Just like anything in life, there is no magic, cure-all solution to immediately fix feelings of nausea. Your first course of action is to determine the cause of the problem. That can make it easier to choose the right natural remedy. Even if you don’t fully know why your stomach is upset, the natural remedies in this article may still provide relief. A few common causes of nausea are detailed below.

Motion Sickness 

Some people are very susceptible to motion sickness, no matter the mode of transportation. If you are traveling by car, get out for some fresh air to help relieve nausea. You can’t necessarily roll down the window on a plane or train, though. Motion sickness occurs when the inner ear, brain, and eyes receive mixed signals and cannot properly communicate with each other. You experience nausea as a result.

Pregnancy Nausea

It’s likely that you cannot wait to meet your bun in the oven, but that cute baby can cause some serious nausea. Pregnant women may experience morning sickness during the first trimester. It usually goes away after the early stages of pregnancy, but some women can experience it throughout all three trimesters. 

Cancer Drugs

Patients receiving chemotherapy, radiation, and conventional cancer treatments tend to get nauseous. These drugs are very hard on the body and can affect certain parts of the brain that control vomiting. Experts state that chemo drugs may irritate the stomach and gastrointestinal tract. Nearly 80% of chemo patients experience nausea. 

Food Poisoning

Sometimes, you just know when food poisoning is gonna hit. Something you ate was off, but it can also creep up out of nowhere. Suffice to say that food poisoning is no fun and it can cause serious nausea, indigestion, and vomiting. It occurs when you ingest harmful microbes, viruses, bacteria, or certain chemicals. 

Once you know the cause of your nausea, you can have an easier time choosing the right remedy. Below, you’ll find five natural remedies to relieve nausea. 

Essential Oils

There are various essential oils that may help relieve nausea. Peppermint essential oil is one of the most popular oils for nausea relief, but lemon is also helpful, especially during pregnancy. These oils have antimicrobial properties that work to fight harmful pathogens when you inhale their aromas. A 2021 study involved cancer patients who applied peppermint oil below their noses for nausea relief. A separate controlled group only used anti-nausea medication. The peppermint group experienced less nausea and vomiting than the other group. 

Ginger

Whether you have a sore throat, nausea, or upset stomach, ginger may be the right natural remedy for the job. Ginger tea, ginger chews, and fresh ginger all work well at relieving various types of nausea, including pregnancy nausea. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends ginger as a safe alternative to nausea drugs in pregnancy. Some studies have found that ginger is more effective at relieving nausea than dimenhydrinate, an antiemetic drug. 

Move It (If You Can)

If you experience nausea from a stomach ache or overeating, exercise may help. A gentle workout, such as yoga or walking, increases circulation to your muscles and organs, including the ones that aid digestion. That boost of circulation may help improve digestion, which can then help relieve nausea. Just make sure to avoid bending over, as that will not feel good. 

Acupuncture

Acupuncture and acupressure work their magic by activating energy meridians in the body. During an acupuncture appointment, the acupuncturist administers thin needles to specific points in the body. One of the most popular nausea pressure points is on the hand, between the thumb and index finger. If you do not want to engage in acupuncture, you can apply pressure in this area for three to four minutes per side and repeat as needed. Sea Bands may also work to relieve nausea, as they are bracelets that apply pressure to an anti-nausea point on the inside of the wrist. 

Peppermint Tea

Similar to peppermint essential oil, peppermint tea may help ease nausea. It is safe to drink, even for children, and may also help relieve digestive problems, such as gas, bloating, or irritable bowel syndrome. If you have acid reflux, try not to consume a lot of mint, though, as it can relax the esophageal sphincter and worsen symptoms.

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Ozempic, and other glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) drugs are intended to help lower blood sugar, but many people use them to lose weight. In fact, they are hailed for their ability to promote rapid weight loss. For anyone using Ozempic, or other GLP-1 drugs, it’s possible to experience a weight loss plateau before achieving the goal weight.

Early rapid weight loss seems too good to be true when you begin using Ozempic. That is because losing weight proves difficult for many. When the weight keeps falling off, though, you expect it to continue uninterrupted. That is an unrealistic dream, as anyone can experience a weight loss plateau, no matter how they are losing weight. The thing is that the plateau catches you off guard. 

