The liver is the largest internal organ in the body and is tasked with several important duties. It works to remove toxins, such as alcohol, from the bloodstream, regulates blood clotting, and aids with bile production. Much like most other organs and systems in the body, the liver is prone to damage based on certain lifestyle habits. The more damaged the liver is, the worse it functions. 

It’s estimated that liver disease affects 4.5 million adults in the United States. Liver disease is a broad term that encompasses different conditions, which impair healthy liver function. Liver conditions include liver cancer, hepatitis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Sometimes, symptoms of an impaired liver happen immediately, but they can also take time to show up. Additionally, they usually don’t show up until there is significant liver damage. 

How do you know when something is wrong with the liver? How do you know what to do to address the problem? Hepatologists want you to know about the five most important warning signs of liver disease, and what to do if you notice them. 

Dark Urine, Even If You Are Hydrated

Usually, dark urine indicates dehydration, and it is quite common to see in the morning or after long periods without fluids. Dark urine is also typical for people with liver conditions. This is due to the buildup of bilirubin, which causes urine to appear dark orange, brown, or amber in color. If you regularly hydrate and still notice issues with urine color, something else is likely afoot, so consult your healthcare provider to determine the cause. 

Swelling In The Legs, Ankles, Or Abdomen

Swelling may not be the first thing you associate with the liver, but swelling in the legs and feet may indicate a problem in the body. This is especially true when you have cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver. Cirrhosis basically slows the flow of blood through the liver and increases pressure in the vein that delivers blood to it. The pressure in the portal vein, as it is called, can lead to fluid buildup in the legs and abdomen. The swelling may also occur if the liver cannot produce enough of certain blood proteins, such as albumin. 

Yellowing Of The Skin Or Eyes

Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, can be a subtle sign of liver disease. Jaundice occurs when there is excess bilirubin, which is a pigment created during the breakdown of red blood cells. The liver typically processes bilirubin and removes it from the body, but too much can cause jaundice and other liver issues. High levels of bilirubin, however, are not always a concern for adults, which is why it is crucial to speak with your healthcare provider if you notice jaundice. 

You Bleed Or Bruise Easily

It is possible for people with liver damage to bruise or bleed easily when injured. The reason this happens is because the liver produces proteins necessary for blood clotting. If the liver is not functioning optimally, then you are at greater risk of bleeding or bruising easily.

Confusion

It is perfectly normal to forget things from time to time. You walk out of the house without your lunch after just packing it, or you can’t find your sunglasses, which you put on your head. You should not ignore major changes in your mental state, though, as they may indicate liver problems or other underlying issues. A person who is generally healthy can develop acute liver failure, which can manifest in mental changes or disorientation, even personality changes. 

What To Do If You Think You Have Liver Damage

Do not dismiss liver issues, so do not dismiss these symptoms if you notice them. It is common for people to experience liver problems if they have type 2 diabetes, drink alcohol heavily or moderately, or share needles. It is also common to experience liver problems if there is a family history of liver disease. Discuss any liver damage symptoms with your doctor to determine the right course of action. Stool changes, appetite changes, and exhaustion are also symptoms of liver problems.

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Despite how integral water is to overall health, a high percentage of people are regularly in a mild state of dehydration. Water helps regulate body temperature, prevent infections, keep joints lubricated, and maintain proper organ function. When the body is properly hydrated, you are able to sleep better and improve overall mood and cognitive function. Adults who don’t drink enough water may age faster and face a higher risk of developing chronic diseases. 

In order to stay hydrated, the clear solution is to drink more water. That is a seemingly easy solution, yet many people find it difficult to drink the right amount of water every day. In general, health experts recommend drinking about 50% of your bodyweight in ounces of water per day. If you weigh 160 pounds, aim to drink between 70-80 ounces of hydrating fluids per day. You can adjust that amount based on activity levels. 

