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<h2>What are Marionette Lines?</h2>Marionette lines, or vertical wrinkles, form between the mouth and chin beside your lips. You can also call them smiling or laughing lines.&nbsp;Let's help you get rid of these depressing lines with the help of the best facial exercises for lines around the mouth.<h2>Marionette Lines vs Nasolabial Folds</h2>Ever wondered what sets marionette lines apart from nasolabial folds? Both of them are facial wrinkles that appear with age, but marionette lines run from the corners of your mouth to your chin, while nasolabial folds extend from the sides of your nose to the corners of your mouth.“Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been.” - Mark Twain.Nasolabial folds deepen with laughter, while the appearance of marionette lines is mainly caused by natural ageing, resulting in loss of skin elasticity and collagen, which can create a puppet-like appearance.Marionette lines become more prominent with ageing and due to gravity, while nasolabial folds are more noticeable over time in people with expressive facial movements.<h2>What Causes Marionette Lines?</h2>Marionette lines or melomental folds are often seen in people as they age. However, some might be more prone to these creases or might have more visible, deeper lines, and can contribute to a downturned mouth, giving them a sad or exhausted look.The factors that contribute to the development of&nbsp; marionette lines are:<ul><li>Natural Ageing Process: As you age, your skin produces less collagen, which leads to a loss of elasticity and firmness. &nbsp;</li><li>Effect of Gravity: The effects of gravity on your skin become visible over time. The downward pull on your skin leads to sagging, especially around your lower face. &nbsp;</li><li>Repetitive Facial Expressions: Continuously pursing your lips, frowning, or other expressions you make out of habit can gradually lead to marionette lines. &nbsp;</li><li>Genetics: Some people may develop marionette lines earlier because of genetic factors. If your parents or grandparents have marionette lines, you are likely to have them, too, over time. &nbsp;</li><li>Lifestyle Factors: Factors like smoking, exposure to sun rays, a poor diet which lacks essential nutrients, and dehydration can cause damage to your skin and accelerate skin ageing, making it sag faster and form wrinkles, including marionette lines. &nbsp;</li><li>Stress and Poor Sleep: Too much stress and inadequate sleep can also accelerate ageing and cause skin sagging.</li></ul><h2>Does Sleeping Position Affect Marionette Lines?</h2>Yes, your sleeping position may create marionette lines over time. Positions that create more constant pressure and friction, such as sleeping on your side or on the stomach, cause repeated creasing of the skin.&nbsp;Eventually, constant pressure can weaken skin elasticity and cause these wrinkles to be more prominent.&nbsp;How do you stop this? Sleeping on your back does not create pressure on the face. Sleeping in this position can avoid the early appearance of marionette lines.<h2>Face Yoga for Marionette Lines: 8 Powerful Exercises</h2>Relax and calmly learn how to perform each step of these unique face yoga exercises with us.&nbsp;<h3>O-Shape-Exercise</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/O_Shape_Exercise_baea5d0433.jpg" alt="O-Shape-Exercise.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_O_Shape_Exercise_baea5d0433.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_O_Shape_Exercise_baea5d0433.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">‘O’ shape exercise will tighten the muscles around your lips. Moreover, it acts as an excellent exercise for lip wrinkles too.<h4>How to Perform?</h4><ul><li>Make an O shape with your mouth.</li><li>With your index fingers, tap both sides of your mouth.</li><li>Move the fingers from your lips to your cheeks (in the upward direction.)&nbsp;</li><li>Practise the same movement for five minutes.</li></ul><h3>Smile Lifter</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Smile_Lifter_0b2cbaedca.jpg" alt="Smile Lifter.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Smile_Lifter_0b2cbaedca.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Smile_Lifter_0b2cbaedca.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">A smile lifter will naturally lift the corners of your mouth and tone the cheek muscles. It is one of the core face yoga exercises for marionette lines.<h4>What Should You Do?</h4><ul><li>Move your jaw forward.</li><li>Curl your lips over your teeth.</li><li>Smile and keep the corners of your lips at the same level.</li><li>Lift your chin and try to touch your tongue to the roof of your mouth.</li><li>Hold the position for 10 seconds.</li><li>Repeat the same a few times.</li></ul><h3>Cheek Lifter</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/cheek_Lifter_0f6ad562d2.jpg" alt="cheek Lifter.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_cheek_Lifter_0f6ad562d2.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_cheek_Lifter_0f6ad562d2.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">The face yoga technique of the cheek lifter will help pull up muscles responsible for the depressing marionette lines. Toning these muscles helps you erase your marionette lines.<h4>How Can You Perform?</h4><ul><li>Cover your cheeks with your palms.</li><li>With all four fingers, push on the side of your lips.</li><li>Curl your lips inwards over your teeth.</li><li>Lift your cheeks as you smile.</li><li>Inhale and keep in position for 5-10 seconds.</li><li>Repeat this five times.</li></ul><h3>Pencil Technique</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Pencil_Technique_0c69ceedeb.jpg" alt="Pencil Technique.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Pencil_Technique_0c69ceedeb.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Pencil_Technique_0c69ceedeb.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">The said face yoga technique engages the muscles around your lips, chin, and neck, helping them become more toned and flexible. If you have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-smoking-cessation/article/abs/cigarette-smoking-and-facial-wrinkles-a-review-of-the-literature/1F8FA1EB004A15BFC70FF9C826055D25">smoker lines</a>, you should practise this technique of face yoga for smoker lines.<h4>How to Perform?</h4><ul><li>Purse your lips to hold the pencil between.</li><li>Now, try to move your jaw forward and backwards.</li><li>Tilt your face upwards to the left.</li><li>Hold for 5 seconds.</li><li>Now, turn to the right and hold for 5 seconds.</li><li>Repeat three times.</li></ul><h3>Puffy Cheeks</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Puffy_Cheeks_0d05647c4e.jpg" alt="Puffy Cheeks.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Puffy_Cheeks_0d05647c4e.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Puffy_Cheeks_0d05647c4e.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">The puffy cheeks facial yoga exercise lifts and fends your cheeks by stimulating circulation. Further, you're in for a bonus. It will definitely help with all the pesky wrinkles around your mouth.<h4>What Should You Do?</h4><ul><li>Fill your mouth with air and puff your cheeks.</li><li>Place one of your palms on your lips.</li><li>Tap your puffed cheeks gently with the fingertips of your other hand.</li><li>Carry the process out for both your cheeks for 30 seconds each.</li></ul><h3>Tongue Stretch</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tongue_Stretch_1eb2f24c9a.jpg" alt="Tongue Stretch.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tongue_Stretch_1eb2f24c9a.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tongue_Stretch_1eb2f24c9a.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Tongue stretch is a tension stretch you feel around your mouth when the muscles work well. So, the tension around the mouth gets reduced. It works as a great facial exercise for jowls and facial lines.<h4>What Should You Do?</h4><ul><li>Extend your tongue outside like a lion as far as possible. In other words, you should touch your chin with your tongue.</li><li>Hold in the position for 10 seconds.</li><li>You can feel the stretch around your mouth.</li><li>Repeat this for at least five times.</li></ul><h3>Jawline Definer</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Jawline_Definer_b0b3b35255.jpg" alt="Jawline Definer.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Jawline_Definer_b0b3b35255.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Jawline_Definer_b0b3b35255.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Along with working on marionette lines, jawline definer helps you define your jawline.<h4>What are the Steps to Perform?</h4><ul><li>Tilt your head backwards and lift your chin.</li><li>Close your mouth and move your jaw forward.</li><li>Hold for 5 seconds.</li><li>Come back to the starting position.</li><li>Repeat this movement ten times.</li></ul><h3>The 'L' Shape and Lift</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/The_L_Shape_and_Lift_10ce20d4c7.jpg" alt="The _L_ Shape and Lift.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_The_L_Shape_and_Lift_10ce20d4c7.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_The_L_Shape_and_Lift_10ce20d4c7.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Practising the' L' shape and lift face yoga exercises encourages your lips to go upwards instead of downwards. Thus, it makes them one of the best facial exercises for marionette lines. After all, strengthening the muscles between your lips and chin can also help tone your lower jaw.&nbsp;<h4>How Can You Perform Them?</h4><ul><li>Make an L shape with your thumb and fingers of both hands at a 90-degree angle to each other on your face. How? The answer is by placing the fingers on each of your cheeks and the thumbs on your chin, touching each other.</li><li>Pull the cheeks a little backwards without much pressure.</li><li>Press your lips against each other as you do the above step.</li><li>Hold this for 15 seconds.</li><li>Relax and repeat at least five times.</li></ul>You can strengthen all the muscles causing marionette lines by doing all the above exercises. Doing so can beautify your smile naturally.&nbsp;<h2>Preparation Before the Exercises</h2>Sit in a comfortable place and relax. It's best if you keep the environment around you calm.<ul><li>Take a few deep breaths and release tension.</li><li>Massage gently using your two fingers on your chin, cheeks and temples for 5 seconds each.</li><li>Relax and retake a few deep breaths.</li></ul><h2>Daily Face Yoga Routine to Smooth Marionette Lines</h2>Let us give you an idea about how to practise these face yoga exercises daily. Here you go!<h3>Morning Smile with Morning Sunshine</h3><ul><li>Cleanse with a hydrating cleanser.</li><li>Wake your muscles up with an easy face yoga routine.</li><li>What could this easy-peasy routine be? Add cheek puffs, smile lifter and cheek lift.</li><li>Apply a natural toner that can balance your skin's pH.</li><li>Apply a natural face serum rich in antioxidants.</li><li>In the end, apply a good sunscreen with an SPF of 50.</li></ul>P.S. Always use skincare products that suit your skin type. If you're trying on a new one, ensure you do a patch test on your inner elbow.

The most natural way of practising face yoga is by adding ayurvedic essential oils. Try adding face yoga ayurvedic oils like kumkumadi oil for the added benefit of nourishment and relaxation,

<pre><code class="language-plaintext">cta-dynamic</code></pre><h3>Mid-Day Smile Lifter</h3><ul><li>Hydrate your skin once in a while between your daily chores.</li><li>Use a good facial mist that contains rose water or chamomile for a refreshing twist.</li><li>Do some 'O' shape facial yoga exercises.</li></ul><h3>Evening Routine&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Cleanse and remove your makeup. Detoxify your skin of the impurities of the day.</li><li>Practise face yoga for marionette lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, and other skin care concerns. Doing so will also help you release muscle tension.</li><li>Apply a natural toner to relax your skin and replenish it.</li></ul><h3>Before Bed Relaxation</h3><ul><li>Do face massage with a natural face oil or serum before sleeping. Doing so will help you enhance blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.</li><li>It is essential to relax your body into sleep. You can perform gentle breathwork exercises before you hit the sheets.</li><li>Further, hydrate yourself with a glass of water.</li><li>Lastly, sleep on your back to minimise face wrinkles and creases caused by pillow pressure.</li></ul><h2>The Key Takeaways</h2>The face yoga exercises for<a href="https://nirvahealth.typeform.com/to/jqBFOlrx?utm_source=faceyoga_blog_cat"> marionette lines l</a>isted above can help strengthen the facial muscles. Yes, where marionette lines often appear, thereby reducing the appearance of such lines and helping to lift your smile naturally. It will be best if you are consistent with this routine. Why? So that your facial muscles work efficiently to make your skin firm.&nbsp;These face yoga exercises for lines around the mouth are simple, non-invasive and worth every effort to practise.

8 Effective Face Yoga Exercises to Reduce Marionette Lines Naturally

Plan Your Healthy Holiday Season With Nirva!

Delicious and Healthy Holiday Recipes Spiced Up by Ayurveda

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<h2>Tip 1: Embrace the Season, But Set Boundaries</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tip_1_Embrace_the_Season_but_Set_Boundaries_33127b860b.jpg" alt="Tip 1_ Embrace the Season, but Set Boundaries.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tip_1_Embrace_the_Season_but_Set_Boundaries_33127b860b.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tip_1_Embrace_the_Season_but_Set_Boundaries_33127b860b.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Is the season too festive to resist? You absolutely deserve to enjoy every moment as it comes just once a year. But by setting a few boundaries, you can enjoy the season even more by staying healthy and active.It is all about maintaining the balance by enjoying the festivities without overindulgence, savouring the food without guilt and celebrating without feeling drained.&nbsp;What boundaries can you set?&nbsp;<h3>1. Indulge in Treats, Mindfully</h3>Ayurveda states that mindful eating helps in better digestion and absorption of nutrients, and improves your overall well being.<ul><li>Avoid eating till you are completely full. Instead, stop just before you reach that level of fullness.</li><li>Focus on the flavours and richness of the food on your plate – avoid looking at the TV or scrolling through your phone while eating.</li><li>Do not eat your food in a hurry or too slowly or while talking or laughing.</li><li>Consume your food when it is still warm. This helps in better digestion.</li></ul><h3>2. Prioritise Sleep</h3>Do not miss out on the festivities – prioritising your sleep can give your body the rest it requires and keep you refreshed and energised the following day.&nbsp;<h3>3. Manage Stress</h3>With all your friends and family coming together for the holiday season, organising everything can sometimes lead to stress. However, it can be managed by practising <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/manage-stress-healthier-mind-and-body-techniques-and-tips">stress-relieving techniques</a> like breathing exercises, yoga and meditation.&nbsp;<h2>Tip 2: Nourish Your Body</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/nourish_your_body_b8a311af3f.jpg" alt="nourish your body.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_nourish_your_body_b8a311af3f.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_nourish_your_body_b8a311af3f.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Even while indulging in all the delicious and flavourful foods during the holiday season, it is essential to keep your body nourished. Here’s how:<ul><li>Choose comforting foods like warm soups and stews.&nbsp;</li><li>Enjoy your meals while they’re still warm – this enhances the flavours and also aids in digestion.</li><li>Use digestion-promoting Ayurvedic herbs like <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23612703/">ginger</a>, turmeric, pepper and fennel in your recipes or use them to prepare herbal teas. Sipping these teas in between your meals can prevent gas formation and bloating and ensures proper digestion of food.</li></ul><h2>Tip 3: Create a Calming Atmosphere</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tip_3_Create_a_Calming_Atmosphere_1e86ca79f8.jpg" alt="Tip 3_ Create a Calming Atmosphere.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tip_3_Create_a_Calming_Atmosphere_1e86ca79f8.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tip_3_Create_a_Calming_Atmosphere_1e86ca79f8.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Wouldn’t it be nice to have a calm and cosy spot for yourself amidst all the hustle and bustle of the festive season?Create a space where you can relax – that is free from noise and well-ventilated. You can also use calming essential oils like lavender or rose in a diffuser for a soothing effect and decorate it with plants and candles for a pleasant experience.According to Ayurveda, a calm and tranquil atmosphere can balance your emotions and bring about mental clarity.&nbsp;<h2>Tip 4: Connect Mindfully</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tip_4_Connect_Mindfully_75434831cd.jpg" alt="Tip 4_ Connect Mindfully.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tip_4_Connect_Mindfully_75434831cd.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tip_4_Connect_Mindfully_75434831cd.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">

Christmas gives us the opportunity to pause and reflect on the important things around us.

&nbsp;The holiday season is a time that brings together friends and families. Focus on spending quality time with your loved ones. You can make the holiday season meaningful by participating in volunteer work or offering free services, like teaching skills, donating clothes, books or toys and much more.&nbsp;This can bring you the satisfaction of helping others and spreading the joy and spirit of sharing during this season.&nbsp;These actions align with Sattva, the supreme quality of mind, explained in Ayurveda. Sattva is a state of purity and harmony. Helping others without expecting anything in return and showing gratitude can reduce negative feelings and thoughts and make you feel content and peaceful.<h2>Tip 5: Gentle Detox</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tip_5_Gentle_Detox_989df059c4.jpg" alt="Tip 5_ Gentle Detox.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tip_5_Gentle_Detox_989df059c4.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tip_5_Gentle_Detox_989df059c4.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Ayurveda explains <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/ayurvedic-panchakarma-detox-cleanse">detoxification procedures</a> to cleanse the body of accumulated toxins. These treatments, when done in a gentle way can also have significant benefits – it counteracts overindulgence in heavy foods during the holiday season, keeps you energetic and improves immunity and mental clarity.Some simple detox methods you can practise from home are:<ul><li>Sipping <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/herbal-teas-for-digestive-health">herbal teas</a> made from herbs like ginger, fennel, cumin, coriander and so on.</li><li>Use spices like ginger and pepper while preparing your foods, as it can promote digestion.</li><li>Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.</li><li>Massage your body using warm sesame or coconut oil before a warm bath to improve blood circulation and strengthen your joints and muscles.</li><li>Use a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30616871/">Neti</a> pot filled with warm saline water to clear your nasal passages. In this process, the water from the pot is poured through one nostril and allowed to flow out through the other nostril.</li><li>If you’re looking for a deeper Ayurvedic cleanse, get a professional Panchakarma treatment done.</li></ul><h2>Tip 6: Early to Bed, Early to Rise</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tip_6_Early_to_Bed_Early_to_Rise_62552812b1.jpg" alt="Tip 6_ Early to Bed, Early to Rise.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tip_6_Early_to_Bed_Early_to_Rise_62552812b1.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tip_6_Early_to_Bed_Early_to_Rise_62552812b1.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">During the holiday season, you break away from your normal routine – you might stay up late, enjoying the company of friends and family and taking a break from work.&nbsp;But try to stick to a regular sleep schedule as much as possible. Your body requires quality sleep to repair the tissues, maintain immunity, clear the mind, regulate your mood and balance the hormones.According to Ayurvedic principles, sleep is one of the three pillars that support life. The ideal time to wake up is before sunrise, around 4 AM to 6 AM, and about bedtime, try not to stay up past 10 PM.Your body’s natural internal clock (<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11584554/">circadian rhythm</a>) should align with the day and night in nature. This keeps your Doshas (body bioenergies) balanced and prevents illnesses.<h2>Tip 7: Mindful Movement</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tip_7_Mindful_Movement_70b90b6c5b.jpg" alt="Tip 7_ Mindful Movement.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tip_7_Mindful_Movement_70b90b6c5b.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tip_7_Mindful_Movement_70b90b6c5b.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Holiday weight gain is a common concern in many adults, leaving you feeling guilty with every bite of the delicious holiday treats. But you cannot really blame the season for your weight gain, right?&nbsp;Practising simple physical exercises like yoga postures, brisk walking, cycling or swimming can improve your mood, help maintain a healthy body weight and reduce stress levels.Ayurveda also explains the importance of exercise – it is beneficial in improving your stamina, aids in digestion, reduces excess fat accumulation and keeps your muscles toned and well-defined.&nbsp;<h2>Tip 8: Hydration is Key</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tip_8_Hydration_is_Key_fcebc31667.jpg" alt="Tip 8_ Hydration is Key.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tip_8_Hydration_is_Key_fcebc31667.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tip_8_Hydration_is_Key_fcebc31667.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Amidst the bustle of the holiday season, don’t forget to listen to your body. If you feel thirsty, don’t ignore it – be sure to keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water.&nbsp;Indulge in fruit juices, warm herbal teas or nourishing soups. You can also go for fruits having a high water content, like watermelons and oranges. If you’re travelling, keep a bottle of water close by to prevent dehydration.Ayurveda mentions some interesting points about drinking water:<ul><li>Drinking water in between meals is ideal and helps in digestion. Drinking water before your meals decreases your appetite and digestive strength, and drinking water after meals can cause weight gain.</li><li>If you are feeling exhausted, thirsty, or light-headed, sip on water at room temperature to restore your energy.</li><li>Drinking warm water is beneficial for flushing out the toxins accumulated in your body, improving digestion, and reducing fat deposition.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Tip 9: Lighten Up Your Plate</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tip_9_Lighten_Up_Your_Plate_a5d7cc85ea.jpg" alt="Tip 9_ Lighten Up Your Plate.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tip_9_Lighten_Up_Your_Plate_a5d7cc85ea.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tip_9_Lighten_Up_Your_Plate_a5d7cc85ea.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">What comes to your mind when you think of the holiday season? The rich, flavourful, mouth-watering meals? The colourful, sugary treats?These heavy and greasy foods can disrupt your digestion and cause poor digestion, gas and bloating.Therefore, it is important to choose lighter meals and avoid heavy or sugary foods, particularly before bedtime, to support digestion and good sleep.In addition to treatments for each disease, Ayurveda also recommends a group of foods that are beneficial for a person dealing with that condition. This is called <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17333670/">‘Pathya’</a>, which refers to a wholesome or suitable diet. These foods are light, nourishing and easy to digest.&nbsp;<h2>Tip 10: Say No When Needed</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tip_10_Say_No_When_Needed_fd5553d71b.jpg" alt="Tip 10_ Say No When Needed.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tip_10_Say_No_When_Needed_fd5553d71b.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tip_10_Say_No_When_Needed_fd5553d71b.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">The festive season is a time for celebrations, but it is important to prioritise your well-being during this busy time of year.&nbsp;Don’t worry if you’re not able to make it to all those events or gatherings . You don’t have to be available for everything. If you feel overwhelmed or tired, it is okay to say no.Ayurveda teaches that self-awareness is the key to your well-being. Nurturing your ‘true self’ can help you live a healthy life. Love and embrace yourself – this is the secret to your inner peace and harmony.<h2>Wrapping Up</h2>The festive season is here! Enjoy this year guilt-free with these Ayurvedic tips for a healthy holiday. Don’t let anything hold you back from having the best time, savouring your favourite holiday treats, and making memories with your loved ones.Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season!