What Is An Ozempic Weight Loss Plateau?

This is just like any other weight loss plateau, in that you reach a point when the weight loss slows or stops. The only difference is that the weight loss stops despite still taking the Ozempic medication. Part of this is because people typically lose water weight in the initial stages of weight loss. They then lose some muscle, which helps to burn calories. As you lose muscle mass, metabolism slows down, which affects how many calories you burn. There is an additional process, thermogenesis, which can occur if the decrease in metabolism is greater than expected based on weight lost. 

Like any weight loss plan, though, the body adjusts at a certain point. In the case of an Ozempic plateau, the body adjusts to the effects of GLP-1. Weight loss will slow and eventually stop, but this is very common and to be expected if taking Ozempic. Since GLP-1 drugs are relatively new, though, there is not a lot of long-term data on this subject. Some short-term studies found that both Wegovy and Ozempic resulted in a weight off plateau after one year of use. More research is needed to determine the percentage of people to experience this. 

Is It Common For Ozempic To Stop Working?

It is very normal for weight loss to eventually slow or stop when taking a drug like Ozempic. Weight loss plateaus happen all the time, regardless of the weight loss method. GLP-1 Drugs  like Ozempic and Wegovy can produce dynamic weight loss. That’s why people get confused when they hit a weight loss plateau. 

The reason that a plateau can occur is because the metabolism slows down as people shed weight. That makes it harder to lose weight after the initial weight loss. Hormones that regulate weight can respond to weight loss by telling the body to eat more and reduce feelings of fullness. Basically, the body works against your efforts to lose weight, making it harder to lose weight. Additionally, the hormone signals get stronger as you continue your Ozempic journey, which can make losing weight challenging at a certain point. 

How To Overcome The Plateau

Typically, you have to switch up your diet and exercise habits when you encounter a weight loss plateau. In the case of an Ozempic plateau, you may need to see your doctor. It’s possible that you may need to adjust your medication dose or make certain lifestyle changes, such as focusing on sleep, managing stress more efficiently, and increasing the number and intensity of your workouts. 

Some people may decide to stop taking their medication altogether. That can usually lead to weight gain, so speak with your doctor before you quit cold turkey. The mechanisms of the medication are effective for weight loss, so you may need to continue it to manage obesity. If you want to taper off, then consult how to get off and transfer to a new weight loss plan, as Ozempic isn’t the only way to get healthy. The Full Body Cleanse, for example, has been highly effective for millions of people around the world! Consider the following if you want to overcome a plateau:

• Change your exercise routine and devote more time to your workouts. Consider adding weight lifting or strength training movements to build lean muscle. High-intensity interval training may also be beneficial. 
• Eat more protein, as it helps you build muscle, which can help the body burn more calories. 
• Drink more water to help suppress your appetite, while simultaneously boosting your ability to engage in physical activity. 
• Focus on getting more sleep, as quality sleep can help you consume fewer calories. Set up a regular sleep schedule, waking up and going to bed at the same time every day for a healthier circadian rhythm. 

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The 4th of July is an incredibly festive time for people and an alcoholic beverage is typically within arm’s reach at any picnic or barbecue. For people in recovery, especially those new to the program, July 4th can be a difficult time to remain sober. Independence Day is a joyful holiday, but the reality is that it can remind you of old habits and the occasional unexpected emotions. How you navigate those emotions when they surface can influence how you handle the holiday. 

The primary goal is to direct your focus to things that you can do, not what you can’t do. You can have a lot of meaningful fun, enjoying outdoor activities, the beach, the lake, the pool, basketball with family, and the impressive spread of food. If, however, you are new to recovery and feel that you may succumb to the temptation, consider avoiding parties where drinking is prevalent. Get together with some sober friends or consider going to a 12 Step meeting to discuss how to manage urges, boredom, and loneliness. Below, you’ll find four expert tips to help you stay sober through 4th of July celebrations. 

Be Creative

If you get your creative juices flowing, the fun never stops! There are many opportunities to let your creative spirit lead the way on this holiday. You can engage in arts and crafts projects with your children, or nieces/nephews, or make sand castles with them on the beach. Experts say that an actively creative mind is the best defense against resisting the temptation of drugs or alcohol. If you find an art project or creative outlet that you enjoy, consider making it a 4th of July tradition! One possible tradition is to make mini movies, which you can save and rewatch each year. 

