A migraine is not just a type of headache, it is much more. Migraines are neurological disorders that can cause severe pain and significantly diminish a person’s quality of life. A migraine can occur at any stage in a person’s life, but it usually begins between ages 10 and 40.
Read more on BeFantastico website: Migraine: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention

What is Migraine?

A migraine is not just a type of headache, it is much more. Migraines are neurological disorders that can cause severe pain and significantly diminish a person’s quality of life. A migraine can occur at any stage in a person’s life, but it usually begins between ages 10 and 40. More than 50% of people with migraine experienced their first symptoms before age 12.

According to estimates, migraines affect about 39 million people in the United States alone, including children, and about a billion people around the world. This figures show that migraines are quite common and you would probably know someone who is suffering from a type of migraine.

Also referred to migraine headache, a migraine is a serious condition and one of the most disabling illnesses in the world. A lot of people suffering from migraine are not aware of their condition because migraine is a disease that is poorly understood. Since migraine is often undiagnosed, more than half of the people who have migraine do not receive the right treatment.

What Causes Migraine?

The cause of migraine is not understood although doctors believe that migraines may be related to changes in the brain. Genetics as well as environmental factors also play a role in the occurrence of migraines. These environmental factors serve as triggers of migraine.

What are the Triggers of Migraine?

There are a number of factors that can trigger migraine. These factors include:

• Foods (especially those containing additives like monosodium glutamate and sweeteners) may trigger migraines. Processed foods and meats, foods high in sodium, yeast, fermented products, chocolate and some types of fruits and nuts may also trigger a migraine in some people.
• Alcohol
• Drinks containing caffeine
• Some types of medicines like oral contraceptives
• Intense physical activity
• Strong smells including smoke, perfume and fragrances, and paint thinners
• Hormonal changes in women
• Bright lights
• Loud noises
• Sleep deprivation or too much sleep
• Change in weather or environment
• Anxiety
• Tobacco
• Fasting or meal skipping

What are the Symptoms of Migraine?

There are four stages of migraine: prodrome, aura, headache and post-drome. These stages have their unique symptoms.

Prodrome

This is the first phase of a migraine and it begins about 24 hours before migraine sets in. Symptoms of prodrome include increased thirst and urination, frequent yawning, neck stiffness, fluid retention, unexplained mood changes, constipation and food cravings.

Aura

A lot of people who have migraines do not experience this phase. An aura can occur before or during a migraine. A person who has aura may have visual disturbances. The person might see bright lights or zig-zag lines. The person may also have the sensation of being touched. Other symptoms of aura include: difficulty speaking, numbness or weakness one side of the body (similar to a stroke), uncontrollable jerking and vision loss.

Headache

A migraine can occur without headache, but when it does, the pain (throbbing or pulsing) is felt on one side of the head. If left untreated, a migraine may last between 4 to 72 hours. During this period, a person may experience the following symptoms:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Sensitivity to light, sounds, touch and smell
• Pain that becomes severe with coughing, sneezing or movement

Postdrome

This is the last stage after a migraine attack. A person may feel weak, exhausted and confused, and this can last up to 24 hours. Moodiness and sensitivity to light or sound may also be experienced at this stage.

Some people with migraines are usually able to tell when they are about to have an episode. For some, it is associated with stress. A woman may experience migraine before or during her period. Most people who experience migraine often wake in the morning with symptoms.

What are the Risk Factors of Migraine?

Anyone can have a migraine, but when certain factors are present, the likelihood increases. The most important risk factor of migraine is heredity. Migraine runs in families. A person may also inherit migraine triggers. About 90% of people suffering from migraine have a family member with the condition. If a parent has migraine, there is 50% chance of a child inheriting the condition, and if both parents have it, their child has 75% chances of having the condition.

Women are three times more likely to have a migraine than men. Migraines are also more severe in women and they occur more frequently. This is largely due to fluctuations in levels of estrogen, although at a younger age, migraine is less common in females. In childhood, the incidence of migraine is higher in boys than girls, but at the onset of puberty, there is a rapid increase in the occurrence of migraine in females.

