Salt is a seasoning that can flavor food and act as a preservative. It’s about 60% chloride and about 40% sodium. Nearly all unprocessed foods – think veggies, fruits, nuts, meats, whole grains, and dairy foods – are low in sodium....Read Full Article>>

The salt that we do eat helps relax and contract muscles, lends a hand with nerve impulses, and balances the minerals and water we take in Our body needs only a small amount of sodium. We should get about 1,500 milligrams of it every day. But the average American takes in about 3,400. Too much salt can lead to a stroke, heart disease, and high blood pressure. But how do you know if you take in too much salt

YOU’RE BLOATED

Bloating – when your stomach feels swollen or tight – is one of the most common short-term effects of having too much salt. It helps your body retain water, so extra fluid builds up. Foods don’t have to taste salty for them to be high in sodium. Sandwiches, pizza, bagels, and canned soup can be sneaky sources for salt.

YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE IS HIGH

There are lots of reasons you might have high blood pressure, but one could be too much sodium. The change in blood pressure happens through your kidneys. Too much salt makes it harder for them to get rid of fluid that you don’t need. As a result, your blood pressure goes up.

YOU’RE PUFFY

Swelling can be a sign of too much sodium in your body. Body parts like your face, hands, feet, and ankles are most likely to swell. If you’re more puffy than usual, take a look at how much salt you’re eating.

YOU’RE REALLY THIRSTY

If you’ve been really thirsty lately, it could be a sign that you’re eating too much salt. When that happens, you become dehydrated. Your body pulls water from your cells, and you might start to feel very thirsty. Drinking water can help neutralize that salt and can freshen up your cells.

YOU’VE GAINED WEIGHT

When you retain water, you might gain weight. If you’ve put on pounds quickly over a week or even a few days, it could be because you’re having too much salt. If you gain more than 2 pounds in a day or 4 pounds in a week, think back to the foods you ate during the past few days and try to make changes to cut down on the salt.

YOU USE THE RESTROOM A LOT

More salt could lead to more trips to the bathroom. This could be because salt can make you very thirsty, which might encourage you to drink more water. Later on, you might have to go to the bathroom more than usual.

YOU AREN’T SLEEPING WELL

If you eat too much salt before bed, it can lead to disturbances in your sleep. Signs can range from restless sleep, to waking up often at night, to not feeling rested in the morning.

YOU FEEL WEAK

When there’s too much salt in your blood, water gushes out of your cells to thin out the salt. The result? You might start to feel weaker than usual.

YOUR STOMACH BOTHERS YOU

If too much salt in your diet makes you dehydrated, your stomach will feel it. You might feel nauseated, or you might have diarrhea. If your stomach is upset or you have cramps, take a look at what you’ve been eating during the past few days and figure out how to cut back on the salt. Drinking plenty of water can help rehydrate your cells and get you feeling better.

LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF TOO MUCH SALT

Although there are lots of short-term effects to watch out for, there are also long-term effects of eating too much salt. It might raise your chances of things like enlarged heart muscle, headaches, heart failure, high blood pressure, kidney disease, kidney stones, osteoporosis, stomach cancer, and stroke.

HOW TO CUT DOWN

ON SALT

Since 9 out of 10 Americans get too much sodium, chances are, you might take in too much as well.

To help keep your levels in check: • Choose fresh meats instead of packaged ones • When you buy frozen vegetables, choose ones that are “fresh frozen” and stay away from ones with seasoning or sauces already added • Read labels and check the sodium content in the foods you buy • When choosing spices and seasonings, go for ones that do not list sodium on their labels • If you eat out, you can ask for your dish to be prepared without salt.

Blame it on bad eating habits, seasonal change or allergens, stomach infection is undeniably an unnerving experience, which can take a toll on overall health and metabolism.....Read Full Article>>

In fact, most people consume medications for that instant relief, but you will be amazed to know that there are certain kitchen essentials that can help in healing the infection naturally.

Here are eight simple remedies you can try at home.

1. Ginger tea

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Drinking ginger tea can help soothe the stomach lining and reduce nausea. Simply boil a few slices of fresh ginger in water for 10-15 minutes, strain, and enjoy it warm. Adding honey or lemon can enhance the flavor and benefits.

2. Garlic

Garlic acts as a natural antibiotic, helping to combat bacteria and strengthen the immune system. Consuming 1-2 raw garlic cloves on an empty stomach can be effective. If the taste is too strong, try mixing it with honey or incorporating it into your meals for added flavor.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) possesses antibacterial properties and can help restore the stomach’s pH balance. Mixing 1-2 tablespoons of ACV in a glass of warm water and drinking it before meals can aid digestion and reduce discomfort.

4. Turmeric milk

Turmeric contains curcumin, known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. To make turmeric milk, mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk. Sweeten with honey if desired, and enjoy this soothing drink once daily for relief.

5. Bananas

Bananas are easy to digest and can help replenish lost electrolytes. They are a part of the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast), which is often recommended for gastrointestinal issues. Eating a ripe banana can provide quick relief from nausea and diarrhea.

6. Cumin seeds

Cumin seeds have antimicrobial properties that can aid digestion and reduce bloating. To use them, boil 1-2 teaspoons of cumin seeds in water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink the infusion, or add cumin to your meals for a flavorful health boost.

7. Yogurt

Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which help restore the natural balance of gut bacteria after an infection. Consuming plain, unsweetened yogurt can be beneficial. Aim for one serving daily, and you can mix in honey or fruits for added taste and nutrition.

8. Fennel seeds

Fennel seeds have carminative properties that can alleviate gas and bloating. Chewing on a teaspoon of fennel seeds after meals can provide digestive relief. Alternatively, steep fennel seeds in hot water to make a soothing tea.

In our quest for health and resilience, bolstering the immune system stands at the forefront. A well-functioning immune system is essential to fend off infections, reduce recovery time, and maintain overall vitality. While lifestyle factors like adequate sleep, exercise, and stress management play a vital role, nature offers a wealth of nutrients and remedies that help to enhance immune function. Here’s a closer look at some of the top natural immune boosters that can be seamlessly integrated into daily routines.....Read Full Article>>

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most well-known immune-boosting nutrients. Found abundantly in citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, as well as in strawberries, kiwi, and bell peppers, it plays an essential role in supporting the function of immune cells and protecting them from free radical damage. Vitamin C also enhances the body’s ability to produce antibodies, which are proteins that help identify and neutralise pathogens.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that is crucial in maintaining immune function. Found in nuts, seeds, chickpeas, and lean meats, zinc supports immune cell development and helps the body’s immune response. It’s particularly effective at combating respiratory infections and maintaining mucosal membranes, which serve as the body’s first line of defence.

Ginger

Ginger has long been revered in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains compounds like gingerol, which help to combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, both of which can have a positive impact on immune health. Fresh ginger tea, grated ginger in meals, or even ginger shots can be refreshing and immune-boosting options.

Garlic

Garlic is known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. This kitchen staple contains allicin, a compound released when garlic is crushed or chopped, which boosts immune cell function and helps fight off colds and infections. Research suggests garlic can reduce the severity and frequency of colds when consumed regularly.

Turmeric

Turmeric, a golden spice commonly used in South Asian cuisine, contains curcumin, which has impressive anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin is known to help activate immune cells and increase the body’s antibody responses, which can help prevent infections and support immune health.

Hydration

Finally, staying well-hydrated is critical for overall health, including immune function. Water helps in the production of lymph, which carries white blood cells and other immune system cells throughout the body. Herbal teas, natural fruit-infused water, or a simple glass of water can make a big difference.