Hang Out With Sober Friends

Some people with years of sobriety under their belt have no problem hanging around substances. They have things under control and they know what to do if they get uncomfortable. If you are new to sobriety and don’t feel like testing the waters with friends who drink or use drugs, consider hanging out with sober friends this year. You can plan a picnic, watch fireworks, or have a barbecue with everyone and enjoy the day. Spending the holiday with sober friends eliminates drugs and alcohol from the equation because nobody will use them. If you do want to go to an event that will have drugs or alcohol, consider taking a sober friend as a support system. Plus, you’ll be personally accountable for both of your actions. 

Don’t Be Afraid To Say “No” 

If your friends know that you are sober and understand why you are committed to that lifestyle, they will most likely not offer you any substances. Better yet, true friends will do their best to ensure that you’re having a great time without alcohol, and they may even hold you accountable for your actions. However, some people may offer you drinks or drugs after imbibing for a while. If you attend a party as a solo sober person, don’t fear the word “no.” If you don’t feel confident in your ability to resist alcohol, though, don’t put yourself in a compromising situation yet. This is especially true for newly sober people. 

Have An Exit Strategy

Whether you are at a sober party or not, make sure to have an exit strategy in place before arriving. Holidays can occasionally be overwhelming, bringing back old memories of your past life. These memories may spark feelings that can be hard to deal with in your newly sober life. This is why you always need to set yourself up with an easy exit, no matter what the reason. You may need to drive separately, even if that means struggling to find parking. The best way to feel good about an exit strategy is to let your friends know ahead of time that you may leave at any minute. Finally, enter into the situation knowing that you need to do what’s right for you because that is the best way to live your life.

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If you are trying to secure some Ozempic for yourself, you better make sure you aren’t buying fake GLP-1 drugs. High prices and market shortages make certain websites very appealing to consumers, but counterfeit drugs can pose serious health risks. How can you know what’s in these fake drugs? Should you want to start using Ozempic, make sure to verify the legitimacy of any only pharmacy you use. 

GLP-1 drugs, like Ozempic, increase insulin sensitivity and stimulate insulin secretion. These drugs also reduce blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Because they can make you feel full, they have become a popular drug to promote weight loss, especially amongst overweight or obese people. Unfortunately, GLP-1 drugs can be very expensive without insurance. One carton of Ozempic, for example, can cost about $1,000 at U.S. pharmacies. 

All of these factors create opportunities for people to sell fake prescription drugs, ultimately taking advantage of consumers. One report found that social media websites were popular spaces for promoting fake drugs. Of the 3,968 fake listings removed in 2023, almost 60% were found on Facebook. Some experts believe that these fake sites target Facebook because the users tend to be a little older and less likely to spot a scam. 

Why Are Fake Drug Websites So Dangerous?

Registered dietitians have given remarks about the recent emergence of fake GLP-1 drugs. They say that the biggest danger with buying from fake drug websites is that you don’t know what you are getting. You take a big risk when you take an unregulated drug because it could contain anything. What’s the best case scenario? You get an inert placebo. On the other side of the coin, you could put something incredibly dangerous in your body. 

One of the major risks with taking these fake drugs is that they could be laced with heavy metals and other harmful toxins. Hundreds of ER visits every year are due to severe allergic reactions or lead poisoning, which people acquired from unknown sources. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also indicates that because most GLP-1 drugs are injected, the risk of infection is high, considering the sterility of needles can’t be confirmed. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, notes that you cannot confirm the efficacy of fake medications. That could be very dangerous for people who use these meds to control blood sugar. 