Migraines are also more likely to occur when certain conditions are present. These conditions include sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and epilepsy.

How is Migraine Treated?

Migraines can be very hard to cope with. During a migraine, most people are not able to function as they should. Severe migraines can last for more than three days. Migraine attacks can occur once or twice in a month, and it may also occur almost every day (at least 15 attacks in a month). This is known as chronic daily migraine.

Besides being a difficult condition to deal with, migraine increases a person’s risk of other physical and mental conditions including stroke, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, fibromyalgia, heart disease and seizures.

If you frequently experience the symptoms mentioned above, you should see your doctor. Although there is no cure for migraine, symptoms of migraine can be relieved through medications. These medications may also prevent future attacks.

Over-the-counter drugs are often used to relieve symptoms of migraine, and they are effective for some people. Excessive use of these drugs may however lead to dependency and can lead to chronic migraine.

Besides medications, there are other things a person can do to relieve their symptoms. Drinking enough water may provide some relief as well as resting with the eyes closed in a quiet and dark room. A person may also benefit from placing an ice pack on their forehead. Certain lifestyle changes can be helpful as well in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.

How is Migraine Prevented?

There are things you can do to prevent migraine. By avoiding common migraine triggers, you are less likely to have a migraine. But some triggers may be difficult and if not impossible to avoid. By making some simple lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk of having a migraine.

Manage Stress

Work-related stress is a common type of stress experienced by a lot of people. Stress is inevitable but you can learn to manage them through coping mechanisms. Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga is also helpful with relieving stress. In addition, certain supplements can be used to provide relief from stress.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help to relieve stress, which is a known trigger of migraine. Exercise would also help you to maintain a healthy weight and lose weight if you are overweight or obese. Aerobic exercises like cycling, walking and swimming are particularly helpful. However, intense exercise may cause headaches. You should exercise moderately.

Establish a Daily Routine

Changes in eating and sleep patterns can trigger a migraine in some people. Establishing a routine where you eat and sleep about the same time daily may prevent a migraine. If you are suffering from insomnia, going to bed the same time everyday can also help to improve your symptoms.

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Dandelion leaves taste better when they are still tender. But as they grow, they become increasingly bitter. While the leaves benefit the liver and urinary tract, dandelion root works primarily on the liver.
Read more on BeFantastico website: Benefits and Side Effects of Dandelion Root Tea

Dandelion leaves taste better when they are still tender. But as they grow, they become increasingly bitter. While the leaves benefit the liver and urinary tract, dandelion root works primarily on the liver. Most of the studies conducted on dandelion focus on dandelion root tinctures or dandelion leaf or root tea. The tea contains calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, potassium, vitamins (B, C).

Dandelion root is also available commercially in powdered or capsule form. To make dandelion root tea, add two teaspoons of powdered dandelion root to a cup of water. Allow to boil and simmer for about an hour. Make a substantial amount of tea to make sure so that it does not evaporate while boiling. Drink a cup of the dandelion root tea thrice daily. Alternatively, you can take a teaspoon of alcohol-based dandelion tincture thrice daily.

Health Benefits of Dandelion Root Tea

Let’s take a look at what dandelion root tea can do for your health.

Purifies the Blood and Boosts the Immune System

Dandelion root tea significantly increases both red and white blood cell counts, which makes it an effective aid in the purification of the blood, treatment of anemia, and strengthening of the immune system.

Good for Digestive System

Dandelion root tea can have several positive effects on a person’s digestive system. It boosts appetite and treats digestive ailments. According to some studies, dandelion root tea is great for our digestive system as it maintains the proper flow of bile. Dandelion root tea aids the absorption of minerals and soothes the stomach lining.

Treats Liver Disorders

The role of the liver is to produce bile, which helps enzymes in the body break down fats into fatty acids, and also to filter and detoxify the blood.