The Importance Of Hydration

Researchers at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University found that mild dehydration can impair cognitive performance. Mild dehydration can be as little as losing one to two percent of the body’s water content. This contrasts the previous belief that a person needed to have a two percent or greater body water deficit to see these cognitive effects. In addition to the cognitive benefits of water, one can also experience decreased joint pain when optimally hydrated. Cartilage in the joints contains about 80% water, so daily hydration helps lubricate the joints, reducing friction by creating cushion between bones. 

A 2020 study from Japan found that increasing daily water intake provided several benefits, including blood pressure regulation and kidney protection. Proper hydration may also dilute blood waste material and stabilize heartbeat. Research also indicates that drinking water helps the body produce sweat when overheated during activity. That cools the body down, which is an integral mechanism that helps prevent heat stroke and other heat-related conditions. Basically, staying hydrated helps the body maintain its everyday processes, so read on to learn how you can stay properly hydrated.

Drink Enough Water

If you want to hydrate the body, then you have to start with water, although water isn’t the only factor involved with hydration. As mentioned earlier in the article, you should aim to drink 50% of your bodyweight in ounces of water or hydrating fluids each day. The amount of fluids that you intake is just as important as the amount of fluids you lose. If you exercise or go outside on a hot day, you’ll lose more fluids than if you were to just sit at your desk. In those situations, you need to drink more water. You can also look at your urine as an indicator for hydration. Dark yellow means that you are in desperate need of fluids! Ideally, your urine should be very light yellow to clear. 

Balance Your Electrolytes

In addition to drinking more water, you also have to consume magnesium, calcium, potassium, and sodium, all of which are electrolytes. You can get these nutrients via fruits and vegetables, which we’ll detail in the next point. Fruits and vegetables work to combat electrolyte imbalance, which in turn aids your hydration efforts. Nowadays, though, there are many electrolyte beverages, including sports drinks and powders. Some powders are highly beneficial and contain a balanced mix of electrolytes, while others are rich in processed ingredients and added sugars. When you add electrolytes to your water, you actually reduce the amount of fluid necessary to consume during the day. This is excellent news if you plan to exercise or be outside on a hot day.

Eat More Fruits And Vegetables

Many fruits and vegetables can aid hydration efforts because they are naturally rich in water and electrolytes. One study examined the contribution fruits and vegetables had on children. Researchers noted the dietary records and urine samples of 442 school children and found that regular intake of fruits and vegetables improved hydration status. Some of the best hydrating fruits and vegetables you can eat include:

• Watermelon
• Kiwi
• Bell peppers
• Tomatoes
• Berries
• Celery
• Cucumber
• Zucchini
• Pineapple
• Radish
• Citrus fruit
• Broccoli
• Grapes
• Carrots
• Avocado

Consume Sea Salt

Whenever you use salt, try to use Himalayan salt or Celtic sea salt, as opposed to regular table salt. Sea salt exhibits a long list of benefits, many of which center around hydration. When you drink water, you also need to consume sodium and potassium. In fact, research shows that sodium and potassium enhance hydration efforts. Unlike table salt, sea salt helps the body balance water and potassium levels because of the sodium content. Sea salt also works to alkalize the body.

Avoid Dehydrating Beverages

Dehydrating beverages are very enticing, and many people are powerless to them. These dehydrating drinks include coffee, alcohol, sugary sodas and fruit juices, and energy drinks. They increase urination and electrolyte loss, which can quickly lead to dehydration if you don’t do your part to hydrate with the right beverages and foods. Sugary sodas or artificially sweetened juices can increase the risk of inflammation and other side effects like brain fog, headaches, and blood sugar fluctuations. 

Don’t Forget To Exercise

It may seem counterintuitive to exercise for hydration because that can cause the body to lose water. According to research, physical exercise increases circulation and improves electrolyte levels. Movement also delivers more nutrients to your cells. Any form of movement can support these processes, whether you engage in strength, cardiovascular, or interval training. You can even go for a walk, practice yoga, or dance to your favorite music!

