tasting. They can be handed out as a snack or a major vegetable after boiling in lightly salted water for 15 to 20 minutes. They are potent with protein and fiber and contain no cholesterol. Edamame can be purchased shelled or in the pod in the supermarket’s produce section or frozen food aisle.
Miso – Miso is a robust and salty soy paste used in Japanese cooking. The Japanese produce miso soup and use miso to flavor various foods, for example, sauces, dressings, and marinades. Miso paste requires refrigeration. Miso contains minimal soy protein and is high in sodium.
Soymilk – Soybeans that have been soaked, ground fine, and strained yield fluid called soybean milk. Plain, unfortified soymilk is a first-rate supply of high-quality protein and B vitamins, but it lacks calcium, and vitamin D. However, fortified versions are available.
Soymilk can be sighted in non-refrigerated containers or the dairy case at the supermarket. It is additionally sold as a powder to be mixed with water.
Soymilk is a great milk substitute for individuals who are lactose intolerant. It may be used as a beverage or as a substitute in place of milk for cooking.
Soy Nuts – Roasted soy nuts are whole soybeans that have been saturated in water and then baked until browned. Soy nuts are available in an assortment of flavors. They are rich in protein and isoflavones and comparable in texture and flavor to peanuts.
Soy Sauce (Tamari, Shoyu and Teriyaki) – Soy sauce is a dark brown liquid made from soybeans through fermenting. Soy sauce contains small amounts of soy protein and is high in salt.
Two (2) types of soy sauce are shoyu and tamari. Shoyu is a combination of soybeans and wheat. Tamari is produced only from soybeans and is a by-product of miso. An additional sauce containing soy sauce is teriyaki sauce. It has soy sauce and other ingredients, for instance, sugar, vinegar, and spices.
Tempeh – Tempeh is a soybean product that is tender and chunky. Whole soybeans, occasionally mixed with another grain like millet or rice, are fermented and pressed into a bar or cake with a nutty or smoky. It may be marinated, sliced, grilled, and added to casseroles, soups, or chili. It is usually found in Asian and health food stores.
Textured Soy Protein – Textured soy protein (TSP) pertains to products made from textured soy flour, textured soy protein concentrates, as well as spun soy fiber. Textured soy flour contains approximately 70 percent protein and maintains most of the bean’s dietary fiber. Textured soy flour can be purchased dried in granular and chunk style. When mixed with water, it has a chewy texture. It is commonly used as a meat extender. One (1) of the more well-known brands is called Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP).
There are many kinds of food alternatives made with soy, such as “chicken-less” nuggets, hamburgers, hot dogs, soy bacon, cheese, corn dogs, and ice cream.
What are the Health Concerns about Soy?
The Concerns about Soy
Some individuals are concerned about including soy in their diets because of the following areas of concern:
Antinutrients. Soybeans have compounds that can lessen the body’s ability to take in the vitamins and minerals they contain. Soaking, sprouting, fermenting, and cooking are ways to alleviate these antinutrient levels in soy (study, study, study, study).
Cancer risk. Some people suppose that soy isoflavones can raise the probability of breast or endometrial cancer. However, a majority of studies find no adverse effect. In some cases, they may even offer some protection against certain cancers.
Danger to babies. Many people fear that soy formula can negatively affect the brain, thyroid, sexual, or immune development. Despite that, studies typically fail to observe any long-term adverse effects of soy formula in healthy, full-term babies.
Digestive issues. Animal studies indicate that the antinutrients in soy can reduce the gut’s barrier function, possibly resultant in inflammation and digestive problems. On the other hand, more human studies are required to confirm this (study).
Estrogen-mimicking effects. Soy isoflavones are frequently believed to imitate the female reproductive hormone estrogen. Although they are similar in structure to this hormone, soy isoflavones have weaker and slightly different effects than estrogen (review).
Feminizing effects in men. Many are concerned that soy isoflavones can reduce the production of the male hormone testosterone. However, human studies find a weak connection between the two (study).
GMOs. Soybeans are frequently genetically modified (GMO). GMO soy can contain a reduced amount of nutrients and additional herbicide residues than conventional or organic soy. More research about the long-term health effects of GMO soy is required.
Thyroid function. Test-tube and animal research proposes that some compounds established in soy may lessen thyroid gland function. However, human studies find little to no adverse effects, particularly in humans with healthy thyroid function (study, study, study).