Traditionally, dandelion root has been used in the treatment of liver disorders such as jaundice, and indeed a lot of research support this benefits. In fact, some health professionals recommend dandelion root tea for individuals taking medications for depression, since these drugs can affect the liver’s detoxification pathways. Studies show that dandelion root tea also helps protect the liver against damage from other medications, including painkillers.

To use the root to boost liver function, the ideal dose is 500 to 2,000 mg of dandelion root tea or capsule, taken per day for two weeks.

Regulates Blood Sugar Levels and Treats Diabetes

Dandelion root contains a substance called alpha-glucosidase, which naturally lowers blood sugar levels. For many years, the root has been used to treat diabetes. Dandelion root tea is so effective that diabetics are often advised to check with a medical doctor to monitor their blood sugar levels because the tea helps people reduce their medications.

Several studies have suggested that dandelion root tea lowers blood sugar levels which can, in turn, treats diabetes. It flushes out excess sugar that is stored in the body owing to its diuretic properties. Also, it helps stimulate insulin production from the pancreas. Indeed, it is an amazing way to combat diabetes naturally.

Boosts Energy

According to certain studies, dandelion root tea can significantly reduce fatigue and enhance immunity.

Has Antioxidants Abilities

Dandelion root tea is loaded with antioxidants. Antioxidants are components that help in preventing certain types of cell damage. The body uses antioxidants to combat free radical damage, which is very harmful to the body’s tissues and is linked to cancer and premature aging. Luckily, the consumption of dandelion root tea helps the body avoid cell damage from free radicals.

Supports Brain Function and Boost Memory

Dandelion roots are one of the richest sources of the nutrient lecithin, which, among other benefits, increases the amount of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and helps enhance memory.

Aids in Weight Loss

In encouraging weight loss, dandelion root tea is very effective, particularly due to its positive effects on the liver. Dandelion root tea can boost liver function and increases the rate of fat metabolism. It does this by stimulating the liver to manufacture more bile to send to the gallbladder, which burns fat. The root tea also causes the gallbladder to contract and release its stored bile which, in turn, increases fat metabolism.

Not only can dandelion root tea stimulate the liver to burn fat, but it can also help balance hormones so the body stops storing excess fat, help increase energy levels, and hasten metabolism so that weight loss is easier.

Contains Anticancer Properties

Dandelion root tea’s greatest health benefit may lie in its ability to combat cancer. According to studies about dandelion’s anticancer properties, exposure to dandelion extract (dandelion root tea) can destroy cancer cells. These studies also suggest that dandelion may be effective on cancer cells that are resistant to chemotherapy.

Dandelion root tea also decreases the growth of breast cancer cells and stalls the ability of these cancer cells to affect healthy prostate and breast tissue. In fact, studies have shown that extracts of the dandelion root can effectively and efficiently destroy cancer cells without toxicity to healthy cells. Dandelion root tea has amazing potentials as non-toxic and potent alternatives to conventional kinds of chemotherapy.

According to several published reports, one of the ways that dandelion root appears to fight off cancer is by making tumor cells more vulnerable to the natural process known as apoptosis, which causes cells to essentially kill themselves. These reports also indicate that dandelion root seems to increase the potency of other cancer treatments used alongside it. Dandelion root tea is very effective in killing different types of cancer due to its free radical-fighting properties.

Fights Urinary Tract Infection

Dandelion root is a great diuretic, which means that it increases the production of urine. Increased urination helps eliminate bladder bacteria, making dandelion root tea valuable in the treatment of bladder infections.

Dandelion tea can help prevent urinary tract infections, as well as bladder disorders, kidney problems and possibly even cysts on reproductive organs. A unique combination of dandelion root and leaf extracts of a herb known as Uva Ursi can be ingested orally to help treat urinary tract infections in women. In this special combination, the herb Uva Ursi is used to destroy bacteria, and dandelion tea is used owing to its ability to stimulate urine production and ward off infections.

Destroys Bacteria

Recent studies have shown that dandelion root tea plays an impressive role in boosting our overall health. In fact, it has proven to be effective for protecting against the bacteria Bacillus subtili, E. coli as well as MRSA.

