dehydration Archives - Amazing Health Advances

7+ Ways to Stay Cool & Prevent Heat Stroke Symptoms

The AHA! Team — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 05:15:44 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Heat stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the body can no longer cool itself. The body suffers from dehydration because it can’t release internal heat into the environment, resulting in core temperatures of over 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The scary part The scary part is that most people aren’t aware that they are in danger of heat stroke (the most severe heat-related illness) until it’s too late. By then, they have become confused and delirious as a result of nerve damage. To ensure that your health is never put in harm’s way because of hot weather, take preventative measures to keep yourself cool and stay hydrated. It’s also important to avoid actions that increase your risk of developing heat stroke, like engaging in physical activity that ups your chances of heat illness, such as hot yoga and exercising in the direct sun. What is heat stroke? Heat stroke is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body becomes unable to regulate its internal temperature, causing the core temperature to rise rapidly, often above 104 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s considered a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Without prompt treatment, heat stroke can lead to organ damage, brain injury and even death. Types of heat stroke There are two primary types of heat stroke: 1. Classic (non-exertional) heat stroke This type typically affects vulnerable populations, including older adults, young children and those with chronic illnesses. It usually occurs after prolonged exposure to high temperatures in poorly ventilated spaces or during heat waves. Physical exertion is not necessary for this type to develop. 2. Exertional heat stroke This form affects healthy, active individuals, especially athletes, military personnel and laborers, who perform intense physical activity in hot and humid conditions. It can develop suddenly and progresses rapidly. In both types, the body’s cooling mechanisms fail, leading to dangerously high internal temperatures and potentially severe complications. Heat stroke vs. heat exhaustion Heat stroke occurs when your body’s natural processes to regulate your core temperature begin to fail as you become overheated. It is the most serious phase of heat illness, when you become at risk of life-threatening symptoms. Heat exhaustion is the phase right before heat stroke, when you begin to feel signs of heat illness, such as muscle weakness and fatigue. The body regulates core temperature to maintain a constant temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, even in the hottest or coldest environmental conditions. For this to be possible, the thermoregulatory system uses different physiological mechanisms in order to balance the heat produced inside the body and the amount of heat lost to the environment. When these mechanisms break down, heat stroke symptoms occur. How exactly do we fight heat illness? Here’s what occurs naturally to prevent life-threatening symptoms of heat stroke: When the temperature outside becomes too high, temperature receptors in the skin send messages to the hypothalamus, which is the processing center in the brain. When you become overheated, you release heat by sweating and activating the muscles in your skin. Your blood vessels also begin to swell or dilate, causing noticeable redness. More warm blood then flows close to the surface of your skin so heat is lost through the skin and into the air. Muscles in your skin work to increase heat loss by causing hairs to lay down flat, as opposed to raising them up in order to trap more warmth. Your skin glands also secrete sweat onto the surface of your skin in order to increase heat loss by evaporation. Your body will keep sweating, releasing internal heat, until your body temperature returns to normal. Once your body’s core temperature rises, all of your innate processes that are in place to regulate your internal temperature break down, creating serious, even life-threatening problems, like organ damage and loss of consciousness. Heat stroke symptoms Before heat stroke symptoms develop, you will experience a few warning signs. Generally, heat-related illnesses occur in four stages, beginning with muscle cramping, leading to heat exhaustion and ending with heat stroke. 1. Heat syncope (fainting) Heat syncope, or fainting, occurs when your body tries to cool itself, which causes your blood vessels to dilate so much that blood flow to your brain is reduced. This usually occurs when a person has been working outside or has been physically active in a hot environment. Besides fainting, a person experiencing heat syncope may feel dizzy, restless and nauseous. 2. Heat cramps Heat cramps, also known as muscle cramping, are one of the first signs of heat-related illness. You may feel like you pulled a muscle, even though you weren’t doing anything strenuous. Muscle aches and cramping are huge warning signs that you are dehydrated and need to get somewhere cool and drink water before your symptoms worsen. 3. Heat exhaustion Heat exhaustion happens when the heat begins to make you feel uncomfortable and ill, leading to symptoms like: heavy sweating weakness headache changes in pulse cold, pale and clammy skin nausea vomiting fainting If left untreated, heat exhaustion can advance to heat stroke. 