It is important to note that while these apprehensions are common, hardly any of them are supported by sound science. Furthermore, when adverse effects have been observed, they frequently followed the consumption of vast amounts of soy.
For example, men who expressed experiencing feminizing effects from soy consumed amounts up to 9 times larger than men’s average intake with soy-rich diets. Although possible, it would be difficult for most individuals to consume that amount of soy daily (study).
Soy-rich diets may boost heart health and decrease blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. They can additionally enhance fertility, reduce symptoms of menopause, and protect against certain cancers. However, more research is needed.
The concerns regarding soy are commonly cited. Generally, hardly any are sustained by solid science, and additional research is required to confirm the ones that have not been verified.
The Bottom Line
While there are mixed conclusions regarding soy, it appears that the health benefits outweigh the health concerns. Therefore, it seems that consuming soy in moderation is beneficial.
Of course, organic is the optimal way to go.
Questions, comments, concerns, and experiences with soy are welcomed below. You will receive a response.
There is a substance in some foods essential to our health, yet it is not a nutrient. This substance is fiber, also known as dietary fiber. There are other facts about this mysterious substance, so this article is all about dietary fiber.
What is Dietary Fiber?
First, dietary fiber is not a nutrient because it is not digested and absorbed by the human body. Also known as roughage, dietary fiber is the indigestible part of plant foods. This substance has a multitude of health benefits, including reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Where is Dietary Fiber Found?
Fiber is established primarily in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes. There are two (2) types of fiber, soluble and insoluble, and they both play essential roles in health:
Insoluble fiber does not disperse in water and adds bulk to the stool, which prevents constipation.
On the other hand, soluble fiber absorbs water, forming a gel-like substance in the digestive system. Soluble fiber can aid in lowering cholesterol levels and help manage blood sugar levels.
Health Benefits of Dietary Fiber
Dietary fiber is a central element of a healthy diet. It is vital for keeping the gut healthy and reducing the risk of chronic health conditions.
The majority of people in the U.S. do not get enough fiber from their diets. According to some estimates, only 5% of the population meets the adequate intake recommendations for dietary fiber. This small percentage indicates that most people in the U.S. could obtain health advantages from increasing their daily fiber intake.
Eating fiber has many health benefits. Some are listed below:
Protects against heart disease – Numerous studies over the past decades have examined dietary fiber’s effect on heart health, including preventing cardiovascular disease and reducing blood pressure.
In a 2017 review of studies, it was established that individuals eating high fiber diets had a considerably reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and lower fatality from these conditions.
It is said that these heart-protective effects may be because fiber reduces total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also called ‘bad cholesterol,’ which is a primary risk for heart conditions.
Promotes a healthy gut – Fiber is essential for keeping the gut healthy. Eating sufficient fiber can prevent or relieve constipation by helping waste to move smoothly through the body. It additionally encourages healthy gut microbiota.
Dietary fiber produces increased fecal mass, frequency, and regularity of expelling feces, the reduced transit time of fecal material through the large intestine, and reduced stool solidity. The softer stool will result in less distress to the colon and anus and less pressure on the muscles involved in defecation.
According to a 2015 review, dietary fiber increases the bulk of stool, aids with promoting regular bowel movements, and lessens the time that waste spends inside the intestines.
According to a 2009 review, dietary fiber has a significant impact on gastrointestinal disorders, including:
colorectal ulcer
diverticular disease
gastroesophageal reflux disease
hemorrhoids
hiatal hernias
The Benefits of Dietary Fiber
A 2019 review indicates that fiber ingestion may decrease an individual’s
risk of colorectal cancer.
Reduced risk for diabetes – Adding more fiber to the diet may additionally have benefits for diabetes. Fiber can assist in slowing down the body’s absorption of sugar, helping to prevent blood sugar spikes after meals.
A 2018 review indicates that individuals who consumed high fiber diets, particularly cereal fiber, had a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. These persons also reported a slight reduction in blood glucose levels.
Weight Management – For individuals seeking to lose weight, a diet high in dietary fiber can aid in regulating weight loss. Foods high in fiber can help a person feel fuller for longer and help people adhere to a diet.
In a 2019 study, researchers determined that individuals who increased their dietary fiber intake increased their weight loss and dedication to their dietary caloric restrictions.
