https://onvive.com/blogs/blog.atomOnVive - Blog2020-09-23T00:00:00-06:00OnVivehttps://onvive.com/blogs/blog/why-is-eating-healthy-important-7-surprising-benefits2020-09-23T00:00:00-06:002020-10-12T09:57:10-06:00Why Is Eating Healthy Important? 7 Surprising Benefitstest testMore]]>
live a well-rounded life. Health should be a priority for all.
Why is eating healthy important? Well, keep reading to learn the seven surprising reasons why it is essential.
1. Better Brain Functionality
When you eat healthily, you are not only benefiting your body with nutrition but also nourishing your brain with what it needs keep you going throughout the day.
The brain is our central control panel, so when we eat foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants allows our minds to function much better. According to Harvard Health Publishing, eating well can protect the brain from stress, which in turn can help the functions of your brain.
With this protection, you can also feel much more alert. With your brain avoiding this oxidative stress, it can boost productivity while giving you a clear mind to accomplish goals.
2. Healthy Eating Can Help Emotional Balance
There is more and more correlation between healthy eating and positive mental health. Known as your body's “second brain,” your gastrointestinal tract is in close relationship with your brain. Because of this, healthy foods can boost your mood.
Eating whole foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, can help your gastrointestinal tract promote healthy bacteria. On the opposite side, if you eat a diet that is full of “junk food” or foods that hold no nutritional value, it can cause inflammation and interrupts the production of good bacteria in your body.
When your body is in positive production, this provides positive signals to your brain, thus affecting your mood. If your body is not positively producing, it can cause you to feel sluggish or out of sorts.
One of the most significant components in food that can cause a spike in our bacteria production is sugar. Sugar reacts with the harmful bacteria in our bodies and can cause a temporary spike in dopamine, which may feel good at the moment, but is not suitable for us long term.
When a large consumption of processed sugar, that dopamine high can result in a terrible crash. This crash affects our mood and can make us feel irritable or sluggish. Though there are healthy sugars, like the ones found in fruits, it's best to stay away from processed sugars, like the ones seen in candy, because they don't offer much nutritional benefit and can cause those crashes in our mood.
3. Promote Better Memory
Want to promote a better memory? Consuming foods that are rich in vitamins D, C, and E alongside other minerals like omega-3's and fatty acids, these can help aid in better memory and even fight the development of dementia.
A 2015 study found that omega-3's, in particular, can assist in the delay of Alzheimer's, which is the leading cause of dementia. Omega-3's work by building cell membranes throughout the body and the brain, and also help with easing inflammation alongside their rich antioxidants.
Foods that rich in omega-3's include salmon, chia seeds, walnuts, and spinach.
4. Boost Your Hair Growth With Healthy Foods
If you wish your mane were longer, then healthy eating may be your ticket to more luxurious locks. Though hair loss can be genetic, that is not always the case. If your diet is rich in junk food that does not provide the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs, it can take a toll on your hair.
Your hair needs minerals to keep it healthy, and there are a wide variety of ways to maintain its shine and strength. Some superfoods that assist in keeping your hair robust and healthy include eggs, avocados, berries, and fish. These all provide the essential nutrients you need to maintain or improve your hair.
5. Disease Prevention
Though healthy eating is well-known for preventing diseases, the extensive list can be surprising. The World Health Organization states that eating a healthy, balanced diet can not only protect you from obesity and cardiovascular diseases but also dental disease and cancer.
You can encourage the prevention of dental disease by eating a diet that is not consumed by refined sugar and fluorides. For example, soft drinks can be a culprit in dental disease if consumed in excess and for an extended time.
A diet rich full of fruits and vegetables can also prevent the development of stomach cancer, or cancer of the oesophagus and kidneys. All in all, healthy eating can impact a lot more of your body than you may think, and the more balanced whole foods you eat, the more likely your body will be able to avoid preventable diseases.
6. Healthy Eating Creates a Positive Influence on Children
Children tend to copy what they see, and if you are consuming a variety of junk food or bringing copious amounts into the house, it can cause your children to mirror that behaviour.
Though it is lovely to have a treat once in a while, eating well-balanced and healthy foods is an excellent way to promote growth and development for children. Being a good example to your children and eating foods that are rich in protein, fibre, and whole grains can help your influence your children to do the same.
7. Feel Stronger
Regardless if you vigorously work out or not, if you treat your body well and eat foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, you are promoting healthy bones and muscles. With healthy bones and muscles, it can help with your joint's longevity and being able to do more as you get older.
With healthy bones and muscles, you can also promote better circulation and stay active for longer.
Why Is Eating Healthy Important?
With these seven surprising reasons, these should answer the question of “why is eating healthy important?” From a better mood, memory, and all-around strength, eating healthy has a wide variety of benefits that you may have never realized.
Want to learn more about products and foods that can enhance your everyday health? Check out our blog for more information on living a healthy life.]]>
https://onvive.com/blogs/blog/vegan-keto-results-does-the-keto-diet-work-for-vegans2020-09-23T00:00:00-06:002020-10-12T09:57:07-06:00Vegan Keto Results: Does the Keto Diet Work for Vegans?test testMore]]>
lose the stubborn weight that doesn't want to go.
Here are some important considerations as you adopt a keto diet that's also vegan.
Making the Change to a Keto Diet
If you're ready to see some real changes, then switching to a keto diet may be what you've been looking for. It's a high fat, moderate protein, low carb diet that puts your body into ketosis. What that means is your body is burning fat instead of sugars.
It also means you have to keep your carb intake pretty low and cut out sugars to ensure that your body doesn't have any of those to burn. That's what forces you into ketosis so you can burn the fat stores you haven't been able to get rid of any other way.
The change to a keto diet is a similar process to any other diet. You'll have to start slowly and give yourself a lot of grace.
You'll make mistakes. You'll have trouble with some of the recipes. You won't like some of the dishes you make.
That's okay. The best way to start is by getting some keto cookbooks from your library (or finding recipes online) and pouring over them. Mark pages that look delicious, and then start to put together meal ideas.
Meal Planning with Keto
Making a vegan keto meal plan isn't hard. While a lot of keto recipes have animal products in them, that doesn't mean you can't make substitutions. Use plant-based healthy fats like avocado, coconut oil, and nuts.
You'll also have to be careful to eliminate some of the vegan carbs you were used to eating a lot of, like potatoes or carrots. On a keto diet, choose leafy green vegetables more often, like bok choy, kale, cabbage, and broccoli. Choose favorite meals like fried rice and substitute cauli-rice and keto veggies for a delicious dinner.