4. Heat stroke Heat stroke is the most serious of all heat-related illnesses. It is a medical emergency because it can lead to serious brain damage, organ failure and even death. The most common heat stroke symptoms include: body temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit rapid and strong pulse shallow breathing hot, red, dry or moist skin severe headache fatigue minimal or no sweating, despite the heat nausea and vomiting muscle weakness muscle cramps dark-colored urine (even rhabdomyolysis) delirium confusion seizures unconsciousness aggression, agitation and other behavioral changes blurry vision dizziness fainting low blood pressure slurred speech pale skin Heat stroke is so serious because it can lead to organ failure and even death. It immediately affects your cognitive function and can lead to impairment. In fact, research has shown that approximately 20 percent of patients who suffer from heat stroke have long-term, irreversible brain damage as a result. That’s why some of the most common heat stroke symptoms are delirium and confusion. Your nerve cells are particularly vulnerable when the body becomes overheated, and your brain is made up of these nerve cells. When you experience heat illness, the blood vessels dilate, and blood flow increases. This strains the heart as well. Causes and risk factors Data has shown that when the heat index is higher than 90 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, the number of deaths caused by heat illness increases. As you sweat in hot weather, you lose fluids and become dehydrated. If you aren’t drinking plenty of water to replace these fluids, you can develop heat stroke symptoms. There are also factors that slow down the body’s ability to release heat into the environment in its attempt to regulate its core temperature. Aside from being in very high temperatures, wearing dark or heavy clothing, being in direct sunlight, and engaging in physical activity are all contributing factors. Here are more risk factors: People aged 65 years or older: Elderly people, aged 65 years or older, have a harder time sensing that their bodies are overheated, so they don’t respond quickly to signs of heat stroke. Older adults also have higher rates of medications that can increase the risk of heat-related illness because they interfere with the way the body reacts to stress and proper hydration. Infants and children: Infants and children rely on adults to keep them cool and hydrated. Plus, they are more prone to heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses because of their greater surface area to body mass ratio. This allows for more heat transfer from the environment to the body. Researchers have reported that children can’t evaporate heat as well as adults because little ones have slower sweat rates, and it takes more time for them to start sweating. Children also have less of a thirst response so they may not realize that they are becoming dehydrated. People with chronic medical conditions: Research has indicated that prevalence of heat stroke and other heat illness is higher among people with ongoing medical conditions, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and respiratory disease. These conditions don’t allow the body to adapt to changes in environmental conditions as easily or quickly. People with mental illness are also at a higher risk of heat stroke because they may not realize when the body is becoming overheated and dehydrated. Social isolation is associated with adverse health effects from heat so people who are often home alone may be more likely to develop heat stroke symptoms. People without access to air conditioning: Research has revealed that associations between heat and mortality are reduced or even absent in communities with high access to, or use of, air conditioning. Data also has shown that individuals who own air conditioners have a reduced risk of heat-related illness. Athletes: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the leading cause of death or disability among athletes who train or compete in high temperatures during the late summer and early fall months is heat-related illness. Research has suggested that the risk is particularly high in the month of August. People who work outdoors: Heat stroke and illness caused by hot weather are very common among people who work outdoors in hot climates. An epidemiological review published by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health found that at-risk workers include fire fighters, construction workers, farmers, soldiers and manufacturing workers who work around process-generated heat. Diagnosis (When is it an emergency?) If you’re with someone who is displaying signs and symptoms of heat stroke, such as trouble breathing, dry skin, fatigue, muscle weakness and delirium, call 911 immediately. Then move the person to a cool place. Try to cool him down by applying a cold compress or ice pack to his forehead or even pouring cool water over his body. Then wait until medical professionals take over. Don’t hesitate to call for help, as heat stroke is a serious medical emergency. Immediate treatment is vital. Treatment and prevention Studies have shown that when cooling is quickly initiated, and both the body temperature and brain function return to normal within an hour of symptom onset, most patients recover fully. For patients suffering from heat stroke, cold water immersion is one of the most common ways to cool the patient’s core temperature quickly. The patient must be exposed to cold temperatures immediately in order to prevent organ breakdown and death. The patient also may be given intravenous (IV) hydration and be transported to a hospital if he’s not already at one. Intravenous hydration is continued for 24 to 72 hours. In severe cases, medical professionals will administer IV magnesium sulfate to relieve muscle cramping. To prevent heat stroke, take the following precautions when exposed to hot temperatures: 1. Drink plenty of water The most important thing you can do to avoid heat stroke is to drink more water than you usually do because you are losing fluids through sweat. Drink two to four cups every hour when you are outside or exercising. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to start drinking fluids. By then, you are already becoming dehydrated and putting yourself at risk of heat stroke. Also, make sure that your children and others at a higher risk of heat stroke drink enough water throughout the day. If you’re not a fan of drinking water all day, there are other beverages that will help you to stay hydrated, such as fruit smoothies, veggie juice, seltzer, lemon or lime water, and kombucha. 2. Eat hydrating foods In order to avoid dehydration and the possibility of heat stroke, eat fruits and vegetables that are hydrating. They have a high water content and contain valuable electrolytes, which help you maintain fluid balance, keep blood pressure levels stable and help with nerve signaling, just to name a few roles of these vital nutrients. Some of the best hydrating foods to beat heat stroke symptoms include: coconut water watermelon oranges grapefruits pineapple berries bananas grapes kiwi cucumber...