Types of Dietary Fiber
Fiber contains nonstarch polysaccharides, for example, cellulose, dextrins, inulin, lignin, chitins, pectins, beta-glucans, waxes, and oligosaccharides.
As mentioned earlier, soluble and insoluble are the two types of dietary fiber.
Most high fiber-containing foods have both insoluble and soluble fiber, so individuals do not need to think much about the difference. However, they can focus on the whole fiber intake.
Soluble fiber – Soluble fiber liquefies in water and forms a gel-like substance in the stomach. Later, bacteria break the gel down in the large intestine. Soluble fiber yields a few calories to the individual.
Soluble fiber supplies the following benefits:
lowering LDL cholesterol in the blood by affecting how the body takes in dietary fat and cholesterol
slows the absorption of other carbohydrates through digestion, which can aid with the normalizing of blood sugar levels
Excellent supplies of soluble fiber can be found in:
beans
fruits
nuts
oats
vegetables
Insoluble fiber – Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and passes through the gastrointestinal tract, generally whole. It provides no calories.
Insoluble fiber assists in forming bulk in the stool, which helps a person pass stool faster. It can also aid in the avoidance of constipation.
Good quality sources of insoluble fiber include:
fruits
nuts
vegetables
whole-grain foods
Plant-based foods are a superb supplier of dietary fiber. A few forms have more fiber than others.
Individuals who are sensitive to high fiber foods may find it challenging to get sufficient fiber. In that case, they should consult with their physician about obtaining sources of fiber that will not cause an allergic reaction.
In such cases, an individual may want to consult with their doctor about fiber supplements. A doctor may advise these if the individual has constipation or trouble passing stool. Drug stores sell fiber supplements, such as Metamucil, Citrucel, Benefiber, and FiberCon. SHOP FOR FIBER SUPPLEMENTS ONLINE [affiliate link]
However, these products do not provide the same levels of vitamins and nutrients as natural, high-fiber foods. Nevertheless, they are beneficial when someone is unable to get enough fiber from their diet.
The following categories of individuals should use dietary supplements to make sure they are getting a sufficient amount of dietary fiber:
Individuals who constantly eat or drink out and are troubled about high blood sugar.
Individuals who often consume high-fat foods and who are concerned about high cholesterol levels.
Individuals whose blood pressure is elevated.
Individuals with erratic mealtimes and who are troubled about obesity.
Individuals who have a propensity to have constipation.
Signs of a Fiber Deficiency
If a diet is short on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, it may not be yielding all the fiber required, raising the risk for weight gain, heart disease, and cancer.
While the symptoms of a fiber-poor diet aren’t always obvious, there are four key (4) warning signs to watch for:
Constipation – If an individual has fewer than three (3) bowel movements a week, and the stools are hard and dry, that is constipation. Constipation can result from a lack of fiber but also too little exercise and certain medications and supplements.
If the constipation is diet-related, it may be relieved by adding more fiber-rich foods such as broccoli, carrots, apples, raspberries, or whole grains.
Boosting fiber intake can help form soft, bulky stools, preventing and relieving constipation. It is best to add fiber slowly, enabling the body to get used to it. It also helps to stay regular by drinking plenty of fluids and exercising consistently.
Weight Gain- Fiber adds to fullness. The fullness one receives after a meal. If an individual is not experiencing that feeling, they may be eating more than their body requires.
In that case, it’s best to attempt to meet the recommended goal of 25 to 35 grams of fiber each day by enjoying fiber-filled foods like fresh fruit, whole grains, and seasonal vegetables. Choosing the fiber-rich foods enjoyed the most will more likely lead to eating favorites often.
Blood Sugar Fluctuations – If an individual has diabetes and finds controlling their blood sugar not easy, they should talk to their doctor: they may not be getting enough fiber.
Since fiber hinders the absorption of sugar, assisting with the control of blood sugar levels, it would be wise to try adding more fresh produce, beans and peas, brown rice, and other high-fiber foods to the diet. It is essential to discuss any change in the diabetes management plan with a physician.
Diet-Related Tiredness & Nausea – If an individual receives most of their calories from a high-protein/low-carbohydrate diet: one rich in meat, eggs, and cheese and low in produce, may lead not only to a rise in cholesterol but also leave them nauseous, tired, and weak.