How To Know If You Are Buying Fake Medications

The language on the sites selling fake medications is typically the same copy on real online pharmacies. Fake sites use deceptive tactics to not only appear genuine, but also to fool consumers. In fact, some sites will copy the branding and logos of reputable pharmaceutical companies. The discounted price is a big factor that tends to entice consumers who don’t want to pay the full price tag. It’s like looking for an item on a website and then looking somewhere else for the knock-off version. If you want to determine the legitimacy of the medication, consider the following: 

• Beware of suspiciously low prices: Super discounts could mean that the product is expired or counterfeit.
• Use reputable online pharmacies: Make sure that the contact information is verified and that the payment methods are secure. Additionally, look for accreditation from authorities. 
• Look for accreditation: Verified seals or certifications can indicate credible websites. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy provides a database of credible pharmacies. 
• Verify the credentials: Before you make the purchase, make sure that the pharmacy has an active license in the state where it dispenses the medications. If it looks suspicious or you don’t have a good feeling about it, abort the mission. 
• Check the authenticity of the medication: Make sure to research the appearance of the medication, how it’s packaged, and the manufacturer before you order or use it. Compare what you are looking at with the real medication. Novo Nordisk, for example, may offer real and fake photos to help you discern the real meds from the fake ones.

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It’s no secret that new weight loss drugs are highly sought after in the United States. The reason for that is because they are highly effective, so long as you continue using them. Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, Mounjaro, and other similar medications work by recreating the effects of GLP-1, a hormone that the gut produces once you finish eating. This hormone reduces both hunger and cravings, helping you to eat less, which promotes weight loss. 

What happens when you stop taking these medications, though? Recent research suggests that you can regain weight once you stop taking them. Health experts have started to refer to this weight gain as “Mounjaro plateau” or “Ozempic rebound.”

Why Do People Stop Using These Medications?

People stop taking these medications for numerous reasons, with a common one being the high cost, which is especially true for people without health insurance. Even if you have health insurance, many providers don’t offer coverage for these drugs. There is a huge demand, supply issues, and many unwanted side effects that come from using these medications. In fact, clinical trials found that up to 10% of users stop using these medications because of side effects, including nausea and disruptive bowel movements. 

It’s possible that the number of people who stop using these medications is higher than that 10% figure. Patients may have less aftercare, support, and accountability than they do in clinical trials. That means there is most likely a higher percentage of people who experience unwanted side effects, which could be easily managed. Doctors also state that people stop using these medications once they meet their goal weight. 

Why Do You Gain Weight Post-Medication?

Ozempic, and other related drugs, were originally intended to help people with type 2 diabetes manage blood sugar levels. During clinical trials, researchers observed weight loss to be a surprising side effect. That got them thinking, so they started to prescribe these medications for weight loss (an off-label purpose). 

In present day, many people with high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or fatty liver disease, have been struggling to lose weight for 20 to 30 years. Drugs like Ozempic or Wegovy help people lose weight by temporarily altering hunger mechanisms. Basically, they provide a synthetic form of GLP-1, which is the hormone that helps you feel satiated and less hungry. At the same time, these drugs also promote an increase in insulin response to food, which works to regulate blood sugar. They also reduce the release of glucagon, a hormone that opposes insulin and tends to increase blood glucose levels. 

When you stop taking these medications, the body naturally produces more ghrelin, the hunger hormone. Once off the medications, the body’s metabolic rate slows down. The combination of a slower metabolic rate and a rapid onset of hunger causes weight gain, especially if there is no modification in lifestyle or diet. 

How Common Is Weight Gain After Stopping Ozempic?

If you use Ozempic to lose weight, the last thing you want is to see the weight return once you stop taking the drug. As it turns out, it is very common for a person to gain weight after quitting Ozempic or similar medication. One study found that people who stopped taking semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic) and quit lifestyle interventions gained two-thirds of their weight back within a year. Another study monitored people who stopped taking tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Zepbound and Mounjaro. Within one year of quitting the drug, they gained more than half the weight they’d lost while on the drug. 

The Takeaway

Before you take any GLP-1 agonist (such as Ozempic), consult your healthcare professional and make sure you understand the risks. Are you using the drug for short-term or long-term results? If you decide to take Ozempic, make sure you understand what will happen once you stop. Your healthcare professional may be able to provide guidance, nutritional advice, and an exercise regimen to help stave off the weight you lost while on the drug.

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Star fruit is not something you see in the average grocery store. Native to Southeast Asia and other tropical areas, star fruit gets its name for the star-like shape, which is particularly evident when you cut the fruit into slices. It exhibits a sweet and slightly tart flavor profile that goes great in a fruit salad. 