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Hydration Tips for Runners, Including Race Day Prep

The AHA! Team — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 05:43:52 +0000

Holly Martin via Dr. Axe – As runners, we all know that we need to be hydrated, but what does that really mean? What happens if we fall short? In this article, I’m going to dive in to exactly what happens (both internally and externally) when we’re dehydrated. In addition, I’m going to examine the best ways to spot dehydration and, most importantly, how to stay hydrated so you don’t have to worry about getting dehydrated in the first place. What is dehydration? Dehydration occurs when our bodies lose vital electrolytes through sweating, which is essentially the body’s built-in cooling mechanism. The American Chemical Society describes electrolytes as salts, ingested mainly through food, that dissolve into positive or negative charges. In the scope of athletic performance, the most crucial electrolytes are potassium, sodium, calcium and magnesium. So why are electrolytes so important for runners? Electrolytes control water movement in the body’s cells, as well as your body’s nerve impulses. This means these salts play crucial roles in brain function, muscle firing and even the beating of your heart. During a training session, the following things happen when we lose these electrolytes: Muscle fatigue sets in earlier. Heart rate increases. Performance decreases. Mental clarity suffers. In addition, dehydration impacts recovery long after the run or training session. Because it impedes your muscles’ recovery process, dehydration during just one workout can actually hinder your workouts for the few days after that. Since your muscles will not have fully recovered, performance may continue to suffer. Signs of dehydration for runners The most well-known indicator of dehydration is thirst. As a general rule, if you’re thirsty, you are likely already dehydrated. In addition, dry mouth, dry eyes and even dry skin can also serve as signals. Look out for headaches and nausea as well! Other lesser known signals include mental fatigue, a lack of motivation and increased heart rate while at a normal run pace. Additionally, over-sweating and under-sweating can both indicate dehydration. Over-sweating is your body’s way of warning you that you are expending energy and losing electrolytes that need to be replaced. Under-sweating is a bit more complicated of a signal. Absent sweating in conditions you would normally sweat in, also known as hypohidrosis, often indicates heat exhaustion, which can be partially, or fully, caused by dehydration. Heat exhaustion refers to any sort of mild heat-related illness. Nausea, vomiting and weakness are all symptoms of heat exhaustion that occur when your body fails to cool itself through sweating. Extreme heat exhaustion is called heat stroke and indicates your body’s total failure to regulate its temperature. Symptoms of heat stroke include high fever, rapid heart rate and loss of consciousness. While dehydration is not always the cause of under-sweating, it is likely a factor if you are under-sweating during a training session. Because of this, be sure to take note of your mid-training sweat levels. Hydrate often to replenish electrolytes if you are over-sweating, and find a way to externally cool down your body’s temperature if you are under-sweating. Dehydration looks different on everyone, so you likely won’t have all of the symptoms mentioned above if you do, in fact, get dehydrated. As a result, it’s important to know your own body and find out what your body’s response is to the loss of those vital electrolytes. Hydration tips for runners: How to avoid dehydration Daily hydration is the easiest way to avoid all of the above symptoms and signals. Experts recommend drinking eight to 10 glasses of water per day, every day, while also incorporating foods with high water content into your diet. Hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, spinach, iceberg lettuce, cauliflower, broccoli, radishes, tomatoes and green peppers are all great options to help you stay hydrated. In addition, you should find a good hydration product that you can use before, during and after your training sessions to replenish any electrolytes your body loses. Good hydration products A hydration product provides key electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium), as well as crucial minerals, that are typically lost through sweating during a run or workout. Sports drinks are the most common hydration products, but a lot of them can be extremely high in sugar, which can have other adverse effects on your body. When choosing a hydration drink, look for a product that has between 250-350 grams of sodium and under 10 grams of sugar. Be sure to hydrate with this electrolyte drink every 20 minutes or so while training, as well as before and after the session. It can take up to 48 hours to recover from dehydration, but you can avoid it completely by simply drinking enough fluids throughout the day and making sure to hydrate with a high-quality product while training! Race day prep Remembering to hydrate during your workouts and drinking water throughout the day are all steps in the right direction for a hydrated race. However, you should be sure to use all of your training sessions as hydration test runs for race day! If hydrating every 20 minutes on your long run left you with a headache or another dehydration symptom at the end, that’s a good sign that you may need to bump up your efforts and try hydrating every 10 or 15 minutes on your next training run. Give yourself an honest evaluation of how your hydration program works after every training run so you know exactly what your body needs during your big race. Additionally, be sure to check the course and weather forecast before a race. Dehydration is one of the worst surprises to have on race day, but doing a little advance prep can help you avoid dehydration altogether. Checking out the course ahead of time can tell you how many aid stations there will be, so you can pack your own hydration products accordingly. Also, if you know the race is going to be hilly, hot, largely in the sun or heading into the wind, you can try to train in those conditions so you know what it takes to keep your body hydrated for optimal race performance. (Make sure to take the proper precautions when working out in the heat.) Final thoughts As you can see, staying hydrated as a runner is really just a matter of knowing your own body. Monitor your symptoms, and use trial and error to see what works for you. To keep your body hydrated on a regular basis, drink water throughout the day, and drink a well-formulated hydration supplement to replenish any lost electrolytes during your training … and you should be good to go. Holly Martin is a running coach and personal trainer. With a 20-plus-year background in dance, Holly brings a strong focus on technique and mobility to all of her coaching. She trains clients and coaches online with The Run Experience, an online training community for running training programs and workouts. She enjoys writing tips for running that help you become a better, stronger and injury-proof runner. To read the original article click here.

