Five natural, but uncommon ways to boost one’s immune system are consuming antioxidants, getting adequate sleep, consuming certain fats, adequate sunshine and moderate exercise. Boosting one’s immune system naturally can be easy with just a few modifications to diet and lifestyle.
Antioxidants
Everybody knows that vitamin C can boost immunity. Many vitamin C containing foods are also packed with antioxidants. Protecting one’s body from the damage of free radicals can help contribute to a healthy immune system. Not only do antioxidants boost the immune system, they can also help to lessen the effects of aging and arthritis. They have even been shown to mitigate the effects of certain cancers.
Antioxidant Rich Foods
Blueberries
Blackberries
Raspberries
Strawberries
Pinto Beans
Prunes
Red Delicious Apples
Granny Smith Apples
Russet Potatoes Plums
Artichoke Hearts
Black Beans
Sleep
Getting adequate sleep seems remains one of the most important ways to naturally boost one’s immune system. Going without sleep can increase the likely hood of getting sick. Getting enough sleep helps one’s body to recharge. Instituting a ‘bedtime’ may help to get one in the habit of going to bed earlier. Forcing a habit is okay to begin with.
Fats
Omega-3 fatty acids are great at boosting the immune system. Adding fat to a diet to boost health may seem counterproductive. When it comes to fat, omega-3 fatty acids are essential for good immune system health. Omega-3 fatty acids have shown to lessen inflammation and aid in production of white blood cells. Not everybody eats fish three times a week, so adding omega-3 fatty acids to a diet has to be a conscious decision. Fish oils are a great way to supplement an omega-3 deficient diet.
Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish
Shellfish
Spinach
Winter Squash
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Beans
Nuts and Seeds
Sunshine
A little bit of sunshine goes a long way. Some foods are fortified with vitamin D. Absorption of vitamin D through foods may not be as effective as sun exposure. It is actually beneficial to the immune system to get a little bit of sunshine. It is recommended to get from 5 to 30 minutes of sun exposure a few times each week. The sun exposure can be coupled with a brisk walk for an additional immune system boost.
Moderate Exercise
The tip to boosting immunity with exercise is to keep it moderate. Over straining or stressing one’s body with training can actually weaken the immune system. Taking a brisk 30 minute walk two or three times per week is a great way to get moderate exercise. The walk can be coupled with sun exposure to take advantage of two immune boosting strategies.
The five natural ways to help boost one’s immune system are eating foods rich in antioxidants, sleeping more, including omega-3 fatty acids into the diet, adequate sunshine and moderate exercise. Making these minor changes to one’s diet and lifestyle can make a positive impact on one’s immune system.
Sally writes on behalf of Trac Services, a regulatory affairs consultancy that help pharmaceutical companies with the clinical trial application process throughout Europe. Sally enjoys reading health and fitness blog and is particularly interested in the power of food as a medicine. Any opinions expressed in the article do not necessarily represent the business Sally writes for.
English: Ear. Good for hearing. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Hearing is one of the most important body senses. It helps you to perceive messages in audio form by detecting air vibrations. However, this ability may gradually diminish as a result of several factors. In this write-up, we’re going to understand various ways on how to heighten the hearing sense.
Ear Exercises
The following exercises will help heighten your hearing ability.
Noise Filtering Exercises
When exposed to different sources of noise, our ears can manage to select the kind of noise they want to hear by ignoring the rest. The following noise filtering technique will be in a position to help improve your hearing capability. To start with, you need a radio. Switch it on to play your favorite music at a moderate volume. Simultaneously, strike a conversation with your friend. Though the music from you radio may disrupt your conversation, don’t let your friend shout in order for you to hear. Now, take a second radio and tune it to a different radio station. Continue talking to your friend without necessarily straining. Continue adding more radios depending on your level of comfort. You’ll realize that as time goes by, you’ll be in a position to adapt to the surrounding noise and gradually start grasping what your friend is telling you comfortably.