Some of the cookbooks you look through may also have suggestions for making a meal vegan. Use as many of those as you can, because the keto diet often suggests getting protein and fat from dairy products like butter, cheese, and yogurt. Use vegan substitutes for these, like tempeh, cashew cheese, coconut yogurt, and full-fat tofu.
You also can't eat whole grains like brown rice or quinoa, which are a big part of a vegan diet. Making a meal plan ahead of time and a corresponding grocery list can help you get started.
It's hard to get enough fat in your diet without those dairy products. Look for fat bomb recipes that are plant-based, which can help increase your healthy fat intake.
Getting Vegan Keto Results
You'll start to notice vegan keto weight loss results when you get serious about counting macronutrients. That means you count the individual nutritional breakdowns of the food you're eating: protein, fat, and carbs. These three macros make up the fuel your body needs to have energy for every day.
Use an app like My Fitness Pal to help you keep track of your macros, or nutrition counter websites. About 75% of the nutrients you're eating should be healthy fats. You should eat about 20g of net carbs per day.
Figure net carbs by subtracting the grams of fiber and some of the sugar alcohols from the total grams of carbs on the nutrition label. The net carbs you're left with is the amount of carbs your body will absorb.
You may see results even faster if you're combining a vegan keto diet with another strategy like intermittent fasting or a new workout plan. Keep in mind that the initial weight you lose will be bloating and water weight from the carbs in your body, rather than fat loss. As you continue steadily losing weight, those are the pounds of fat you're losing.
If you're working out more, you'll also be building muscle. Muscle weighs more than fat, so it can seem like your progress is slow. Get a scale that measures body fat percentage so that you can see other numbers besides your weight changing.
Things To Be Aware Of
Always talk to a doctor before starting a new diet like this. You may have pre-existing conditions that make it harder or more dangerous for you to attempt certain eating styles.
During the first few days of your keto diet, you may experience the keto flu. This includes symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and muscle aches. This is your body adjusting to burning fat instead of carbs, and it should go away within 5-10 days.
Drink lots of water, especially before meals. Season your food with lots of spices and herbs, so you're not sacrificing flavor for nutritional content.
Ultimately, you need to consult with a physician to determine whether your vegan keto efforts are worth the work and healthy for your body. Ask your doctor, “Is the keto diet good for you?” and work out a plan together to make sure you're taking good care of your body.
Lifestyle Changes
When you're looking for vegan keto results, knowing what to expect is half the challenge. From keto flu symptoms to meal planning and substituting vegan proteins, any diet changes can start out frustrating.
The weight loss and body transformation don't come until you form habits and stick with the new program.
For more about staying healthy, read some of our other women's fitness articles.]]>
https://onvive.com/blogs/blog/garlic-powder-a-potent-immunity-and-cardiovascular-booster2020-04-27T00:00:00-06:002020-10-12T09:57:04-06:00Garlic Powder: A Potent Immunity and Cardiovascular Boostertest testMore]]>
Ebers Papyrus details over 20 medical uses for it!
Our love for garlic isn't new, that's for certain. But it's not really surprising when you consider its many health benefits. From keeping your heart healthy to fighting colds, it's a wonder vegetable that we all need.
Read on to find out more about the benefits of fresh garlic and garlic powder.
Keep Your Heart Healthy
One of the most potent benefits of garlic is keeping your heart healthy. With heart disease being the leading cause of death, this is something we should all pay more attention too.
Garlic can help your heart in many ways. It's full of antioxidants that can fight free radicals, for example. Free radicals can cause damage to our cells, increasing our risk of heart diseases and other heart problems.
It's also an anticoagulant. This means it thins our blood, which plays a huge part in keeping our heart healthy – and decreases the risk of stroke!
Help Diabetics Stay Safe
Ready for another heart-friendly benefit? This time, it's helping sufferers of diabetes.
This is because garlic can help reduce the chances of cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy is one of the biggest killers for people with diabetes. It's characterised by the thickening, stiffening, and/or enlarging of the heart muscle.
Garlic is a well-known anti-inflammatory because it contains diallyl sulfide. This is essential in fighting cardiomyopathy, keeping the heart valves healthy and everything working as it should
The takeaway? If you're diabetic, eat more garlic! If you're not diabetic, eat more garlic anyway.
Garlic Powder Can Reduce Blood Pressure
We're always hearing about the risks of blood pressure, and there are tons of products out there to help prevent them. But did you know that the humble garlic could be all you need? That and a healthy diet, of course.
This is because garlic boosts our natural production of nitric oxide. When this increases, it relaxes our smooth muscles and lets the blood vessels dilate, reducing blood pressure.
It even looks like garlic can help with both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, which is very impressive.
As we all know, high blood pressure can have some very dangerous consequences, including heart attacks. We should all be doing our best to keep our blood pressure at a normal level, and eating more garlic should help!
Replace Your Nootropic
If you're taking garlic, nootropic supplements might not be needed, or not as much, anyway.
That's because garlic is a natural nootropic. It can help improve your brain function, including boosting memory, creativity, and focus. If you're feeling a little foggy why not try some?
To get the full garlic benefits, we recommend taking an odourless supplement. If you can brave it, try crushing a few cloves of garlic and swallowing with some milk or apple juice.
Garlic's also been linked to reducing memory loss as we age, particularly from diseases like Alzheimer's. It can help improve both short-term and long-term memory, giving our brains a beneficial boost.
Fight Away Colds With Garlic Powder
If you're often sniffling and sneezing when cold season comes around, try adding more garlic to your diet. It's a natural immune booster and can help you fight off pesky germs.
This is because of alliin, which is found in fresh, whole garlic. When crushed or chewed, alliin turns into allicin, which contains sulfur. Fun fact: this is what gives garlic its iconic smell and taste!
Allicin has antifungal and antibacterial properties and can help white blood cells fight away illnesses. In one study, 146 people took either a garlic supplement or placebo. The study lasted for 12 weeks and saw those taking the garlic get far fewer colds – in fact, they decreased by more than half!
It also improved the recovery times for those who did get colds. So, add more garlic to your meals and keep sickness at bay.
Nutritional Benefits of Garlic
Now we know what garlic can do, let's take a closer look at all the amazing vitamins and minerals it contains. These are essential to keeping our body functioning as it should. Here's what's in 2 tablespoons of garlic powder in relation to your daily values:
It also contains small amounts of vitamin C and calcium, amongst plenty of other vitamins and minerals.