10 Ayurvedic Tips for a Healthy Holiday Season

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Short Bowel Syndrome: Treatment and Dietary Strategies for Short Gut Syndrome

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An Ayurveda Doctor aspiring to propagate the idea of Holistic Health and the centuries-old and effective methods of treatments in Ayurveda

Dr Godmi Tresa

<h2>What Is Slow Gut Motility?</h2>How does the food you eat move from the oesophagus to the stomach, then to the intestines, and finally get eliminated? This happens because of muscle contractions called peristalsis, which push the food forward through your gut.Slow gut motility, also called lazy bowel syndrome and sluggish bowel, refers to a slower movement or weaker contraction of the digestive muscles that transport food and waste through the gastrointestinal system.<h3>Common Causes of Slow Gut Motility</h3>Every time you eat, the nerves that supply the gut (enteric nervous system) cause the muscles lining your gut to contract, pushing the ingested food forward. These contractions can become weaker or slow due to the following reasons:<ul><li>A low-fibre diet.</li><li>A sedentary lifestyle with very little to no physical activity.</li><li>Inadequate intake of fluids, resulting in dehydration.</li><li>Certain medications, like opioids or anticholinergics, slow down muscle movements in the gut.</li><li>Stress and anxiety may cause reduced blood flow to the gut or cause inflammation, which slows down peristalsis.</li><li>Long-term dependence on laxatives.</li><li>Eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia.</li><li>Health issues like hypothyroidism, diabetes, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).</li></ul><h3>Symptoms of Slow Gut Motility</h3><ul><li>Infrequent bowel movements (fewer than three bowel movements per week).</li><li>Constipation and straining to pass stools.</li><li>Abdominal bloating and discomfort.</li><li>Hard or lumpy stools.</li><li>Diarrhoea, as a result of bacterial overgrowth in the intestine.</li><li>Nausea and vomiting.</li></ul><h2>Foods That Improve Gut Motility</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Foods_That_Improve_Gut_Motility_ee23988937.jpg" alt="Foods That Improve Gut Motility.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Foods_That_Improve_Gut_Motility_ee23988937.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Foods_That_Improve_Gut_Motility_ee23988937.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">

Don’t eat anything your great-grandmother wouldn’t recognise as food.

&nbsp;Good food means good health. To maintain a healthy gut, you need to maintain a balanced diet and limit the intake of refined and processed foods, as they provide little to no nutritional value. Let us look at some foods for constipation relief and to improve gut motility.<h3>1. High-Fibre Foods</h3><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7589116/#sec5-nutrients-12-03209">Dietary fibre</a> adds bulk to stool, making it easier to pass, and reduces the risk of constipation.&nbsp;Insoluble fibres (found in whole grains, nuts, seeds, and vegetables like broccoli, celery, and spinach) that don’t dissolve in water and pass through your digestive tract, mostly intact, and add bulk to stools.Soluble fibres (found in foods like oats, apples, bananas, and legumes) absorb water and form a gel-like substance that softens the stools.<h3>2. Hydrating Foods and Fluids</h3>Drinking adequate quantities of fluids can prevent dehydration, soften the stools, and lubricate the digestive tract, allowing a smoother passage of waste through your intestines.&nbsp;You can munch on water-rich fruits and veggies like watermelon and cucumber.&nbsp;You can also enjoy coconut water or take oral rehydration solutions, which provide hydration and essential electrolytes.&nbsp;Limit the intake of alcoholic and caffeinated drinks, as they can lead to dehydration.<h3>3. Fermented Foods</h3>Fermented foods contain live microbes called probiotics, which are beneficial for your body when consumed. These good microbes help balance your gut microbiome, support digestion, and improve motility.&nbsp;Some <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/probiotic-foods-for-better-gut-health">probiotic-rich foods</a> you can add to your diet are yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso.<h3>4. Magnesium-Rich Foods</h3>A study showed that oral administration of magnesium sulphate causes a release of cholecystokinin (a hormone that helps digest fats and proteins) from the inner lining of the small intestine, which stimulates bowel motility.&nbsp;To relieve constipation caused by slow gut motility, you can include magnesium-rich foods like soy products, legumes, seeds, brown rice, bananas, leafy greens, and avocados.<h3>5. Healthy Fats</h3>Healthy fats in your diet can soften stools and stimulate the release of bile from the gallbladder and cholecystokinin from the small intestine, which promotes digestion and gut motility. Examples of foods containing healthy fats are fatty fish, nuts and seeds, egg yolk, avocados, and olive oil.<h3>6. Prunes and High-Sorbitol Foods</h3>Studies on the effect of prunes (dried plums) on stool output found that prunes significantly increase stool weight and frequency in healthy individuals with infrequent stool habits and low fibre intake.Sorbitol, a sugar alcohol found in some fruits such as apples, apricots, and pears, has the ability to hold water, make the stools soft, and act as a natural laxative.<h2>Exercises to Stimulate Gut Motility</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Exercises_to_Stimulate_Gut_Motility_e7baa87509.jpg" alt="Exercises to Stimulate Gut Motility.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Exercises_to_Stimulate_Gut_Motility_e7baa87509.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Exercises_to_Stimulate_Gut_Motility_e7baa87509.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">

Implementing an active lifestyle and healthy eating habits can improve symptoms of obstructed defecation

&nbsp;Aerobic exercises like brisk walking, swimming, cycling, jogging, and so on can significantly improve your gut health. How much exercise do you need to stay healthy? Adults need at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week.Some exercises for gut health that can increase gut motility and relieve constipation are:<h3>1. Walking</h3>A 20-30-minute brisk walk can give you several health benefits, such as promoting a healthy body weight and stimulating digestion.&nbsp;According to Ayurveda, walking 100 steps after a meal is recommended to enhance digestion and promote overall well-being.&nbsp;However, post-meal walking intensity should be low to moderate to avoid getting an upset stomach.<h3>2. Yoga Poses</h3>Certain yoga poses, like Child’s pose, wind-relieving pose, cat-cow pose, and others that involve bending and stretching at the abdomen, stimulate the digestive organs, enhance the release of digestive juices, and improve blood flow to these areas, thereby aiding bowel movements.Read more about <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/ayurveda-and-yoga-for-constipation-relief">Treating Constipation the Natural Way With Ayurveda and Yoga</a>.<h3>3. Abdominal Massage</h3>Can abdominal massage relieve constipation? Yes. Studies have demonstrated that abdominal massage can promote peristalsis, decrease the time taken for food to pass through the colon, increase the frequency of bowel movements in constipated patients, and decrease abdominal pain and discomfort associated with it.You can do this on your own – start by lying down. Place your palm on the abdomen and massage gently from right to left, in a clockwise direction around your belly button. Do this twice a day, for 15 to 20 minutes each time.<h3>4. Core Strengthening Exercises</h3>Core strengthening exercises stabilise and strengthen the muscles in your core, including your abs, back, hips, and pelvis. Performing these exercises <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7932880/#:~:text=Core%20strengthening%20exercises%20(CSE)%20may,a%20no%2Dexercise%20control%20group.">increases the pressure</a> inside your abdomen and stimulates the gastrointestinal tract.Exercises like planks, squats, and crunches can improve the strength of your abdominal muscles and stimulate gut motility.<h3>5. Deep Breathing Exercises</h3>Stress primarily affects the mind. However, it can also lead to gut-related issues. How? This happens because of the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication pathway between your brain and gut.&nbsp;Stress can cause disruption and slow down digestion, which can cause symptoms like bloating, tummy aches, and constipation.&nbsp;Practising stress-relieving techniques like deep breathing exercises can calm the mind, improve gut health, stimulate gut motility, and prevent constipation.Read more - <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/stress-affects-digestive-system">How Does Stress Affect the Digestive System?</a><h2>Medications for Slow Gut Motility</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Medications_for_Slow_Gut_Motility_b113c69970.jpg" alt="Medications for Slow Gut Motility.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Medications_for_Slow_Gut_Motility_b113c69970.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Medications_for_Slow_Gut_Motility_b113c69970.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Various medicines are used to manage intestinal motility disorders, such as laxatives, stool softeners, and supplements. Let us look at some commonly used medications for slow transit constipation.<h3>1. Laxatives&nbsp;</h3>Laxatives are medicines used to treat constipation and are available over the counter or with a prescription. Laxatives are intended for short-term use, ideally for up to a week at a time. The main kinds of laxatives used are:<ul><li>Osmotic laxatives, like polyethene glycol and magnesium hydroxide, draw water into the intestine and make the stool soft and easier to pass.</li><li>Stimulant laxatives like bisacodyl, senna, and castor oil activate the nerves that control the intestinal muscles.</li></ul><h3>2. Prokinetics for Gut Motility</h3>The term prokinetic means to promote movement. Prokinetics are medicines that stimulate your digestive tract and help move food through it by increasing muscle contractions.&nbsp;A recent study has shown that prokinetics have the potential to improve motility function in all segments of the digestive tract, from the oesophagus to the colon. Commonly prescribed prokinetics are metoclopramide and domperidone.<h3>3. Stool Softeners</h3>Stool softeners are a type of emollient laxatives that are used on a short-term basis to relieve constipation. It acts by reducing surface tension within the stool, allowing more water and lipids into the stool mass. This makes the stool softer and allows it to pass easily through the intestines. Docusate is the most commonly used stool softener.<h3>4. Fibre Supplements</h3>Fibre supplements such as psyllium, inulin, and glucomannan can add bulk to the stools and allow them to pass easily through the intestine. Talk to your healthcare provider to know what fibre supplements are right for you.<h3>5. Magnesium Supplements</h3>We have already seen how magnesium-rich foods improve gut motility. Magnesium supplements such as magnesium citrate or hydroxide can act as a natural laxative. Magnesium relaxes the intestinal muscles, allowing a smoother passage of stools through the bowels.<h2>Lifestyle Tips for Managing Slow Gut Motility</h2>Here are some expert-recommended tips to keep constipation at bay:&nbsp;<ul><li>Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Water facilitates smooth bowel motions, softens faeces, and supports all body processes, including digestion.</li><li>Set up a meal schedule and eat at the same time every day. This will train your gut and regulate digestion.</li><li>Practise stress-relieving methods like yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness to prevent stress-induced digestive dysfunction.</li><li>Exercise every day to maintain your physical activity level. This encourages intestinal motility and stimulates the digestive system.</li><li>Consume foods high in fibre, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to improve gastrointestinal motility and increase the bulk of your stools.</li><li>Sitting for long periods of time without movements can slow down gut motility. Take a break in between to stand, stretch, or walk around every 30 minutes.</li></ul><h2>When to Get Medical Care</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/When_to_Get_Medical_Care_b8286fc795.jpg" alt="When to Get Medical Care.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_When_to_Get_Medical_Care_b8286fc795.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_When_to_Get_Medical_Care_b8286fc795.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">If diet and lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications do not offer significant relief from constipation, or if the symptoms return after discontinuing these measures, consult a healthcare provider to determine the best slow gut motility treatment for you.These symptoms associated with constipation require medical attention:<ul><li>Severe pain or cramping in the abdomen</li><li>Abdominal bloating</li><li>A sudden, unexplained weight loss</li><li>Presence of blood or mucus in stools</li><li>Fatigue or weakness</li><li>Nausea and vomiting</li><li>Inability to pass stool or gas</li></ul><h2>Wrapping Up</h2>Slow gut motility can turn your daily routine into a constant battle, leaving you feeling heavy, bloated and fatigued. But it doesn’t mean you have to live with it. Take charge of your health – the right combination of foods, exercise, and medications can provide relief from your symptoms and improve gut health.&nbsp;&nbsp;Simple lifestyle changes like drinking enough water daily and practising stress-relieving methods can improve gut motility, keeping you energised throughout the day. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, get medical attention for identifying and treating the condition early.

<h2>What Is Gallstone Pancreatitis?</h2>Gallstone pancreatitis is defined as a sudden inflammation of the pancreas caused by gallstones blocking the ducts that transport bile and pancreatic enzymes to the small intestine. When the duct is obstructed, it causes these powerful digestive enzymes to back up and remain trapped in the pancreas, causing inflammation and intense pain.

Gallstone pancreatitis is the leading cause of acute pancreatitis, accounting for approximately 50% of cases.

&nbsp;<h3>How It Happens</h3>The major organs and ducts involved in the pathophysiology of gallstone pancreatitis are:<ul><li>The gallbladder is a small organ situated beneath the liver, right below your right lower ribs. This pouch-like organ stores bile, a fluid essential for digestion. Sometimes, bile hardens to form stones, which may shift outside the gallbladder and cause obstructions.</li><li>The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach, across the back of your belly. It produces digestive enzymes and hormones like insulin. Pancreatitis refers to inflammation of the pancreas, and one of the most common causes that leads to it is gallstones.</li><li>Both the gallbladder and pancreas are connected to the small intestine by ducts. The pancreatic duct carries enzymes from the pancreas to the small intestine. The common bile duct carries bile from the gallbladder to the small intestine.&nbsp;</li></ul>Gallstones that form inside the gallbladder migrate and cause obstruction in the common bile duct or pancreatic duct. This causes the pancreatic enzymes to remain stagnant inside the pancreas, causing the pancreas to begin “digesting itself”.&nbsp;This causes tissue damage, inflammation and severe pain. The condition may escalate if immediate medical treatment is not sought and may lead to life-threatening complications.<h2>Symptoms of Gallstone Pancreatitis</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Symptoms_of_Gallstone_Pancreatitis_6235b4608b.jpg" alt="Symptoms of Gallstone Pancreatitis.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Symptoms_of_Gallstone_Pancreatitis_6235b4608b.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Symptoms_of_Gallstone_Pancreatitis_6235b4608b.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">

The symptoms of gallstone pancreatitis can develop suddenly and worsen quickly. Pain, which is usually the first and most common symptom, is just a warning – gallstone pancreatitis can turn into a full-blown medical emergency without timely treatment.