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5 Energizing Alternatives to Coffee

AHA Publisher — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 07:10:59 +0000

Erin Young via Dr. Axe – Love the buzz from your steamy mug of coffee but hate the slump after your spike in energy? We have found five delicious alternatives to coffee that will keep you energized throughout the day and deliver amazing health benefits. But first, let’s talk more about coffee and why you may want to consider making a switch. The Dark Side of Coffee The recommended daily maximum of coffee is three to four cups, which is 400 milligrams of caffeine, and for the average person, drinking coffee can be healthy in moderation. But drinking more than the daily recommended level of coffee (or any at all, for those sensitive to caffeine) may result in some adverse health effects that are consistent with a caffeine overdose. Those effects can include: Weight gain: Caffeine in coffee can increase the level of your stress hormone cortisol, and elevated cortisol may cause weight gain. Low energy: Caffeine stimulates the body’s adrenal system, which boosts energy for a short time but then crashes it to leave you fatigued. Mineral deficiency: Caffeine affects iron absorption in your stomach. It also reduces your kidneys’ ability to store calcium, zinc, magnesium and other important minerals. Disrupted sleep: Caffeine stays in your nervous system for four to six hours, so even if you feel fatigued when you go to bed, the caffeine can still disrupt your sleep. Sound scary, or does the idea of having to power through your day without caffeine sound even scarier? Well, fear not! Next are five great alternatives to coffee that will help you keep your coffee cravings in check but your energy levels soaring! 5 Healthy Alternatives to Coffee 1. Matcha Green Tea Powder Matcha green tea powder is the whole green tea leaf stone ground into a fine powder. To drink matcha, dissolve the powder into water to create a tea packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Matcha is an excellent alternative to coffee. A two-gram serving of matcha (a little more than half a teaspoon) contains enough caffeine to give you an energy boost, but the amount is only a fifth of the caffeine in a standard cup of coffee. Additionally, the caffeine in matcha is delivered slowly to your body over a period of six to eight hours. As a result, matcha delivers long-lasting energy that does not leave you with the “jitters,” energy slumps or sleepless nights. Matcha also contains the highest natural concentration of the amino acid L-theanine. L-theanine promotes alpha waves in the brain, which enhance concentration and boost dopamine to improve memory. There are many more incredible matcha health benefits, including its ability to support the immune system, boost weight loss and deliver cancer-fighting antioxidants. 2. Water Did you know that one of the primary signs of dehydration is fatigue? If you feel tired, have a headache or find it hard to focus, then you may actually be dehydrated. The majority of people make the mistake of drinking water only when they feel thirsty. Thirst, however, is one of the last symptoms that appears as a result of dehydration — and usually only after fatigue the fatigue sets in. When lacking adequate hydration, science has proven that your body will not perform at its best. One study of athletes found that low levels of hydration significantly affected their capacity for exercise. To help you drink enough water (the daily recommended amount for adults is about two liters, or half a gallon), keep a bottle with you at all times, and try infusing it with natural flavor from fresh produce, like watermelon, cucumber or ginger. 3. Green Smoothie or Green Vegetable Juices Introducing more greens into your diet can dramatically boost your energy levels because of all the nutrients and antioxidants they contain. If you’re not a fan of tons of large salads or plates full of broccoli, a green vegetable juice or smoothie is an easy way to boost your vegetable intake. Just half a cup of spinach in your smoothie is a rich source of iron that can protect against anemia, a condition that is relatively common among women and another cause of fatigue.A daily green juice can also protect your cardiovascular health. One study showed that consuming 300 milliliters of green juice daily for six weeks reduced bad LDL cholesterol by 9 percent. When making your green juice or smoothies, make sure that 95 percent of the blend contains vegetables rather than fruit to keep the total sugar level low. For a bonus energy kick, you can also add in a superfood supplement like spirulina, barley greens or matcha green tea powder — all of which make healthy alternatives to coffee. 4. Yerba Mate If you’ve traveled to Brazil or Argentina, you likely know how wild South Americans are about yerba mate. The herbal beverage is made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant that has been picked and dried in a similar way to tea leaves. The drink is then produced by steeping the leaves in hot water. The taste of yerba mate is similar to brewed green tea leaves, and it’s also said to deliver a buzz like coffee but with added focus, fewer jitters and less of an impact on sleep. One serving of yerba mate contains around three-fourths the caffeine of a cup of coffee, but it also delivers amino acids and nutrients. You can also try other herbal teas, such as guayusa, ginger, chamomile and more. 5. Protein-Based Smoothie Protein is critical in providing energy to your body, and published studies show that protein boosts alertness and concentration by exciting the brain chemical orexin into production mode. To help supply your body with sustained energy, try adding a protein-based smoothie into your day. Green vegetables have minimal amounts of protein, so to really boost the protein power, try adding in chia seeds, nut butter, hemp or a high-quality powder supplement, like collagen or protein powder made from bone broth. Conclusion Coffee in itself is not unhealthy when consumed in moderation, but there are healthy, energizing alternatives to coffee out there. Introducing a selection of alternative drinks into your diet can deliver some surprising health benefits. Staying hydrated with water and fueling your body with protein can ensure sustainable energy levels all day. Matcha green tea powder is a perfect coffee alternative that delivers an energy boost as well as and health benefits. Erin Young is a heath food writer and a tea expert. She owns two tea companies: Evergreen Matcha in the USA and Zen Green Matcha Tea in Australia. She partners with sustainable tea farms in Kyoto, Japan, to source her premium matcha green tea powder. To read the original article click here.