Other Health Benefits of Garlic
As an added bonus, we thought we'd run through some of the additional benefits of garlic we've missed here. These include:
Aiding digestion
Reducing the risk of certain cancers
Supporting liver health and function
Regulate levels of blood glucose to help prevent diabetes
With so many benefits, it seems crazy not to start eating more garlic! We recommend adding it as a seasoning to your meals, both fresh and in powder form. You can also take a daily garlic health supplement to easily get some of the benefits.
Learn More About Your Health
At OnVive, we know that eating the right foods can boost your health. Just take a look at all the articles on our blog and you'll quickly see what we mean!
Alongside healthy, natural ingredients, taking supplements is also an amazing and easy way to give yourself a health kick. They can fill your body with the right vitamins and minerals, giving you everything you need to get out there and take on the world.]]>
https://onvive.com/blogs/blog/bacopa-monnieri-benefits-for-memory-and-cognitive-function2020-04-23T00:00:00-06:002020-10-12T09:57:01-06:00Bacopa Monnieri Benefits For Memory And Cognitive Functiontest testMore]]>
jump to 13.2 million.
If you're worried about your cognitive function declining, bacopa monnieri can help. A staple of Ayurvedic medicine, bacopa monnieri benefits brain function by easing stress and anxiety. It can also reduce your risk of certain health conditions, improve your memory, and treat epilepsy.
Curious about the mental and physical benefits of bacopa monnieri? Keep reading to learn more!
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Between work, our home life, raising kids, and paying the bills, little stressors add up throughout the day. That stress can lead to an increase in cortisol; a stress hormone that controls your fears, motivations, and mood.
When your cortisol levels increase, it can have a dangerous impact on your body. Excess cortisol can:
Affect how your body uses carbohydrates, fats, and proteins (leading to weight gain)
Increase inflammation (which can lead to chronic pain)
Cause headaches
Make it difficult to sleep
Cause anxiety and depression
Lead to memory and concentration problems
Bacopa monnieri benefits people who deal with constant stress. As an adaptogenic herb, bacopa is thought to increase your body's resistance to stressors. Bacopa is able to reduce your cortisol levels, which can improve your mood and help you cope with stress.
Bacopa benefits people with anxiety as well. The herb's anti-anxiety effects are similar to the effects of a prescription drug used to treat anxiety called lorazepam.
In one study, healthy patients were asked to perform numerous tasks for the purpose of increasing their anxiety levels. Bacopa extract proved helpful in:
Providing positive cognitive effects
Improving mode levels
Reducing cortisol levels
It's important to note that studies regarding bacopa monnieri and anxiety have provided mixed results. More human studies are needed to determine bacopa's full effect on our stress and anxiety levels.
2. Eases ADHD Symptoms
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Common symptoms include impulsivity, attentiveness, and hyperactivity. Bacopa monnieri might help improve ADHD symptoms such as:
Impulse control
Attention
Cognition
85% of children in the study experienced reduced symptoms after six months of taking bacopa monnieri.
Based on the research, there's some evidence that bacopa could prove useful as a replacement for Adderall. While the research so far looks promising, large-scale studies are necessary to explore bacopa monnieri's success as a treatment for ADHD.
3. Enhances Memory
Evidence also suggests that the herb extract can improve memory during free-recall tests. In this study, participants were able to recall old information and acquire new memories faster after taking bacopa monnieri.
Bacopa monnieri benefits memory retention as well as working, or short-term, memory. As a result, you'll become less likely to forget new information. Instead, you'll become more likely to retain the information long-term.
As a result, more people are using bacopa as a memory supplement.
4. Boost Thyroid Function
When your body doesn't function properly, it can cause stress, anxiety, and other mental strains. For example, many people consider the gut-brain connection, which involves anxiety's link to stomach problems and vice versa. With that in mind, it's also important to understand how bacopa monnieri benefits the body.
For starters, bacopa benefits your body's thyroid function.
The thyroid system secrets hormones that are responsible for regulating vital functions. Without hormones like T3 and T4, your body can't function at its best. As a result, your metabolism can suffer, which could lead to weight gain.
Weight gain, in turn, can lead to lethargy, which can impact your mood.
When your T3 and T4 levels are low, you can experience:
Mood swings
An inability to concentrate
Constipation
As a result, bacopa monnieri's ability to improve your thyroid function can also benefit your mind!
5. Reduces Alzheimer's and Dementia Symptoms
Beta-amyloid plaques can cause blockages between neurons, which can impact your central nervous system's efficiency levels. These plaques contribute to neurodegenerative symptoms that are associated with conditions like Alzheimer's.
Bacopa monnieri might work as a neuroprotective agent that can reduce beta-amyloid levels in your brain. As a result, bacopa could also help reverse the negative symptoms associated with dementia. For example, bacopa's ability to improve long-term memory could prevent a cognitive decline in dementia patients.
However, more human research is necessary before we can use bacopa monnieri as a treatment option.
6. Regulates Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can lead to:
Damaged arteries
A damaged heart
An enlarged heart (which can cause heart failure, arrhythmias, sudden cardiac death, or a heart attack)
A damaged brain
Bacopa monnieri contains compounds that might have antioxidant effects. Antioxidants help protect the body against cell damage, which could prevent:
Heart disease
Diabetes
Certain cancers
Bacopa could prevent fat molecules from reacting to free radicals. This process, called lipid peroxidation, is linked to Alzeheimer's, Parkison's, and other neurodegenerative disorders.
Bacopa's ability to regulate blood pressure levels could improve blood flow and lower your blood pressure. Improving blood flow ensures your body receives the oxygen and nutrients it needs, which can benefit brain function.
7. Lowers Inflammation
Inflammation is the body's natural response to disease. Too much inflammation, however, can cause heart and kidney disease, as well as cancer, diabetes, and chronic pain. Bacopa monnieri benefits patients with chronic inflammation by stimulating an inflammatory immune response.
Chronic inflammation can lead to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. By reducing inflammation, bacopa monnieri benefits both the body and mind!
8. Improves Cognitive Function
In this study, twice-daily treatment using bacopa led to improved cognitive function. Bacopa can help improve mental performance and reduce brain fog.
Students who use bacopa are often less distracted and more focused. As a result, they're able to retain new information faster.
Bacopa benefits students by increasing blood flow to the brain, which delivers more oxygen and vital nutrients to the organ. Bacopa also repairs damaged neurons and generates old brain tissue, which can help you maintain mental acuity.