Both the skin and flesh are edible and it can be sweet or sour, depending on how ripe the fruit is. If the fruit is greener in color, it will taste more sour, while a yellow fruit will taste sweeter. Just watch out for the seeds that are in the center of the fruit! 

Star Fruit Nutrition

According to research studies, star fruit offers a lot of vitamin C and fiber. For a single, medium-sized star fruit (about 91 grams), the nutrient content is as follows:

• Fiber: 3 grams (g)
• Protein: 1 g
• Folate: 3% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 52% of the DV
• Copper: 6% of the DV
• Vitamin B5: 4% of the DV
• Potassium: 3% of the DV
• Magnesium: 2% of the DV

Based on the above information, the nutrient content for a star fruit seems relatively low. Keep in mind, though, that this serving only has 28 calories and six grams of carbohydrates. Calorie for calorie, star fruit is highly nutritious. Continue reading to learn more about star fruit’s health benefits.

Vitamin C Superstar

As a powerful micronutrient with antioxidant properties, vitamin C helps to protect against cellular damage. A 2022 umbrella review included 57 meta-analyses and concluded that vitamin C consumption reduced the risk of multiple cancers, including breast, esophageal, lung, pancreatic, bladder, and gastric cancer. Researchers noted that vitamin C works to protect against cancers by reducing oxidative damage to cells and protecting tissues from carcinogens. Currently, the recommended DV of vitamin C for men is 90 milligrams (mg) and 75 mg for women. That said, those numbers only help people avoid vitamin C deficiency. Based on current findings, people should take at least 200 mg per day to promote overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Beneficial For The Heart And Digestive Health

The average medium star fruit contains three grams of fiber, which benefits both heart and digestive health. Regarding digestion, fiber add bulk to stool and helps regulate bowel movements. It also acts as food for the healthy bacteria that reside in the intestinal tract. That promotes a healthy intestinal lining and microbiome. Additionally, adding more fiber-rich foods to your diet can help protect against certain digestive disorders, including colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. 

Eating fiber-rich foods is also beneficial for maintaining a healthy heart. Fiber works to lower blood lipids, blood pressure, and may regulate blood sugar, all of which help lower your risk of heart disease. The vitamin C in star fruit may also offer protection from heart disease. Some studies show that increasing your intake of antioxidants and flavonoids, such as those that exist in star fruit, may help lower the risk of coronary heart disease, the most common type of heart disease in America. 

Safety And Side Effects

Because star fruit has a high oxalate content, it may cause adverse effects in certain groups. People with kidney problems should avoid star fruit and its juice, or at least consult a healthcare professional prior to consuming it. Eating star fruit may lead to kidney damage or star fruit toxicity, which may cause neurological problems like seizures. If you take prescription medication or drugs, proceed with caution. Just like grapefruit, star fruit can alter the way certain drugs are broken down and used by the body.

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Will you still be able to taste the rainbow in California, or are Skittles disappearing from the sunshine state? This question is fresh in the minds of Californians, given the passing of a recent bill, which aims to change some ingredients found in America’s popular candies and snacks. The four ingredients included in the ban include:

• Red Dye No. 3
• Brominated Vegetable Oil
• Potassium Bromate
• Propylparaben

Titanium dioxide was another ingredient originally included in the bill, and an ingredient in Skittles candy. That is why people believed that Skittles would disappear from California, but it was dropped from the ban. Skittles do contain titanium dioxide, but they don’t have any of the other four ingredients listed above. That means that the candy will be safe from any major changes, at least for now. 

What Is The Skittles Ban?

Assembly Bill (AB) 418, or the Skittles ban, was introduced to legislation by Jesse Gabriel, a Democratic assembly member from Woodland Hills, California. AB418 essentially aimed to ban the sale of processed foods, which contained dangerous or toxic chemicals, in California. It quickly became known as the Skittles ban, which Mars, the makers of Skittles, strongly opposed. 

In fact, Mars made a statement saying that chocolate and candy are safe to enjoy, and have been for centuries. Mars company opposes AB418 because it claims that no evidence supports banning the ingredients listed in the bill. According to Mars’ statement, those ingredients in the ban have all been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The company continued to say that food safety is a number one priority, and it doesn’t include any ingredients that do not comply with FDA safety standards. 