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It’s always hotter during summer, and to think otherwise would be foolish. This year, however, temperatures exceeded 100 degrees Fahrenheit in many areas around the United States. Wildfires in California, the Pacific Northwest, Utah, and even across the world in Turkey resulted from excessive temperatures and dryness. Both fires and heat waves are uncomfortable and dangerous, and present a major health threat.

The Dangers Of Heat Waves

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), extreme heat is defined by temperatures that are much hotter and/or humid than average for certain areas. Some areas experience excessive dry heat, while other areas have muggy, humid temperatures. The humidity can make it feel hotter than it is, and dry heat can feel like you are in an oven. According to data at the CDC, about 700 people in the United States die each year from heat-related exposure. Heat waves pose several health risks, including:

• Heat cramps
• Kidney damage
• Dehydration
• Heatstroke
• Heat exhaustion
• Impaired mental health

While the end of summer may be in sight, temperatures are still hot and dangerous. Heat waves can come at any moment, and it’s best to be prepared. Continue reading to learn about a few tips that can help you stay healthy when temperatures rise.

Avoid Excess Caffeine & Alcohol Consumption

It’s common for people to over-consume both alcohol and caffeine during summer, especially at parties or gatherings. It’s more habitual than anything, but these beverages don’t promote hydration. Actually, caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate the body. If you notice that the color of your urine is dark yellow, you need to stop drinking everything except water and electrolyte beverages. Maybe go for some electrolyte-rich beverages like coconut water or homemade detox waters. 

Stay Hydrated

This seems like an obvious tip, but too many people suffer from dehydration in hotter weather. You should always have fluids with you, especially water, when it’s hot outside. If you find a great electrolyte powder that has minimal sugar content, you can pour that in your water. When you sweat, you lose electrolytes and you need to replenish those stores to avoid health complications like dehydration, kidney problems, or heat exhaustion. Water intake will depend on activity level, sex, age, and overall bodyweight. When the weather is hotter, drink more water than you think you need to. Click here to learn simple tips to improve hydration.

Look For Indoor Activities

Most indoor places have the air conditioning working overtime during the summer. If you want to save energy and avoid running your A/C unit like crazy, head to a place that is naturally cool. If you don’t want to go to a mall, head to a movie theater, library, museum, or other establishment with A/C. 

Dress For The Weather

If you are experiencing a heat wave, don’t wear jeans and a hoodie. There’s no reason to do such a thing. It’s best to wear light, breathable clothing that fits loosely. Additionally, opt for light colors to avoid overheating. It’s also beneficial to wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses with polarized lenses for even more sun protection. Depending on how long you plan to be outside, consider lathering exposed skin in sunblock. 

Eat Lighter Meals

If you want to keep your body on the cooler side, it’s best to eat meals that don’t weigh you down. Rather than scarfing down potato salad or fries, ribs, brisket, chicken, rice, corn, and other heavy foods, opt for lighter meals. Consider an entree salad or Buddha bowl with quinoa and roasted sweet potatoes. Smoothies are also an excellent option. When the body has to work hard to digest food, it generates heat within the body. Keep food options light and be conscious about the size of your portions. 

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Are you friends with a neighbor just because they have a gorgeous lemon tree that produces so many lemons? We wouldn’t blame you if that’s your situation. Lemons, or citrus fruits in general, hold that much power. They contain a lot of vitamin C and other antioxidants that support various aspects of health. Take the trend of drinking lemon water, for example, which may help support digestion, detoxification, and reduce the risk of kidney stones. 

Lemons are known for their wonderfully acidic juice, but they actually help to alkalize the body, despite that tart flavor. In its natural state, lemon juice is acidic with a pH of about 2. Once it is metabolized in the body, however, it becomes alkaline with a pH level well over 7. And the great thing about lemons is that you can have them year-round in many parts of the world. This depends on the trees’s geographical location and how long the harvesting season is (about a few months). 

Nearly all lemons sold in North America are Lisbon or Eureka. These are classic, small- to medium-sized, bright yellow lemons that have a slightly tangy flavor. Meyer lemons, which are sometimes available in specialty markets in the winter, have a darker peel and sweeter, floral juice and flesh. Continue reading to learn more about the health benefits of lemons.