&nbsp;<h3>Common Symptoms of Gallstone Pancreatitis</h3><ul><li>Sharp or “squeezing” pain in the upper abdomen or back.</li><li>Nausea and vomiting.</li><li>Fever or chills may occur due to inflammation or infection.</li><li>Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, if the bile duct is obstructed.</li><li>Digestive discomfort like abdominal bloating and tenderness.</li></ul><h3>Warning Signs of Severe Pancreatitis</h3>Severe inflammation of the pancreas due to gallstone pancreatitis may result in more serious symptoms like:<ul><li>Persistent fever and chills</li><li>Fast heart rate</li><li>Shortness of breath</li><li>Low blood pressure</li><li>Low body temperature</li><li>Dehydration</li><li>Dizziness or confusion</li></ul>These are warning signs and should not be ignored. Without appropriate and immediate medical treatment, it can become fatal.<h2>Immediate Treatment for Gallstone Pancreatitis</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Immediate_Treatment_for_Gallstone_Pancreatitis_2c594d58a6.jpg" alt="Immediate Treatment for Gallstone Pancreatitis.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Immediate_Treatment_for_Gallstone_Pancreatitis_2c594d58a6.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Immediate_Treatment_for_Gallstone_Pancreatitis_2c594d58a6.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">The symptoms of gallstone pancreatitis may range from mild to severe, but it becomes potentially life-threatening the longer it is left untreated. Gallstone pancreatitis is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Delays in treatment can lead to complications like infections or organ failure.<h3>Hospital-Based Treatments</h3>Once a doctor confirms the diagnosis of gallstone pancreatitis, common medical interventions for treatment typically include:<h4>1. Supportive Care</h4><ul><li>One of the most important and early treatments involves the administration of IV fluids to prevent dehydration and maintain blood pressure.&nbsp;</li><li>Gallstone pancreatitis patients may require strong pain relief medications, which can also be administered through their IV.</li><li>Patients are advised not to eat or drink and to give their gut a rest until their pancreas calms down. Nutritional support can be given through an IV or a nasogastric tube.</li></ul><h4>2. Imaging and Diagnosis</h4><ul><li>Your doctor may perform imaging tests, such as a CT scan or ultrasound, to confirm the presence of gallstones, determine the location of obstruction, and check for pancreatic inflammation.</li><li>You might also require blood tests to check for elevated pancreatic enzymes, such as amylase and lipase, raised white blood cells, which indicate an infection, and liver function markers to rule out live inflammation or damage, which is a common complication of gallstone pancreatitis.</li></ul><h4>3. Endoscopic or Surgical Interventions</h4>Surgical interventions for gallstone pancreatitis treatment become necessary in the following conditions:<ul><li>Obstructions caused by gallstones cause jaundice or liver dysfunction.</li><li>Inflammation of the pancreas is severe.</li><li>Symptoms recur when medications are stopped.</li><li>Medications fail to relieve the obstruction caused by gallstones or inflammation of the pancreas.</li></ul>ERCP for Gallstone Removal:&nbsp;Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29630212/">ERCP</a>) is a minimally invasive procedure where healthcare providers use an endoscope and X-rays to remove gallstones that cause obstruction. This procedure is done while you’re under sedation by passing a tube down your throat into your small intestine. Through this tube, a contrast dye is injected into the bile duct and pancreatic duct. This shows up on the x-ray and allows your healthcare provider to identify and remove any blockage in these ducts.Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal):&nbsp;Your doctor may recommend a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28846328/">cholecystectomy</a> or the complete removal of your gallbladder to prevent the recurrence of gallstones and reduce the risk of complications.<h4>4. Antibiotics:</h4>Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if an infection of the pancreas or bile duct is present or if the infection spreads into the bloodstream, causing sepsis.<h2>Complications of Untreated Gallstone Pancreatitis</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Complications_of_Untreated_Gallstone_Pancreatitis_74c9fbaf40.jpg" alt="Complications of Untreated Gallstone Pancreatitis.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Complications_of_Untreated_Gallstone_Pancreatitis_74c9fbaf40.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Complications_of_Untreated_Gallstone_Pancreatitis_74c9fbaf40.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Gallstone pancreatitis, if left untreated, can progress quickly and cause complications in as little as a few days. Complications of gallstone pancreatitis include:Cholangitis:<ul><li>Prolonged blockage of bile ducts causes it to swell, known as cholangitis.</li></ul>Jaundice:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li>Obstruction of the normal flow of bile from the liver leads to bile accumulation and spillover of bile pigments into the bloodstream, causing yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, dark urine and pale stools.</li></ul>Pancreatic Necrosis:<ul><li>Pancreatic juices, which back up into the pancreas, cause damage and death of pancreatic tissue.</li></ul>Pseudocysts:<ul><li>Inflammation of the pancreas leads to the formation of fluid-filled sacs on or near the pancreas, which may rupture or become infected.</li></ul>Sepsis:<ul><li>Infection of the pancreas, gallbladder, liver or ducts may spread into the bloodstream, causing a life-threatening condition called sepsis.</li></ul>Organ Failure:<ul><li>Prolonged inflammation can cause poor blood supply to the pancreas, resulting in organ failure. Severe cases may also affect your heart, lungs, or kidneys.</li></ul><h2>Prevention of Gallstone Pancreatitis</h2>Gallstone pancreatitis cannot be prevented completely, but the risk of developing it can be reduced significantly through diet and lifestyle modifications. This primarily involves addressing the risk factors associated with gallstone formation. Here are some expert-recommended tips to reduce the risk of gallstone pancreatitis:<h3>1. Maintain a Healthy Diet</h3><ul><li>Eat a balanced diet rich in fibre, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fibre helps reduce cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of gallstone formation.</li><li>Include healthy fats like fatty fish and olive oil to stimulate regular emptying of the gallbladder.</li><li>Limit the intake of processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy (saturated) fats found in fried foods and desserts.</li><li>Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to support digestion and prevent bile from becoming concentrated.</li></ul>Read more – <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/natural-remedies-for-gallstone-dissolution">Dissolve Gallstones Naturally: Herbs &amp; Home Remedies</a>.<h3>2. Maintain a Healthy Weight</h3>Obesity leads to high blood cholesterol levels, which can lead to the formation of cholesterol gallstones. Gradual weight loss through a well-balanced diet and regular physical exercise can help you stay healthy and reduce the risk of gallstone formation.<h3>3. Limit Alcohol Consumption</h3>Excessive alcohol consumption can damage pancreatic cells and affect their functioning. If gallstones are present, alcohol may worsen inflammation and increase the severity of pancreatitis.<h3>4. Avoid Crash Diets</h3>A very low-calorie diet and rapid weight loss can <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2669662/">increase the risk of gallstones</a>. Prolonged periods of fasting and low food intake lead to your gallbladder contracting less often to release bile, resulting in bile stasis. This promotes the formation of gallstones.&nbsp;<h3>5. Consider Preventive Surgery</h3>If you experience recurrent episodes of gallstones or associated complications, preventative surgery, usually a cholecystectomy (surgical removal of the gallbladder), is recommended.Read more – <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/ayurveda-remedies-for-gallstones">Guide to Exploring Ayurvedic Remedies for Gallstones</a>.<h2>When to Seek Medical Attention</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/When_to_Seek_Medical_Attention_21815e9b5c.jpg" alt="When to Seek Medical Attention.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_When_to_Seek_Medical_Attention_21815e9b5c.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_When_to_Seek_Medical_Attention_21815e9b5c.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Why is gallstone pancreatitis considered a medical emergency? It is because this condition can rapidly progress to severe complications. Immediate medical attention can help manage this condition effectively. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical care immediately:<ul><li>Severe or persistent abdominal pain</li><li>Yellowing of the skin and eyes</li><li>Severe nausea and vomiting</li><li>Rapid heartbeat along with dizziness or weakness</li><li>Swelling of the abdomen</li><li>Difficulty breathing</li><li>Fever or chills&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Wrapping Up</h2>A simple gallstone could lead to a life-threatening emergency, as in gallstone pancreatitis. This condition may escalate quickly and lead to complications without appropriate and timely medical intervention.&nbsp;However, the good news is that early recognition of symptoms and diagnosis can improve the outcomes and prevent complications. Simple dietary changes, a healthy lifestyle, weight management, and preventive surgeries can help lower the risk of gallstone pancreatitis.&nbsp;Gallstone pancreatitis doesn’t have to control your life – Stay informed and take charge of your health!

Senior Ayurveda Consultant at Nirva, Dr. Ismail keeps tab of all her clients with an unprofound passion towards her work&nbsp;

Dr. Israa Ismail

<h2>What are Gut Parasites?</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/What_are_Gut_Parasites_34ae39ce37.jpg" alt="What are Gut Parasites.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_What_are_Gut_Parasites_34ae39ce37.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_What_are_Gut_Parasites_34ae39ce37.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Gut parasites are organisms that infect the gastrointestinal tract. They disrupt the normal digestion process and nutrient absorption. They live for months or even years in the human body if left untreated. Sometimes, they also lead to chronic health issues.<h3>The Usual Suspects</h3>1. ProtozoaThey are microscopic single-celled organisms that have the ability to reproduce within the host organism.&nbsp;Examples of protozoa are,<ul><li>Giardia lamblia: This parasite causes giardiasis, leading to diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain and malabsorption.&nbsp;</li></ul>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the national public health agency of the United States, states that "Every year, more than<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/giardia/about/index.html"> 1 million</a> people get sick from Giardia."<ul><li>Entamoeba histolytica: It causes amoebiasis, leading to severe intestinal inflammation, diarrhoea or bloody diarrhoea, fever and liver abscess.&nbsp;</li></ul>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the national public health agency of the United States, states that "Only about <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/amebiasis/about/index.html">10% to 20%</a> of people infected with E. histolytica become ill. Even then, symptoms are often mild."&nbsp;2. Helminths&nbsp;They are a group of multicellular organisms.Examples of helminths are,<ul><li>Roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides): These worms reside in the intestine and can grow up to 35 cm in length. They cause fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, cough or wheezing and malnutrition, leading to the inability to gain weight.</li><li>Tapeworms (Taenia species): These are flatworms which grow up to 10 cm in length. They lead to loose stools, bloating, gas, hunger pains and craving for salty foods.</li><li>Hookworms (Ancylostoma and Necator species): These worms attach themselves to the wall of the intestines and suck the blood, causing anaemia.</li><li>Pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis): They are highly contagious gut parasites that lead to enterobiasis. Most often, they affect children leading to anal itching, sleeplessness, irritability and tummy ache.</li></ul><h3>How Do They Transmit?</h3>Gut parasites can be contracted in many ways. Here are some common ones.<ul><li>Contaminated Food or Water: Unclean drinking water, unwashed produce and uncooked meat are the most common routes through which parasites enter your body.&nbsp;</li><li>Poor Hygiene and Sanitation: High risk of being infected if you do not wash your hands properly or you are exposed to unsanitary conditions.</li><li>Contact With Infected Animals or Soil: Many parasites reside in soil and other animals. Walking barefoot and playing with pets without deworming them is a major risk.</li></ul><h2>Signs and Symptoms of Gut Parasites</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Signs_and_Symptoms_of_Gut_Parasites_70c3aa1359.jpg" alt="Signs and Symptoms of Gut Parasites.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Signs_and_Symptoms_of_Gut_Parasites_70c3aa1359.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Signs_and_Symptoms_of_Gut_Parasites_70c3aa1359.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Picture This: You're enjoying a fantastic meal, but your tummy suddenly feels like a spinning wheel. Or your jeans suddenly feel a little loose. Classic parasite drama!Digestive Symptoms<ul><li>Abdominal pain or cramps that range from mild to severe.</li><li>Bloating or gas is often misunderstood as indigestion.</li><li>Loose stools or constipation, sometimes altering.</li><li>Nausea and vomiting, especially with severe infections.</li></ul><h4>Systemic Symptoms:</h4><ul><li>Parasites consume the host's nutrients, leading to weight loss even with a normal diet.</li><li>Chronic infections can drain energy levels, causing <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9182792/">weight loss</a>, fatigue or weakness.</li><li>Nutritional deficiencies and hookworms cause iron deficiency anaemia by feeding on blood.</li></ul><h4>Other Symptoms:</h4><ul><li>Itchy skin or rashes are often seen with hookworm infections as the larvae penetrate the skin.</li><li>Anal itching is a hallmark symptom of pinworm infections, especially at night.</li><li>Changes in appetite are the most common symptom. Some parasites increase hunger, while others suppress it.</li></ul>

The gut is not like Las Vegas. What happens in the gut does not stay in the gut. It affects the entire body.

&nbsp;<h2>Diagnosing Gut Parasites</h2>Suspecting that you have a parasitic infection? Your doctor might suggest certain tests to confirm it.<h3>Common Diagnostic Methods</h3>1. Stool Analysis If your doctor suspects you are suffering from a parasitic infection. They might suggest a stool analysis. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16511762/">Stool samples</a> are examined for eggs, larvae, or parasite DNA.&nbsp;2. Blood Tests A blood test helps to know if you have an infection or not. An elevated level of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) suggests a parasitic infection. It also helps assess the specific antibodies or antigens that are associated with certain parasites.3. Endoscopy or Colonoscopy These procedures are done in severe or persistent cases. &nbsp;A tiny camera is inserted either through the mouth (endoscopy) or through the anus (colonoscopy) to visualise the parasites directly in the gastrointestinal tract.4. Imaging Tests An ultrasound or a CT scan may be done to detect larger parasites or complications, such as liver flukes or hydatid cysts caused by Echinococcus species.<h2>Effective Treatment Options for Gut Parasites</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Effective_Treatment_Options_for_Gut_Parasites_b818d916f6.jpg" alt="Effective Treatment Options for Gut Parasites.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Effective_Treatment_Options_for_Gut_Parasites_b818d916f6.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Effective_Treatment_Options_for_Gut_Parasites_b818d916f6.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"><h3>Medications</h3>In most cases of parasitic infections, oral medications will help treat them.Antiparasitic MedicationsThese are the medications that kill the parasites, stop their growth or paralyse them.&nbsp;For Protozoa;<ul><li>Giardia lamblia: It is treated with the help of antibiotics and antiparasitic medications such as metronidazole or tinidazole.</li><li>Entamoeba histolytica: It is treated with metronidazole. Later, paromomycin is given to clear the cysts.&nbsp;</li></ul>For Helminths;<ul><li>Roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms: They are commonly treated with albendazole or mebendazole, which are antiparasitic medications that treat worms.</li><li>Tapeworms: They are treated with praziquantel or niclosamide.</li><li>Pinworms: They require a single dose of albendazole, which has to be repeated after two weeks to eliminate reinfections.</li></ul>Supportive Medications<ul><li>Antidiarrheals: To stop excessive loose stools and prevent dehydration, loperamide can be used. It should be overused, as it may delay parasite clearance.</li><li>Iron Supplements: Iron supplements can be given for anaemia caused by hookworm infections.</li></ul>Natural Remediesa) Garlic: It contains an antiparasitic compound called allicin. It helps boost the immune system, making it harder for the parasites to survive.How to Use: Consume raw garlic or take garlic supplements daily. Crush the garlic, let it sit for a few minutes and then consume it. Crushing the garlic helps activate allicin.b) Pumpkin Seeds: They are rich in cucurbitacin, which paralyses parasites and prevents them from attaching to the intestinal wall.How to Use: Consume roasted <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/halloween-pumpkin-recipes">pumpkin seeds</a> as a snack or blend them into smoothies with milk or coconut milk to make a potent antiparasitic drink. Pumpkin seeds are very gentle and can also be used in children when they are suffering from intestinal worms.c) Papaya Seeds: They contain enzymes like papain and carpain that help break down the structure of parasites and help excrete them.&nbsp;How to Use: Blend the papaya seeds with honey and consume them, or you can dry the seeds and powder them to use as a spice in your meals.d) Wormwood: Doesn't the name sound interesting? It contains artemisinin that kills intestinal worms.How to Use: Brew a tea by steeping a tablespoon of dried wormwood in hot water for about 10 minutes and enjoy the tea. It can also be consumed as a supplement.e) Oregano Oil: It contains thymol and carvacrol, which have antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties.How to Use: A few drops of the oil can be added to water or juice. It can also be taken as a supplement. It should be used carefully as it can lead to gastric irritation.f) Turmeric: It contains a compound called curcumin, which is both antibiotic and antiparasitic.How to Use: Use turmeric as a spice in your meals. Add turmeric and black pepper powder to warm water and consume it.g) Cloves: They contain a potent compound called eugenol that destroys the parasite eggs and, hence, prevents reinfection.How to Use: Brew clove tea by steeping it in hot water or use clover clove powder in your meals.Note: Natural remedies are not the ultimate solution. They should complement the prescribed treatments and not replace them. Before using any herbal supplements, consult a healthcare professional.

The road to health is paved with good intestines!

&nbsp;<h3>Dietary Changes</h3>What you eat always matters. Certain dietary changes help keep your gut healthy.<ul><li>Avoid Sugar and Refined Carbs: Parasites thrive on sugar, so reducing intake can limit their growth.</li><li>Increase Fiber: Promotes bowel regularity, helping to expel parasites naturally.</li><li>Hydration: Drink plenty of water to combat dehydration caused by diarrhoea.</li></ul>Read more - <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/tips-to-boost-gut-microbiome">Tips to boost gut health</a>.<h4>Practising food safety</h4><ul><li>Avoid raw fish and meat.</li><li>Thoroughly cook meat to temperatures of at least 145°F (62.8°C) for whole cuts of meat and 160°F (71°C) for ground meat and poultry.</li><li>Let cooked meat rest for 3 minutes before carving or consuming.</li><li>Wash, peel, or cook all raw fruits and vegetables.</li><li>Wash or reheat any food that falls on the floor.</li></ul><h2>Preventing Gut Parasites</h2>Just like an age-old saying, prevention is better than cure. Follow these practices to keep those freeloaders away.a) Practice Good HygieneAs kids, we have always been taught good hygiene practices. Implement them here. Wash hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and before meals.b) Ensure Safe Food and WaterAvoid raw or undercooked meat.Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Drink filtered or bottled water in areas with poor sanitation.c) Avoid Barefoot Contact with SoilWear shoes outdoors to prevent hookworm infections.d) Treat Pets RegularlyDeworm your pets regularly.Maintain their hygiene - clean their paws after a walk.&nbsp;e) Travel SafelyIf you're visiting developing countries, cook fruits and vegetables with boiled or purified water before eating, and avoid contact with soil that may contain human faeces.Take precautions when travelling to areas with high parasite prevalence, such as avoiding tap water and eating at hygienic establishments.To learn more about a gut-friendly travel guide, <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/tips-to-manage-gut-health-while-travelling">click here</a>.<h2>When to Seek Medical Help</h2>Are you confused about when to visit your doctor? Here are certain symptoms that you should keep an eye on to decide when to seek medical help.<ul><li>If you have a continuous or severe abdominal pain.</li><li>If you have been suffering from diarrhoea or vomiting for a long time.</li><li>If you have been experiencing weight loss or fatigue even after consuming nutritious food.</li><li>If you notice blood in stools.</li></ul><h2>Wrapping Up</h2>Gut parasites can be terrifying, but they are definitely not invincible.&nbsp;They can disrupt your digestive health and overall well-being. But all you need is the right medication, remedies, and dietary changes to help you recover.&nbsp;Did you know they can be prevented? Following prevention techniques through hygiene and lifestyle changes is key to reducing the risk of infections. Stay informed, practice caution, and prioritise health to keep gut parasites at bay.You’re one tap away to learn how to keep your <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/heal-your-gut-naturally">gut happy in an Ayurvedic way.</a>&nbsp;

Dr.Aswathy Krishnan

Since I can remember, I have always had a bad relationship with my gut. I joined Nirva after my mother joined the programme and got visible results. It was a life-changing decision for me, and I could easily feel the differences they made. I’m so happy. 