Although Mars is not incorrect in saying that these ingredients are FDA-approved, that doesn’t mean that the ingredients are healthy for you. When eaten in high amounts, these ingredients can lead to health complications, especially if they aren’t balanced by exercise and a balanced diet. 

What About The Future Of The Ban?

According to Gabriel, he does not want to ban Skittles; rather, he wants to make American treats less “dangerous” to eat. He said that the idea behind this ban is for companies to make small modifications to recipes in order to exclude dangerous and toxic chemicals. In the European Union, the United Kingdom, and other nations around the world, bans on these chemicals are in place. That means that Skittles and other brands already made changes to recipes. The idea is to do the same thing in the United States. 

Red Dye No. 3, for example, can contribute to potential cancer risk, according to some studies. Additionally, artificial food dyes, such as Red Dye No. 3, may contribute neurobehavioral problems in children, including hyperactivity. It is a synthetic dye primarily derived from petroleum. This dye has been banned for decades in makeup and topical medications because it was linked to cancer. What makes it okay to consume in various foods, oral drugs, or dietary supplements? 

Although Skittles may be off the hook for now, there are up to 12,000 food products that still contain the banned chemicals in AB418. Peeps, the popular Easter candy, contains Red Dye No. 3, but the banning of an ingredient doesn’t mean the product goes away. Additionally, the bill doesn’t go into effect until 2027, which gives manufacturers time to change their recipes to continue sales in California. If they don’t want to change the recipe, they can decide not to sell their product in an entire state.

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Everyone has a different sex drive. Some people are completely satisfied with occasional sexual intimacy, while others enjoy sex daily. Just like most things in life, your libido, or desire for sexual activity, can ebb and flow throughout your life. You may experience low libido or high libido at one point or another, which is completely natural. 

There is only one thing that matters about your sex drive being high or low: your opinion about it. As long as you are happy, your libido level is not something to worry about. If your interest in sexual activity is low and it bothers you or your partner, you may want to find out why the mood doesn’t strike you as often. There are various factors that influence your libido, and your body may be trying to tell you something if it is lower than usual. 

What Is Low Libido?

Low libido is characterized by a temporary or long-term decline in the frequency and/or intensity of previous desire for sex. No interest in any type of sex, a decrease in sexual fantasies or thoughts, or feeling unhappy or stressed about sexual desire can indicate low libido. A drop in sex drive is completely normal and very common. About one-fifth of the male population, and an even greater number of the female population, will experience low libido at some point in life. Continue reading to learn about causes of low libido and how you can remedy the situation.

You’re Taking Certain Medications

Your libido can take a dip if you take certain medications. Health experts explain that birth control pills can increase sex-hormone binding globulin, which acts like a sponge, soaking up other hormones that aid libido. Other forms of contraception can also decrease your sex drive as well, and they are:

• Progestogen-only birth control pill
• Depo-Provera injection
• Combined hormonal contraception, including combined pill, vaginal ring, or birth control patch
• Contraceptive implant

Other medications that may negatively affect sex drive include:

• Antipsychotics
• Blood pressure medications
• Antidepressants
• Chemotherapy drugs

If your medication is to blame for your low libido, consider talking with your doctor. Work with your doctor to find the right type of medication and dose that will help you, but won’t ruin your sexual desire. Certain antidepressants, for example, may help improve your sex drive!

You Are On Your Period

Your monthly cycle can influence your sex drive in a serious way. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest during your period, causing a dip in your libido. The decreased interest in sexual activity serves a purpose because you tend to have the highest libido around ovulation. If your libido is low during your period, it is most likely not a permanent issue. Once your cycle completes, your sexual desire will most likely return to whatever is normal for you.

You Exercise Too Much Or Not Little

Exercise makes you feel good because it naturally boosts endorphins, which are the body’s feel-good chemicals. Making exercise a part of your daily routine can support a healthy libido. In fact, research states that men who engage in regular physical activity have higher libidos, testosterone levels, and fertility. That connection may be associated with better overall mood because regular physical activity helps keep you at healthy weight. Failure to exercise can increase the risk of health complications, many of which can destroy your libido. The opposite may also be true, as too much exercise can sabotage your sex drive. Chronic endurance training can interfere with hormones that affect libido. 