They Support Heart Health

Due to their vitamin C and antioxidant profile, lemons help protect your cells from damaging free radicals. These unstable particles can damage your cells if you don’t neutralize them. By fighting free radical damage, you ultimately work to prevent atherosclerosis, a condition that’s characterized by plaque buildup in the arteries and can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. 

The phenolic compounds in lemons work to regulate blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and support endothelial function. For reference, endothelial function is how easily blood flows throughout the body. Reduced endothelial function can increase your risk of heart disease. A 2017 study found that higher fruit and vegetable intake reduced the risk of cancer, all-cause mortality, and cardiovascular disease. So eat your lemons!

They Help Prevent Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard deposits composed of minerals that build up in the urinary tract and form in the kidneys. Passing a kidney stone can be a very painful experience, affecting about 10% of people. If you increase levels of urine citrate, a weak acid, and make urine more alkaline, you may help prevent kidney stones. 

Lemons contain a form of citric acid that works to increase urine citrate levels. The citric acid binds with urinary calcium in order to prevent oversaturated urine. It also binds to clumps of calcium oxalate crystals to help prevent them from growing and turning into kidney stones. The National Kidney Foundation estimates that consuming four ounces of lemon juice mixed with water per day may help reduce the risk of kidney stones. 

They Prevent Cell Damage

As mentioned earlier in this article, lemons are naturally rich in antioxidants, which work to fight free radical damage. The research states that citrus fruits contain a wide array of antioxidants, but newer research indicates that the peels of citrus fruits contain higher amounts of antioxidants. When you fight free radical damage with these unique antioxidants, you help prevent cell damage, which ultimately reduces your risk of chronic kidney disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is technically a group of chronic, progressive lung diseases that limit airflow to the lungs, which makes it difficult to breathe. 

They Enhance Iron Absorption

Iron is a mineral that you need for optimal growth and development. The body uses iron to make hemoglobin, which is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of your body. Lemons contain a minuscule amount of iron, but they can enhance iron absorption because they are rich in vitamin C. One lemon contains over 30% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the body better absorb nonheme iron, which is found in plant-based and iron-fortified foods. Pairing your iron foods with vitamin C helps you absorb iron even more efficiently. 

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If you don’t know what a bidet is, pronounced “bi-day,” it is a shallow toilet that sprays water into your butt after a poo. It’s not embarrassing to say that everybody poops, but it is not so hygienic to know that not everyone has a successful wipe. Constant wiping can not only be frustrating, but it can also cause intense irritation around the anus. If you feel that you wipe too much, it may be time to forego the toilet paper and embrace the bidet. 

Many countries in Europe, Asia, and South America regularly use the bidet in some way, shape, or form. Some countries have hose attachments while other countries, like Japan, have costly toilet/bidet combos that not only wash, but also dry your bum. You have probably seen that more and more people in the United States have grown fond of the fancy Japanese toilet. As true as this may be, this isn’t the most affordable option and it isn’t as popular in the U.S.

Some experts believe that, even though we are our own nation, the U.S. adopted many British customs and philosophies. In the 18th and 19th centuries, for example, the British associated bidets with brothels, so they were viewed as “dirty.” Fans of the bidet, or bidet attachments, claim that their backsides are cleaner, fresher, and healthier after regular use. Others find bidets to be much more comfortable than traditional toilet paper. Would you rather have fresh water clean your anus, or smear it with dry paper until it is somewhat clean?

Are Bidets Sanitary?

Health experts agree that bidets are more sanitary than traditional bottom-cleaning methods. A bidet can provide a more hygienic experience compared to toilet paper. Water beats a few squares of dry TP in removing trace amounts of fecal matter after you poop. Wiping with toilet paper also increases the risk of getting fecal matter on the hands and nails. That is why you always have to wash your hands thoroughly after using the restroom, even when using a bidet. 