&nbsp;<h2>When to Seek Medical Advice</h2>At times, simple home remedies may not suffice as the first line of treatment. Make an appointment with the doctor if you experience the following -<ul><li>Repeated digestive issues, which would include extreme abdominal swelling and pain, or even diarrhoea and constipation.</li><li>Weight loss without any particular reason.</li><li>Severe stomach discomfort coupled with blood in the stool.</li><li>Deteriorating conditions that medicine or dietary changes can’t help.</li></ul>So long as you are diagnosed with a gut dysbiosis condition, you have the opportunity to take matters into your own hands and defend your health for the future.<h2>Wrapping It Up</h2>So, to sum up, gut dysbiosis is a series of problems stemming from an imbalance in the microbial population of the digestive tract. It can potentially harm your health and well-being. It’s vital to comprehend the precluding factors, subsequent symptoms, and techniques available to restore equilibrium to the gut microbiome.Making the right food selection, taking probiotics as well as prebiotics, decreasing stress, and putting more focus on improving your lifestyle are just a few proactive steps you can take to work towards bettering a troubled gut. If you regularly feel certain discomforts or have doubts about your gut health, specialist help is crucial. Quite literally, the right actions can more than change your basic living style. There is so much to be gained in your health factors over the years. As has been repeatedly emphasised, it’s always a balanced gut that gives you a glowing and healthy life.

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Dr Valsala 

<h2>What Causes Gallstones?</h2>Did you know that gallstones are the leading cause of gallbladder-related diseases? Approximately 90 to 95% of acute cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) is caused by gallstones.What causes gallstones?&nbsp;In your body, the lever produces bile, which is stored in the gallbladder. Sometimes, due to an imbalance in the substances that make up bile, like bilirubin, bile salts, and cholesterol, the bile can harden to form hard stone-like structures called gallstones.&nbsp;Gallstones may be single or multiple, ranging from the size of a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. Gallstones might remain inside your gallbladder or more out, blocking the ducts that carry bile, leading to symptoms like pain in the upper right abdomen and jaundice.Factors that contribute to the formation of gallstones are:<ul><li>Being obese, prolonged fasting or sudden and rapid weight loss may result in gallstone formation.</li><li>Eating a high-fat or low-fibre diet can increase the risk of developing gallstones.</li><li>Gallstones are more common in people above the age of 40, and women are more likely to develop gallstones than men.</li><li>Medications like cholesterol-lowering medicines, birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy can increase the risk of gallstones.</li><li>If your gallbladder doesn’t function well, it results in delayed or incomplete emptying, causing the bile to become concentrated and harden to form gallstones.</li><li>Gallstones tend to run in families. If you have a family history of gallstones, you have an increased risk of developing it, too.</li><li>Medical conditions like liver disease, diabetes, IBS and Crohn’s disease can increase the risk of gallstone formation.</li></ul>Understanding the causes of gallstones helps you make the right changes in your diet and lifestyle to prevent gallstone formation and maintain a healthy gallbladder.<h2>How Yoga Enhances Digestion &amp; Gallbladder Health</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/How_Yoga_Helps_Maintain_Your_Gallbladder_Health_e1634df840.jpg" alt="How Yoga Helps Maintain Your Gallbladder Health.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_How_Yoga_Helps_Maintain_Your_Gallbladder_Health_e1634df840.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_How_Yoga_Helps_Maintain_Your_Gallbladder_Health_e1634df840.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Yoga practices, including specific poses and breathing exercises, can stimulate and support the gallbladder's functioning. The gentle stretching and massaging actions involved in yoga poses can enhance the flow of bile and aid in preventing gallstones.<h2>What are the Benefits of Yoga for Gallstone Relief?</h2><h3>Improved Blood Circulation</h3>Yoga poses encourage improved blood circulation throughout the body, including the tummy area where the gallbladder is situated. Better circulation promotes efficient organ function. It can also aid in preventing gallstones.<h3>Stress Reduction</h3>Chronic stress can negatively impact gallbladder health.Yoga incorporates relaxation and mindfulness techniques. These techniques reduce stress levels. Managing stress effectively can contribute to a healthier gallbladder and minimise the risk of gallstone formation.<h3>Enhanced Digestion&nbsp;</h3>Specific yoga postures involve twists and stretches that target the abdominal region. These movements stimulate the digestive organs, including the gallbladder. Yoga poses promote better digestion and reduce the risk of gallstone-related discomfort.<h2>How Yoga Improves Your Digestive Health for Optimal Gallbladder Functioning</h2>Here are a few ways Yoga assists in helping you achieve a healthy digestive system for proper gallbladder functioning:<h3>Stimulating Digestive Organs</h3>Yoga poses like the Seated forward bend and Cobra gently massage the digestive organs. The pose encourages optimal gallbladder functioning and other digestive components. This stimulation aids in better digestion and assimilation of nutrients.<h3>Promoting Relaxation</h3>Breathing exercises are a fundamental aspect of Yoga. It can include a state of relaxation in the body. When the body is relaxed, the digestive system functions more efficiently. It also reduces the gallbladder strain and mitigates the likelihood of gallstone-related pain.<h3>Balancing the Body and Mind Connection</h3>Yoga is known for its ability to balance the body and mind. Regularly practising it can help regulate the body's systems, including the gallbladder. Yoga also promotes overall wellness and prevents health issues related to gallstones.<h2>Best Yoga Poses for Gallstone Relief &amp; Prevention</h2>The following poses target the gallbladder and digestive organs, providing relief and supporting overall gallstone treatment.<h3>Seated Forward Bend Pose</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Seated_Forward_Bend_pose_f7be1aee46.jpg" alt="Seated Forward Bend pose.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Seated_Forward_Bend_pose_f7be1aee46.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Seated_Forward_Bend_pose_f7be1aee46.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Seated Forward Bend stretches the spine and massages the abdominal organs. The pose stimulates the liver and gallbladder. Focusing on alignment and breathing helps ease tension in the abdomen and supports digestive health.<h3>Cat Cow Pose</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Cat_cow_pose_b8a0c2bd6c.jpg" alt="Cat cow pose.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Cat_cow_pose_b8a0c2bd6c.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Cat_cow_pose_b8a0c2bd6c.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Cat cow posture promotes spinal flexibility and gently massages the abdominal organs. Encouraging blood flow and movement in the abdominal area supports the overall functioning of the organs like the liver, gallbladder, etc.The rhythmic movement also aids in digestion. The pose also helps alleviate discomfort associated with gallstones.<h3>Reclining Bound-Angle Pose</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Reclining_bound_angle_pose_c002352143.jpg" alt="Reclining bound-angle pose.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Reclining_bound_angle_pose_c002352143.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Reclining_bound_angle_pose_c002352143.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Reclining bound-angle pose gently stretches the inner thighs, stimulates the abdominal organs, and encourages relaxation. Mindful breathing in this pose helps reduce stress and supports gallbladder health.<h3>Bow Pose</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Bow_pose_e5d451dc81.jpg" alt="Bow pose.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Bow_pose_e5d451dc81.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Bow_pose_e5d451dc81.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Bow pose stretches the entire front of the body, stimulating the digestive organs and promoting gallbladder function. The increased activity in the gallbladder region can aid in the adequate storage and release of bile, preventing gallstone formation. Practising mindful breathing in this pose enhances the benefits and helps relieve gallstones.<h2>Why Yoga is Essential for Gallbladder &amp; Liver Health</h2>Did you know that maintaining the gallbladder and liver's health is essential for overall well-being?As these organs play significant roles in the digestive process and overall body detoxification, you must maintain both organs' proper functioning.<ul><li>The liver produces bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats and helps in their absorption.&nbsp;</li><li>The bile is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine whenever required for digestion.</li></ul>The liver also plays a crucial role in detoxifying the body.When these organs are healthy, proper digestion and detoxification occur.Imbalances or gallbladder and liver conditions can lead to digestive issues, gallstones, and improper detoxification processes.&nbsp;<h2>Yoga Poses Benefiting Gallbladder and Liver</h2>Ensure you practise these Yoga poses to maintain a healthy gallbladder and liver:<h3>Mountain Pose</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Mountain_pose_a84f41a838.jpg" alt="Mountain pose.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Mountain_pose_a84f41a838.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Mountain_pose_a84f41a838.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Mountain pose helps improve posture, increase blood flow to the liver, and promote balance. It's an excellent starting pose for a yoga practice, encouraging alignment and mindful breathing.<h3>Half Lord of the Fishes Pose</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Half_lord_of_the_fishes_pose_285457ba67.jpg" alt="Half lord of the fishes pose.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Half_lord_of_the_fishes_pose_285457ba67.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Half_lord_of_the_fishes_pose_285457ba67.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Half lord of the fishes massages the abdominal organs, including the liver and gallbladder, promoting digestion and detoxification. It helps release tension and enhances flexibility.<h3>Camel Pose</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Camel_pose_4283b89ded.jpg" alt="Camel pose.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Camel_pose_4283b89ded.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Camel_pose_4283b89ded.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Ustrasana stretches the entire front of the body, including the abdomen, promoting healthy digestion and stimulating the liver and gallbladder. It also encourages better posture and relieves stress.<h2>Breathing Exercises for Gallstone Relief</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Breathing_exercises_for_gallstone_relief_83471eb1a0.jpg" alt="Breathing exercises for gallstone relief.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Breathing_exercises_for_gallstone_relief_83471eb1a0.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Breathing_exercises_for_gallstone_relief_83471eb1a0.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">When practised mindfully, breathing exercises can be powerful tools for managing stress, reducing tension, and promoting relaxation.&nbsp;Deep breathing brings more oxygen into the body, and this improved oxygen supply can help relax tense muscles and tissues, thereby reducing pain and discomfort.<ul><li>Deep Belly Breathing ( Diaphragmatic breathing)</li><li>4-7-8 breathing techniques</li><li>Nadi shodhana (Alternate nose breathing)</li><li>Box breathing</li></ul><h2>Addressing Gallbladder Pain Through Yoga</h2><a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/gallstones-ayurveda">Gallbladder pain</a> typically manifests as a sharp, cramping pain in the upper right abdomen, under the ribcage. It can radiate to the back or the right shoulder. This pain triggered by gallstones can obstruct the bile ducts or cause inflammation.&nbsp;Yoga can alleviate this pain by:<ul><li>Stretching and relaxing the abdominal area promotes better blood flow.</li><li>Improving digestion and stimulating gallbladder functioning.</li><li>Encouraging gentle movements to reduce tension and discomfort.</li></ul><h2>Conclusion&nbsp;</h2>Yoga and breathing exercises must be an integral part of everyone's life. There are many benefits of yoga in reducing gallstones and related symptoms, even though they are indirect.Understanding what to do and when to do it is essential when you practise Yoga. Adopting the correct yoga techniques along with lifestyle changes to improve digestive health is what gallbladder health seeks. Contact our yoga experts to learn more about therapeutic yoga techniques.

Yoga for Gallstones: Poses, Breathing & Natural Relief

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Ayurvedic Remedies for Histamine Overload: Herbs, Diet & Yoga

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Dr. Neethu is a passionate and vibrant Ayurvedic Practitioner from Kerala who is specialised in Kayachikitsa( General medicine) from one of the oldest and prestigious institution, Govt. Ayurveda College Trivandrum.With over 11+years of experience in clinical field, she is specialised in dealing with gastric related issues.

Dr Neethu

How to Naturally Lower Oestrogen Levels for Hormonal Balance

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<h2>Why Rose Water is a Must-Have for Health &amp; Beauty</h2>We all love flowers, don't we? They are associated with a feeling of freshness. But is that the only work they do?&nbsp;Let's talk about roses in particular. What are roses suitable for?"Rose petals are considered cooling in Ayurveda and are excellent for balancing pitta dosha, the mind-body energy associated with fire and water. Pitta governs all heat in the environment (the hot sun, warm weather) and the body (your digestive fire and metabolism). When Pitta predominates outside or within, roses can help you restore balance. Their sweet, floral fragrance and flavour are cooling and soothing to mind and body alike." - Dr Israa Ismail, Senior Ayurveda Consultant and Cosmetology Expert at NirvaCan you imagine how adequate water made from these roses can be?The fragrance and benefits of roses blended deeply with the nutrients and necessity of water. Amazing!! It's almost too good to be true. Hold on, though; don't be amused just yet! Rose water isn't just a fancy name; it also has excellent benefits for the human body. Specifically your skin and face!&nbsp;<img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/adequate_water_made_from_these_roses_can_be_ec1737e419.jpg" alt="adequate water made from these roses can be.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_adequate_water_made_from_these_roses_can_be_ec1737e419.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_adequate_water_made_from_these_roses_can_be_ec1737e419.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Here are some of the rose water benefits:<h3>1. Calms Down Redness and Irritation in the Skin</h3>Have you ever tried natural remedies like rose water for skin issues? If not, you must, especially if you have skin redness and irritation. The calm, calm touch of rose water will undoubtedly give you relief. Its anti-inflammatory properties work magically for conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema.<h3>2. Helps in Radiant Glow</h3>Who doesn't like to have a glass-like skin shining and beaming with glow? Try this magical drink as a toner for that unmissable glow that surely will envy your gal pals. The natural properties of rose water will help you maintain your skin's pH balance. It also reduces excess oil, which, in turn, restores healthy moisture. Not just these, but rose petals are rich in antioxidants. So, they fight the free radicals that damage your skin. You will be left with nothing but a dazzling glow! With regular usage, stun your loved ones by looking refreshed and naturally radiant all day.<h3>3. Give Smooth Skin and Minimise Pores</h3>No Botox can give you natural-looking smooth skin like rose water does. Again, the hero here is the antioxidant-rich chemicals in rose water. Rose water is also packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and flavonoids.&nbsp;So, rose water must be your go-to solution for reducing wrinkles and age spots.There are too many benefits of rose water for the face. Wow!!<h3>4. Eases Throat Discomfort</h3>Surprised? Yes, you read it right. Rose water is a potent drink that is good for the skin and can soothe sore throats. Rose water made with suitable sterilisation methods even has antimicrobial properties. There is evidence supporting its use, so next time a cough, cold or tonsillitis grips you, try this remedy.<h3>5. Ensures Digestive Relief</h3>Seems too good to be true. Apart from its delightful taste, rose water can be friendly to your problematic digestive system. Studies reveal that natural rose water and oils may be helpful in digestion.<h3>6. Natural Relief for Headaches</h3>Besides skin-related benefits, rosewater can also positively impact other aspects of the human body. Headaches have always been a pain to deal with. Sleep, switch off your phone, massage your head; nothing seems to help. Try rosewater, as its scent can relieve tension in the mind and relax muscles.<h3>7. Helps in Alleviating Mood</h3>Did you know that rose water has cosmetic and culinary properties, as well as helping to lift one's mood and promote relaxation? It indicates rose water's positive impact on one's mental well-being.The subtle fragrance of rose water helps release happy chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with happiness and relaxation. Thus, it lifts your spirits high.<h2>Advantages of External Application of Rose Water</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Advantages_of_External_Application_of_Rose_Water_deb5b539c2.jpg" alt="Advantages of External Application of Rose Water.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Advantages_of_External_Application_of_Rose_Water_deb5b539c2.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Advantages_of_External_Application_of_Rose_Water_deb5b539c2.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Externally, without consuming rosewater, it is still as effective for you! Applying or inhaling rosewater has a powerful impact, which can help transform you for the better. Some other advantages of rosewater externally are:<h3>1. Helps Soothe Skin Irritation</h3>The potent anti-inflammatory properties of rosewater cure acne and help soothe skin irritation and prevailing ailments.<h3>2. Treats Infections</h3>When applied to a wound, rosewater's antiseptic properties help cure minor cuts caused by bumping into something or scratching skin harshly.<h3>3. Tones the Skin</h3>You may be using a toner during makeup. And yes! Rosewater can also be a toner, giving your skin a natural glow.&nbsp;All of these aspects are crucial to one's life. You need to stay physically fit, have restful skin, be happy, and enjoy hobbies you love. Rosewater helps enhance these experiences a lot. Try it for yourself and see how rosewater works wonders.<h2>Are There Any Side Effects of Rose Water</h2>Even rose water can cause effects. Really? Yes, it can. While Ayurveda supports numerous benefits of rose water, this is the right time to remember an old proverb that excess of everything is terrible, and rose water is no exception.&nbsp;Despite its drawbacks, you may sometimes face side effects, even with rose water usage.&nbsp;Overconsumption usually leads to;<ul><li>Allergic reactions,&nbsp;</li><li>Potential interactions with specific medications,&nbsp;</li><li>Effects, such as vomiting, nausea, and diarrhoea.&nbsp;</li></ul>Contaminants like bacteria, fungi, and heavy metals in rose water may be risky if ingested.So, talk to an expert to know how much rose water you can use for your body type.While allergies to rose water are uncommon, skin irritation may occur when applied topically.&nbsp;<h3>How Can You Avoid Any Such Mishappenings?</h3><ul><li>You must go for a patch test before regular use.&nbsp;</li><li>When choosing rose water for consumption, opt for the all-natural version over synthetic ones to avoid potential exposure to chemicals.&nbsp;</li><li>Do not exceed the daily recommended glass when consuming rose water.</li></ul><h2>How to Make This Wonder Drink: Homemade Rose Water</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Homemade_Rose_Water_78f87ddac0.jpg" alt="Homemade Rose Water.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Homemade_Rose_Water_78f87ddac0.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Homemade_Rose_Water_78f87ddac0.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">If you wish to make rose water at home, you're at the right place!&nbsp;The best thing about making your rose water is that you know it is pure and chemical-free.Here's how Dr. Israa makes it for herself and her clients.<h3>Ingredients</h3><ul><li>5-7 Stems of Organic Pink Roses</li><li>Water</li><li>Large Pot</li></ul><h3>Instructions</h3><ul><li>Pluck the rose petals from the stem and wash them under warm water.</li></ul>Pro tip:&nbsp;Use organic roses to avoid harmful chemicals and pesticides.<ul><li>Now, put these rose petals in a large pot and fill them with water (preferably distilled).</li><li>Next, boil this mixture over medium flame.</li><li>Once the water starts boiling, cover the pot with a lid.</li><li>Reduce the flame to simmer.</li><li>Let the petals simmer in the water for about 30 minutes.</li><li>You will notice that they will start losing their vibrant colour.</li><li>Once the mixture cools off, strain the petals.</li><li>Finally, pat your back! You have your homemade rose water.</li><li>Store this in a cool place in a glass bottle.</li><li>Your homemade batch should last for 1 to 4 weeks.</li></ul><h2>How to Choose the Best Quality Rose Water</h2>Whether you’re drinking it, using it in your skincare routine, or applying it for medicinal benefits, its effectiveness solely depends on the quality of rose water.But how do you choose the best one? With so many options available in the market, finding the right one can be tricky – here are some expert tips to help you make the best choice:<ul><li>Check the Ingredients List: 100% pure rose water will have only one ingredient mentioned on its label: Rose distillate or steam-distilled rose water. The variety (for example, Rosa damascena or Rosa centifolia) used to prepare the rose water should also be mentioned on the product label. If the product label mentions other ingredients like preservatives, artificial fragrances, synthetic colour, rose oil or essence, or emulsifiers, it means that the product is not pure and won’t give you the desired benefits Opt for steam-distilled rose water, as it has the best therapeutic properties. &nbsp;</li><li>Look for Food Grade Certification: If you’re buying rose water for internal use, make sure it’s safe for ingestion. Avoid drinking rose water intended for cosmetic use as it may contain additives.</li><li>Buy the Right Packaging: Pure rose water tends to lose its quality and fragrance when exposed to sunlight over time. High-quality rose water is often packed in dark glass bottles to avoid contact with direct sunlight. &nbsp;</li><li>Check the Fragrance and Colour: Pure rose water is transparent and has a mild, natural fragrance that fades over time. If the rose water has a strong fragrance or is pink or yellowish, it is likely not pure. &nbsp;</li><li>Select Products From Well-Known Brands: Choose well-known brands that are transparent about their sourcing and production methods. If available, choose brands that use traditional distillation methods to prepare rose water. &nbsp;</li><li>Shelf Life and Storage: High-quality rose water will have a shorter shelf life, usually around 6 to 12 months, as it does not contain any preservatives. It should be stored in a cool and dark place or refrigerated to preserve its freshness. &nbsp;</li><li>Consider the Cost: It takes about 2 kilograms or 4.4 pounds of rose petals to prepare one litre of rose water. If you find the bottle of rose water priced unusually low, it may mean that the product is diluted or is not of good quality.</li></ul><h2>To Wrap Up</h2>Rosewater is versatile and can treat most problems an individual might face daily. Explore the magic of rose water. Rich in antioxidants, it soothes skin, minimises pores, and promotes a radiant glow. It has numerous benefits, but be cautious and don't overuse it to avoid any skin irritation. Have you incorporated rose water into your skin routine? &nbsp;