Source and Noise Location Exercise
There are two things that you can achieve with this exercise. First and foremost, you’ll be in a position to heighten your hearing capability and secondly you’ll be able to locate different sources of sound. For this exercise, it’s necessary to have a source of noise e.g a horn. You can then practice this technique outdoors or inside a large room. Stand at about 5 meters from your friend and then close your eyes. Let your friend honk the horn severally and then try to locate the exact direction of the sound. In simple words, you should try to point where your friend is standing. You’ll find out that the more you practice, the more your hearing capability will improve and soon you’ll be in a position to locate the exact source of the noise without straining.
Phase Inversion
Phase inversion is a tactic of “trickling” the brain in an attempt to cancel the constant ringing sounds that may disrupt hearing in some individuals. Basically, phase inversion is done by qualified ENT specialists who work towards discovering the pitches of the ringing sounds on each ear. After that, the doctor can then play similar pitches at different degrees using a listening device on the patient’s ears. Over time, your brain will become accustomed to different ringing sounds thus cancelling out the ringing tinnitus. With regular application of this tactic, one’s hearing capability is constantly restored and heightened.
Other Techniques
Maintenance
Constant build up of wax in your ears can greatly impair your hearing ability. It is therefore very important to uphold good personal hygiene by regularly cleaning up your ears using an ear bud or a mixture of olive oil and hydrogen peroxide (for huge chunks of wax). On the same note, it is very important to consult your doctor in order to ascertain whether the accumulation of wax is the actual factor behind your impaired hearing ability.
Avoid Loud Noise
This is actually one of the basic precautionary measures that one should take in improving their hearing capability. Loud noise assaults your eardrum thus impairing your hearing ability. Ordinarily, an eardrum is not designed to handle high amounts of noise and thus you should wear hearing protection devices as a cautionary measure in case you’re in a noisy environment. You should also avoid using headphones on regular basis.
Vitamin Supplements
Nutritional deficiency is yet another factor that can greatly ruin your ability to hear. A healthy diet avails the necessary nutrients to the body thus helping you sustain your hearing capability for longer as you age. Some of the most important vitamin supplements that you should opt for in order to heighten your hearing senses are vitamins C and E. Good nutrition contains the necessary anti-oxidant elements that help in getting rid of free radicals thus protecting your ears from age related problems.
A good hearing ability is a combination of healthy living, personal hygiene and various hearing exercises. It is thus important for you to uphold the advice offered in this article in order to heighten your hearing sense.
In order to remove a tick safely from your body, the correcty method must be used. There are a lot of different ways to remove ticks floating around the internet, but there is only one proven way to safely remove them, and that’s with tweezers, specifically pointed tweezers. This graphic clearly and simply shows the correct technique for pulling a tick out of your skin.
In addition to showing how to remove a tick, this graphic also provides some intersting information about ticks, including a few tick myths, and the truths about such myths.
One interesting fact about Ticks is that as long as you can find and pull them out of a bite within 24 hours, the bitten victim has a significantly higher chance of excaping any pathogens that might have been transmitted from the tick. Ticks are known to pass along many different diseases and knowning how to safely remove them is extremeley important, especially for people who love the great outdoors.
A decoction is a method for extracting oils, volatile organic compounds, and other chemical substances from hard plant materials such as roots and bark.
When making herbal decoctions, the ingredients are in most cases 30g (2 tablespoons) of dried herb and 500 ml of water.
Simple Decoction
1. Crush and mash the herbs
2. Place them in a bowl and add boiling water
3. Cover the bowl with a lid and let it stand overnight
4. Replace the water that has been lost by evaporation
5. Place the water with the herbs in an enamel pan.
6. Bring to boil slowly
7. Simmer for about 20 minutes while keeping the lid covered
8. Using a muslin cloth, strain and press all the liquid
The decoction can last up to a period of 2-3 days and it can be taken without diluting .
Reduced Decoction
Follow the simple decoction’s procedure until step 5.