Healthy Mind, Healthy Body: Bacopa Monnieri Benefits You
A healthy body leads to a healthy mind, and vice versa! By experiencing these eight bacopa monnieri benefits yourself, you can keep your brain sharp and body strong.
Searching for more natural supplements for a healthy body and mind?Explore our shop today to find what you've been looking for!]]>
https://onvive.com/blogs/blog/psyllium-husk-powder-for-improved-gut-health-and-digestion2020-04-21T00:00:00-06:002020-10-12T09:56:57-06:00Psyllium Husk Powder For Improved Gut Health And Digestiontest testMore]]>
twelve percent of the world's population suffers from some level of constipation.
While many people think this is only an uncomfortable inconvenience, constipation can have severe adverse effects on your health. Haemorrhoids, compaction, and rectal prolapse are only a few complications of ongoing constipation.
One way to relieve constipation and regulate digestion is by using psyllium husk powder. But what is psyllium husk powder, and how does it work? Continue reading to find out.
What Is Psyllium Husk Powder?
Psyllium husk powder is a water-soluble plant fibre that has prebiotic effects. These effects can help ease the symptoms of many digestive conditions. It does this by encouraging healthy, regular bowel movements.
How Does It Work?
When psyllium husk powder is ingested, it travels through the stomach and into the intestines. Once it enters the intestines, the powder forms a viscous gel that helps bulk up the stool and bind it together. In turn, this helps move digestion along so people can eliminate their bowels in a reasonable period.
Psyllium Husk Powder Works Best for This
Whether psyllium husk powder is the answer to your digestive woes depends on the root issue. This powder works best for constipation or irregular bowel movements. If your digestive issues are causing diarrhoea or loose stools, this powder will make it worse.
Many digestive conditions can cause constipation. This includes dysbiosis, irritable bowel syndrome, and diverticulitis. It can also include varying forms of intestinal parasites.
Constipation Isn't Always Obvious
It's crucial to note constipation isn't always as obvious as not being able to use the bathroom for days at a time. Some people suffer from mild but chronic constipation and don't even realize it.
If you aren't eliminating your stool at least once a day, this is a sign you suffer from mild, ongoing constipation. Going to the bathroom every other day isn't healthy. Twice a day is ideal.
If you are chronically gassy or your stomach is often distended, these are signs your food isn't digesting properly. Slow digestion often leads to a very gradual elimination of the bowels and, thus, means you're constipated. In these situations, psyllium husk powder is ideal.
A Word of Caution
In most cases, psyllium husk powder is a safe method of regulating bowel movements. Like all supplements, there are a few things to keep in mind before taking it.
There Might Be Mild Side Effects
Taking too much psyllium husk powder means you're likely to suffer some uncomfortable side effects. If this occurs, you'll want to decrease the dosage amount. If side effects are severe, you may want to stop and seek professional advice.
Common side effects of taking too much psyllium husk powder include:
Bloating or a feeling of excessive fullness
Gas or gas bubbles (rumbles inside the stomach or intestines)
General abdominal discomfort
Cramping in the abdominal region
Diarrhoea
These symptoms can usually be lessened by lowering the dosage. It's also important to note frequent stools are common when you first begin the supplement. Another essential tip is talked about in-depth below.
You'll Need to Drink More Water
Water is an essential part of the human diet. Unfortunately, many people aren't getting enough to begin with. When taking psyllium husk powder or any other digestive aid, it becomes even more important to drink enough water.
Drinking enough water will lessen the risks of side effects. It can also help decrease side effects when paired with a lower dosage.
But how much water should you be drinking? It isn't the eight cups a day most people believe but is instead unique to each individual.
The general scientific recommendation begins at thirteen cups for an average, healthy adult male. The suggestion is nine cups for an average, healthy adult female.
You should add at least one cup if you exercise or live in excessively hot or cold regions. Women who are breastfeeding or pregnant should increase their water intake.
Anyone who takes a supplement like psyllium husk powder should also add at least one extra cup of water to their daily routine. This ensures your body has the water it will need to help the powder safely and thoroughly eliminate your bowels.
Don't Take Close to Other Medications or Supplements
If you're taking any other supplements or medications, you don't want to take psyllium husk powder too closely to them. This is because the powder has a binding effect that can reduce the potency of other supplements.
It's recommended to wait at least two hours between taking psyllium husk powder and any other medications or supplements.
How to Use for Improved Digestion
Begin by taking one teaspoon of psyllium husk powder in the morning. It should be mixed into eight ounces of liquid, such as water or juice. Follow this with an extra eight ounces of water.
At the end of the first week, add another teaspoon, so you're taking two in a glass of liquid each morning. At the end of the second week, add a final teaspoon, so you're taking three teaspoons in a glass of liquid each morning.
If you have a sensitive stomach, you can postpone increasing your dose. For individuals with sensitive stomachs, you can add the second teaspoon after two weeks and the third teaspoon after four weeks.
Do You Have More Questions About Psyllium Husk Powder?
Psyllium husk powder improves gut health by alleviating constipation. Although there can be some side effects, it is generally a safe digestive aid for most people.
Do you have more questions about psyllium husk powder or how it works? Contact us today. One of our associates would be happy to answer any questions you still have.
Or, you can check out our other blog posts for more useful information.]]>
https://onvive.com/blogs/blog/unsaturated-fatty-acid-fish-oil-for-mood-balance-and-well-being2020-04-20T00:00:00-06:002020-10-12T09:56:47-06:00Unsaturated Fatty Acid (Fish Oil) for Mood Balance and Well Beingtest testMore]]>
mental health concerns. The bouts of anger, frustration, anxiety and stress eventually cause worse health problems. Several studies show fish oil effectiveness for mental health and general wellbeing.
Fish oil is an unsaturated fatty acid that provides health benefits ranging in their efficacy. It can help with cognition, mood balance, depression reduction and more health problems. Let’s learn more about fish oil and how it can enhance moods and improve the quality of life.
Fish Oil and the Unsaturated Fatty Acids
Many times, health professionals tell people to reduce saturated fats from their diet. These are the fats solid at room temperature. If you go for a health checkup, your doctor will recommend saturated fats for non-saturated fats.
Saturated fats comprise the common unhealthy culprits that many people love. They include foods like red meat, cheese, butter and coconut oil. Giving up cheese or red meat can seem like a punishment but there’s health-sense for the move.
Saturated fats are essential for energy but they can cause weight gain and increase heart diseases risks. If you listen to your doctor, switching to non-saturated fats will be a beneficial step for your health.
Non-saturated fatty acids are made up of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Monounsaturated fats are plant-based. You can find them in avocados, canola oil, almonds, etc.