7 Incredible Benefits of Rose Water for Health & Beauty

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BAMS, MD (Ayurveda). Osteopath (ESO, UK) Visiting Lecturer @ People's Friendship University, Moscow, Russia

Dr Naveen Chandran

<h2>Unusual UTI Symptoms You Need to Know</h2>You must be familiar with the common symptoms;<ul><li>The all-time urge to urinate.</li><li>Burning sensation during urination.</li><li>Passing small amounts of urine frequently.</li><li>Cloudy, dark, strong-smelling urine.</li><li>Blood in urine.</li><li>Fever and Chills.</li></ul>But, as we are here to know, these symptoms are just the tip of the iceberg.Yes, you heard it right!&nbsp;UTI symptoms show in different forms; some will even surprise you. Not recognising them can lead to getting delayed treatment and increased discomfort.<h3>1. Unending Tiredness</h3>Though this is not an instantly recognisable symptom, it grows slowly. Fatigue comes from the work your body is putting into fighting the infection.&nbsp;Any infection in the body triggers your immune system to fight off the invading bacteria. This fight needs a lot of energy, which makes you feel drained.&nbsp;If your UTI increases, further ascending to the kidneys (pyelonephritis), then the body's energy consumption increases further on.&nbsp;<h3>2. Sleep Issues</h3>Even though UTI can hardly have a direct impact on insomnia, repeated waking up for frequent urination, abdominal pain, and burning sensation can keep you awake. Some studies say that UTI also influences sleep hormones, causing insomnia. This may also come from anxiety and stress related to UTI.<h3>3. Headaches and Dizziness</h3>These symptoms also need our attention when it comes to UTI.&nbsp;When your body starts its immune response to fight a bacterial infection, the energy demand in the body may tire you, giving you a headache. With an infection, the inflammatory markers are triggered, releasing some chemicals that stimulate the pain pathway in the body.&nbsp; Additionally, one of the common causes of UTI is dehydration. So this can also lead to dizziness and headaches.<h3>4. Blood Pressure Changes</h3>If you see changes in your blood pressure with UTI symptoms, immediate attention is required. This symptom can mean either of two things: the body is under severe dehydration, or the infection has spread to your nephrons (urine filtration system inside your kidneys). The change in water to electrolyte balance in your kidney can lead to blood pressure changes.<h3>5. Confusion and Disorientation</h3>When you have a severe infection with dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, it affects your brain function. Usually, the elderly face this. When UTIs are not treated promptly, they can lead to severe infections that can spread all over the body.<h3>6. Seizures</h3>With severe untreated infections, your brain coverings can get infected. This condition is called meningitis. If you or your loved ones experience seizures with UTI, then think that uncontrolled infection spread to the brain can be a cause.<h3>7. Back Pain</h3>UTI usually comes with severe abdominal pain and cramps. But, if the infection spreads to the kidneys, or the UTI itself has occurred from the presence of stones in the kidneys, you may feel a painful ache in the back. Chronic UTI back pain can also feel like radiating to the insides of your legs.So, it is important to recognise the early symptoms of UTI before the complications give you the symptoms. Some of the complications you do not want are;<ul><li>Kidney issues and functional damage</li><li>Sepsis (Infection entering the bloodstream)</li><li>Chronic Kidney Disease</li><li>Hypertension</li><li>Infertility</li><li>Papillary Necrosis (Kidney tissue death)</li></ul>So, find the best ways to cope with early UTI signs and symptoms by connecting with the best experts.<h2>UTIs in Older Adults: Overlooked Causes &amp; Symptoms</h2>It is important that you recognise the early symptoms of UTI in the elderly population. They are highly susceptible to infections for many reasons, such as;<ul><li>Decreased immune health</li><li>Inability to carry out hygienic routines themselves</li><li>Health conditions that do not allow them to attend to their natural urges</li><li>In severe cases of UTI in the elderly, the symptoms can be seen as;</li><li>Increased confusion or delirium, which you may mistake as an age-related change.</li><li>Dizziness that does not stop from going away.</li><li>Blood pressure changes, which again increases the dizziness.</li><li>Weakness in legs and decreased mobility.</li></ul>The symptoms of UTI pose a challenge in the elderly due to the overlap of different health conditions, especially in those who are under the nursing of caretakers.&nbsp;<h3>The Dangerous Symptoms of&nbsp; UTI and Sepsis</h3>Sepsis is a severe kind of infection that has entered your bloodstream and can spread throughout the body. It is life-threatening. Never fail to miss these symptoms in anyone you know or are taking care of.&nbsp;<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Chills</li><li>Rapid breathing</li><li>Heart palpitations</li></ul><h2>How to Prevent UTIs &amp; Their Unusual Symptoms</h2>Are you experiencing any of these unusual symptoms along with UTIs? If these keep returning, here’s how you can take control – these expert-recommended tips can help you prevent UTIs and their symptoms:<h3>Diet and Hydration:</h3><ul><li>Drink plenty of water to keep your urine dilute and flush out bacteria.</li><li>Include cooling foods like cucumber, barley, coconut water, and&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37068952/">cranberry products</a> to reduce the risk of UTIs.</li><li>Limit the intake of coffee, alcohol, citrus fruits, artificial sweeteners, tomato-based products, and spicy foods.</li></ul><h3>Hygiene Practices:</h3><ul><li>After using the toilet, wipe from front to back to prevent harmful bacteria from the anal region from spreading to your genital area.</li><li>Use not-too-tight cotton underwear. Natural fabrics can absorb sweat better and prevent the buildup of moisture, which creates a suitable environment for harmful microbes to thrive.</li><li>Avoid using harsh soaps, scented products, or douches, as they may cause irritation and lead to infections.</li><li>Change tampons or sanitary pads frequently, and avoid using them for long hours as it increases the risk of infections.</li></ul><h3>Improving Immunity:</h3><ul><li>Include wholesome foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. Consume probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt to improve your gut and urinary flora.</li><li>Include herbs with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties like turmeric, ginger, and gooseberry to boost your immunity.</li><li>Manage stress, as long-standing stress can contribute to poor immune functions and increased risk of infections.</li></ul><h3>Lifestyle Changes:</h3><ul><li>Urinate after sexual activity. This helps flush out any microbes that have entered the urethra during this time. &nbsp;</li><li>Avoid holding urine for long periods as it may allow harmful bacteria to multiply, potentially leading to UTIs. Respond to your body’s urges and empty your bladder regularly.</li></ul><h2>When to See a Doctor?</h2>Urinary tract infections are one of the most common bacterial infections. The majority of UTIs are simple infections of your bladder that can be effectively treated using medications. However, untreated infections can lead to complications, affecting your kidneys and other organs of the body.&nbsp; &nbsp;You should consult a doctor if you experience:<ul><li>High fever or chills.</li><li>Severe pain and burning sensation while urinating.</li><li>Pain in your lower back or sides.</li><li>Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite.</li><li>Cloudy or bloody urine.</li><li>Dizziness or confusion.</li><li>Seizures.</li><li>Recurrent symptoms that return soon after stopping the treatment.</li></ul>People with underlying health conditions like kidney disease, a weak immune system, and pregnant women should seek medical care for UTIs, as leaving them untreated can cause complications.<h2>To Conclude</h2>The lesser-known symptoms of urinary tract infections may pose a danger if you fail to recognise urinary infections as the root cause. That is why you must make sure to talk to an experienced medical professional who can suggest the right way to deal with the treatment. Do not take chances even when you face just mild symptoms of UTI. Take action for your protection!

7 Hidden UTI Symptoms You Might Be Overlooking

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Find Out What Your Gut Has to Say!

Get Relief from Gut Health Issues Naturally!

<h2>Understanding Constipation: Causes, Symptoms &amp; Solutions</h2>Constipation is a common digestive issue that causes difficult or painful bowel movements. A person with constipation has to strain while passing hard, lumpy stools and is often followed by a feeling of incomplete evacuation.Constipation may occur once in a while, but if it becomes chronic, it can lead to pain, abdominal bloating, and serious health issues in the long run.<h3>Causes of Constipation</h3>Have you ever wondered what’s really causing that uncomfortable feeling and difficulty in passing stools? Here are some common causes of constipation:<ul><li>Poor Diet: A poor diet containing less fibre-rich foods like fruits and vegetables and too much processed and fried foods slow down digestion, leading to constipation.</li><li>Dehydration: Not drinking adequate quantities of water can cause stools to harden, making them difficult to pass.</li><li>Sedentary Lifestyle: Insufficient physical activity can slow down gut movements, resulting in constipation.</li><li>Medications: Certain medicines like opioid painkillers, antidepressants, and iron and calcium supplements can cause constipation.</li><li>Hormonal Changes: Normal hormonal changes happening during pregnancy and menopause or hormone-related conditions like thyroid imbalances can also trigger constipation.</li><li>Lifestyle Changes: Sudden changes in your diet or frequent travel are also potential causes of constipation.</li><li>Digestive Disorders: Conditions affecting your gut, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/managing-gut-health-with-ibd">inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD)</a>, can cause altered bowel movements, leading to constipation.</li><li>Other Health Conditions: Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis can disrupt the nerve signals to your digestive system, causing constipation.</li><li>Advancing Age: As a person gets older, their metabolism and digestive functions slow down, which may lead to constipation.</li><li>Overuse of Laxatives: Excessive use of laxatives for weeks or months at a time can cause your bowels to become dependent on them and may worsen constipation.</li></ul>

Constipation is a symptom or condition characterised by difficult and infrequent bowel movements, typically three or fewer times a week.

10 Worst Foods That Cause Constipation (& What to Eat Instead)

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<h2>The Gallbladder: A Key Player in Digestion</h2>The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located below the liver in the upper right portion of the abdomen. It plays a vital role in digestion by storing and releasing bile—a greenish fluid produced by the liver.&nbsp;&nbsp;The process aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fats. Bile is transported from the liver to the small intestine through a series of ducts collectively known as the biliary tract.<h2>Understanding Gallbladder Pain</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Understanding_Gallbladder_Pain_bc997fc7e5.png" alt="Understanding Gallbladder Pain.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Understanding_Gallbladder_Pain_bc997fc7e5.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Understanding_Gallbladder_Pain_bc997fc7e5.png 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Understanding_Gallbladder_Pain_bc997fc7e5.png 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_Understanding_Gallbladder_Pain_bc997fc7e5.png 1000w," sizes="100vw">Gallbladder pain, also known as biliary colic, refers to the discomfort experienced in the upper right abdomen, often associated with issues related to the gallbladder or the biliary tract. This pain can vary in intensity and duration, causing significant discomfort and affecting daily activities.<h3>Biliary Colic</h3>Biliary colic is characterised by intermittent pain after food intake, typically in the abdomen's right upper quadrant (RUQ). The pain may radiate to the back. Nausea and vomiting may also be present, particularly after meals.Patients with biliary colic usually have normal vital signs like BP and heart rate and are also afebrile. Unlike acute gall bladder infections or infections of the duct of the gall bladder, there is typically no fever, reduced heart rate, or low BP, which could indicate a more severe condition such as septic shock.<h3>Unlocking the Clues: Identifying Risk Factors for Biliary Colic</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Unlocking_the_Clues_f272b95a9a.png" alt="Unlocking the Clues.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Unlocking_the_Clues_f272b95a9a.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Unlocking_the_Clues_f272b95a9a.png 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Unlocking_the_Clues_f272b95a9a.png 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_Unlocking_the_Clues_f272b95a9a.png 1000w," sizes="100vw">When assessing for risk factors associated with biliary colic, you should consider these factors:<ul><li>Elderly Patient: Advanced age is considered a risk factor for biliary colic. As individuals age, the risk of developing gallstones, which can lead to biliary colic, increases. &nbsp;</li><li>Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can contribute to the formation of gallstones. Pregnant women are at an increased risk of developing biliary colic, especially during the later stages of pregnancy. &nbsp;</li><li>North European Descent: Studies have shown that individuals of North European descent, particularly those with fair skin and light hair, are more predisposed to developing gallstones and subsequently experiencing biliary colic. &nbsp;</li><li>Recent Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss, intentional or unintentional, can increase the risk of gallstone formation and subsequent biliary colic. Why? Significant weight loss can disrupt the balance of cholesterol and bile salts in the gallbladder, contributing to the development of gallstones. &nbsp;</li><li>Obesity: Obesity is a well-established risk factor for gallstone formation and biliary colic. Excess body weight and fat tissue have been linked to increased cholesterol production and reduced gallbladder emptying ( slow emptying of bile acid from the gall), increasing the likelihood of gallstone formation.</li></ul><h2>Typical Symptoms of Gallbladder Pain</h2>If you ever had any gall bladder conditions, the pain would have typically manifested in the following ways.<ul><li>Sharp or dull ache in the upper right abdomen, just below the rib cage.</li><li>Radiating pain in the back or right shoulder blade.</li><li>Pain felt in the right flank or mid-abdomen.</li><li>Nausea and occasional vomiting.</li><li>Discomfort occurs 15 to 45 minutes after consuming high-fat or fatty foods.</li><li>Crampy abdominal pain and loose stools following a gallbladder attack.</li></ul>Did you know that even the 'good fats' can trigger a gallbladder attack?Fried foods, dairy products, desserts, and foods with "good fats" like avocados and olive oil can trigger a gallbladder attack.&nbsp;<h2>Atypical Symptoms of Gallbladder Pain</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Atypical_Symptoms_of_Gallbladder_Pain_a3ad5fded5.png" alt="Atypical Symptoms of Gallbladder Pain.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Atypical_Symptoms_of_Gallbladder_Pain_a3ad5fded5.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Atypical_Symptoms_of_Gallbladder_Pain_a3ad5fded5.png 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Atypical_Symptoms_of_Gallbladder_Pain_a3ad5fded5.png 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_Atypical_Symptoms_of_Gallbladder_Pain_a3ad5fded5.png 1000w," sizes="100vw">Approximately 20% of individuals with gallbladder pain tend to experience atypical symptoms. Atypical symptoms of gallbladder pain can include:<ul><li>Nausea or vomiting without the presence of pain.</li><li>Chest pain, especially on the right lower side.</li><li>Left-sided abdominal pain below the left rib cage. If this happens to you, particularly after meals or fatty foods, it is advisable to include a gallbladder evaluation in your diagnostic tests.</li></ul>In some cases, gallbladder dysfunction can lead to loose stool, sometimes with explosive episodes, after eating. However, this may not be associated with pain, making it a peculiar symptom of gallbladder problems.<h2>Gallbladder Pain: Exploring the Underlying Causes</h2>The primary cause of gallbladder pain is the formation of gallstones, also known as cholelithiasis. These hardened deposits develop in the gallbladder and can vary in size. Gallstones may obstruct the flow of bile, leading to gallstone attacks characterised by severe pain.&nbsp;<h3>Other Causes of Gallbladder Pain Include</h3><ul><li>Bile Duct Stones (Choledocholithiasis): Gallstones that migrate to the bile ducts. Bile ducts are small pipe-like structure that connects the gallbladder to the intestines. &nbsp;</li><li>Gallbladder Inflammation (Cholecystitis): Inflammation often caused by gallstones blocking the bile flow. &nbsp;</li><li>Gallbladder Disease: Various conditions affecting the gallbladder or biliary tract, such as biliary dyskinesia (motility disorder affecting gall bladder) and cholangitis (bile duct infection). &nbsp;</li><li>Gallbladder Polyps: Abnormal growths within the gallbladder lining that can lead to complications. &nbsp;</li><li>Gallbladder and Bile Duct Cancer: Severe but rare conditions that can cause gallbladder pain.</li></ul><h2>Untangling the Web: Complications of Gallbladder Pain</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Untangling_the_Web_9975997db1.png" alt="Untangling the Web.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Untangling_the_Web_9975997db1.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Untangling_the_Web_9975997db1.png 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Untangling_the_Web_9975997db1.png 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_Untangling_the_Web_9975997db1.png 1000w," sizes="100vw">Gallbladder pain can lead to various complications, including:<ul><li>Discomfort with eating, leading to weight loss and electrolyte abnormalities.</li><li>Bile duct blockage results in jaundice and liver dysfunction.</li><li>Serious infections include empyema (collection of pus ) and gangrene ( necrosis) of the gallbladder.</li></ul><h3>Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).</h3><ul><li>Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver).</li><li>Gallbladder rupture is a potentially life-threatening condition.</li><li>Peritonitis is inflammation of the abdominal lining.</li><li>In rare instances, gallbladder cancer may develop.</li></ul><h2>Ayurvedic Insights: Understanding Gallbladder Pain from an Ancient Perspective</h2>In Ayurveda, gallbladder pain is commonly associated with an imbalance in the Pitta dosha, representing the body's fire and water elements. According to Ayurvedic principles, an aggravated Pitta dosha can accumulate excessive heat and inflammation in the gallbladder, resulting in pain and discomfort.&nbsp;Ayurvedic treatment for gallbladder pain aims to balance the Pitta dosha and reduce inflammation. Some Ayurvedic remedies and lifestyle recommendations that may help alleviate your gallbladder pain are;<h3>Diet</h3>Follow a Pitta-pacifying diet that includes cooling and soothing foods. Opt for fresh, seasonal fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins. Avoid spicy, greasy, and fried foods, as they aggravate Pitta and contribute to gallbladder inflammation.<h3>Herbal Remedies</h3>Ayurvedic herbs such as Turmeric, Aloe Vera, Neem, and Triphala may help reduce inflammation and support gallbladder health. Consult with Ayurvedic experts at Nirva for appropriate herbal formulations and dosage.<h3>Herbal Teas</h3>Drink herbal teas infused with cooling and calming herbs like peppermint, chamomile, fennel, and liquorice. These teas can help soothe digestive discomfort and reduce inflammation in the gallbladder.<h3>Lifestyle Modifications</h3>Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises reduce stress and promote overall well-being. High levels of stress can contribute to imbalances in the Pitta dosha.<h3>Daily Routine</h3>Follow a regular daily routine (dinacharya), including waking up and going to bed consistently, eating meals regularly, and practising self-care rituals. Maintaining a balanced routine helps promote digestion and supports the overall health of the gallbladder.<h3>Ayurvedic Therapies</h3>Panchakarma, a detoxification and rejuvenation therapy in Ayurveda, may benefit individuals with chronic gallbladder issues. An Ayurvedic practitioner may recommend specific treatments like Virechana (therapeutic purgation) or Basti (enema therapy) based on individual needs.<h2>Exploring Effective Ways to Relieve Gallbladder Pain</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Exploring_Effective_Ways_to_Relieve_Gallbladder_Pain_202c0b5666.png" alt="Exploring Effective Ways to Relieve Gallbladder Pain.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Exploring_Effective_Ways_to_Relieve_Gallbladder_Pain_202c0b5666.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Exploring_Effective_Ways_to_Relieve_Gallbladder_Pain_202c0b5666.png 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Exploring_Effective_Ways_to_Relieve_Gallbladder_Pain_202c0b5666.png 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_Exploring_Effective_Ways_to_Relieve_Gallbladder_Pain_202c0b5666.png 1000w," sizes="100vw">When experiencing gallbladder pain, seeking relief and appropriate treatment is crucial.&nbsp;The following approaches may be employed:<ul><li>Immediate Actions for Severe Pain: Contact a healthcare facility or seek emergency medical care. &nbsp;</li><li>Medical Treatments: They feature pain medication to manage symptoms, antibiotics for infections, and endoscopic (using a camera at the end of a pipe inserted through your mouth) procedures to address specific issues. &nbsp;</li><li>Surgical Options: Cholecystectomy (Removal of gallbladder)&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>Preventive Measures: Adopting a healthy diet low in saturated fats, sugars, and refined carbohydrates; regular exercise; and weight management to reduce the risk of gallstones and related issues.</li></ul><pre><code class="language-plaintext">cta-dynamic</code></pre><h2>When to Seek Medical Attention</h2>It is essential to know when to seek medical attention for gallbladder pain. Contact a healthcare provider if you experience:<ul><li>Severe and persistent pain lasting longer than two to three hours. &nbsp;</li><li>Presence of other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, or jaundice. &nbsp;</li><li>Any sudden changes in urine colour or stool appearance. &nbsp;</li><li>Symptoms that significantly impact daily activities and overall well-being.</li></ul><h2>To Conclude</h2>Understanding gallbladder pain is crucial for timely diagnosis, effective management, and relief. You can actively participate in your healthcare journey by familiarising yourself with the causes, typical and atypical symptoms, potential complications, and available treatment options. Remember to consult a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation and personalised care. You can navigate gallbladder pain and work towards improved well-being with proper guidance and adherence to a healthy lifestyle.Intermittent pain under the right rib cage. You may experience this kind of pain between gallbladder attacks, typically milder in intensity. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Guide to Managing Gallbladder Pain: Understanding the Cause and Seeking Relief