Poop Talk Is Not Taboo

Toilet paper is not going anywhere, but more U.S. citizens continue to embrace the bidet. The conversation about poop is changing, and it isn’t as taboo as it was in previous years. There are so many poop-related products nowadays, especially the Squatty Potty, PooPourri, and Hello Tushy bidet attachments. So many companies manufacture bidet attachments, some of which are fancier than others, and the reviews support them. Once you try one out, it’s hard to use regular TP again!

Bidets Keep Your Hands Cleaner

Bidets not only help with anal and genital hygiene, but also hand hygiene. A 2005 study monitored 22 nursing home residents who had bidet toilets installed. The results indicated that half of the residents and staff reported a positive effect on toileting with residents’ urine bacteria content. Washing your butt with water, as opposed to wiping with toilet paper, helps remove more fecal matter, which reduces the risk of spreading bacteria. After using a bidet, dab your anus with toilet paper to dry the area and then thoroughly wash your hands. 

Bidets Are Environmentally Friendly

It’s estimated that Americans use about 36.5 billion rolls of toilet paper every year. In 2014, Americans spent $9.6 billion on toilet paper! That is a lot of money for a lot of dead trees, when bidets are a perfectly available and more eco-friendly option. You save a lot of water every year when you use a bidet because it takes about 37 gallons of water to make one roll of toilet paper. Producing one roll of toilet paper also requires 1.5 pounds of wood. In contrast, using a bidet consumes about one pint of water.

Bidets Save You Money

Is there an initial investment for a bidet? Absolutely, but think of it as a long-term investment that saves you money over time. If you get a bidet attachment, it is a much more affordable investment, and you just hook it up to your existing toilet. Over time, a bidet can help you avoid spending hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on toilet paper every year. Plus, you can rest easy if people panic about not having enough toilet paper if a future pandemic hits. 

Bidets May Help Address Hemorrhoids

If you bleed when you wipe, a bed with some warm water spray may be the alternative you need. A study from 2009 compared warm water sprays to sit baths for people who had surgery near the anus. Researchers didn’t note any difference in wound healing, but those who were in the water spray group said that the spray was way more convenient and satisfying. 

Regarding hemorrhoids, millions of Americans either have them or are at risk for developing them, and the risk only increases with age. Unfortunately, the research behind bidet usage for hemorrhoid relief is preliminary, but what exists is positive. A small study from 2011 monitored healthy individuals who used electronic bidets. The results indicated that low-to-medium warm water pressure relieved pressure on the anus. Researchers explained that warm water may also promote blood circulation in the skin around the anus.

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When a jellyfish stings you it launches venom into your skin. Urine isn’t antivenom so the urine may actually worsen the sting. Please do not pee on jellyfish either as that may aggravate them as they may release more venom.

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Have you noticed that more and more personal care and skin care products have “paraben-free” labels lately? It’s not just your imagination, and the reason for this evolution in beauty products is because more and more research highlights potential human health risks associated with these chemicals. As a jumping off point, a growing body of research linked parabens to abnormal hormone function and certain cancers. 

What Are Parabens?

Parabens are synthetic chemicals that are widely used as preservatives in personal care products and cosmetics. You can usually find them in shaving creams, shampoos, deodorants, cleansers, pharmaceuticals, foods, and beverages. Manufacturers include parabens in these products and more because they extend their shelf life. Additionally, parabens exhibit antimicrobial properties that prevent the growth of mold, fungi, and bacteria. There are several types of parabens and most products contain more than one. Common parabens in consumer goods include ethylparaben, butylparaben, methylparaben, and propylparaben. 

According to research, some 90% of typical grocery items contain a measurable amount of parabens. Even those who steer clear of parabens in personal care or hygiene products can be exposed to these preservatives. What worries public health advocates is that cumulative exposure to parabens can contribute to a wide range of health problems. Some of the main concerns are the disruption of hormones, reproductive toxicity, and the increased risk of certain cancers. For example, parabens mimic estrogen by binding to estrogen receptors on cells. The perceived influx of estrogen can trigger reactions such as an increase in breast cell division and the growth of tumors. 