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ALERT: How Drinking Soda Can Damage Your Kidney Function, Study Warns

AHA Publisher — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 07:00:21 +0000

News Staff via NaturalHealth365 – We’ve all seen advertisements of people guzzling ice-cold soft drinks on a hot summer day. But, while drinking a cold soda on a hot day may sound appealing to some people, a recent study published in the American Journal of Physiology warns that it may damage your kidneys. In fact, the study warns that drinking soda in the heat can have a particularly adverse effect on your kidney function. What Happens to Your Body When You Exercise in the Heat? When it’s hot, your body reacts by sweating more to cool off. If you exercise in hot weather, your body reduces blood flow to your kidneys so it can conserve water and regulate blood pressure. When blood flow to your kidneys is sharply reduced, your kidneys get less oxygen, and consequently, acute kidney injury can occur. Research shows exertion in high temperatures causes an increase in biomarkers of kidney injury. So exercising on a hot summer day already puts your kidneys at risk of dehydration and harm, even before adding soft drinks into the mix. But if you do reach for that cold soda, the risk to your kidneys is even more profound. Why Drinking Soda Is Damaging to Your Kidneys According to the study, drinking soda after laboring or exercising in hot weather increases dehydration, putting your kidneys in danger. In the study, volunteers performed manual labor in 95-degree Fahrenheit weather. Biomarkers for kidney function were measured before and after exercise. Some participants drank water immediately after exertion, and some drank soda. Researchers saw a jump in dehydration and markers for kidney injury in the participants who drank soda, including higher levels of uric acid and vasopressin. Researchers concluded that drinking soda during and immediately after exercise in heat does not rehydrate the body. Instead, soda induces acute kidney injury. In addition, because soda contains high amounts of fructose and often caffeine, it does much more harm than good. These findings are startling. Many people consume much higher amounts of fructose than what is safe and more protein than necessary, which can also imperil kidney function. Additionally, processed foods, in general, are detrimental to our health and children’s health. How to Protect Your Kidneys So how can you keep your kidneys safe and healthy in the summer heat and beyond? A few simple dietary habits can ensure you’re taking care of your kidneys as well as possible. Drinking plenty of clean, pure water is essential. When you choose water over high-fructose drinks, you’ll help keep your kidneys hydrated and functioning smoothly. Eating a diet rich in organic fresh fruits and vegetables has many health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, which is good news for your kidneys. Several super foods are especially good for your kidneys, including cherries, red bell peppers, watermelon, and kale. To support optimal kidney function, you might also want to add these great foods into your diet: ginger, turmeric, nettle, and yarrow. Your kidneys are vital for good health. They work hard daily to filter your blood and flush out impurities through urination. Opting for a tall glass of cold filtered water over highly processed sugar-filled soft drinks will help prevent kidney injury and keep these precious organs working well. Sources for this article include: ChildrensHealthDefense.org Journals.physiology.org To read the original article click here.

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Banish Tension Headaches With Time-Honored Remedies