Polyunsaturated fats include the omega-3 and omega-6 fats. Fish is the most significant source of omega-3 fats essential for the heart’s and the brain’s health. Let’s find out how unsaturated fatty acids (fish oil) can enhance mental health, moods and improve your health.
Fish Oil for Mood Swings
If you’re a woman over a certain age, you might battle mood swings. One minute you’re happy and the next minute you're upset! Things you could handle with ease become frustrating or stressful.
Mood swings are sometimes reasonable but when they persist, they can overwhelm you. You can attribute them to hormonal imbalances, menopause, stress and sometimes pregnancies. They can also be a sign of mental illness.
Health care providers can recommend a healthy diet to ease mood swings. One food or supplement to include in your diet are the unsaturated fatty acids (fish oil). One study shows omega-3 oil can help to cool the symptoms of bipolar disorder.
A sign of bipolar disorder comes with extreme mood swings. Sometimes, bipolar patients can exhibit suicide tendencies. Omega 3 facilitates the movements of serotonin to nerve cells. This relaxes the muscles, induces happiness and contributes to general wellbeing.
Serotonin levels affect many other behaviours that affect wellbeing. More serotonin can also improve sleep, appetite and cognitive functions. Increased serotonin levels lead to balanced moods. Meanwhile, lower serotonin can cause more stress and affect moods negatively.
Unsaturated Fatty Acids (Fish Oil) for the Heart’s Health
Unsaturated fatty acids are the exact opposite of the saturated fats. Where the saturated fats negatively affect the heart, unsaturated fats make it healthier. As you eat more unhealthy fats, the body stores them as triglycerides.
High levels of triglycerides cause weight gain and expose you to heart problems. Unsaturated fatty acids negate the production of the triglycerides, thus lower cholesterol levels.
Here’s proof unsaturated fatty acids are suitable for the heart’s health. In the 1960s, a study on Mediterranean people established that eating fish contributes to fewer coronary diseases.
Fish Oil for Osteoporosis
Past the age of 30, menopause starts to come around and your body undergoes a ton of hormonal changes. Sometimes menstrual cycles may lighten and menstrual pains decrease. There’s no need to worry about most of the body changes happening in your thirties.
During ageing, your body weakens and your bone density drops. Women are even at higher risk of a lower bone density (Osteoporosis) than men.
At youth, higher oestrogen levels contribute to stronger bones. After menopause, the oestrogen levels start to fall. This can cause a sharp decline in bone density.
Health experts recommend increased intake of omega-3 and calcium supplements. Researchers compared the impact of corn oil and fish oil on bone density for six months. The results showed a diet rich in omega-3 oil has more bone strength benefits than the corn oil one.
Besides using calcium, or magnesium for your bones to be healthy, omega-3 is also useful.
Unsaturated Fatty Acids for a Healthier Skin
Beauty shops are typically the first resort for skincare products. Most of the skin’s youthful looks come from nutrient-rich foods such as fatty fish, avocadoes and sweet potatoes.
Omega 3 acids are essential for the health of the skin's cell membrane. If they are abundant in the body, they can cause a supple and wrinkle-free skin. The skin’s water retention levels depend on the levels of fatty acids.
Higher levels of fatty acids prevent water loss and keep the skin from flaking and drying. For many years, beauty experts have recommended omega-3 oils for skincare. Fish oil is now a top ingredient for cosmetic products.
Fish oil’s secret comes from enhancing cell membrane strength. Omega-3 fats increase the cell’s resistance to ultraviolet rays from the sun.
Unsaturated Fatty Acids for Better Sleep
Stress, mood swings and anxiety can detract sleep patterns. As seen earlier, Omega-3 oils can lessen most of the problems that affect sleep patterns. Research shows fish oil influences the hormone responsible for sleep patterns.
Melatonin, also known as the sleep hormone, regulates the body’s activities. In the evening, melatonin levels rise and that triggers us to sleep. If you’re stressed, melatonin levels drop and sleep evades you for hours.
Omega-3 oils work hand in hand with the melatonin for the body’s wellbeing. Melatonin encourages the absorption of the fish oils into the brain. Omega-3 increases the release of melatonin, and that helps to improve sleep.
Add Unsaturated Fatty Acid (Fish Oils) to Your Diet
As you begin to age, unsaturated fatty acid becomes more necessary for your health. Besides mood balancing, there are more health reasons to consume unsaturated fatty acids.
If you'd like to be healthier with youthful skin, add fish oil to your shopping. Sardines, salmons, herring and tuna are also healthy sources of unsaturated fatty acids.
Looking for healthy supplements? Check out our quality supplements in the shop.]]>
https://onvive.com/blogs/blog/osteopenia-preventing-bone-loss-with-vitamin-k2020-04-17T00:00:00-06:002020-10-12T09:56:44-06:00Osteopenia: Preventing Bone Loss With Vitamin Ktest testMore]]>
4.5 million and 6.3 million hip fractures could occur worldwide each year. These injuries are often the result of bone loss due to osteoporosis. Before you develop osteoporosis, however, you'll experience bone loss known as osteopenia.
Osteopenia is most common in people over the age of 50. However, there are steps you can take before you begin to lose bone density. To begin with, you can start taking Vitamin K to strengthen your bones.
Without taking the proper precautions, the loss of bone density could lead to broken bones. By making a few lifestyle and diet changes, you can strengthen your bones and reduce your risk of osteopenia.
Keep reading to learn more.
Osteopenia and Osteoporosis
Losing bone density is a normal part of ageing. Women are more likely to lose bone during the first few years after menopause. Other risk factors that can lead to osteopenia or osteoporosis include:
Taking high-dose steroid tablets for over three months
Medical conditions such as hormone-related or inflammatory conditions
A family history of osteoporosis, including hip fractures
Long-term use of medications that affect bone strength or hormone levels
Eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia
Low body mass index
Heavy drinking or smoking
An unhealthy diet and lack of exercise can lead to osteopenia as well.
Vitamin K and Bone Health
Vitamin K is a group of fat-soluble vitamins that play a role in:
Blood clotting
Bone metabolism
Regulating blood calcium levels
Vitamin K1, or phylloquinone, is plant-based. When you consume plants with vitamin K1, bacteria in your large intestine will convert it into vitamin K2. It's then absorbed in the small intestine and stored in fatty tissue and your liver.
You can also find vitamin K2, or menaquinone, in animal foods and fermented foods.
