HEALTHY LIVING
These Are All The Facts You Need To Know Before Getting On Birth Control Pills
Published
7 years agoon
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There a lot things a woman needs to consider before taking birth control pills but first and foremost, you must never go on a pill without first consulting your doctor.
When you are well informed, you can make better decisions.
There are many myths that surround the use of some drugs (Birth control pills) and it only your doctor that can inform you about the pros and cons of such drugs.
When it comes to birth control pills, what works for someone may not work for you. Only after checking with your doctor should you take contraceptive pills.
How birth-control pills work
Birth control pills contain small amounts of hormones – estrogen and progestin – which interfere with the body’s natural cycle to prevent pregnancy. Hormonal contraceptives stop ovulation in a woman’s body so that the egg is not released from the ovary and it does not get fertilised by a man’s sperm. Some hormonal contraceptives change the cervical mucus which makes it difficult for the sperm to find an egg to fertilise, while some change the lining of the womb so that the chances of a fertilised egg being implanted are significantly reduced.
Types of contraceptive pills
Some pills are a combination of estrogen and progestin. But estrogen does not suit some women, as it may cause nausea and weight gain, among other side effects. Patients exhibiting these symptoms are prescribed progestin-only pills, or mini pills. The best kind of pill for you can be determined by your gynaecologist based on your medical state.
What You Should Know
* You still have to use condoms when using birth control pills
Although they protect you from getting pregnant, birth control pills won’t provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases. So, the use of a condom is still advised.
* You most likely will not put on weight
Unlike the older versions of birth control pills, you don’t have to worry about gaining weight The older types had more estrogen which led to more consumption of food in those using it which eventually leads to weight gain.
* Your period won’t be affected
Because birth control pills work on controlling your ovulation, your menstrual cycle won’t be in shambles so you can be sure of when to expect your next period.
* You have to take them everyday at the same time
You can not afford to miss your pill schedule. Keep them close by so you won’t forget to take them. Consistency is the key to getting them to work the way they should. If you miss your pills you have a higher chance of getting pregnant. If you miss a pill, you might need to talk to your doctor before doing anything drastic.
* They help to clear your skin as well
Because birth control pills regulate your hormones, you don’t have to worry about those breakouts anymore. Birth control pills have been regularly prescribed to clear acne.
* They can be affected by other drugs
Some antibiotic and herbal medication can counter the effect of the pills, so watch out for them.
* They can reduce your sex drive
When you notice that your sex drive is low while you are on the pill, then it’s because the drug is working. This does not apply to everyone though and they are nothing to worry about. If you still feel disturbed, talk to your doctor.
* They don’t work for everyone
Oral contraceptive pills do not work for everyone, so talk to a doctor first to find out if there are other means of contraception suitable for you.
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HEALTHY LIVING
5 Ways To Stay Healthy This Christmas Season
Published
2 months agoon
December 21, 2024By
wpadminee
The Christmas season is full of joy, food, and celebrations, but it can also be a time when health routines fall by the wayside. To stay healthy during the festive period, adopting mindful habits is key.
Here are five actionable strategies to ensure you enjoy the festivities while prioritising your well-being.
1. Make Balanced Food Choices
The holiday season is synonymous with indulgence. While it’s tempting to try everything on the table, opt for a balanced approach. Start meals with proteins and vegetables, which keep you full longer and stabilise your blood sugar.
Enjoy festive treats in moderation, allowing yourself small portions of your favourites without overindulging. By practising mindful eating, you can savour holiday flavours without guilt.
Staying hydrated is equally important. Drink plenty of water to counterbalance rich foods and avoid excessive sugary beverages or cocktails. Alternating alcohol with water is a good way to maintain balance during parties.
2. Prioritise Regular Exercise
Exercise doesn’t have to stop during the Christmas season. Incorporate simple physical activities like morning walks, quick home workouts, or even yoga to maintain your energy levels and reduce stress.
A 10–15 minute walk after meals can aid digestion and manage blood sugar levels. Staying active ensures you feel energised and offsets the effects of holiday indulgences.
3. Manage Holiday Stress
The Christmas season can be hectic, with endless to-do lists and social events. Combat stress by practising mindfulness and setting realistic expectations for your time.
Take breaks when needed, meditate, or engage in activities that help you unwind. Organising your tasks and delegating responsibilities can also alleviate pressure.
4. Get Adequate Sleep
Sleep is crucial for overall health, especially during a busy festive period. Poor sleep can lead to increased cravings and mood swings, making it harder to stick to healthy habits. Aim for 7–8 hours of rest each night.
Create a calming bedtime routine by avoiding screens, dimming lights, and reading a book to relax. Staying consistent with your sleep schedule will keep your energy levels high throughout the Christmas season.
5. Plan Ahead for Healthier Choices
With back-to-back events, it’s easy to fall into unhealthy eating habits. Preparing healthy snacks like nuts, boiled eggs, or fruit ensures you have nutritious options on hand.
Planning meals and snacks ahead of time helps avoid impulsive decisions, keeping your health goals on track even during the busiest days.