Prevents Osteoporosis

Apart from cabbage, dandelion stems, leaves, and flowers have a rich amount of the bone-building mineral known as boron. It has been proven that ten grams or about seven tablespoons) of dried dandelion can provide over significant amounts of boron and calcium to the bones. This is why the drinking of dandelion root tea is beneficial for the treatment of osteoporosis and overall bone health.

In addition, dandelion facilitates the absorption of calcium in this form than other sources such as dairy products.

Side Effects of Dandelion Root Tea

Dandelion root tea is generally considered safe for consumption. However, like other herbs, it can have side effects in some people.

• It may negatively affect the digestive system, resulting in heartburn, diarrhea, or inflammation of the stomach.
• People who are allergic to marigold, chamomile, ragweed, chrysanthemums, and yarrow, are more likely to be allergic to dandelion root tea. Allergy symptoms may include rash, itching, a runny nose, inflamed eyes, or difficulty breathing.

You should discontinue consumption and consult a physician if you experience any of these side effects after drinking dandelion root tea.

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The rice water we refer to here is the water left after cooking rice. Studies and practical uses show that this water is great for treating the skin and hair; it also has many other health benefits. Records show that the Japanese have used rice water for health purpose for over 1,000 years.
Read more on BeFantastico website: 13 Benefits of Rice Water

Is Rice Water Healthy?

The rice water we refer to here is the water left after cooking rice. Studies and practical uses show that this water is great for treating the skin and hair; it also has many other health benefits. Records show that the Japanese have used rice water for health purpose for over 1,000 years. So yes, rice water, as funny as it may sound, is actually healthy. You already know the benefits of rice, so let`s discuss the many benefits of rice water. But before then, we will discuss the various methods of making rice water for different purposes.

How to Make Rice Water

Below are various kinds of rice water and how to make them.

No-Boil Quick

To do this, boil half a cup of rice in two cups of water for 15 minutes, then strain the rice and use the water left to wash your face, hair, or any other part of the body where you wish to apply it.

Boiled Rice Water

To get a quantity of rice water to use for an entire week as facial and hair treatment, for instance, you need to use about three times the quantity of water you would usually use to boil rice. Strain out the water once the rice is cooked; the water you have at this point contains a high concentration of nutrients. You won`t be using all at once. Diluting about three tablespoons of the rice water into a cup of your regular water would suffice. Your combination would look slightly milky. Pour it in a covered container, and store in a refrigerator. You may use it for about a week.

Fermented Rice Water

This kind of rice water is the most effective of all, as a result of the pH changes it undergoes. The pH of rice water is actually close to that of the hair. What`s more? It contains a chemical called pitera, which enhances cell regeneration.

How`s fermented rice water made? Simply follow the no-boil quick method, however, let the water remain in a jar at room temperature for about two days. In some climates, a day is enough for it to ferment. You know the fermentation process is complete when the water smells sour. After fermentation, you may dilute the water with about two cups of warm water, then use it to rinse your hair, wash your face, or any other part of your body. You may store the leftover in the refrigerator.

13 Health Benefits of Rice Water

It Prevents Dehydration

Having a drink of rice water keeps dehydration at bay. This is especially helpful in summer. Just have a drink of it before stepping out of the house, and enjoy all the nutrients you can get.

It Provides Energy

Rice contains carbs, hence rice water is a rich source of energy. The body quickly absorbs the energy it derives from rice water. A drink of rice water is a good way to start the day, keeping you energized all day.

Boosts Immunity and Metabolism

There are vitamins and minerals in rice water that make it perfect for boosting immunity and metabolism. In addition, rice water increases bone density.

It Manages Diarrhea

Rice water is an effective home remedy for combating diarrhea. Infants have a higher chance of suffering from diarrhea, and it leads to dehydration when there is no proper treatment. Rice water is an effective supplement for treatment both diarrhea and dehydration.

It Regulates Blood Temperature

Rice water is quite effective at regulating body temperature. It is helpful at keeping the body cool, especially in summer.