Without vitamin K, your body can't produce prothrombin. Prothrombin is a clotting factor that's necessary for blood clotting and bone metabolism.
According to one study, daily vitamin K supplementation over two to four years won't protect against age-related decline bone mineral density. However, it can help against fractures and cancers in postmenopausal women with osteopenia.
Vitamin K2 plays a central role in metabolism calcium. Calcium is the main mineral found in your teeth and bones. To build and maintain your bones, vitamin K2 activates the calcium-binding actions of two proteins within your body.
Vitamin K Deficiency
Signs that you're vitamin K deficient include:
Bruising easily
Excessive bleeding
Small blood clots beneath the fingernails
Bleeds in mucous membranes
Stool that appears dark and contains some blood
There are a number of ways you can increase vitamin K within your body. For example, you can take phytonadione, which is vitamin K. Your doctor might also suggest oral medication or injections.
Adding leafy green vegetables can help your body maintain vitamin K levels as well, including:
Broccoli
Brussel sprouts
Kale
Prunes
Turnip greens
Fermented dairy products
Speak with your doctor to determine if you're vitamin K deficient.
Other Ways to Prevent Bone Loss
By 2030, approximately 71.2 million people will have osteoporosis or osteopenia. There are a few lifestyle changes you can make to prevent bone loss before it occurs.
Here are a few ways you can prevent bone loss and minimize the effects of osteopenia:
1. Calcium
Calcium is your greatest ally when it comes to improving your bone density. Remember, calcium makes up most of your bones. It also plays a critical role in preventing bone-related diseases like osteopenia and osteoporosis.
A low-calcium diet could lead to premature bone loss and low bone density.
Try to include calcium-rich foods in your daily diet, including:
Low-fat yoghurt
Leafy greens
Non-fat milk
Tofu
Salmon
Sardines
Dried fruits
Calcium-enriches breakfast cereals
You can also take calcium supplements to strengthen your bone health. Make sure to speak with a doctor first, especially if you're taking medication.
2. Vitamin D
Vitamin D also plays a crucial role in supporting bone health and reducing your risk of osteopenia. Vitamin D can help support your body's absorption of calcium.
Try adding more vitamin D-rich foods in your diet, including:
Eggs
Seafood (swordfish, sardines, salmon)
Fortified foods such as orange juice and cereals
Head outside, too! 10 to 15 minutes in the sun every day will boost your body's natural production of Vitamin D.
3. Soy Protein
Soy contains a compound known as genistein, which can help strengthen your bones. Try adding soy protein to your diet as a protein powder in your morning smoothie. Soy protein can help improve your bone density and prevent bone loss conditions.
Don't forget to make sure your body gets enough calcium each day as well.
4. Potassium
Potassium plays an important part in both bone and muscle health. This nutrient neutralizes acids that eliminate calcium from the body.
You can add potassium to your diet with:
Avocadoes
Apricots
Bananas
Brocolli
Carrots
Dates
Strawberries
Mangoes
Kiwis
Red peppers
Spinach
Swiss chard
Sweet potato
Orange
In addition to helping treat osteopenia, this mineral can help prevent osteoporosis, too.
5. Reduce Caffeine Intake
Too much caffeine can interfere with your body's ability to absorb calcium. Try to limit how much coffee you drink every day. You can always switch to decaf.
6. Magnesium
Magnesium-rich foods can help stimulate calcitonin production, which preserves bone structure by drawing calcium from your soft tissues. Magnesium-rich foods include:
Yoghurt
Pumpkin seeds
Leafy vegetables
Avocadoes
Almonds
Tofu
Bananas
You can also take magnesium supplements.
7. Lower Sodium Intake
Too much salt can add to your risk of bone fragility. A high-salt diet can also increase the risk of breaking a bone among postmenopausal women. Try to limit yourself to less than 1,500 mg of salt daily.
8. Vitamin C
Vitamin C can also help prevent bone mineral density loss. Vitamin C plays a role in synthesizing collagen, which is another main protein in your bones.
Try eating plenty of citrus fruits, broccoli, and bell peppers to get your daily dose of vitamin C.
9. Exercise
Make sure to get plenty of exercise. Remaining physically active can help prevent the loss of bone mineral density. A sedentary lifestyle, on the other hand, will increase your risk of osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Try light weight-bearing exercises, swimming, dancing, or hiking daily.
Reduce Your Risk: Discover the Connection Between Vitamin K and Osteopenia
While losing bone density is a normal part of ageing, there are lifestyle changes you can make to improve your health.
Minimize your risk of developing osteopenia by strengthening your bone density. With vitamin K and the other nutrients mentioned above, you can keep your bones strong and healthy despite old age. You'll no longer have to let potential fractures or frail bones slow you down.
Searching for supplements to improve your overall health? Explore our shop today!]]>
https://onvive.com/blogs/blog/6636-22020-04-16T00:00:00-06:002020-10-12T09:56:40-06:00Valeriana Officinalis As A Sleep Remedy And Anti-Anxiolytictest testMore]]>
one or more symptoms of insomnia several times per week!
If you fall into this category, chances are that you've tried all sorts of pills, potions, and remedies to help you drift off faster and stay asleep through the night. It's also a safe bet that you haven't found much in the way of relief. Or, if you have, you're still concerned about taking sleeping medications that you might get hooked on.
For an all-natural sleep aid that also works during the daytime as an anti-anxiolytic, try valeriana, aka valerian root. Curious to learn more? Read on for a guide to this herb and how it can help you get some ZZZZs!
First Things First, What Is Valeriana?
Valeriana is an herb that has been used since ancient times to promote a feeling of relaxation and/or drowsiness. In fact, we have evidence that it was prescribed as a sleep aid by Roman physician Galen as well as by Hippocrates himself.
The plant itself is a perennial that is native to Asia and Europe. These days, it is cultivated in the United States, Japan, Germany, Eastern Europe, the Netherlands, France, and Belgium. Valeriana grows to heights of 5′ and produces clusters of white or pink flowers.
Valerian can be taken as a tea, tincture, capsule, or tablet.
The Effects of Valeriana on Sleep
The most common reasons to take valerian root are all related to sleep. People who have trouble falling asleep, who have poor quality of sleep, and who wake in the middle of the night and can't drop back off to sleep may find that valerian helps them.
Most of the scientific research surrounding this herb has also concentrated on its use as a sleep aid. Some studies have shown that taking 400 to 900 milligrams of valerian extract, approximately two hours before bedtime, works best. Taken in this manner, it can reduce the time it takes a person to fall asleep by up to 20 minutes.