6. Heat until steam comes out while keeping covered with a lid
7. Turn the heat low and steam for about 1 hour until you see that the liquid has gone down to 250 ml.
8. Using a muslin cloth, strain and press all the liquid
When stored in a cool place, this will keep for around 4-5 days.
Preserved Decoction
You can preserve a decoction longer either by:
Adding 450g sugar or honey to 200 ml of decoction. This should be taken in dosages of 1 teaspoon 3 times daily.
Adding liquors such as vodka or brandy at a ratio of 1:2. This should be taken in dosages of 1/4 cup daily.
Pouring a very thin layer of vegetable oil on the surface of the decoction and then sealing. When need to use arises, just draw the oil off and pour the decoction from it. It should be taken in measurements of 3 teaspoons 3 times daily.
Tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves of a native Australian plant. The reason for it’s name is that for generations before Westeners arrived the local aboriginal peoples were using the plant as an alternative to tea, where they found that the infusion produced was helpful for soothing sore throats and colds.
Like so many “herbal remedies”, studies have indeed found medically-relevant benefits to using tea tree oil – most notably it’s ability to fight micro-organisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. Infact, the anti-septic nature of the oil perfectly explains how it was able to help sore throats by not only providing a gentle soothing to the afflicted area but also in killing the bateria that were causing the problem in the first place.
These days tea tree oil is most commonly bought bottled rather than in plant form and is generally applied externally. Bearing in mind the nature of the oil, and it’s proven effects, tea tree oil can be beneficial in many health problems caused by microbes.
One perfect example is in the fight against fungal infections such as athlete’s foot and ringworm where regular topical application of the oil can fight the spread of the infection as well as rapidly bringing the overall effects to an end.
Tea tree oil has also been used for generations to clean wounds. In the case of scrapes and cuts, whilst the oil may sting a little, it’s been shown to kill of any micro-organisms that have gained entry. In this way teat tree may well prevent infection as well as speed up healing.
Twice-daily application of tea tree oil is a common and effective solution to acne and juvenile zits. Whilst it is unlikely to eliminate the problem all together, as part of your skin-care regime it can assist in soothing the skin, removing dirt from pores and, most importantly of all, reducing the inflammation that causes spots in the first place making for clearer and more comfortable skin.
Warts are caused by an infection of the HPV virus and in some cases it appears that the anti-septic properties of tea tree may help in killing off the virus and encouraging the now unwanted wart to drop off. The general advice on how to remove warts with tea tree oil is to apply a decent volume of the thick oil at night, before covering the area with a bandaid or bandage in order to prevent it drying out. Over a few weeks of treatment many people see significant improvements in the size and number of their warts.
Lastly it’s worth mentioning that the strong eucalyptus smell of the tea tree oil can he helpful for relieving the congestion experienced with colds and flu. By dabbing a little of the oil on a handkerchief or the pillow, or adding it to boiling water and inhaling the fumes, most people find their nose clears rapidly and they are able to breathe normally for a period of time.
This article was submitted by Richard Adams who writes extensively about wart control solutions and cryotherapy.
Deer ticks are a member of the arachnid family. They move about the ground slowly, or settle on tall vegetation and wait patiently for a warm-blooded animal to pass by so they can attach themselves. About the size of a sesame seed; deer ticks will crawl about on a mammal (often unnoticed) searching for a good place to attach itself. Once attached, the deer tick will suck blood and swell up to the size of a raisin.
Some Tips on Avoiding or Dealing with Ticks
Ticks are easier to spot on light colored clothing.
Do not walk in tall grass, woods, or dune with bare legs.
Long pants and a long sleeved shirt will delay a tick from finding a good spot to get attached. Closed footwear and wearing your pants tucked into your socks offers further protection.
Stay on groomed paths if possible.
Use an insect repellent that has DEET. Apply it to your skin and outer clothing. Avoid your eyes and mouth, as well as cuts and scrapes. Please note that the use of DEET may carry its own set of risks.
Put a tick and flea collar on your pet and check pets for ticks periodically.