Enjoy the Festivities While Staying Healthy
By focusing on mindful eating, staying active, managing stress, sleeping well, and planning ahead, you can enjoy the Christmas season while maintaining your health. Balancing fun with wellness ensures you start the new year feeling your best.
If you found this article helpful, read more here.
FOOD
5 Health Benefits Of Cooking With Garlic
Published
2 months agoon
December 7, 2024By
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Garlic is more than just a flavour enhancer; it offers numerous health benefits that have been celebrated for centuries. Incorporating garlic into your meals not only enriches the taste but also boosts your overall well-being.
Let’s explore five key health benefits of garlic, emphasising why this simple ingredient deserves a spot in your kitchen.
1. Boosts Heart Health
Garlic is renowned for its heart-protective properties. It helps lower blood pressure and reduces cholesterol levels, which are crucial factors in maintaining cardiovascular health.
Allicin, a compound found in garlic, relaxes blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Regular consumption of garlic may also prevent artery hardening, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Clearly, one of the primary health benefits of garlic is its contribution to a healthy heart.
2. Strengthens the Immune System
Garlic acts as a powerful immune booster. Its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties help the body fend off infections. Rich in antioxidants, garlic combats free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to illness.
Cooking with garlic regularly can support your immune system, making it more resilient against common colds and flu. This vital health benefit of garlic makes it a natural defence mechanism.
3. Improves Digestive Health
Garlic promotes healthy digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. Its antimicrobial properties can help balance gut flora, reducing harmful bacteria and promoting beneficial ones.
Additionally, garlic may reduce inflammation in the gut, alleviating symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Including garlic in your diet can improve overall digestive function, emphasising another essential health benefit of garlic.
4. Enhances Bone Health
Surprisingly, garlic may also support strong bones. It contains minerals like calcium, manganese, and selenium, which are vital for bone density and strength.
Some studies suggest that garlic consumption can increase estrogen levels in women, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
This lesser-known health benefit of garlic highlights its role beyond the kitchen, contributing to long-term skeletal health.
5. Supports Detoxification
Garlic aids the body’s natural detoxification process by activating liver enzymes that help eliminate toxins. Its sulfur compounds enhance liver function, enabling the body to flush out heavy metals and harmful substances more efficiently.
Regularly cooking with garlic can provide a natural cleanse, supporting overall vitality. This detoxifying health benefit of garlic underscores its importance for maintaining internal balance.
Incorporating Garlic into Your Diet
Maximise these health benefits by adding garlic to soups, stir-fries, and sauces. Crush or chop it and let it sit for a few minutes before cooking to enhance its beneficial compounds.
Remember, the health benefits of garlic are most potent when it’s used fresh and minimally cooked.
Cooking with garlic not only elevates your culinary creations but also offers significant health advantages. Embrace this versatile ingredient and enjoy the multiple health benefits of garlic with every meal.
Would you like more articles or additional tips? Check here.
HEALTHY LIVING
How To Stay Healthy While Boosting Productivity
Published
3 months agoon
November 30, 2024By
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Balancing health and productivity is essential for personal well-being and professional success. Integrating healthy habits into your daily routine enhances focus, reduces stress, and increases overall efficiency.
Here’s how you can maintain good health while staying productive:
1. Prioritise Physical Health
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity enhances both physical health and mental clarity. Simple practices like taking short walks during breaks or stretching between tasks improve circulation and energy levels.
Maintain Good Nutrition: Eating balanced meals fuels your body and brain. Choose healthy snacks and stay hydrated throughout the day to maintain consistent energy levels.
Sleep Well: Adequate sleep (7-9 hours) improves memory, focus, and mood, contributing to higher productivity. Establish a consistent bedtime routine to ensure restful sleep.
2. Manage Your Energy, Not Just Time
Identify peak productivity periods in your day. Allocate complex or creative tasks to those high-energy times, and save routine work for low-energy periods. This practice optimises your natural rhythms for maximum efficiency.
3. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management
Take Short Breaks: Regular breaks prevent burnout and boost concentration. Even a five-minute pause every hour can refresh your mind.
Mindful Practices: Meditation or deep-breathing exercises reduce stress and improve focus. Incorporating these into your daily routine fosters mental clarity and emotional resilience.
4. Create a Healthy Work Environment
Ergonomic Workspace: Arrange your workspace to support good posture and reduce strain. Use ergonomic furniture and ensure proper lighting to prevent fatigue.
Limit Distractions: Reduce noise and digital interruptions to stay focused. Tools like “Do Not Disturb” settings and noise-cancelling headphones can help create a conducive work atmosphere.
5. Foster Mental Health
Set Boundaries: Separate work from personal time. Avoid checking work emails after hours to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Stay Connected: Engage in positive social interactions at work. A supportive environment enhances motivation and reduces feelings of isolation.
6. Optimise Productivity Techniques
Batch Tasks: Group similar activities together to avoid frequent context-switching, which drains mental energy. This method enhances focus and efficiency.
Use To-Do Lists: Organise tasks by priority. Focus on completing high-value activities first to maximise your productivity.
By integrating these health-focused strategies into your daily routine, you can maintain physical well-being, reduce stress, and improve productivity, creating a sustainable path to professional success and personal fulfilment.
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