It may be good to boost the dietary fiber with the vitamin and mineral-rich whole grains, fruits, and vegetables the body requires and reduce consuming fatty foods.
Increasing fiber
Fruits and whole grains do the trick!
The daily intake of fiber can be boosted by making a variety of minor changes, such as:
consuming fruits and vegetables with the skins on, since the skins contain lots of fiber
adding beans or lentils to salads, soups, and side dishes
replacing white bread and pasta for whole-wheat versions
attempting to eat 4.5 cups of vegetables and 4.5 cups of fruit each day, as the American Heart Association suggest
for those unable to meet the daily requirements, think about using fiber supplements
Conclusion
Dietary fiber is a central element of a healthful diet. Research connects a high fiber diet with less risk of various health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and selected cancers. Fiber is additionally essential for keeping the gut healthy.
Various foods contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. As a general rule, the more natural and unprocessed the food, the higher it is in fiber. However, there is no fiber in meat, dairy, or sugar. Refined or “white” foods, for example, white bread, white rice, and pastries, as they have had all or most of their fiber removed.
All comments, questions, and concerns, or experiences with fiber to share are welcomed below.
There is a class of drugs used to treat high blood pressure. These drugs are called diuretics. But how much is known about these drugs? This article is all about diuretics.
What are Diuretics?
A diuretic is any substance that advances diuresis, which is the increased production of urine. This definition includes forced diuresis. A diuretic pill is occasionally informally called a water tablet. There are several categories of diuretics. However, all diuretics increase the excretion of water from the body through the kidneys.
What are Diuretics For?
The most widespread incident treated with diuretics is high blood pressure. The drugs lessen the amount of fluid in the blood vessels, and this assists in lowering blood pressure.
Another condition treated with diuretics is congestive heart failure, which keeps the heart pumping blood effectively throughout the body. This condition leads to a buildup of fluids in the body, which is called edema. Diuretics can assist in reducing this fluid buildup.
Additionally, diuretics can treat liver disease and several kinds of kidney disease. The use of several diuretics is also used in cases of overdose or poisoning to aid with the increase of the excretion of certain substances from a patient’s body.
Types of Diuretics
The three (3) categories of diuretic medications are called thiazide, loop, and potassium-sparing diuretics. All of which causes the body to excrete more fluids as urine.
Thiazide diuretics – Thiazides are the most usually prescribed diuretics. They are most frequently used to treat high blood pressure. These drugs not only decrease fluids but also cause the blood vessels to relax.
Thiazides are occasionally in use with other medications used to lower blood pressure. Examples of thiazides include:
chlorthalidone
hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide)
indapamide
metolazone
Loop diuretics – Loop diuretics are frequently used in the treatment of heart failure. Examples of these drugs include:
bumetanide
furosemide (Lasix)
torsemide (Demadex)
Potassium-sparing diuretics – Potassium-sparing diuretics decrease fluid levels in the body without causing the loss of potassium, an essential nutrient.
The other categories of diuretics cause the loss of potassium, which can lead to additional health problems such as arrhythmia. Potassium-sparing diuretics can be prescribed for individuals at risk of low potassium levels, for example, those who take other medications that diminish potassium.
However, potassium-sparing diuretics do not reduce blood pressure as well as the other categories of diuretics. Therefore, a physician may prescribe a potassium-sparing diuretic with an additional medication that also lowers blood pressure.
Examples of potassium-sparing diuretics include:
amiloride
eplerenone (Inspra)
spironolactone (Aldactone)
triamterene (Dyrenium)
Side Effects of Diuretics
When taken as prescribed, diuretics are usually well received by the body. However, they can still cause a few side effects.
More common side effects
The more common side effects of diuretics include:
diarrhea
dizziness
elevated blood sugar
elevated cholesterol
excessive potassium in the blood (for potassium-sparing diuretics)
gout
headache
insufficient potassium in the blood
minimum sodium levels
muscle cramps
skin rash
thirst
Serious side effects
In exceptional instances, diuretics can cause serious side effects. These may include:
allergic reaction
irregular heartbeat
kidney failure
If individuals have side effects that bother them while consuming diuretics, they should talk to their doctor. He or she may prescribe a different medication or combination of drugs to reduce the side effects.