That's a big difference for insomniacs!
It's important to understand that valerian root might not take effect immediately. Research suggests that it can take continuous use, for up to four weeks, before its full potential can be realized.
Another aspect of valerian for sleep is that it won't work as quickly as prescription sleeping pills usually do. If an individual is trying to wean themselves off addictive prescription sleep medications by using valerian, they may very well become discouraged. So doctors and herbalists who recommend valeriana tell their patients to be patient!
Valerian Root As an Anti-Anxiolytic
Is this herb also helpful for anxiety and psychological stress? The jury is still out.
This use of valerian root has not been studied anywhere near as extensively as its use for insomnia. Nevertheless, some initial research does suggest that this alternative remedy can be helpful for people who have anxiety.
There is evidence that valerian root can help with anxiety due to acute stress in addition to chronic disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder. What's more, it does not present the same risk of side effects as pharmaceutical drugs that are commonly prescribed for those conditions.
Perimenopausal Symptoms May Be Eased By Valerian
One of the major symptoms of perimenopause, which is defined as the period leading up to menopause in middle-aged women, is hot flashes, sometimes known as hot flushes. Not every woman gets these, but those who do can try taking 675 to 1000 milligrams of valerian root daily for eight weeks. That dosage has been shown to reduce both the severity and frequency of hot flashes.
Maintain Good Sleep Hygiene
Valerian root may be very effective at helping you fall asleep, but it's always a good idea to maintain good sleep hygiene. That will set you up for the best possible outcome, whether you take a supplement or medication or not.
Best practices for a good night's rest include:
Keeping your bedroom dark and cool
Using your bed only for sleep and intimacy
Getting regular aerobic exercise, but not within two hours of bedtime
Switching off electronics at least one hour before bed, or using blue shade if you absolutely must use your devices
Avoiding alcoholic beverages for a few hours before bed
Avoiding caffeine in the afternoon and evening
Going to bed at the same time every day, and getting up at the same time every morning
Many people also find it helpful to establish a bedtime routine. This could include gentle yoga or stretching, a warm bath or shower, a relaxing cup of herbal tea, and meditating. By doing the same activities in the evening hours, you are “training” your body to expect sleep to follow.
Side Effects of Valerian Root
Most side effects of herbal supplements are mild, and valeriana is no exception. However, some people do experience some side effects. These may include headache, uneasiness, stomach upset, and grogginess or sluggishness, especially in the morning after taking it. Dry mouth and vivid, even upsetting dreams can be other effects of valerian.
If you experience these, or any adverse effects, try lowering the dose before you discontinue using the herb altogether.
Lastly, know that there may be some mild withdrawal symptoms associated with the sudden discontinuation of taking valerian root. If you want to stop taking it, taper off gradually over a week or so.
Will You Try Valerian?
All in all, valeriana is considered relatively safe and has few, if any, side effects. Whether it works for your insomnia or anxiety is impossible to predict, but there is so little risk that it's worth trying.
Have you ever taken a supplement to help you with sleep? Have you tried valerian root?
What are your best tips for combatting insomnia? Leave a comment below and let us know what your experience has been!]]>
https://onvive.com/blogs/blog/glycine-supplementation-for-improved-sleep-and-other-benefits2020-04-15T00:00:00-06:002020-10-12T09:56:36-06:00Glycine Supplementation for Improved Sleep and Other Benefitstest testMore]]>
It can help with a host of issues, from lack of sleep to schizophrenia-related symptoms. Surprisingly, most people have never even heard of it!
If you're looking for a supplement that offers more than just a good night's sleep, glycine may be for you. Keep reading to find out.
What Is Glycine?
Glycine is a “non-essential” amino acid. It enters your body through foods heavy in protein, like fish, dairy, and meat.
Glycine is used by the body to make proteins. It enhances transmissions in the brain and improves your memory. It may also help prevent cancer, and protect the kidneys from abuse from alcohol and drugs.
Most people intake around two grams of glycine per day through their food.
Glycine as a Sleep Aid
Most people use glycine supplements to achieve better sleep.
Glycine fights insomnia by boosting serotonin levels. It also helps you achieve a deeper, more relaxing sleep. Just take around three grams before bed and you'll notice the effects.
One way glycine achieves this is by lowering your core body temperature. It hooks onto your NMDA receptors and changes your circadian rhythm like melatonin.
Sleep is linked to core body temperature. A lower core temperature means a night of deeper sleep.
Glycine could be extremely beneficial if you suffer from insomnia. It can help you catch up on sleep after a few nights of restlessness. Glycine will help you wake up more rested, and help keep you in REM sleep throughout the night.
The generally accepted dosage for sleep aide is three grams. These should be taken without food, shortly before bed.
Glycine and Schizophrenia
Some people believe glycine helps deter schizophrenia.
People with schizophrenia have fewer NMDA receptors than those without. That means their brains are producing less glycine. Some researchers believe this is a key factor in what causes schizophrenia.
Glycine mimics NMDA in the brain. Giving it to schizophrenics effectively works as an antipsychotic.
Multiple trials have been held where schizophrenics were given high doses of glycine. Each of these trials found a reduction in schizophrenia symptoms when given glycine. Further studies are needed to solidify this theory, but it's looking good so far.
Of course, you should always consult a doctor before giving a schizophrenic glycine. It may conflict with their current treatment. If you want to give glycine to a schizophrenic loved one, mention it at their next appointment.
Glycine and Creatine
Glycine is one of three essential amino acids that makes creatine.
Creatine is used when your body exerts short bursts of energy. That means weightlifting, sprinting, jumping, and a host of other activities. Taking glycine may help you build muscle and increase your creatine output.
If you're preparing for a race or a big game, consider adding glycine to your diet.
It's best to take glycine in creatine form when using it for weight training. You can get creatine supplements from the same places you might get glycine. The body also makes creatine naturally, so the more glycine you get the more creatine your body will make.
Glycine can also help reduce muscle loss and muscle wasting. If you have cancer or you're simply ageing, you may experience muscle waste. That just means a general reduction in muscle mass and strength.
Glycine stimulates muscle growth and fights muscle breakdown. In one study, it was shown to be more effective than leucine, a commonly used supplement for muscle growth. Whether you're a bodybuilder or a cancer patient, glycine may be able to help you.
Glycine and the Liver
One of the most interesting things glycine does is protect your liver.
Glycine has been shown to reduce liver damage due to drinking and drugs. It does this by preventing inflammation and stimulating alcohol metabolism in the stomach. Usually, alcohol is metabolized in the liver, but glycine hurries that process up.