If your libido is down and you don’t exercise a lot, consider moving a little more. Researchers note that a little exercise goes a long way for your libido. Just 10-15 minutes of exercise per day can be enough. Additionally, remember not to overdo it because there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. 

You Drink Or Smoke Too Much

A little wine may help you unwind, but too much imbibing can also decrease your sex drive. The Mayo Clinic notes that too much alcohol can decrease testosterone levels and lead to erectile dysfunction. The same applies for smoking, which can suppress testosterone and reduce blood flow, causing less pleasurable sexual arousal. Other recreational drugs may also negatively impact your sex drive. Substances can both lower testosterone levels and change the brain’s response to pleasure. Activities that you once enjoyed, like sex, may not feel as good as they used to. The simple fix is to cut back on your consumption, or stop altogether. When you limit your alcohol intake and quit smoking, your libido and overall health will benefit. 

You Lack Sleep

Sleep deprivation can negatively affect all aspects of your health, from brain and heart function to your libido. The body requires sleep to repair and function properly. If you’ve been exhausted, you know that you don’t function at your best. If you don’t sleep enough and you lack power and energy, sex is probably not your number one priority. Insufficient sleep has been linked to low libido and sexual arousal in both men and women, according to a 2017 study. If sleep is plaguing your libido, try to focus on getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Keep a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Make sure your bedroom is cool, dark and quiet, and turn off screens about two hours before bedtime.

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Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is an essential vitamin, meaning that the body needs it to function properly. The body cannot make B12 on its own, so it is your responsibility to obtain it via dietary sources or supplements. This vitamin plays a critical role in the formation of red blood cells, cell metabolism, and the production of DNA. It also aids with healthy nerve function and even though it is essential for optimal health, it’s estimated that 6% of the U.S. population younger than 60 years is B12 deficient. 

How Much Vitamin B12 Do You Need? 

Your B12 needs change depending on your age range. Like most other nutrients, babies and children require less B12 on a daily basis than older adults. Below, you’ll find a breakdown for the recommended daily intake (RDI) of B12 in micrograms (mcg):

• Birth to 6 months: 0.4 mcg
• 7-12 months: 0.5 mcg
• 1-3 years: 0.9 mcg
• 4-8 years: 1.2 mcg
• 9-13 years: 1.8 mcg
• 14-18 years: 2.4 mcg
• 19 years or older: 2.4 mcg

Keep in mind that these recommendations are based on amounts that you need to avoid deficiency. The average adult may need more or less B12 to maintain optimal levels. For example, to achieve healthy blood levels of B12, research suggests that daily intake levels of B12 should reach 5.94 mcg for men and 3.78 mcg for women over the age of 20. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, needs for vitamin B12, and most other nutrients, increase. Vitamin B12 is vital for proper fetal growth, so pregnant women require 2.8 mcg per day.

What Causes B12 Deficiency?

There are several factors, some of which are out of a person’s control, that contribute to vitamin B12 deficiency. According to research, the three primary causes of B12 deficiency are: 

• Autoimmune issues: Pernicious anemia is a type of autoimmune condition that makes it hard for the small intestine to properly absorb B12, leading to low levels. 
• Low dietary Intake: Vitamin B12 is primarily in animal-based foods, including meat, fish, dairy, eggs, and poultry. For this reason, people who follow strict vegan and vegetarian diets are more at risk for deficiency. It tends to take a couple years of following these diets to become deficient, which is why experts encourage supplementation. 
• Malabsorption: Some people aren’t able to properly absorb B12 because of intestinal damage or surgery. People who have had gastric bypass surgery or part of their bowel removed may be at risk for B12 deficiency. 
• Long-term use of certain medications: Certain medications, especially ones that lower blood sugar or treat acid reflux, can interfere with B12 absorption and ultimately cause B12 deficiency. 

What Are Symptoms Of B12 Deficiency?