Health Problems That May Be Linked To Parabens

As mentioned previously, parabens are hormone disruptors. This is because they can disrupt endocrine function, ultimately interfering with the hormones that are responsible for normal growth and development. Preliminary research from March 2021 linked hormone disruption from parabens to changes in several aspects of human health. Some of these changes included increased blood sugar and cholesterol levels, obesity risk, cognitive decline, and immune system dysfunction. 

A lot of the research surrounding parabens, though, has been conducted on animals or testing paraben levels in urine. The urine tests aimed to discover if people with higher exposure to parabens had an increased risk of developing certain health issues. Some studies found that parabens in urine led to an increased risk of breast cancer. A separate study from April 2023 found higher levels of parabens in breast cancer tissues than in healthy breast tissue. Finally, some observational studies linked urinary levels of parabens to elevated breast cancer risks. That said, it’s hard to control other factors, such as age, genetic risk factors, and other environmental exposures. 

In regards to parabens in cosmetics, the biggest source of human exposure, U.S. regulators haven’t found a clear enough risk of health harms to warn people against using them. As of 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates cosmetics, said that there wasn’t sufficient information to show that parabens in cosmetics had an effect on human health.

Risk Factors For Paraben Exposure

Paraben exposure is very common, especially in regards to methylparaben and propylparaben. One study examined urinary concentrations of different types of parabens in American adults. The results indicated that 99% of the participants had exposure to methylparaben, and nearly 93% of participants had exposure to propylparaben. Even though a lot of people have some exposure to parabens, some people are at higher risk of exposure than others. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), higher-risk individuals include Black people, women, and adults over the age of 20. Anyone who uses more personal care or hygiene products may be at more risk of exposure, depending on the products. 

How To Limit Paraben Exposure

If you want to limit your exposure, start by reading product labels, be they for beauty, personal care, or food. Some parabens are more likely to interfere with the body than others, so keep your eyes peeled for butylparaben and propylparaben, as they are more likely to cause health risks. Those are long-chain parabens, whereas methylparaben and ethylparaben are short-chain parabens. Short-chain parabens are much less likely to disrupt hormone function. As we mentioned in the beginning of the article, a lot of products are paraben- or sulfate-free, so aim to use those products. Lastly, don’t assume that something with a “clean” or “natural” label is paraben-free. Read the labels and you’ll find the truth, and potentially become healthier in the process.

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Water is more essential than food, although people place more emphasis on meals than their daily intake of water. It’s possible to live without food for up to three weeks, but the body cannot survive without water for more than three or four days. If the body doesn’t receive the water it needs, it becomes difficult to absorb nutrients and remove waste. Hydration is necessary if you want to live.

What Is Dehydration?

The body enters a state of dehydration when it loses more fluid than you take in. Without a sufficient water supply, the body cannot carry out its normal functions. The body starts to lose water and electrolytes, like potassium and sodium, during a state of dehydration. These electrolytes and water help us move, talk, breathe, and do everything else. Babies, children, and the elderly are the most at risk of being dehydrated. 

The body is an intelligent, complex system, and it lets you know when it needs more water. Whether or not you pay attention and recognize these signs is another story altogether. That’s why knowing about the warning signs of dehydration can only benefit you in the long run. Being thirsty is a telltale sign that the body needs water, but what about other indicators? Continue reading to learn about other common warning signs of dehydration.

5 Warning Signs Of Dehydration

Dark Urine

This is a widely known symptom of dehydration. If your urine is dark yellow, medium yellow, or even orange, the body is likely dehydrated. The darker color indicates that urine is more concentrated. There isn’t an abundance of water, which turns urine a lighter shade of yellow, or even clear. That’s the color urine should be. You can learn a lot about your health through your urine. Click here to learn more. 