Search your body well for ticks daily. Pay special attention to areas such as groin, scalp and armpits. Use a mirror to check parts of your body that you can’t see directly, or ask somebody to help.
On average, the deer tick may remain for up to 48 hours before falling off, and during this time it can transmit the bacterium that causes Lyme disease.
Lyme Disease is not life threatening, but it can be very weakening if left untreated.
Lyme Disease’s Symptoms
Its symptoms progress in 3 stages.
First Stage Symptoms
These symptoms may appear within a month to 3 months of the tick bite. It is possible not to experience any of these symptoms but still be affected by Lyme disease. If these symptoms do appear, they will usually go away on their own… but more serious problems will develop later.
Headache, fever, fatigue, nausea, stiff neck, muscle aches, and other flu like symptoms
English: Erythematous rash in the pattern of a “bull’s-eye” from Lyme disease (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
A rash may appear where the tick bite was, or somewhere else on the body. The circular or oblong rash may increase in size and have well-defined margins with central clearing, giving it a characteristic “bulls-eye” appearance. It begins as a small, red, raised area that expands in size, sometimes reaching 20 inches or more in diameter.The rash may or may not burn or itch.
Second Stage Symptoms
Several weeks to several months after the tick bite, a person infected with Lyme disease will most likely experience heart problems and/or nervous system disorders.
Third Stage Symptoms
Several months to a year or more later, a person will likely suffer a recurrent attack of swelling; pain in large joints, and even more sever neurological problems.
Lyme Disease Treatment
One of the problems about Lyme disease is that the symptoms are often easily confused with other disorders. However, it is most easy to diagnose during the first stage of symptoms, and this is the best time to treat with antibiotics.
The following post was written by +Sarah Clarke who blogs for Al Fresco Holidays, specialists in camping holidays in France. For more information, visit the blog
Backpacking can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. It can be a great workout as well and be a way for friends and family members to spend quality time together. For this to be the case, there are a number of essentials to pack and some safety considerations to keep in mind.
Planning
Before heading out on any trip, it is necessary to do some degree of planning. This is true for a simple weekend trip just like it is necessary for a month long backcountry excursion. In this planning phase, maps and information about the area should be reviewed. Take into consideration the ability and skill level of other backpackers and the type of hiking and adventure that is desired. A basic route for each day should then be planned along with alternative routes and options for leaving the area in an emergency situation. Knowing the nearest hospital, access points and other areas of civilization is critical as well. Once everything is well planned out and any necessary permits acquired, it is wise to leave a copy of this itinerary or schedule with a friend, family member or neighbour. In the event of an emergency, this person will know an approximate location of the backpacking group.
Supplies
The right equipment is important when it comes to the safety of everyone in the group. This would include things such as camping stoves, adequate food and water, and a decent first aid kit. All members of the backpacking group should be relatively familiar with all of these supplies which includesknowing how to use and cook on stoves and be able to take care of minor first aid emergencies that might arise. The more knowledge people have, the better. Everyone on the trip should be able to contribute in some manner.
Clothing
Even in warm summer weather, having the right type of clothing is necessary. Dressing in layers will help to best regulate the body temperature. If a person does not have appropriate backpacking clothing, it is best to borrow some items or make a trip to an outfitter to purchase the appropriate clothes. When possible, cotton should be avoided. Clothes that wick away sweat and moisture will keep a person dry, comfortable and safe from problems such as hypothermia. Well-fitting boots will be needed as well. These should be comfortable and broken in before the trip begins. Otherwise, a person can quickly get painful blisters and find out the boots do not fit correctly.
When backpacking, safety should always be thought about. By having the right gear, making an appropriate plan and dressing correctly, everyone is sure to have a safe and truly amazing and memorable time backpacking in the wilderness.
More and more of us are considering the ways we can make our home a little more environmentally friendly, from big changes to little alterations in what we buy and who we buy them from. If you are trying to make your home a greener place, you may feel a little overwhelmed with where to start. With this in mind, start by reading through these 5 tips and you will soon be on your way to eco-friendly living!