Relaxes the Mind and Body

Soaking your body in rice water or bathing with it helps to relax the mind and body.

Combats Skin Conditions

Applying rice water topically clears blemishes caused by skin conditions such as acne, eczema, rashes, and inflammation. So next time you have to deal with skin conditions, you know just what to use. Simply apply rice water on affected areas with a cotton ball.

Tones the Skin

Rice water lightens your skin, makes it firm, radiant and smooth. To enjoy this benefit, simply dab a cotton ball in rice water and massage your skin with it.

Soothes Sunburn

Cold rice water soothes inflamed and burnt skins. It ensures quick recovery and prevents future damage.

Acts as Exfoliant

You may add some essential oil, sea salt, and citrus to rice water to make a natural exfoliant. Simply rub on the skin and rinse after some time.

Improves Damaged Hair

Rice water contains inositol, a chemical that repairs bleached hair. This water also combats split ends. To solve hair issues, simply dip the ends of your hair in a bowl of rice water for 15 minutes, then wash your hair with running water afterward.

Adds Shine to Hair

Rice water can help make your hair shine better. Simply chop a finger of banana into slices, mash the slices, and apply it on your hair with rice water and rose water, then wear a plastic cap on your head. Wash your hair after 20 minutes.

Acts as Hair Conditioner

You can apply rice water as a conditioner after applying shampoo. As much as possible, just ensure you apply it on all hair strands, and wash off with cold water after a few minutes. You may do this thrice a week.

Rice Water Nutrients

What exactly does rice water contain, which makes it so beneficial? Let`s take a look.

Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that destroys Malassezia, the yeast that causes dandruff.

Amino Acids

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Rice water contains 16% protein, and this makes it quite an effective protein treatment. It strengthens the hair and adds sheen to it by making the cuticle smooth.

Inositol

Inositol in rice water makes the hair more elastic, stronger and more flexible.

Magnesium

Calcium buildup makes the hair hard. Magnesium dissolves it and makes the hair grow better.

Folic Acid

Folic acid strengthens and thickens the hair. When you apply rice water topically, your hair and scalp absorb folic acid rapidly, giving you the best results.

Thiamine

Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, restores hair shine and volume that is lost to stress.

Niacin

Also called vitamin B3, niacin enhances blood circulation, hence repairs follicle cells and reduces scalp inflammation.

Quick Rice Facts

• The variety of rice determines its size.
• Rice usually grows from 3.3 to 5.9 inches in height.
• Rice has elongated, slender leaves that are about 20 to 39 inches in length.
• Rice can be white, brown, purple, red, yellow, black or golden in color.
• Different cultures have their unique ways of eating rice. While people in The West eat rice with forks, the Chinese, Koreans, and Japanese eat it with chopsticks. Meanwhile, Indians eat rice with their hands.
• Over fifty percent of the labor force in Thailand engages in rice production.
• In some parts of the world, rice is a symbol of fertility; a reason for the rice-throwning tradition at weddings.
• The world has been eating rice for about 5,000 years.
• The first recorded account of rice was in China, at about 2,800 BC.
• There are over 4,000 varieties of rice cultivated across continents, except Antarctica.

Now That You Know…

Rice water is packed with loads of benefits to improve your skin, hair, and overall health. Whether you drink it or apply it topically, be sure to enjoy its nutrients.

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Poppy seeds (Papaver somniferum) are widely used (both in the whole and ground forms) as an ingredient in various dishes and cuisines. They are also pressed to extract poppy seed oil.
Read more on BeFantastico website: Poppy Seeds: Health Benefits and Side Effects

Poppy seeds (Papaver somniferum) are widely used (both in the whole and ground forms) as an ingredient in various dishes and cuisines. They are also pressed to extract poppy seed oil.

There are different varieties of poppy seeds– blue poppy seeds (European poppy seeds), white poppy seeds (Asian poppy seeds), and Oriental poppy seeds (opium poppy seeds).