Bad Breath

If you are in a state of dehydration, you may notice that the mouth doesn’t produce as much saliva as it typically does. Saliva contains antibacterial properties that help to discourage bacterial overgrowth in the mouth. If there isn’t enough saliva in the mouth, bacteria can easily grow. This creates a foul stench, which results in bad breath. You’re familiar with morning breath, right? The body doesn’t receive water during sleep, and saliva production slows. That’s why you wake up with an unpleasant taste in your mouth. That’s also why it’s beneficial to hydrate first thing in the morning before you eat. 

Body Cramps

Body cramps don’t always indicate that the body is in a state of dehydration. Muscle fatigue is a likely culprit, but it is possible to experience cramping from a sodium deficit. If the body loses fluid or sodium, full body cramping is quite common, and so is exertional heat cramping. When you work out, the body loses water and salt via sweat. That’s why you always have to hydrate post workout. For optimal electrolyte replenishment, consider drinking fresh coconut water or another natural electrolyte drink. Click here for a natural electrolyte drink recipe. 

Cravings For Sweets

When the body is dehydrated, it’s hard for the liver or other organs to release glycogen. These organs use water and release other components of the body’s energy stores. This can ultimately lead to food cravings, specifically for sweets. If you have a craving for chocolate or a salty snack, the body is telling you that it needs help breaking down glycogen to release glucose into the bloodstream. That is the body’s fuel, so the next time you crave sweets, drink a glass of water because you are most likely in need of water. 

Constipation

It’s no secret that hydrated people tend to have regular, healthy bowel movements. The reason for this is because water helps to lubricate the digestive track, and it assists with moving food through the digestive tract. If bowel movements are hard or difficult to pass, it can be a sign that you are dehydrated. This is also a common symptom of unhealthy eating or lacking fiber in the diet. 

To ensure that the body does not enter a state of dehydration, try your best to consume half your bodyweight in ounces of water per day. If you weigh 150 pound and divide that by two to get 75, you should drink 75 ounces of water every day. You may need to adjust the water intake if you engage in physical activity.

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When you think about chronic disease, the kidneys are not at the top of your list of things to worry about, or so you think. The kidneys have a greater influence on your health than you realize. And if you have diabetes, some form of heart disease, or have a family history of kidney disease, your kidneys could be at risk. 

What Do The Kidneys Do?

The kidneys are vital organs in the body that help to remove waste and control bodily fluids. They help remove excess waste and water via urination, and their ability to do that helps maintain an internal balance of chemicals and nutrients. When kidney function is impaired, you run the risk of developing life-threatening complications, including chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, high blood pressure, and more. 

Your kidneys work every day to keep you healthy. Some medical experts argue that they are the hardest working organs in the body. Return the favor and show your kidneys some love with these helpful tips. 

Hydration Is Crucial

Water is life, people. It helps deliver essential nutrients to the kidneys, in addition to aiding the removal of waste from your kidneys to your bladder in the form of urine. Your urine is often a good indicator of how hydrated you are. It should be straw-colored; a darker yellow is often a sign of dehydration. We recommend drinking half your body weight in ounces of water to stay sufficiently hydrated. If you weigh 150 pounds and divide that by two to get 75, you should be drinking 75 ounces of water daily. This number may fluctuate depending on the weather, physical activity, and more. 

It’s All About Movement

Regular exercise benefits the body in numerous ways. Being overweight increases your blood pressure, which affects kidney function. It’s beneficial to engage in 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise every week. Moderate exercise includes walking around the neighborhood, going on a bike ride, swimming, or light weightlifting. One study found that kidney disease patients improved muscle function and lowered blood pressure after 150 minutes of weekly exercise. The same study found that heart function improved in 11% of those patients.

Avoid NSAID Medications

People take common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen for pain or headaches. These drugs can harm the kidneys when taken frequently, and they are even worse for people who have kidney disease or impaired kidney function. Analgesics and NSAIDs decrease blood flow to the kidneys, and the combination of the ingredients in those drugs have been linked to kidney disease. 