Not only does glycine protect the liver while drinking, but it also helps repair it after drinking.
Researchers have studied glycine's effects on the liver using rats. They saw the alcohol-damaged liver cells repair 30% faster in rats given glycine. There haven't been any extensive tests on humans, but it still looks good.
If you're worried about liver damage, try mixing glycine into your diet.
Glycine and Heart Disease
Glycine could help protect from heart disease.
Glycine prevents compounds that narrow and harden arteries, which leads to atherosclerosis. It allows the body to use nitric oxide better, increasing blood pressure and flow. That means an overall healthier heart.
People with higher glycine levels are considered less at risk of a heart attack. These same people have more desirable blood cholesterol profiles. Rats fed high amounts of sugar saw significant improvements when given glycine.
Glycine and Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes leads to a lack of insulin in the body. It also leads to lower glycine levels.
Glycine actually increases insulin production in people with or without diabetes. Considering this, it can be a great help for those with Type 2 diabetes. It can also help fight against diabetes for those who might be at risk.
Glycine is not a replacement for exercise and a good diet. If you have type 2 diabetes, you should not use it as a cure-all. But mixing it into your healthy diet could make a big difference.
Give Glycine a Go
If you suffer from insomnia or any of the issues above, you might want to give glycine supplements a try.
Glycine may not be the most well-known supplement, but it's certainly one of the most promising. Despite a lack of human trials, glycine has been shown to be harmless and side-effect free. You have nothing to lose by mixing glycine into your routine.
If you're looking for a reliable supplement supplier, see what we can do for you. Contact us with any comments or questions.]]>
https://onvive.com/blogs/blog/pure-water-as-the-source-weight-loss-well-being-and-health2020-04-14T00:00:00-06:002020-10-12T09:56:27-06:00Pure Water As The Source: Weight Loss, Well Being And Healthtest testMore]]>
You need to make sure you’re drinking the right kind of water. Scientists around the world have proven again and again that pure water is the best option.
What is pure water, though? What makes it better than “regular” water? Why do you need to drink it?
To answer these questions, we conducted our own research. According to experts, there are essentially three different types of water. These are pure, distilled, and regular.
Pure Water
Pure water, or purified water, is any water that has been chemically treated or filtered to remove pollution, metal particles, and microbial beings. Unfortunately, purified water isn’t readily available in most countries. Recent studies suggest that at least 2 billion people around the world have no access to pure water.
There is also no global definition of what standards that pure water must meet. Government requirements for pure water in one country might not be the same as the requirements for another. For example, what Japan considers purified water may not even be deemed distilled in Australia.
Distilled Water
Distilled water is extra-pure water. Surprisingly, it’s much easier to create than normal purified water. Instead of undergoing physical or chemical processing, the water in this method is boiled until it becomes steam. Then, the steam is collected and allowed to cool until it returns to a liquid state.
Doctors and other medical professionals usually prefer distilled water because it has no chemical additives. It’s also what we recommend you drink to live your happiest, healthiest life.
Regular Water
Regular water is everything else. The only trait that regular drinking water must have is that it is, in fact, drinkable. In other words, this category excludes salt-water and polluted water.
This broad definition is problematic because it creates significant gaps between cultures, both on a national and regional level. Is regular water tap water? Is it well water? Is it river water? It all depends on the focus area.
Weight Loss
Pretty much everyone knows that water intake is vital for weight loss, but not everyone knows why. Fortunately, the science is relatively easy to explain.
Wash Away the Fat
First, the way water behaves in your body is the same way it acts in a cleaning apparatus. In other words, it flushes the junk away and leaves behind a cleaner surface. This doesn’t happen as effectively in the body as it does a washer—an extra glass of water won’t erase years of fatty buildup in the arteries—but the principle is the same.
Increase Your Energy
Second, hydration is correlated with energy and performance. Our bodies consist mainly of water, so it stands to reason that water is one of our primary energy sources.
Exertion can also make our bodies overheat, and water is a great way to cool down. Also, scientists have proven that dehydration can cause decreased focus, poor motivation, and memory loss. Staying hydrated helps avoid all of these problems.
Speed Up Your Metabolism
Drinking more water can also increase your metabolism. This is especially true for women in their 40s and older. As women age, their hormone levels naturally fluctuate. This results in decreased metabolism.
Your doctor may suggest medications or increased exercise to combat this issue, but drinking more water may be an easier solution.
Overall Health and Well-Being
Weight loss isn’t the only health benefit of drinking water, purified or otherwise.
Increased water intake flushes away the impurities in your skin that cause acne. Water also fights wrinkles and dark spots. Increased hydration means a more youthful appearance. Water doesn’t work as quickly or as drastically as collagen implants do, but it doesn’t require needles or surgery, either.
Water also regulates brain activity. Like every organ and muscle in the human body, the brain requires hydration to function properly.
In clinical studies, dehydration has been linked with multiple health conditions, including severe headaches and vision damage. These typically last only a short duration, but they are significant health issues nonetheless.
Finally, water helps to cleanse the digestive tract. We won’t go into great detail in this article—if you want to know the gross intricacies, you can find a thorough description here.
Potential Issues with Pure Water and Distilled Water
On our site, we advocate drinking pure water. Not everyone shares our opinion, though. In addition to issues with accessibility and definitions of “purity”, some people aren’t comfortable with purified water health.
Fluoride
Most of the world’s purified water becomes purified via chemical processing. The most common chemical added to purified water is fluoride.
Initially, we added fluoride to the purification process to improve dental health. Because toothpaste and toothbrushes were often luxuries, adding fluoride to water seemed the only probable way to fight poor dental hygiene.
Nowadays, though, most people, even in developing countries, have access to basic dental care. Many point to this as a reason to remove fluoride from water systems. New wave naturalists are especially convinced that added fluoride is problematic.
Too Expensive
Money is the most significant issue with water purification.
Developing countries without a government-funded water purification system would have to invest millions (if not billions) of dollars in implementing such a program. Even if a developing country wanted to establish water purification at an individual level, it would cost hundreds of dollars per person. In most regions that don’t already have purified water, this is an impossible expense.
Other Influencing Factors
Weight loss and overall health both start with drinking pure water, but they don’t end there. Numerous other factors influence your ability to stay in shape.
One of these is maintaining a healthy immune system. This seems obvious—getting sick is the exact opposite condition of being healthy—but it’s still important to emphasise.
If you want to learn more about changes you can make to create a healthier life, contact us here. We are more than happy to help you find the right path.]]>