AHA Publisher — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 07:00:28 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Stress seems to be built into our daily lives, whether created by looming work deadlines, nerve-wracking traffic jams, or the never-ending demands of parenthood. And for many, this stress is heralded by the blooming of a tension headache. Typified by a dull, steady pain – and sometimes accompanied by a band of tightness around the head – tension headaches are extremely common. While they lack the nausea and visual disturbances of a migraine headache, these nasty little episodes are still painful, distracting, and unwelcome. The following natural interventions may help ease the discomfort and even put headaches on the run. (Warning: A sudden, extremely severe headache can signal a medical emergency, such as a stroke – especially if accompanied by numbness and/or difficulty in speaking, walking, seeing, or comprehending. If you experience this type of “bolt from the blue” headache, call 911 immediately). For simple, everyday tension headaches, the following herbal substances may be helpful. Time-Honored Herbal Teas May Help Banish Headaches Ginger root, from the plant botanically known as Zingiber officinale, has been used for over 2,000 years to relieve nausea, arthritis, and – of course – headaches. Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds known as gingerols and shogaols and is believed to increase levels of serotonin, a “feel-good” chemical, in the brain. In one influential study published in Phytotherapy Research, scientists found that ginger performed as well as sumatriptan, a pharmaceutical drug, in alleviating headaches. You can make ginger tea by peeling and chopping an inch or two of fresh ginger root, then steeping it in boiling water for ten to fifteen minutes. Powdered ginger is also available in capsule form, with natural health experts typically advising 550 mg at the first sign of a headache. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is another trusty herbal weapon against headaches. While many people think of chamomile tea as nothing more than a soothing bedtime beverage, this mildly flavored liquid is actually loaded with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds known as chamazulene and apigenin. In one 2018 placebo-controlled study published in Neurological Sciences, researchers found that a chamomile extract significantly reduced pain in migraine sufferers and reduced nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Chamomile could very well have the “right stuff” to banish a simple tension headache. Strike Back at Tension Headaches With Essential Oils Peppermint essential oil is derived from the leaves of the peppermint plant, botanically known as Mentha piperita. Believed to improve circulation and relax muscles, peppermint oil is a great choice for relieving headaches when inhaled or topically applied. (Peppermint oil should not be taken internally and is not for use on children). Natural health experts advise diluting a few drops of peppermint oil in olive or coconut oil, then massaging it into the temples and neck. Essential oil of lavender, derived from lavender flowers (Lavendula angustifolia), may also ease headaches with its mild anxiety-reducing effects. Like peppermint oil, lavender oil can be diluted with a carrier oil and massaged into the skin or inhaled via a diffuser. In a placebo-controlled study published in European Neurology, the researchers reported that inhaling lavender oil for 15 minutes significantly reduced participants’ migraine pain, leading the team to conclude that it may be both safe and effective for headaches. Ease Headaches With Natural Interventions Drinking ample amounts of pure, filtered water and eating liquid-rich foods, such as watermelon, may help alleviate a stubborn headache. Researchers maintain that chronic dehydration – which can also cause irritability and impaired concentration – is a classic cause of both tension headaches and migraines. (If you’re headache prone, avoid alcohol. Not only can it worsen dehydration, but it can exacerbate headaches by widening blood vessels. Incidentally, certain foods can trigger headaches, including aged cheeses, fermented foods, and cured meats and fish. In addition, the odors from harsh cleaning chemicals and perfumes are a “headache trigger” for many people.) Sipping a cup of coffee might be worth a try, as well. Many people swear by the ability of caffeine – which is often included in commercial headache formulations – to tame headaches. (Too much coffee, however, can cause a headache. And, habitual coffee drinkers may experience headaches if they suddenly abstain). Incidentally, make sure you have an adequate intake of magnesium. This essential mineral is involved with blood sugar control and nerve transmission, both of which can have an impact on headaches. In fact, studies have shown that magnesium deficiency is more common in frequent headache sufferers. You can increase your dietary intake of magnesium with leafy greens, whole grains, yogurt, and almonds. Finally, there’s always the traditional “cold compress.” This home remedy is scientifically sound – as applying cold compresses to the neck or head can ease headaches by reducing inflammation, slowing nerve conduction, and constricting blood vessels. Use a commercial cold pack or fill a waterproof bag with ice and wrap it in a towel. Obviously, these simple remedies aren’t rocket science. But, when your temples are pounding with an annoying headache, it can be easy to overlook these solutions. Here’s hoping that they bring relief – and that you’re soon headache-free and “back in the game.” Sources for this article include: Healthline.com EverydayHealth.com Healthline.com NIH.com NIH.com Healthline.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Combining Certain Meds With Ibuprofen Can Permanently Injure Kidneys

AHA Publisher — Fri, 13 May 2022 07:00:27 +0000

University of Waterloo via Newswise – Anyone who is taking a diuretic and a renin-angiotensin system (RSA) inhibitor for high blood pressure should be cautious about also taking ibuprofen, according to new research. Diuretics and RSA inhibitors are commonly prescribed together for people with hypertension and are available under various pharmaceutical brand names. Painkillers such as ibuprofen are available over-the-counter in most pharmacies and stores in popular brands. Researchers at the University of Waterloo used computer-simulated drug trials to model the interactions of the three drugs and the impact on the kidney. They found that in people with certain medical profiles, the combination can cause acute kidney injury, which in some cases can be permanent. “It’s not that everyone who happens to take this combination of drugs is going to have problems,” said Anita Layton, professor of applied mathematics at Waterloo and Canada 150 Research Chair in mathematical biology and medicine. “But the research shows it’s enough of a problem that you should exercise caution.” Computer-simulated drug trials can quickly produce results that would take much longer in human clinical trials. Layton and her team use mathematics and computer science to give medical practitioners a head start with issues like drug complications. The research, in this case, can also speak directly to the many people who are taking drugs for hypertension and may reach for a painkiller with ibuprofen without giving it much thought. “Diuretics are a family of drugs that make the body hold less water,” Layton said. “Being dehydrated is a major factor in acute kidney injury, and then the RAS inhibitor and ibuprofen hit the kidney with this triple whammy. If you happen to be on these hypertension drugs and need a painkiller, consider acetaminophen instead.” Layton’s new research paper, with co-authors Jessica Leete, Carolyn Wang, and Francisco J. López-Hernández, “Determining risk factors for triple whammy acute kidney injury,” appears in the journal Mathematical Biosciences. To read the original article click here.