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She offers a holistic approach to healing that focuses on the interplay between the body, mind, and spirit. Her expertise in these areas allows her to provide comprehensive care for various conditions, from musculoskeletal disorders to stress-related illnesses. She is dedicated to empowering women to take control of their health and well-being. Her proactive approach to healthcare emphasises the importance of preventive measures and natural remedies.

Dr. Bhavya 

<h2>What is Pellet Therapy?</h2>Pellet therapy uses bioidentical hormones—chemically identical to those naturally produced by the body—compressed into small pellets. These pellets are implanted under the skin, typically in the hip or buttock area, to deliver a steady hormone dose over several months.<h3>Key Hormones Used</h3>Now, let’s understand the dynamics of the pellet treatment for menopause; they are estrogen and testosterone.&nbsp;Estrogen? Estrogen is often considered the primary treatment for alleviating symptoms associated with menopause. For example, if a woman experiences issues such as hot flashes, mood swings, or vaginal dryness, estrogen can be highly effective in relieving these concerns. Its use can significantly improve comfort and quality of life during this transition.But why add testosterone to the treatment? Well, men aren’t the only one who benefits from the testosterone. Women can gain significant advantages, too. Women also produce testosterone, and it is significantly crucial for various levels of health.Adding testosterone can be beneficial for many in increasing energy levels, stimulating libido, and perhaps even amplifying <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7616872/">bone strength</a>, which is key as a person ages. The average age that women in the United States reach menopause is 51; however, many women within that age range will begin experiencing symptoms when they are in their forties. The years just before and after menopause are often called the “decade of discontent” for women in their 40s. This is because many experience various challenges and changes during this time.When considering how to alleviate menopause effects, pellet therapy can be an option of interest. It’s simply a matter of determining what compliments your body and lifestyle, and these discussions with your medical centre can ensure appropriate decisions are made.<h3>How it Works?</h3>Think of a small power plant functioning within you, consistently releasing the appropriate amount of hormones required at the specific interval needed. That is what bioidentical hormone pellets do. Here’s how it happens:&nbsp;Initially, small pellets are implanted underneath the skin. These pellets somewhat resemble time pilfer capsules, containing substances which dissolve slowly, thereby clearing hormones into the bloodstream over a period of time. The body thereby receives constant and adequate hormone dosage through blood, ensuring proper devotion.&nbsp;But wait, there’s even more: your healthcare provider is always on top of your progress, ensuring that the treatment does not disrupt the balance of your hormones. If any treatment alterations are required, then the treatment can be adapted to suit your needs. You shall not receive a blanket treatment option but one that specifically enhances your health and well-being.<h2>Benefits of Pellet Therapy for Menopause</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Benefits_of_Pellet_Therapy_for_Menopause_5441c7cb7e.jpg" alt="Benefits of Pellet Therapy for Menopause.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Benefits_of_Pellet_Therapy_for_Menopause_5441c7cb7e.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Benefits_of_Pellet_Therapy_for_Menopause_5441c7cb7e.jpg 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Benefits_of_Pellet_Therapy_for_Menopause_5441c7cb7e.jpg 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_Benefits_of_Pellet_Therapy_for_Menopause_5441c7cb7e.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw">For women facing the obstacles of menopause, pellet treatment has gained popularity as an effective remedy. It has the potential to resolve the following issues:&nbsp;1. Symptom Relief: Women tend to experience very uncomfortable symptoms like mood swings, night sweats, and hot flashes due to menopause. During this change, insomnia also becomes a common discomfort women tend to suffer from. Uncomfortable as it is, difficulty sleeping is usually faced while going through the change. Pellet therapy helps to alleviate these discomforts.&nbsp;2. Consistent Hormone Levels: One of the unique features of pellet therapy is the chronic provision of hormones. Unlike pills or creams that cause hypersecretion and then plunge hormone levels, there is a steady flow of secretion. This means fewer mood swings, too.&nbsp;3. Convenience: With the onset of pellet therapy, the burden of daily or weekly treatments has come to an end. After implantation, pellets typically sustain the body for 3 to six months, which offers women freedom from stress.&nbsp;4. Improved Quality of Life: Following the treatment, many women have stated that their energy levels increased substantially along with mental focus and improved quality of sleep. So, while women experience many uncomfortable symptoms during menopause, life does not have to be just about it.5. Bone and Heart Health: The therapy goes beyond treating menopausal symptoms. Estrogen is vital for maintaining bone density, which decreases the risk of osteoporosis. Moreover, controlled hormones are essential for heart health, especially for women in their later years.&nbsp;In essence, pellet treatment is beneficial for women going through menopause as it alleviates symptoms, regulates estrogen levels, and improves overall wellness. It’s an efficient and easy process that allows women to accept this powerful lifecycle change.<h2>What to Expect: A Simple Guide to Your Hormone Therapy Procedure</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/What_to_Expect_A_Simple_Guide_to_Your_Hormone_Therapy_Procedure_59535f05d9.jpg" alt="What to Expect A Simple Guide to Your Hormone Therapy Procedure.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_What_to_Expect_A_Simple_Guide_to_Your_Hormone_Therapy_Procedure_59535f05d9.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_What_to_Expect_A_Simple_Guide_to_Your_Hormone_Therapy_Procedure_59535f05d9.jpg 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_What_to_Expect_A_Simple_Guide_to_Your_Hormone_Therapy_Procedure_59535f05d9.jpg 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_What_to_Expect_A_Simple_Guide_to_Your_Hormone_Therapy_Procedure_59535f05d9.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw"><h3>Step 1: Your Initial Consultation&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>Massive changes begin with a simple consultation; your doctor will run a blood test to examine your hormone levels. Using this information in consideration of your personal symptoms, a comprehensive and effective treatment plan will be developed. This is the very first step in getting started, and your unique needs will be taken into consideration.<h3>Step 2: Pellet Insertion&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>Don’t be concerned; the next step—pellet insertion—is very simple! A tiny cut will be made in your skin, and the procedure is simple and easy to deal with. Then, the pellet will be inserted using a sterile device inside the skin underneath. The stitches or adhesive strips used to secure the incision will keep everything in place while the skin heals.<h3>Step 3: Recovery&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>There might be a little bit of soreness or bruising around the insertion spot, but it is nothing to worry about. Thanks to the magnitude of the procedure, maximum soreness is highly unlikely and fades away very quickly. Generally, normal activity can be resumed in as little as a couple of days.With the use of these procedure steps, a great emphasis has been placed on maximising the comfort of the patient on their journey of self-improvement.Don’t forget that you are not going through this alone, and your medical team is there to help you each step of the way. Now, let us take a look at the hormone pellet therapy side effects.<h2>Potential Risks And Side Effects</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Potential_Risks_And_Side_Effects_e17fe1c197.jpg" alt="Potential Risks And Side Effects.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Potential_Risks_And_Side_Effects_e17fe1c197.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Potential_Risks_And_Side_Effects_e17fe1c197.jpg 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Potential_Risks_And_Side_Effects_e17fe1c197.jpg 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_Potential_Risks_And_Side_Effects_e17fe1c197.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw">If you are considering this hormone pellet therapy, it’s very important to be aware of the potential side effects that may occur and the risks that may come with it.&nbsp;Common Side Effects: Some people might see some bruising and tenderness when the pellet is inserted. In some instances, there is a slight risk of infection at the insertion site. Moreover, there may be temporary shifts in one’s hormone levels, which can lead to breast tenderness for some women during their period or changes in their mood. These are usually not hazardous but go away quite quickly.Rare Risks: Not everything consists of sweet experiences when it comes to hormone pellets; there are some major risks associated with them. It is extremely risky in the case the pellet releases an abnormal amount of hormones, which can lead to an overdose. Not keeping a closer eye on hormone levels can cause imbalances that are not beneficial for well-being in the long run.Considerations: Not everyone is a candidate for this therapy. People having a track record of hormone-sensitive cancers, blood clots, or certain ailments related to the heart must be thoughtful about it first. Regular visits with your doctor and routine checks of the hormone levels are extremely important for the treatment to be safe and effective as well.While hormone pellet therapy can offer potential benefits, it’s very important to weigh these against the potential side effects that may happen and consult with a healthcare professional to determine if it’s right for you!<h2>Who Is Pellet Therapy Suitable For?</h2>Women who have hormonal fluctuations like difficult menopause can turn to Pellet therapy. This therapy not only reinforces a relief to the problem but also accommodates into one’s lifestyle. Women facing immense fatigue, uncontrollable mood swings and hot flashes during the day can truly benefit from it.&nbsp;For someone who has remained unsatisfied by other means of hormonal therapy, this is a truly wondrous option as it requires low maintenance and comes with long-term benefits. The long-lasting, inconvenient visits to the clinics are replaced with a singular Pellet insertion. After these tiny hormone-filled cylindrical pellets get inserted, life can be hassle-free, as forgetting about popping pills every single morning is constant relief.&nbsp;Despite the benefits, there are some women who should stay away from Pellet therapy, like those who have certain sensitive conditions such as hormone-sensitive cancers or other required medical interventions.&nbsp;If you are sceptical about taking these pellets, Ayurveda can help. It is the best option for people looking for non-invasive hormone therapy options. Our client, Patricia’s (57) story, is an example you should know about. Read what she has to say about the Nirva Health programme.&nbsp;

I joined Nirva Health’s programme for menopause at a time when I was considering Hormone pellet therapy. Since I enrolled, my life began to change in a beautiful way. My mood got better, along with the symptoms of menopause.

&nbsp;Nirva is here to help you navigate this journey. Connect with us today.<h2>Wrapping It Up</h2>As if menopause isn’t crazy enough, imagine women having to deal with the issue of symptoms looming over us like unforeseen tsunamis crashing on us. Menopause pellet therapy can help resolve this problem. It provides a completely new way to feel relief from these pain points through an effortless method. Customised therapy pellets are inserted, which allows for a more controlled release of hormones into the body.&nbsp;Treatment Pellets can drastically alter the quality of life for many women. While these therapy pellets quite literally do sound like magic in a bottle, it is crucial to understand that no method is one size fits all, as this might not be suitable for everyone.&nbsp;Before anything, please make sure to consult a healthcare professional so you are aware of the risks and avoid the risk of self-inflicting worry. The consultation can help determine whether or not hormone therapy is the best option for the individual. If you have recently been dealing with menopause and seeking a remedy, these pellets can prove to be very useful.