Poppy seeds are made of several nutrients, including vitamins (A, C, E, K), calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, phosphorus, iron, zinc, carbohydrates, energy, fat, cholesterol, dietary fiber, energy, folates, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin, sodium, potassium, and selenium.

The seeds have the ability to prevent heart disease. The seeds contain linoleic acid, which is an omega-6 fatty acid needed for cardiovascular health. However, it is important to note that excess of omega-6 fatty acids can be dangerous for your health. Hence, use in moderation.

Poppy seeds contain minerals –iron and phosphorus which are essential for maintaining bone and muscles. The calcium and magnesium in the seeds regulate brain activity and support the development of neurons. The seeds can also cure insomnia, promote fertility, boost digestion, treat mouth ulcers, and prevent cancer. Codeine and morphine extracted from the seeds are used in cough medicines and pain relievers.

Chia seeds are a good substitute for poppy seeds.

Health Benefits of Poppy Seeds

There are so many health benefits poppy seeds offer. But let’s take a look at some of the top ones.

Improves Heart Health

Poppy seeds are packed with dietary fiber, which regulates cholesterol levels and ultimately enhances heart health. Studies have shown that the cholesterol present in our meals significantly reduces when poppy seed oil is added to our daily diet.

They also contain omega-6 fatty acids which are good for the heart. Since omega-3s cannot be manufactured in the body, they must be gotten from external sources such as poppy seeds.

Induces Sleep

According to some studies, consuming a poppy seed drink lowers cortisol levels in the body. This gives a relaxing effect as the stress levels eventually decrease and make a person feel less fatigued. Of all poppy seeds, opium poppy is believed to be particularly effective in promoting sleep. However, it is advisable to exercise caution while giving the seeds to kids.

You can also drink a cup of poppy seed tea before bedtime. Simply make a paste of poppy seeds and mix it with warm milk.

Boosts Female Fertility

You can boost fertility by flushing the fallopian tubes with poppy seed oil. Studies suggest that that the oil can dissolve mucus in the tubes and improve the chances of conception in women.

Poppy seeds can also promote sexual health as they contain lignans, compounds that boost libido and increase sexual desire.

Strengthens the Immune System

Poppy seeds contain iron and zinc which both contribute to a fortified immune system. The seeds also increase the production of immune cells in the body. The zinc in the seeds also helps combat lower respiratory problems.

Aids Digestion

Poppy seeds are rich sources of insoluble fiber, which can improve digestion. It also eases bowel movements and helps treat constipation. However, more research is needed in this regard.

Prevents Cancer

The derivatives of the opium poppy seeds are believed to fight tumors and may shrink the breast and prostate cancer cells. It can also inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. According to a study, poppy seeds can significantly increase the activity of a carcinogen-detoxifying enzyme known as glutathione-S-transferase (GST). This makes poppy seeds potent for cancer treatment.

Relieves Pain

Traditionally, poppy seeds have been used as an analgesic or to relieve pain. Poppy tea can provide analgesic benefits, especially when prepared with the opium variety.

Treats Kidney Stones

Poppy seeds contain potassium, which prevents and even treats kidney stones. However, since studies show that since the seeds are high in oxalic acid, people with hyperoxaluria need to reduce the amount of poppy seeds in their diet. Hyperoxaluria is simply an excessive urinary excretion of oxalate that increases the risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones.

Fortifies the Bones

Poppy seeds are rich in calcium which improves bone health and copper which strengthens the bones and the connective tissue. The seeds are high in phosphorus, which, along with calcium, forms part of the bone tissue. In addition, the manganese in the seeds increases collagen production and protects the bones from serious damage.

Increases Energy

The carbohydrates in poppy seeds provide the body with the needed energy. The seeds also improve the absorption of calcium and alleviate fatigue.

Lowers Blood Pressure

Poppy seeds contain oleic acid which helps to lower blood pressure levels.

Treats Diabetes

Since poppy seeds are rich in dietary fiber, they can be incorporated into a diabetic diet. The manganese in the seeds might also treat diabetes. However, you should consult a medical doctor before taking poppy seeds for diabetes.