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UNEXPECTED Health Result From Staying Well-Hydrated, New Study Shows

AHA Publisher — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 07:00:55 +0000

Karen Sanders via NaturalHealth365 – While most people know that drinking an ample amount of fresh, clean water every day is critical for optimum health, many are unfamiliar with the numerous health benefits attributed to proper hydration. Depending on who you talk to, the definition of “adequate hydration” may look a bit different. Some sources recommend eight cups, others six or even ten or more depending on a variety of factors, such as gender, body size, heat, exercise levels, and more. Researchers found that staying hydrated pays dividends in the form of improved digestion, clear skin, and many others. But did you know that paying more attention to your water intake may even help you live longer? True story: a new study found that good hydration may reduce your risk of heart failure. Drink enough H2O now and throughout life; chances are, your life may just be longer. Study Shows Drinking More Water May Improve Heart Health Heart disease is a condition in which the heart doesn’t pump enough blood to the body, failing to meet its needs. It affects millions of Americans and is the leading cause of death in the United States. A study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute has found – through examining longitudinal studies that spanned decades – that adults who consumed more water are less likely to experience heart disease. Specifically, the study found that by examining serum sodium levels (the amount of salt in blood), they could see who was at greater risk. Keep in mind, because serum sodium increases as water intake drops, hydration is a key indicator of who will and who won’t get heartsick, as well as many other health-related problems. Here Are Some UNEXPECTED Health Benefits of Proper Hydration “Similar to reducing salt intake, drinking enough water and staying hydrated are ways to support our hearts and may help reduce long-term risks for heart disease,” said lead study author Natalia Dmitrieva, Ph.D. in the paper. According to the National Council on Aging, proper hydration also: Improves brain performance Gives you energy Helps you regulate your temperature Increases weight loss Flushes out toxins from organs Stabilizes your heartbeat Cushions joints Improves digestion Naturally rids your bladder of bacteria Conversely, there is a well-attested link between dehydration and disease. The dangers of chronic dehydration include constipation, fatigue, kidney stones (or failure), UTIs, poor digestive functioning, poor concentration, fatigue, and skin abnormalities. Check here for signs you may be dehydrated. Simple Tips to Keep Hydration on Top of Mind To stay hydrated, make sure you: Always have a glass or bottle of water on hand Pack extra water for day trips, car rides, and long days at the office or on worksites Drink before or after every meal Set an alarm if you tend to forget Add lemon, lime, or a few berries to make your water more appealing, if needed Don’t Overdo It – Too Much of a Good Thing Can Be Bad It’s important to note that “more water equals better health” is not an equation that holds true at any intake level. Beyond the (average) recommended 6-8 cups for women and 10-12 for men, you risk reducing serum sodium levels toomuch. That can lead to hyponatremia, in which case your salt and fluid levels are out of whack. Nausea, fatigue, confusion, and other symptoms may result. Stick to the physician-recommended intake, and you’ll be fine. Ready to do more for your heart … and your health? Maintain healthy water levels … starting today! Sources for this article include: ScienceDaily.com CDC.gov NCOA.org To read the original article click here.

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Powerful UPDATE: Improve Your Heart Function with These Simple Interventions

AHA Publisher — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 08:00:40 +0000

Edit Lang via NaturalHealth365 – [Lately it seems] we give little to no consideration to the number one killer of American people – heart disease. It is incomprehensible how a disease claiming the lives of 659,000 Americans every year gets no real attention from mainstream media and health authorities. But we are here to change that. In another captivating interview, we bring you real, practical health information that you can use to take charge of your heart health. You will not want to miss this conversation between Jonathan Landsman of NaturalHealth365 and Dr. Robert DeMaria, America’s Drugless Doctor. A Healthy Heart Starts with a Healthy Liver, Here Is Why Few people are aware of the intricate connection that exists between the heart and the liver. As Dr. Bob explains, blood flows up through the legs through the liver to the heart. Therefore, it’s critical to consider what we put in and on our bodies when working to improve heart health because it affects the liver’s health. When the liver is compromised, the blood flowing back to the heart will become impeded. Watch the video (above) to hear his explanation and find out what you can do to improve the health of your liver and cardiovascular system. What You Eat Can Impact Heart Function We have all heard the expression, “you are what you eat.” It turns out, what you eat also has a drastic effect on your heart. For instance, most people don’t know that sugar removes B vitamins from the body. Why does that matter? Because B vitamins are necessary to protect the integrity of heart valves. Scientists have confirmed this in a recent study that found people who ate a diet rich in B-vitamins are less likely to succumb to cardiovascular disease. Heart WARNING About Dehydration, Toxins in Our Food and the Environment Eating the wrong foods, exposure to environmental toxins, and chronic dehydration also exacerbate heart issues. Dehydration is particularly damaging, yet, most do not make the connection between lack of hydration and heart function. Dr. Bob gives a simple yet often overlooked explanation, revealing how inadequate hydration causes red blood cells to stick together, resulting in reduced oxygen levels, causing oxygen deprivation in the heart. Conversely, drinking more water causes the blood cells to separate, carrying more oxygen, increasing energy. Listen to Dr. Bob’s tip on how to stay on top of your hydration using an Oximeter. What’s the Bottom Line? If you want to improve your heart health, you have no other choice but to take charge of your health. Be proactive and take the time to understand how your bodily systems work. Ultimately, in the body, everything is interconnected. By nourishing your liver, removing environmental toxins, eliminating toxic foods, and maintaining optimum blood circulation, you will be well on your way to a heart-healthy you. Share this video with your friends and family to help empower them to embark on this journey with you. Sources used for this article: CDC.gov Rumble.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Switchel Recipe: Nature’s Sports Drink that Benefits Your Gut