Focus On Freshness

The kidneys have to process all the food you eat. Saturated fats, excessive dairy, lots of salt, sugars, processed foods, and fried foods can increase your risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Not to mention, these foods make your kidneys work on overtime. Be kind to your kidneys and nourish them with foods that enhance their function, not make them worse. Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and beans are all beneficial for kidney health. 

Keep An Eye On Your Blood Pressure

If you are at risk for high blood pressure, it’s wise to keep an eye on it regularly. High blood pressure increases your risk of kidney troubles, and your kidneys can’t help keep your blood pressure under control if they start to fail. The ideal blood pressure is between 90/60mmHG and 120/80mmHg. There are numerous lifestyle modifications to make and beneficial foods to eat to help control your blood pressure. If you need more information on how to naturally lower blood pressure, please click here. 

Act now before it’s too late for your kidneys. Take control of your health so that you can avoid kidney troubles and live a long, healthy life. 

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Affecting millions of people every year, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are traditionally treated with antibiotics. Many people are simply unaware of the alternative remedies that help remedy UTIs and keep them from recurring. This article aims to detail these remedies, so that you have the knowledge if you experience a UTI in the future.

Because antibiotics are the most common treatment option, some people have developed antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which make it more difficult to get rid of infection. Additionally, antibiotic resistant bacteria make recurring infection a major concern.

What Is A UTI?

A UTI is an infection that affects any part of the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, ureters, urethra, and bladder. The most common cause of a UTI is bacteria from the bowels, but fungi and viruses can cause infection as well. The Staphylococcus and Escherichia coli bacterial strains are responsible for about 80% of cases. Statistically, over 50% of women will develop at UTI or UTI symptoms at some point in life. The reason for this is because the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the bladder) is shorter in women than men. As a result, bacteria have an easier time accessing the bladder.

5 Home Remedies For UTIs

Remove Bladder Irritants From Your Diet

There are many foods that can irritate the bladder, especially if you already have a UTI. Spicy foods, nicotine, carbonated beverages, caffeine, and alcohol make it harder for the body to heal, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Eliminate these foods from your diet and focus on high-fiber carbohydrates, which include lentils, steel cut oats, and sweet potatoes.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

When you have a bacterial infection, the goal is to flush it out of your system. Drinking water, herbal teas, fresh made juices, and coconut water aid this process. According to a 2013 study at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, mild dehydration or low fluid intake increased the risk of getting a UTI. For every meal that you eat, drink a glass of water. Drink another glass for every snack you eat. This will help flush out bacteria that can worsen the infection.

Oregano Oil

Researchers have a firm belief that oregano oil is a valuable antibacterial remedy for accelerating the healing of bacterial infections. A 2012 study found that oregano oil was effective against many clinical bacterial strains. For example, it helped to inhibit the growth of E. coli, which commonly causes UTIs. Additionally, oregano oil prevents the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and it may be superior to some prescription antibiotics. Plus, you don’t have to deal with the side effects of antibiotics when you take oregano oil. To take it internally, mix it in water or coconut oil. Finally, you should not take oregano oil internally for more than two weeks at a time.

Go For Probiotics

Probiotics are available in supplement form, but they are found in fermented foods like kombucha, miso, kefir, and sauerkraut. Many research studies advocate the usage of probiotics for improved digestive health because they balance gut bacteria. Newer studies link the consumption of probiotics to a reduced risk of UTI. One specific study found that the probiotic strain, lactobacillus, helped prevent UTI symptoms in adult women. Antibiotics disturb the balance of gut bacteria, so the preliminary research about taking probiotics to combat UTIs is great news.

Load Up On Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, and research shows that increasing vitamin C intake can protect against UTIs. The theory behind this research is due to the fact that vitamin C increases acidity levels in urine; thus, inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause infection. If you have a UTI, avoid citrus fruits because they can irritate the bladder. Instead, focus on dark leafy greens (kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, watercress, and mustard greens), parsley, thyme, bell peppers, blackberries, papaya, and kiwis.

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