It should be noted that B12 deficiency is not very common in the U.S., but it is more common in the Indian subcontinent, Mexico, and Central and South America. Selected areas of Africa also have an increased risk of B12 deficiency. Deficiency can go undetected in many people, which is why bloodwork is necessary to determine your levels. The most common symptoms of this B12 deficiency include: 

• Fatigue
• Pale skin
• Dry lips
• Breathlessness when engaging in activity
• Pale conjunctiva (tissue that lines the inside of the eyelids)
• B12 deficiency can also lead to neurological symptoms like:
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Difficulty walking
• Memory problems
• Tingling in the extremities

Risk Factors

Some people have a higher risk than others of developing vitamin B12 deficiency. Different factors like underlying medical conditions and age can influence susceptibility. Other factors, like long-term use of certain medications, can increase the risk of B12 deficiency. Being pregnant or breastfeeding can also put people at a higher risk for deficiency. The reason for this is because needs for B12 increase during these times. Abusing alcohol and drugs like methamphetamine can increase the risk for B12 deficiency. More often than not, poor dietary intake leads to B12 deficiency, but alcohol and other drugs can lead to decreased B12 absorption.

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With bustling social calendars, end of the year projects nearing their deadlines, and upcoming travel plans, this time of year is more hectic than ever. Stress levels are high, diets are poor, and it can seem like you are barely keeping up with life. All of this can increase anxiety, depression, and slowly chip away at your overall mental health.

Holiday depression and anxiety start before Thanksgiving, and the body doesn’t get a break until the New Year. Be it the increased financial burden for travel and shopping, or attending parties and hosting meals, the holidays are physically and mentally draining. Expectations are high for planning events and giving gifts, but there is also the loneliness aspect for those without a good support system or loved ones. If you are experiencing any mental health challenges during the holidays, don’t be afraid to reach out to people, express your feelings, or employ the following tips.

Stick To A Routine

It is easy to over-extend yourself during the holidays. Making multiple commitments to different parties, due to the high influx of invitations, can be mentally taxing. This is why you need to stick to your routine, even if that means missing out on a few parties. The more you stick to your regular schedule, the more in control you’ll feel. If sticking to your routine keeps you from becoming anxious, miss that dinner you were invited to in order to maintain your schedule. Self-care is more important than anything.

Soak Up The Sun…When It Comes Out

Some people are lucky and experience many sunny days during the winter, while others are plagued by rainy days, snowstorms, and lack of sunshine. According to numerous studies, depressive disorders increase exponentially during the winter months. This is attributed to the lack of sunshine. Whenever it is possible, take a walk outside and soak up so much needed vitamin D. The combination of being in the sun and nature has been proven to reduce stress, improve concentration, lower levels of inflammation, and improve overall energy.

Budget

The materialistic nature of the holidays can drain your bank account, which in turn stresses you out. Rather than financially burdening yourself this year, set holiday budget limits to help you allocate funds for travel, food, gifts, and more. Write out exactly what you need to purchase to help yourself figure out expenses. If this is the year that you spend less on gifts, so be it. You can always make your own gifts to cut down the expense of gift giving, and you can spend a little more on a bigger meal with the family, focusing on love, thankfulness, and more during the holidays.

Don’t Rely On Drugs, Alcohol, Or Food

When you are depressed or anxious, it can be easy to convince yourself to take a pill or knock back a few drinks to feel better or relieve tension. According to mental health experts, it is better to relieve stress and anxiety via healthier outlets like exercise, meditation, talking to a therapist, or spending time with loved ones. Don’t make yourself reliant on drugs, alcohol, or food to make it through the holidays. Give yourself time to decompress and collect yourself for better mental health.

Get Sufficient Sleep

We cannot stress the importance of sleep enough, especially during the holidays. According to Psychology Today, sleep deprivation greatly affects your mood, slowly leading to an impaired mental state. When your sleep cycle is irregular and you aren’t sleeping at least seven hours every night, you run the risk of becoming physically and mentally drained.

Set Realistic Expectations

With all the commotion of the holidays and the approaching New Year, people can often reflect on their accomplishments, or lack thereof, from the past year. Some may think that they aren’t where they are “supposed to be” in life, or that they didn’t do enough during the year. Get out of your own head and be grateful for what you did accomplish. Don’t set yourself up for failure in the coming year either. Adjust your expectations and goals to make them more realistic, for example, going to the gym three times per week, or reading a book within the first three months of the year.

Managing mental health can be a tricky path to navigate because it is always challenging. The important thing to remember is that you are not alone. Professional services are available and friends are the best support system to have. Approach 2020 with mindful practices that will help you remain healthy throughout the year.

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