<h2>What Exactly is Short Bowel Syndrome?</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/What_Exactly_is_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_b4a4a6d411.jpg" alt="What Exactly is Short Bowel Syndrome.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_What_Exactly_is_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_b4a4a6d411.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_What_Exactly_is_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_b4a4a6d411.jpg 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_What_Exactly_is_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_b4a4a6d411.jpg 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_What_Exactly_is_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_b4a4a6d411.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw">In its essence, Short Bowel Syndrome is a condition that arises when the small intestine falls short of what’s required to absorb all the nutrients, fluids, and electrolytes it needs from food. To put it in perspective, imagine trying to fill a little cup with water from a huge jug—if the cup is too small, it will not contain everything.&nbsp;<h3>Why Does It Happen?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>So you are probably asking yourself, how does someone get an intestine that is short?&nbsp;One of the main causes is&nbsp;the Surgical Removal of the intestine.&nbsp;In some cases, patients may have significant parts of their small intestines removed during surgery. This could be as a result of several things:<ul><li>Crohn’s Disease: This is an IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) that can cause severe destruction to the intestines.</li><li>Intestinal Injury or Trauma: Accidents can also necessitate the removal of sections of the intestines.</li><li>Cancer: Certain cancers might mandate surgical excision of part of the intestines.</li><li>Congenital Defects: Some people are born with shorter intestines due to genetic conditions.</li></ul>There are other problems like “volvulus”, which occurs when the intestine twists on itself, or situations where the blood supply to part of the intestine is diminished, called ischemia. Both can result in damage that might require surgical intervention.<h3>How Does It Affect the Body?</h3>Have you once had something as simple as persistent diarrhoea? Although it may appear trivial at first, chronicity of diarrhoea can develop into a bigger problem.Now, imagine dealing with toilet visits that seem endless, and on top of this, you begin experiencing some unwanted changes in your body in cases of SBS. For example, all of a sudden, you will lose weight, and it seems like a constant fight to keep up your strength. The number of pounds just slips off from your body even when you are trying hard to find out why they are leaving.&nbsp;Also, you may have malnutrition, even though you think you eat well. Persistent diarrhoea hampers the absorption of crucial nutrients by the body, which include vitamins and minerals. Think about trying to drive a car that’s out of gas. Despite what one does, he/she may begin feeling increasingly tired and weakened—trivial tasks would become Herculean feats for him/her.&nbsp;Then comes dehydration, which sneaks up. Remember those days when sweaty, hot summer nights made you perspire? Now add this to an overworking digestive system; you could be left feeling parched and worn out too soon.&nbsp;It is both physically and emotionally frustrating to repeatedly experience this cycle of symptoms. You need to pay attention to your body and speak up when something seems wrong. Knowing these signs can change everything about your healing journey.&nbsp;When someone suffers from the Small Bowel Syndrome, their digestive system does not effectively metabolise nutrients.&nbsp; This is a huge problem. No matter how good your diet is, you may still suffer from symptoms like malnutrition, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances. It can be a nightmare for the person. It can also limit your energy levels as your body lacks sufficient food for power.So what to do? Don't worry; through proper short bowel syndrome treatment and an effective diet for the short gut syndrome, you can lead a healthy and peaceful life. Scroll down to find out more.&nbsp;<h2>Treatment Options for Short Bowel Syndrome</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Treatment_Options_for_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_f554160fbb.jpg" alt="Treatment Options for Short Bowel Syndrome.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Treatment_Options_for_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_f554160fbb.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Treatment_Options_for_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_f554160fbb.jpg 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Treatment_Options_for_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_f554160fbb.jpg 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_Treatment_Options_for_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_f554160fbb.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw">Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS) is a complex condition in which part of the small intestine is missing or has been removed by surgery. This leads to nutritional deficiencies and challenges as the small intestine is responsible for the absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream. The treatment of SBS usually includes medical management involving nutrition support through parenteral nutrition (PN), enteral feeding, and sometimes surgical interventions are necessary. We address these methods below, highlighting their importance and possible effect on individuals’ lives with SBS.<h3>1. Medical management</h3>Medications:<ul><li>Antidiarrheals: Medications such as loperamide are frequently used to relieve diarrhoea, which is a common symptom in patients having SBS. It works by slowing down bowel movements and reducing fluid loss, thereby improving stool consistency, but should be done under medical supervision because overuse can lead to constipation and further complications.</li><li>Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): These are medicines that decrease the production of stomach acid. Excessive acid in a patient with SBS can make diarrhoea worse and intensify symptoms. PPIs can reduce levels of stomach acid, thus creating an environment that favours better nutrient absorption from food, which would benefit users.</li><li>Bile Acid Sequestrants: They work by binding excessive bile acids in the gut, thus helping to control diarrhoea and improve stool consistency. In SBS, where bile salts may not be effectively reabsorbed, these drugs play a critical role in the management of symptoms and enhancing fat digestion ability.</li><li>GLP-2 Analogues: One of the most cutting-edge treatments for SBS involves GLP-2 analogues like teduglutide. This drug helps improve how intestines work and increases nutrient absorption by promoting the growth of intestinal tissue so as to increase the surface area available for nutrient uptake. It may be a solution for patients who have failed at older nutrition treatments.</li></ul>Nutrition Support:<ul><li>Parenteral Nutrition (PN): This method involves the intravenous delivery of nutrients, which is important in severe SBS cases where patients cannot get enough nutrition through their mouths or guts. PN is designed to address the specific nutritional needs of each individual patient and may greatly improve one’s quality of life if properly managed.&nbsp;</li><li>Enteral Nutrition: For some who can take in food orally at some level, enteral nutrition is the provision of nutrient-rich liquids via a feeding tube. This assists in supplying essential nutrients while minimising malabsorption risk; the formulas can be adjusted to meet one’s own dietary requirements.</li></ul><h3>2. Surgical Interventions</h3>Bowel Lengthening Procedures: New surgical techniques are designed to increase the surface area of the remaining small intestine, thus enhancing nutrient absorption capacity. Some patients might find procedures such as the Bianchi procedure or a serial transverse arthroplasty more favourable, which would allow a wider range of foods in their diets.Small Bowel Transplant: For those with extreme cases that have not responded to other forms of treatment, a small bowel transplant may be an option after everything else has failed. Such operations are extremely complicated and should be carefully weighed against potential dangers and benefits; lifelong immunosuppression therapy will follow the operation. Nevertheless, it can save lives and cause significant improvement in the quality of life for some patients.<h3>3. Diet for Short Bowel Syndrome</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Diet_for_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_4787e9550f.jpg" alt="_Diet for Short Bowel Syndrome.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Diet_for_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_4787e9550f.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Diet_for_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_4787e9550f.jpg 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Diet_for_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_4787e9550f.jpg 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_Diet_for_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_4787e9550f.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw">Nutrition is crucial in the management of SBS because when people eat well, they can improve their health condition and general wellness.1. Small, Frequent Meals: One way to alleviate intestinal overload is to eat small chunks of food more frequently, say 6-7 times a day. This enables better absorption of nutrients and reduces risks arising from big meals, such as ‘dumping syndrome,’ where food rushes quickly through the digestive system.2. Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods: It is important to advise clients with SBS to choose calorie-rich food that can be digested easily to meet their nutritional requirements without overwhelming their systems; protein powders, nut butter, and avocados are examples of foods that are rich in nutrients.3. High-Protein Diet: For patients with bowel disease who have compromised digestive functions, proteins may be essential, particularly tissue repair, since these individuals expect high demands. Lean meat, fish, eggs, or tofu should be included as sources of quality protein for recovery purposes and a healthy life generally.4. Low-Fiber Diet (If Necessary): <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25519080/">Studies</a> suggest fibre can have different impacts on people suffering from this condition. This includes the soluble kind, which assists in digestion, such as in oatmeal or bananas, and the insoluble type, found in raw vegetables and whole grains, which might worsen signs and symptoms. One should individualise fibre intake by adjusting it according to one’s capacity.5. Limit Fat Intake: Excess fat consumption can aggravate diarrhoea, especially if bile salts are inadequately absorbed. An ideal option would be substitution with medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) because they do not require bile salts for absorption but provide a compensation source of energy rather than worsening the disease.6. Stay Hydrated: It is important to stay hydrated at all times because water affects our health status holistically. Those with short bowel syndrome must maintain constant fluid intake throughout the day by taking oral rehydration solutions whenever necessary to replace electrolytes lost, thereby preventing dehydration.7. Avoid Trigger Foods: People living with SBS must find out what foods trigger their symptoms and remove them from their diet; this is a very personal process, depending on each individual patient. Some of these include high-sugar foods, fizzy drinks, and lactose-intolerant dairy products like milk. Thus, keeping a diary will be helpful when patients try to establish what foods are disturbing them specifically.8. Herbs and Vegetables: In the case of SBS, there is a high chance of nutrient deficiencies. These may include B12 (if the ileum is affected), magnesium, calcium, zinc, and fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. It is important to monitor and adjust supplements for the best possible health.<h3>4. Lifestyle Modifications for Managing SBS</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Short_Bowel_Syndrome_Treatment_and_Dietary_Strategies_for_Short_Gut_Syndrome_ae4270bd4d.jpg" alt="Short Bowel Syndrome Treatment and Dietary Strategies for Short Gut Syndrome.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_Treatment_and_Dietary_Strategies_for_Short_Gut_Syndrome_ae4270bd4d.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_Treatment_and_Dietary_Strategies_for_Short_Gut_Syndrome_ae4270bd4d.jpg 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_Treatment_and_Dietary_Strategies_for_Short_Gut_Syndrome_ae4270bd4d.jpg 750w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/large_Short_Bowel_Syndrome_Treatment_and_Dietary_Strategies_for_Short_Gut_Syndrome_ae4270bd4d.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure>Effective dietary changes and medical management are not the sole way through which you can achieve this. Some significant lifestyle changes can help individuals with Short Bowel Syndrome manage it far better.1. Monitor Symptoms: This method enables patients to keep a food diary and link consumed food to symptoms experienced. In addition to aiding in the identification of trigger foods, it also shapes future dietary choices and adjustments.2. Manage Stress: Mindful eating is important for maintaining good digestion because emotional well-being is closely related to digestive health. Stress worsens symptoms of SBS; therefore, it is vital to have stress management techniques like mindfulness, yoga or guided relaxation practices in place that will assist in maintaining a healthy digestive system.3. Work with a Dietitian: The support of an experienced dietitian cannot be underestimated when dealing with SBS cases. A&nbsp; dietitian helps you to design an individual nutrition plan that effectively addresses the particular requirements of your body. This ensures your health and related problems.Ayurveda treatment principles and lifestyle tips, along with the Ayurveda diet and daily regimen, can help you manage the symptoms effectively. Read how Ayurveda changed the life of our client, Mrs Dolores (34), from Scotland.&nbsp;

I joined Nirva Health’s programme hoping to manage my short gut symptoms. Within 2 weeks of joining, I could visibly see the results. I strongly recommend Nirva Health’s programme to all those who have conditions similar to mine.

&nbsp;Many clients like Dolores have changed their lives through effective Nirva Health programmes. Connect with our doctors.<h2>Wrapping Up</h2>Handling short bowel syndrome (SBS) is not more than its treatment but rather a whole journey that gives much significance to every person’s distinct needs; here we go: Through proper medical care, nutrition counselling, and lifestyle changes, patients with SBS can actually improve their lives.&nbsp;Just think how it would feel to be in charge of daily challenges supported by knowledge. The way to improve life standards consists of individual plans that work perfectly well towards reducing complications and fostering improved health outcomes.&nbsp;Therefore, all people need here is continuous support and education—this is like a partnership whereby patients get empowered so that they can face SBS upfront. In this direction, the barriers in SBS can be transformed into bright stones towards a healthier life!

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<h2>How Does Stomach Flu Affect the Gut?</h2>Once you catch hold of stomach flu, your gut microbiome balance gets disrupted. The good microbes in your gut lose their ability to survive under the attack of the stomach flu microbes.&nbsp;If you are new to gut health, know that gut microbes are a mixture of bacteria, fungi and viruses in your gut. Do not worry, they are good microbes which you need to keep yourself healthy.Get a scoop on gut health and gut types in this blog -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/types-of-gut">Understanding the 3 Gut Types and How They Impact Digestion</a>So, when these healthy microbes’ balance gets disrupted (gut dysbiosis) the body starts to lose it! How?The whole building of the immune system, digestion and metabolism comes down. Dysbiosis also leads to an inflammatory response in the gut lining making the protective wall weaker. Now, due to this, whatever harmful substances are inside the gut, they leak into the bloodstream.&nbsp;With lesser power of the immune system, the whole body becomes weak. This makes it challenging for your body to fight off future infections. The condition can also lead to the formation of some autoimmune health conditions.&nbsp;The stomach is now not even able to produce enough digestive enzymes to metabolise the food you eat, which leads to malabsorption and nutrient deficiencies.&nbsp;That is the reason why you must find the right way to bring your gut back into normalcy.<h2>Common Mistakes That Worsen Gut Health After Stomach Flu</h2>When your gut is weak, it is unwise to consume food items and follow habits that can further deplete the healthy gut microbes.Try to avoid;<ul><li>Poor diet with unhealthy fats, processed and ultra-processed foods, and excessive sugar.</li><li>Smoking and alcohol damage the intestinal lining.</li><li>Irrelevant antibiotic usage kills even the beneficial bacteria when used in excess.</li><li>Stress can flare up the gut inflammation.</li></ul><h2>Best Natural Ways to Restore Gut Health After Stomach Flu</h2>

Maintaining agni is the most essential part of being healthy.

&nbsp;What is Agni? Agni means fire. When in Ayurveda, the term agni comes into the context, it's the power of digestion. It refers to the health of your gut.&nbsp;A healthy and powerful agni breaks down undigested food and promotes appropriate nutrient breakdown and absorption.&nbsp;A balanced agni - just like how in modern medical science you say ‘ a well-balanced gut microbe - is the key to longevity.'So, here are some Ayurvedic remedies for restoring your gut health naturally.<h2>Ayurvedic Remedies for Restoring Gut Health</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Ayurvedic_Remedies_for_Restoring_Gut_Health_5e3f712ee5.jpg" alt="Ayurvedic Remedies for Restoring Gut Health.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Ayurvedic_Remedies_for_Restoring_Gut_Health_5e3f712ee5.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Ayurvedic_Remedies_for_Restoring_Gut_Health_5e3f712ee5.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Anti-inflammatory foods&nbsp;<ul><li>Turmeric</li><li>Ginger</li><li>Garlic</li></ul>These three are the first and best anti-inflammatory spices you can add to your meals. Find out more super easy anti-inflammatory diet in this article -<a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/anti-inflammatory-food-guide">&nbsp; Guide to the Anti-inflammatory Diet</a>Carminative SpicesAdd spices like;<ul><li>Clove</li><li>Cinnamon</li><li>Cumin</li><li>Coriander&nbsp;</li></ul>These help increase your agni without putting much stress on the weakened digestive system.Agni-Herbal TeaStart your day with a warm cup of herbal tea, which will add to your digestive health.Brew a cup of tea made with;<ul><li>Cumin</li><li>Coriander</li><li>Mint leaves</li><li>Basil leaves</li><li>turmeric</li></ul>This way, you can ignite your agni, soothe the inflamed gut and balance your microbes all together!Nourishing ButtermilkButtermilk is filled with healthy bacteria. Consume buttermilk mixed with;<ul><li>Curry leaf powder</li><li>Cumin</li><li>A pinch of pink salt</li></ul>GheeOnce you start feeling a little bit hungry, start consuming organic ghee (clarified butter) first thing in the morning. Follow with sips of warm water. A teaspoon of ghee helps further ignite your digestive fire.TriphalaTake a teaspoon of Triphala powder into a glass of warm water. Consume this before bedtime. You may feel like passing loose stools in the morning, but nothing to worry about. This is just a way of cleansing your gut.Above are some simple steps you can take to improve your gut health bit by bit. To know more, connect with our Ayurvedic experts.&nbsp;<h2>Foods to Avoid for Maintaining Gut Health</h2>Keep this list of food in mind to stay away from. Your gut does not need more stress trying to digest these when it doesn't have enough enzymes to do so.&nbsp;<ul><li>Heavy meals like oily or creamy foods.</li><li>Spicy foods can irritate your gut lining.</li><li>Red meat is filled with saturated fats.</li><li>Raw salads and fruits which are hard to digest.</li><li>Processed and ultra-processed food disrupts gut microbes.</li><li>Refined oils and artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose, and saccharin in market-bought fruit juices</li><li>Sauces and beverages are seen in salad dressing, which contains artificial ingredients.</li></ul><h2>Nutritious Foods to Include in Your Diet</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Dec_24_blog_images_After_Hack_21_47fd539f3b.jpg" alt="Dec_24 blog images(After Hack) (21).jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Dec_24_blog_images_After_Hack_21_47fd539f3b.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Dec_24_blog_images_After_Hack_21_47fd539f3b.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">The next time you go grocery shopping, add these items to your grocery list.Vegetables<ul><li>Broccoli</li><li>Brussel sprouts</li><li>Cabbage</li><li>Arugula</li><li>Carrots</li><li>Kale</li><li>Beetroot</li><li>Swiss chard</li><li>Spinach</li><li>Ginger</li><li>Mushrooms</li><li>Zucchini</li></ul>Root Vegetables<ul><li>Potatoes</li><li>Sweet potatoes</li><li>Yams</li><li>Carrot</li><li>Squash</li><li>Turnips</li></ul>They are nourishing for your gut and filled with essential nutrients and fibres.Fruits<ul><li>Coconut</li><li>Grapes</li><li>Bananas</li><li>Blueberries</li><li>Raspberries</li><li>Strawberries</li><li>Kiwi</li><li>Pineapple</li><li>Oranges</li><li>Mandarin</li><li>Lemon</li><li>Sweet lime</li><li>Passion fruit</li><li>Papaya</li></ul>These are quick sources of rich vitamins and minerals for improving your gut health. Moreover, they are rich in natural digestive enzymes.Fermented VegetablesFermented vegetables are the best probiotics.<ul><li>Kimchi</li><li>Sauerkraut</li><li>Tempeh</li><li>Miso</li></ul>Sprouted seedsA variety of seeds are essential for your overall health. Choose;<ul><li>Chia seeds</li><li>Flax seeds</li><li>Sunflower seeds</li></ul>They are rich in nutrients and easy to digest.Healthy fatsNot all fats are your enemy. Fats are essential for your body function. CHoose healthy fats such as;<ul><li>Avocado</li><li>Extra virgin olive oil</li><li>Coconut oil</li></ul>BeveragesChoose the right beverage that can hydrate your body. Go for;<ul><li>Bone broth</li><li>Coconut milk</li><li>Nut milk</li><li>Water</li><li>Kombucha</li></ul><h2>Don't Let Your Gut Health Get You Down</h2>Gut health may seem like a pretty small thing to look after. Following the right diet is quite tiresome, but ultimately, you must know what you are keeping at bay.&nbsp;Some of the potential health conditions that can attack your gut with unhealthy digestion and metabolism are;<ul><li>IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)</li><li>IBD (Irritable Bowel Disease like Crohn’s and Ulcerative colitis)</li><li>Autoimmune and allergic conditions</li><li>Hormonal imbalances</li><li>Mood disorders</li><li>Skin illness</li><li>Chronic fatigue</li><li>Weak immune system</li></ul>It takes time to realise that the root cause of all these health issues is the gut.<h2>When to Seek Medical Attention?</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/When_to_Seek_Medical_Attention_93ab39154b.jpg" alt="When to Seek Medical Attention.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_When_to_Seek_Medical_Attention_93ab39154b.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_When_to_Seek_Medical_Attention_93ab39154b.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Whenever you are suffering from stomach flu, there is a chance that you may face some symptoms that pose a risk to your health. Keep an eye out for such symptoms.1. DehydrationWhen you do not keep yourself on a good amount of fluids, you may experience excessive thirst, dry mouth, dark urine or dizziness. This calls for immediate emergency care.2. Severe abdominal painExperiencing severe abdominal pain may be from severe inflammation in your gut.3. Blood in stoolsBlood in stool shows that your gut is bleeding somewhere inside. It can be high up in the stomach or as low as the large intestines. You must go for a medical examination to find out the root cause.4. High FeverIf you experience a high fever (more than 101.5°F or 38.6°C ), it may be a sign of severe bacterial infection.5. WeaknessIf you feel that your body is going weak and you are unable to perform even the slightest of daily chores, then it's a sign of severe nutrient loss. Seek medical attention immediately.<h2>Wrapping Up</h2>Recovering from stomach flu takes time. The process is not just about fighting the symptoms of infection. It is much more than that. Taking care of gut health, in ayurvedic terms, Agni stands as the centre point of any infection. It takes a clear understanding of your hunger cues and metabolic health to know how to further improve your overall health.To make informed choices according to your body constitution and gut type, talk to our holistic health experts.