AHA Publisher — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 07:00:11 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – Before there were sports drinks to rehydrate after intense physical labor or sugary drinks designed to boost energy levels, there was switchel, an all-natural drink similar to lemonade that’s experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Currently a favorite in “hipster” markets and upscale cocktail bars, thanks to its numerous health benefits and great taste, this centuries-old beverage is primed to become the next kombucha or kvass. Get ahead of the curve, and start sipping on this fermented drink today. What Is Switchel? Made from apple cider vinegar, fresh ginger, maple syrup and then cut with water, switchel’s arrival to America is hazy. Some say this “ginger water” came from the West Indies, where molasses was used instead of maple syrup. Others say it’s derived from oxymel, an ancient Greek medicinal elixir made from vinegar, honey and water. Wherever its origins, by the 18th century, “haymaker’s punch” was being guzzled down by American farmers during long work days to keep cool and stay hydrated in the heat. At the time, people thought throwing back warm drinks during hot days was better for the body, as it supposedly maintained the body’s equilibrium with the weather. And because farmers couldn’t drink alcohol while working on the fields, benefit-rich ginger was a safe second bet, as it produced a similar feeling to alcohol’s burn while going down. While their reasoning might not have been totally sound, it turns out these farmers were onto something. Switchel uses are numerous, in fact. Here’s why switchel should be your new favorite summer drink. Health Benefits 1. Ease inflammation Is switchel good for you? Yes! The ginger that makes up a key part of switchel is a natural inflammation reducer. Inflammation, causes physical symptoms like skin problems and digestive issues. So keeping inflammation at bay with the ginger found in switchel can have other unexpected, welcome side effects, like clearing up acne. Additionally, because it reduces inflammation, which also counts pain as a side effect, ginger is also a powerful pain fighter. In fact, one study found that consuming a small amount of ginger is more effective at reducing pain symptoms and inflammation than painkillers. 2. Get an electrolyte boost Electrolytes are nutrients or chemicals in your body that help it perform specific functions, like regulating your heart beat or telling your legs it’s time to get moving. But after undergoing intense physical exertion (like running a marathon), getting sick, eating a poor diet or even taking certain medications, electrolytes imbalance can occur. Signs that your electrolytes need some replenishing include constantly feeling thirsty, frequent headaches, fatigue and nausea. But because of the maple syrup and apple cider vinegar found in switchel, potassium-rich electrolytes, particularly potassium, are replenished, making it an excellent alternative to sugary drinks like Gatorade. Pour a glass after a tough workout on a hot day to feel refreshed and give help your body restore its electrolyte balance. 3. Enjoy a dose of apple cider vinegar By regularly drinking switchel, you’ll get all the terrific benefits of apple cider vinegar, including healing compounds, like potassium, magnesium and probiotics. Thanks to the many uses of apple cider vinegar, it’s one of my favorite natural remedies. It balances your body’s pH levels and, as a liver and lymphatic tonic, detoxes your body. Not bad for one of the most common household items! 4. Reap maple syrup’s sweet surprises If you’re using sweeteners, maple syrup is one of the top natural sweeteners. When used in moderation, it is an excellent alternative to cane sugar. Maple syrup affects blood sugar levels less than regular table sugar and includes trace antioxidants and minerals that regular sugar lacks. How to Make Switchel It doesn’t matter what time of year it is — switchel is delicious any season. Let’s make it! Switchel, unlike other trendy fermented drinks like kvass or kombucha, is quite easy to make at home. We’ve included a recipe below to whip up your own batch. Fill a 2-quart saucepan about two-thirds of the way with water and freshly chopped ginger. Bring the water to a boil and let the mix boil for about 2 minutes, then remove the saucepan from the heat and let the ginger steep for another 20 minutes. Then, in a pitcher, add maple syrup, apple cider vinegar and fresh lemon juice — yum! Now it’s time to add the ginger water. Use a strainer while pouring the water into the pitcher to keep the chopped ginger out. Stir all the ingredients together. That’s all there is to making this switchel! You can enjoy this drink either at room temperature or served on ice. You can even give switchel a little kick and add a splash of alcohol, like gin or vodka, to it. It’s a terrific drink to keep on hand to serve kids instead of sugary soft drinks or juices. They’ll love it, too! Switchel Recipe DESCRIPTION Before there were sports drinks to rehydrate after intense physical labor or sugary drinks designed to boost energy levels, there was switchel, an all-natural drink similar to lemonade that’s experiencing a resurgence in popularity. INGREDIENTS 1 cup ginger, chopped ½ cup maple syrup (add more if need it to be sweeter; you also can substitute molasses for a very old-fashioned taste!) ½ cup apple cider vinegar ⅔ cup lemon juice 6 cups water INSTRUCTIONS Fill a 2-quart saucepan 2/3 with water and add ginger. Bring water to a boil and allow ginger to boil for about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let ginger steep for 20 minutes. In a 2-quart pitcher, add maple syrup, apple cider vinegar and lemon juice. Strain ginger as you are pouring into pitcher. Stir and mix all ingredients well. Can be served warm or on ice. *Add more water to dilute if needed. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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