Research your Cleaning Products
Some of the biggest household brands are far from environmentally friendly and on top of this are also tested on animals. Take your first step towards a greener home by looking into ethical and environmentally friendly alternatives; Ecover do a fantastic range of cleaning products from washing up liquid to laundry powder but there are plenty of other ranges that you could try.
Apply for a Water Saving Kit
Many companies now offer free water saving kits that not only help to conserve water but can also reduce your water bills for those on a meter. The kits can be applied for online and include all kinds of interesting contraptions such as tap inserts that save 70% of the water that normally flows out of the tap, a shower adaptor and a shower timer. Some companies even offer a free fitting service so you can save water without lifting a finger!
Read up on Recycling
Most homes will now have a recycling bin or box outside the front of their home that is collected on a regular basis, but do you really know what you can and can’t put in them? Different areas have different rules so it’s worth checking with your local council. Many new bins now come with a magnet that can be stuck to the fridge outlining everything that can be recycled as a handy reminder. Some flats now receive special bags to put their recycling in, so why not purchase a secondary kitchen bin to make it as easy as possible to separate waste from recycling?
Solar Energy
There is no denying that the installation of solar panels and heat pumps is an expensive job, but there are ways you can get a little help with going green in this way. Government funding is in place in the form of the Feed in Tariff which gives homeowners generating energy through solar panels regular cash payments for their efforts. To get an idea of pricing, there are comparison sites for solar companies set up to help you find the best deal.
Teach the Family
It’s all well and good putting effort into making your home a greener place, but if the rest of the household are not following suit your hard work could be in vain. Take the time to discuss the changes you are trying to make with your partner, children or housemates and explain why it’s so important to make them. With children, perhaps consider a reward system for their efforts such as a star chart to help them really embrace the changes.
From applying for a free water saving kit to installing solar panels, no change is too big or small so start with some of these tips and feel great about doing your bit for the environment!
Sophie has recently set up Greenkind and tries her best to keep her home as green as possible, helping others to do the same by offering advice and information on the website.
Sitting down day after day with your eyes stuck to a computer screen and a phone glued to your ear may be financially rewarding, but it isn’t a natural way of living. Consequently, it leads to physical and mental stress, which, if left unchecked, can cause serious health problems further down the line. What you need is a hobby that takes you right away from your working environment in the City to a place where you can unwind mentally and use your body as nature intended. In short, you need to take up hiking.
What is hiking?
At its simplest, hiking is a long walk in the country that you indulge in for pleasure. Long is taken to mean several kilometres, and not just a twenty minute stroll around the local park. A more serious definition of hiking is an outdoor activity that involves walking in natural surroundings over scenic terrain that is often mountainous or hilly.
The benefits of hiking
Hiking is great for your cardiovascular system as it involves you in strenuous physical exercise for a prolonged period of time. It’s better than a session at the local gymnasium because it’s done in the open air, which means you can gulp down as much clean, fresh air as you like, unlike when you are exercising in a sweaty room with many other malodorous bodies. Additionally, you improve your overall body strength and feel great physically. You look a whole lot better as well. Gone is the pasty, indoor complexion, replaced by a healthy, outdoor vision that other people warm to. But hiking isn’t just about the physical. As your brain tunes in to the glorious outdoor scenery, you begin to connect with the earth. Soon, you forget about work and think only of where you are as your mind is given licence to roam and revel in your surroundings. Worry and stress are banished as your brain relaxes and refreshes itself.
Is hiking expensive?
To do it properly, you need to buy some specialist equipment. At the very least, you’ll require some stout boots and socks as well as whether proof clothing and a small rucksack to carry such things as food, water, first-aid kit, torch etc. How much you spend is up to you, but as with most things you buy, the more you spend the better the quality. And the question of whether it’s expensive depends on how you view the cost-benefit analysis.
.jpg "Adult deer tick, Ixodes scapularis.")