It is essential to mention that whether or not an individual has side effects, it is crucial not to stop taking their diuretic without first talking to their doctor.
Diuretic Risks
Diuretics are safe in general, but there are some risks if other medical conditions exist or certain medications are taken.
Conditions of concern
Before an individual takes a prescribed diuretic, they should be sure to tell their doctor if they have any of the following medical situations or issues:
diabetes
frequent dehydration
gout
kidney problems
lupus
menstrual problems
pancreatitis
Drug Interactions
When starting a new medication, individuals must make sure to tell their doctor about any other medicines, supplements, or herbs they are taking. Some drugs that might interact with a diuretic include:
antidepressants, for example, fluoxetine (Prozac) and venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
cyclosporine (Restasis)
digoxin (Digox)
lithium
other drugs for high blood pressure
Natural Diuretics
Natural Diuretics
Some herbs and dietary supplements may help excrete water (diuretic) and help with sodium and water retention. Examples consist of dandelion, ginger, parsley, hawthorn, and juniper. However, again, one must proceed with caution before engaging with any products with a diuretic effect and speak with their doctor, especially if they are on other medications.
Below are more details on some common herbs and supplements that act as natural diuretics.
Dandelion – To a few, the dandelion is merely a weed. However, research has discovered that one of the plant’s compounds enhances kidney activity and increases the frequency of urination. The recommended method of consumption is to try dandelion in tea. shop for dandelion tea online. [affiliate link]
Hawthorn – This family member of the rose family is a potent diuretic. It can decrease fluid buildup, which means it can additionally improve symptoms of congestive heart failure. Research has exposed that the plant’s nutrients amplify urinary excretion and flow.
Hawthorn berries can additionally work as diuretics and may aid in the treatment of kidney problems. Hawthorn is also available as a tea. shop for hawthorne tea online. [affiliate link]
Horsetail – A 2014 study discovered that horsetail extract contained the same diuretic effects as prescription medications but with fewer side effects. Horsetail may be an excellent alternative to prescription diuretics, especially for individuals who have had problems with side effects. Horsetail is also available as a tea. shop for horsetail tea online. [affiliate link]
Juniper – The juniper plant has been used as a diuretic ever since medieval times. Few modern-day studies have verified its benefits, but the evergreen has been shown to have a significant effect on urine volume in animals.
Like many natural diuretics, juniper does not seem to lower potassium levels as some drugs. It is a good idea to try adding juniper to flavor meat and game dishes.
Green and black tea – Every time a hot cup of tea is enjoyed, an individual may be flushing excess fluid from their system. Both teas, green and black, have shown potential as natural diuretics.
Parsley – Although parsley is mainly used as a garnish, it can be helpful for individuals who are having problems tolerating diuretic drugs. A 2002 study found that it might assist with urinary volume. More recent research has also confirmed its diuretic properties. shop for parsley online. [affiliate link]
Hibiscus – This flower contains more than its looks. Roselle, a species of hibiscus, demonstrated substantial diuretic effects in one 2012 study. A different study from that same year also observed that hibiscus assisted with increasing kidney filtration. Hibiscus is available as a tea. shop for Hibiscus tea online. [affiliate link]
Diuretic foods – Besides the above natural diuretics, cutting back on sodium and exercising more can additionally aid in reducing fluid buildup. Consuming more fruits and vegetables that act as diuretics may be an additional beneficial solution. These foods include:
asparagus
bell peppers
berries
celery
garlic
grapes
onions
watermelon
Other Ways to Reduce Fluid Retention
Water Retention Remedies
There are other ways to reduce fluid retention either in lieu of or in addition to diuretics. These include:
Exercise – Physical activity can aid in getting rid of extra fluid by enhancing blood flow to the tissues and causing perspiration.
Boost magnesium intake – Magnesium is an electrolyte that aids in regulating fluid balance. MAGNESIUM SUPPLEMENTS have been shown to help in the reduction of fluid retention in women with premenstrual syndrome.
Consume potassium-rich foods – Eating potassium-rich foods can boost urine production, decrease sodium levels, and reduce fluid retention.
Keep hydrated – Some individuals believe that dehydration can increase the risk of water retention.
Consume less sodium (salt) – A high-salt diet can promote fluid retention.
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or if you would like to share your experience with diuretics, please leave them below.