Improves Brain Health

Essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and copper, which are contained in poppy seeds, are good for the brain. These minerals help regulate neurotransmitters and boost brain function. Poppy seeds may also reduce the risk of cognitive disorders.

Benefits the Eyes

Poppy seeds are a rich source of zinc, which can aid vision health and prevent severe eye diseases such as macular degeneration. In fact, the antioxidants in poppy seeds can also be beneficial for the eyes.

Enhances Thyroid Function

The thyroid gland needs a mineral like zinc for optimal functioning. Iodinated poppy seed oil is used to treat a deficiency in iodine– the reason for thyroid dysfunction.

Beneficial for Hair Health

Poppy seeds are rich in unsaturated fatty acids and minerals like magnesium, calcium, and zinc– which all support healthy hair.

To treat dandruff and prevent hair loss, you can regularly apply a mixture of soaked poppy seeds, and a teaspoon of white pepper on the scalp. Leave the mixture on for about 3o minutes and then rinse it off.

Good for the Skin

The antioxidants and other essential nutrients contained in poppy seeds help to enhance skin health. They treat inflammation, moisturize the skin, cleanse the skin, as well as give it a glow.

Poppy seeds help to treat eczema, burns, and itchiness due to their rich linolenic acid content. It also functions as a painkiller by relieving the pain resulting from skin inflammation.

A paste made from poppy seeds is an effective moisturizer, making the skin smooth and supple. Simply blend some poppy seeds and add some milk to it. To improve dry skin, add some honey and apply the paste all over your face. Wash off after 10 minutes.

Side Effects of Poppy Seeds

Evidently, poppy seeds have a myriad of health benefits. However, it also has some side effects.

• Poppy seeds can cause allergies in some people. These allergies include difficulty in breathing, skin redness, hives, vomiting, hives, eye swelling.
• While poppy seeds may be safe when taken in normal amounts, excess consumption can be harmful for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
• The opiate levels in opium poppy seeds can lead to complications, especially for babies.
• It is best to consult a doctor talk to a doctor before taking the opium poppy seeds as they can get you high.
• Take precaution when consuming poppy seeds as the ideal dosage is one teaspoon for 7 pounds of body weight.

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The kidneys are bean-shaped organs about the size of a fist located on either side of your spine. Your kidneys perform very important function in your body. They help to rid your body of waste products and excess fluid through urine production.
Read more on BeFantastico website: Keeping Your Kidneys Healthy

The kidneys are bean-shaped organs about the size of a fist located on either side of your spine. Your kidneys perform very important function in your body. They help to rid your body of waste products and excess fluid through urine production. They perform the function of regulating the salt, potassium and acid content of your body. Your kidneys also produce hormones that help to regulate your blood pressure and that stimulates the production of red blood cells.

Taking care of your kidneys and keeping them healthy is something you should take seriously. You need your kidneys in good state to live a healthy life. When you neglect the care of your kidneys, your kidneys may develop problems. Although kidney problems may develop from uncontrollable factors like genetics and race, lifestyle and diet play a big role. They may either increase or decrease your risk of kidney problems, and they also largely determine the outcome of kidney problems.

How to Keep your Kidneys Healthy

Do not Smoke

Smoking is bad for you in every way. When you smoke, you hinder your kidneys from working as they should. Smoking can damage your blood vessels and this reduces the pace at which blood flows to your kidneys. When you do not have enough blood getting to your kidneys, your kidneys would not be able to properly carry out their functions.

Smoking also restricts the flow of blood to other organs in your body. If you are hypertensive and you are taking medications to manage it, smoking can affect how those medications work. Quitting smoking would benefit your health in great ways. Smoking is the strongest, modifiable risk factor for kidney disease. Smoking also increases your risk of cancer by 50%. If you have trouble with quitting, you should seek help. Quitting smoking is one of the most important factors in preventing kidney disease.

Avoid Alcohol

Do not drink alcohol, but if you must, then don’t drink too much. Drinking too much alcohol increases your risk of high blood pressure, which is a common cause of kidney disease. Alcohol affects how your kidneys perform their work. It makes it harder for your kidneys to filter your blood and also affects the ability of your kidneys to keep the right amount of water in your body.

Alcohol also causes dehydration. This further affects the function of your kidneys as well as other cells and organs of your body. Excessive drinking can lead to liver disease. When the liver becomes diseased, the work of the kidneys becomes harder. If you have high blood pressure, alcohol can also affect how the medications you use to manage the condition works.

Cut Down on Salt

Most people consume more sodium (about three times more) than they need. The suggested sodium intake per day is 2,300 milligrams and a lot less for people with high blood pressure. Eating too much salt directly affects your blood pressure. When you eat too much salt, your body retains more water. The extra water in your body in turn raises your blood pressure.

A high blood pressure puts a strain on your kidneys and other organs in your body. A high sodium intake also affects how hypertension medications work. The most important thing you need to do to reduce your sodium intake is to cut out processed and packaged foods from your diet.

Drink Enough Water

Drinking too little or too much water would not benefit your kidneys. Drinking just enough water every day would help your kidneys function properly. The color of your urine tells you whether you are dehydrated or hydrated. If the color of your urine is yellow, that’s a sign that you need more water, but if your urine is clear or pale, then you are good.

When you do not drink enough water, the volume of fluid in your body decreases, and this may cause your blood pressure to fall. A low blood pressure decreases the flow of blood to your kidneys as well as to other vital organs in your body. Dehydration can also increase your risk of urinary tract infection and kidney stones, both of which can cause damage to your kidneys.

Be Careful with Supplements

There are a lot of supplements out there that promises great benefits for your health. You probably wouldn’t need a supplement if your body derives all the nutrients it needs from the foods you eat. In this case, supplements are not necessary and they may in fact be harmful, especially when they are abused.

What supplements do is to make up for deficiencies in your nutrient intake. Certain health conditions can affect the way the body uses nutrients. Supplements may be recommended to help manage the condition. Supplements cannot take the place of the nutrients you would get from eating healthy foods. Always check with your doctor to be sure that a supplement is safe and beneficial for you. Too much supplements would harm your kidneys.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Lose weight if you are obese or overweight. Carrying too much weight increases your risk of high blood pressure and diabetes, conditions which can cause kidney disease. The best way for you to lose weight is to exercise daily and to eat healthy. Stress management also play an important role in weight control. Sitting less is as important as exercising. Look for ways to reduce the amount of time you spend sitting every. If you work requires that you sit most of the time, standing and stretching at short intervals would benefit you.

One of the ways to make healthy eating easier for you is to prepare your food. This way, you can control the amount of salt and every other thing that goes into it. You would also be able to choose fresh and natural ingredients. There are a lot of healthy recipes which are not just good for your kidneys but for your overall health. Eliminate trans fats from your diet. Reduce your intake of foods that are high in cholesterol and saturated fats like meat, fried foods and dairy products and substitute them with foods that are rich in healthy fats.

Do not Abuse Over-the-counter Medications

If you take common pain killers like ibuprofen regularly and over an extended period, your kidneys can become damaged. If you have a health condition like arthritis or chronic back pain that requires prolonged use of pain killers, discuss with your doctor on how to manage the pain without increasing your risk of kidney disease. The use of hard drugs like nicotine, cocaine and heroin can also cause kidney disease.

Manage Your Health

If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, it is very important for you to manage them well. These two conditions are risk factors of kidney disease. Take your medications correctly and go for regular checkups. Heart disease is also a risk factor of kidney disease. If you have any of these conditions, regular screening for kidney dysfunction should be a part of your routine care.

In Conclusion

It is possible to have problems with the kidneys and not be aware on time. This is why regular checkups are important. The kidneys usually get affected too when other organs in the body is affected or when something goes wrong in the body. When you protect yourself from other health conditions, you also reduce your risk of developing problems with your kidneys.

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