 Gut Recovery Guide: How to Heal Your Digestive System After Stomach Flu

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<h2>Common Causes of Abdominal Pain</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Common_Causes_of_Abdominal_Pain_c95ac69558.jpg" alt="Common Causes of Abdominal Pain.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Common_Causes_of_Abdominal_Pain_c95ac69558.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Common_Causes_of_Abdominal_Pain_c95ac69558.jpg 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Common_Causes_of_Abdominal_Pain_c95ac69558.jpg 750w," sizes="100vw">You might have felt a tummy ache after eating a heavy, greasy meal, consuming overly spicy foods, dealing with abdominal infections or diarrhoea, or when feeling bloated with gas.Your gut is called the second brain, and for good reason. Any discomfort in your tummy should not be ignored; it is your body’s way of telling you that there’s something that needs your attention.Did you know that an imbalance in your gut can also impact your brain? This fascinating connection happens through the gut-brain axis – a complex network connecting your digestive system and brain. <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/gut-brain-connection">Read more about it here</a>.Let us look at some common causes of abdominal pain.<h3>1. Digestive Issues</h3>Digestion-related problems that lead to abdominal pain are:a) Indigestion (Dyspepsia):<ul><li>Indigestion can stem from overeating, consuming spicy foods, introducing new ingredients in your diet, or even stress.</li></ul>b) Gas and Bloating:<ul><li>When gas builds up, the trapped air puts pressure on the walls of the intestines, causing a feeling of fullness and pain.</li></ul>c) Constipation:<ul><li>Difficulty in passing stools can cause your abdomen to become distended. When you strain to pass stools, it puts added stress on the abdomen, increasing abdominal discomfort and pain.</li></ul><h3>2. Gastrointestinal Disorders</h3>Apart from the common digestive issues and gas, more serious disorders of the gut can also lead to abdominal pain. Here are a few of them:a) Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):<ul><li><a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/loose-stools-and-ibs-strategies">IBS</a> may lead to mixed symptoms of diarrhoea and constipation and makes your gut very sensitive, leading to pain and discomfort.</li></ul>b) Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):<ul><li><a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/gerd">GERD</a> is caused by the backflow of the stomach contents into the oesophagus, causing heartburn, chest pain, nausea and belching.</li></ul><h3>3. Food Intolerances and Allergies</h3>Intolerance to certain foods like dairy, gluten, and so on, as well as allergies to certain foods, can cause abdominal pain along with other symptoms affecting the gut, such as bloating, gas, and cramps.According to <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8152468/">PubMed</a>, abdominal pain is one of the immediate symptoms of gastrointestinal hypersensitivity.<h3>4. Infections</h3>Bacterial or viral infections of the gut, known as the stomach flu or gastroenteritis, can cause inflammation, leading to cramps, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also result in pain in lower abdominal pain.<h3>5. Serious Conditions</h3>More serious conditions which cause gut aches and require immediate medical care include:a) Appendicitis:<ul><li>Inflammation of the appendix causes pain that starts in the middle of the abdomen, around your belly button and shifts to the lower right side of your abdomen.</li></ul>b) Gallstones:<ul><li>Hardened bile forms stone-like structures in your gallbladder, a small organ situated beneath the liver. It may cause a sharp pain (biliary colic) in the right upper abdomen, just below the ribs.</li></ul>c) Peptic Ulcers:<ul><li>Sores can form in the stomach and duodenum (first part of the small intestine) for many reasons, such as infections or medications. They cause burning pain in the upper abdomen, between your chest and belly button.</li></ul><h2>Home Remedies for Gut Ache Relief</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Home_Remedies_for_Gut_Ache_Relief_dfec554ee8.jpg" alt="Home Remedies for Gut Ache Relief.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Home_Remedies_for_Gut_Ache_Relief_dfec554ee8.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Home_Remedies_for_Gut_Ache_Relief_dfec554ee8.jpg 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Home_Remedies_for_Gut_Ache_Relief_dfec554ee8.jpg 750w," sizes="100vw">Wondering if you can soothe a gut ache naturally at home? Here are some expert-recommended tips for you to try out:<h3>1. Adjust Your Diet</h3><ul><li>If your digestion isn’t feeling quite right, try bland foods like well-cooked rice, bananas, and applesauce. These easy-to-digest options can ease the strain on your digestive system and help in faster healing.</li><li>Avoid foods that may cause irritation, such as spicy, oily, and acidic foods.</li></ul><h3>2. Herbal Remedies</h3><ul><li>Certain herbs, when brewed to make herbal teas or added to your meals, can help soothe your gut and enhance digestion.</li><li><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6341159/#:~:text=Ginger%20as%20an%20important%20dietary,et%20al.%2C%202011).">Ginger</a> is known for its carminative effect and ability to reduce intestinal cramping, dyspepsia, flatulence, and bloating. Chewing on fresh ginger or drinking ginger tea can help reduce abdominal pain and discomfort.</li><li>Peppermint can reduce abdominal pain and other gut-related conditions like IBS.&nbsp;</li></ul><h3>3. Stay Hydrated</h3><ul><li>Drink plenty of water to support digestion and prevent dehydration if you suffer from diarrhoea.</li><li>Drink <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/herbal-teas-for-digestive-health">herbal teas</a> like fennel, coriander, or chamomile to soothe and support your gut and help it heal faster.</li></ul><h3>4. Warm Compress</h3><ul><li>A heating pad or warm towel placed over the abdomen can relax the abdominal muscles and reduce cramps.</li><li>Heat causes your blood vessels to dilate, which allows more blood flow to your gut and accelerates recovery.</li></ul><h3>5. Gentle Exercise</h3><ul><li>Simple and easy exercises like walking, yoga, or stretching can stimulate digestion and aid in the passage of stools and gas, relieving constipation and gas-related pain.</li><li>Ayurveda explains that a person should walk 100 steps after dinner to stimulate the Agni (digestive strength) and aid in better digestion.</li></ul><h2>Over-the-Counter Medications</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Over_the_Counter_Medications_235f2d332d.jpg" alt="Over-the-Counter Medications.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Over_the_Counter_Medications_235f2d332d.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Over_the_Counter_Medications_235f2d332d.jpg 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Over_the_Counter_Medications_235f2d332d.jpg 750w," sizes="100vw"></figure>Are home remedies not providing relief from your abdominal pain? If so, you might want to try some medications that are easily available at stores and do not require a doctor’s prescription. These medicines are considered safe for short-term use. These can offer significant relief from pain and discomfort and help you feel better.<h3>1. For Gas and Bloating</h3><ul><li>Any product containing Simethicone as an active ingredient helps relieve symptoms of gas, such as bloating, abdominal cramping and a sensation of fullness. The medicine helps break down gas bubbles in the gut, making it pass easily through the body without causing any discomfort.</li></ul><h3>2. For Heartburn and Indigestion</h3><ul><li>Heartburn, regurgitation of food, and sour belching caused by acid reflux can be treated effectively using antacids. These medicines contain alkaline substances which neutralise stomach acids.</li><li>For long-lasting relief, you can consider using H2 blockers (e.g., ranitidine) or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs, e.g., omeprazole), which work by reducing the production of stomach acid and preventing undesirable symptoms for longer.</li></ul><h3>3. For Constipation</h3><ul><li>Constipation can result in abdominal pain due to the buildup of hard and dry waste in the intestine. If you are experiencing less frequent bowel movements or pass stools with difficulty, laxatives can help by making bowel movements easier.</li></ul>Laxatives are of different types:1. Bulk-forming laxatives contain fibres that increase the bulk of stools, making them easier to pass. 2. Stool softeners increase the water content in stools, making them less hard and easier to pass. 3. Stimulant laxatives act on the nerves and speed up bowel movements.<h3>4. For Diarrhoea</h3>If abdominal pain is caused by diarrhoea, antidiarrheal medications that slow down intestinal movement, such as loperamide (Imodium), can be used.<h3>5. For Pain Relief</h3>To manage abdominal pain, use acetaminophen (paracetamol). Avoid using NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin, as these can irritate the lining of your stomach.<h2>When to Seek Medical Attention</h2>If your abdominal pain and discomfort are not getting better with home remedies or over-the-counter medications, it may be an indicator of a more serious underlying health issue, which may worsen and even become life-threatening if left untreated. Seek medical attention in the following situations:<ul><li>Pain lasting for more than 24 hours or getting worse, even with home remedies and over-the-counter medications.</li><li>Sudden and severe abdominal pain.</li><li>Presence of blood in stool, urine, or vomit.</li><li>Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).</li><li>High fever and chills.</li><li>Pain localised to specific areas, such as the right lower abdomen (may indicate appendicitis) or right upper abdomen (may indicate gallstones).</li><li>Inability to pass stool, gas, or urine.</li></ul><h2>Preventing Future Gut Aches</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Preventing_Future_Gut_Aches_55a8d87b4e.jpg" alt="Preventing Future Gut Aches.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Preventing_Future_Gut_Aches_55a8d87b4e.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Preventing_Future_Gut_Aches_55a8d87b4e.jpg 500w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Preventing_Future_Gut_Aches_55a8d87b4e.jpg 750w," sizes="100vw">&nbsp;

Treatment without prevention is simply unsustainable.

&nbsp;Many treatment approaches are available to address abdominal pain, ranging from simple and effective home remedies to advanced medical interventions like surgeries.But why undergo treatments when you can prevent abdominal pain in the first place? Enhancing and maintaining your gut health not only reduces the chances of abdominal pain but also supports your overall well-being.&nbsp;Here are some methods that can help you prevent gut-related issues:<h3>1. Maintain a Balanced Diet</h3>Stick to a balanced diet rich in fibre-rich foods such as whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables. Limit the intake of processed foods as they contain less fibre and nutrients.<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7589116/#sec5-nutrients-12-03209">Dietary fibres</a> enhance gut motility and prevent constipation, support the gut microflora, and reduce gut inflammation.<h3>2. Stay Active</h3>Staying physically active improves your overall gut health. Exercising improves intestinal motility, stimulates digestion, and promotes faster healing. Low-intensity exercises like walking, cycling, and swimming can be beneficial in improving gut health.<h3>3. Manage Stress</h3>

Traumatic or chronic stress is associated with widespread maladaptive changes throughout the gut.

&nbsp;Your mind and gut are interconnected through a complex bi-directional pathway called the gut-brain axis. Practising <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/manage-stress-healthier-mind-and-body-techniques-and-tips">techniques to relieve stress</a>, such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness, can help prevent stress-induced gut issues.<h3>4. Monitor Food Sensitivities</h3>If you are sensitive to certain foods, monitor them carefully. Keep a diary to identify and avoid trigger foods. Be cautious while trying out new cuisines or adding new ingredients to your diet.<h3>5. Stay Hydrated</h3>Staying hydrated supports gut health and prevents constipation. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Keep a water bottle handy while you go outside. You can also enjoy herbal teas made from digestion-promoting herbs like ginger, fennel, coriander and so on.<h2>Wrapping Up</h2>The causes of abdominal pain are diverse – it can be something as minute as indigestion, gas, or food sensitivities or more serious medical conditions such as infections, inflammations or obstructions.We have seen how important understanding the cause of abdominal pain is in choosing the right treatment. Methods like dietary changes, home remedies, and over-the-counter medications can provide relief from gut aches and discomfort.If you notice the pain worsening or other unusual symptoms accompanying it, it may be an indicator of more serious health conditions that require immediate medical attention.Need support and guidance to manage gut health issues? <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/">Get in touch with our experienced Ayurveda and Yoga practitioners at Nirva Health</a> for professional and personalised treatment plans.&nbsp;

Abdominal Pain: Effective Treatments for Relieving Gut Ache

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<h2>Understanding Menopause Symptoms</h2>The uncertainties of menopause can make it feel like a battle. What actually happens within your body during this time? When you transition to <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/essential-things-to-know-about-menopause">menopause</a>, there is a sudden drop in the levels of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, which disrupts the normal functioning of your body and causes menopausal symptoms.<h3>Common Symptoms of Menopause</h3>a) Hot Flashes and Night Sweats<ul><li>Hot flashes are sudden sensations of heat spreading through your body, often followed by sweating. When hot flashes happen at night, they’re called night sweats.</li></ul>b) Mood Swings and Irritability<ul><li>Hormonal changes during menopause can affect your emotional health and cause changes in mood, irritability, anxiety or depression.</li></ul>c) Sleep Disturbances<ul><li>Menopause can make it difficult to fall or stay asleep.</li></ul>d) Vaginal Dryness<ul><li>Low levels of oestrogen in the bloodstream during menopause make the vaginal walls thin, dry and less elastic, which may result in pain or discomfort during intercourse.</li></ul>e) Loss of Bone Density<ul><li>Women lose about 10% of their total bone density in the first five years of menopause. This is brought on by hormonal changes and increases the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.</li></ul>

The changes, the highs and lows, and the hormonal shifts, there is power in that.

&nbsp;Why is there so much interest in natural remedies for menopause? These treatment options are as effective as conventional treatments in managing menopause symptoms. Additionally, these treatments have fewer side effects, are easy to include in your routine, and also improve your overall well-being.<h2>Dietary Adjustments for Symptom Relief</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Dietary_Adjustments_for_Symptom_Relief_b7e23a0224.jpg" alt="Dietary Adjustments for Symptom Relief.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Dietary_Adjustments_for_Symptom_Relief_b7e23a0224.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Dietary_Adjustments_for_Symptom_Relief_b7e23a0224.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">

Your diet is a bank account. Good food choices are good investments

&nbsp;Certain foods can help relieve menopausal symptoms. Here are some examples:<h3>1. Phytoestrogen-Rich Foods</h3><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37246823/">Phytoestrogens</a> are plant-based compounds that have a similar chemical structure as oestrogen and can mimic its effect when consumed. These foods are promoted as ‘natural alternatives’ to oestrogen replacement therapy in postmenopausal women.Some phytoestrogen-rich foods are flaxseeds, sesame seeds, berries like strawberries and blackberries, cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and broccoli, soybeans, edamame, soy products like tofu and tempeh, dried fruits like dates, prunes and apricots, and legumes like chickpeas and lentils.<h3>2. Anti-Inflammatory Diet</h3>Certain foods can cause inflammation within your body and lead to chronic health conditions. Avoid inflammation-causing foods like processed foods, alcoholic beverages, and fried and sugary foods. Try to include more <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/anti-inflammatory-food-guide">anti-inflammatory foods</a> like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like omega-3 in your diet.<h3>3. Hydration</h3>Make sure to drink sufficient quantities of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated can help reduce the intensity of hot flashes, prevent dehydration caused by excessive sweating, and reduce dryness. Include hydrating foods like cucumbers or melons in your diet.<h3>4. Calcium and Vitamin D</h3>Menopause, along with natural ageing, can make your bones weak and more prone to fractures. Support bone health by including foods rich in calcium, such as milk, cheese, yoghurt, fortified plant-based milk, green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, and oily fish like salmon, mackerel, or sardine. To obtain vitamin D, expose yourself to moderate sunlight every day or include vitamin D-fortified foods or supplements in your diet.&nbsp;<h2>Herbal Remedies for Menopause</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Herbal_Remedies_for_Menopause_43514e4f9a.jpg" alt="Herbal Remedies for Menopause.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Herbal_Remedies_for_Menopause_43514e4f9a.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Herbal_Remedies_for_Menopause_43514e4f9a.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Certain herbs, when used to brew herbal teas or when consumed in the form of powders or supplement pills, can be beneficial in managing menopause symptoms. Let’s look at a few of them:<h3>1. Black Cohosh</h3>Black cohosh root and rhizome can significantly reduce hot flashes and night sweats. It can either be used to prepare herbal tea or taken as a capsule.<h3>2. Red Clover</h3>This herb is an effective herbal treatment for hot flashes. Red clover contains isoflavones, a type of phytoestrogen. 80 mg of red clover extract, when administered daily for 3 months, was found to be <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28160855/">beneficial</a> in reducing hot flashes. Red clover can be consumed as a tea or in supplement form.<h3>3. Dong Quai</h3>This herb is used in traditional Chinese medicine as a ‘women’s herb’ to treat symptoms associated with menstruation and menopause. Dong quai is also known by the name “female ginseng” and helps balance hormones and reduce hot flashes.<h3>4. Evening Primrose Oil</h3>Evening primrose oil contains Gamma linolenic acid (GLA), which has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces menopause symptoms. According to a <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8102809/#:~:text=In%20another%20study%2C%20Low%20Dog,relieving%20some%20menopause%2Dassociated%20symptoms.">study</a>, evening primrose oil capsules are effective in reducing the frequency and severity of night sweats.<h3>5. Ashwagandha</h3>Ashwagandha (Indian ginseng) is an herb widely used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is considered a safe and effective option to reduce stress and improve the quality of sleep in menopausal women.<h3>6. Chasteberry (Vitex)</h3>Chasteberry has been used to treat hormone-related gynaecological conditions for ages. This herb is beneficial in improving mood and reducing hot flashes in peri- and postmenopausal women.Read more - <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/ayurvedic-lifestyle-for-menopause">The Ayurvedic Lifestyle Guide to Menopause: Herbs, Diet, Exercise, and Self-Care Practices.</a><h2>Lifestyle Changes for Menopause Management</h2>Did you know that making simple changes in your daily life can have a positive and lasting impact on reducing menopausal discomfort and improving your overall well-being? Here are some tips that can help you manage menopause symptoms better.<h3>1. Exercise Regularly</h3>Regular exercise, even low-intensity activities like walking, jogging, or cycling, can help maintain good health, support healthy bones and joints, and maintain a balanced body weight. Outdoor activities not only improve your physical health but also your mood.You can try strength training to enhance bone density and muscle mass or yoga and pilates to improve flexibility and mental health.<h3>2. Manage Stress</h3>Mood swings are a common symptom of menopause. The hormonal fluctuations and the sudden changes happening in your body can leave you anxious and stressed and lower your self-esteem. Practising stress-relieving methods like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or mindfulness can help improve your mental and emotional well-being.<h3>3. Get Adequate Sleep</h3>Your body requires sleep to repair and rejuvenate itself and maintain overall health. Sticking to a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding heavy meals and caffeinated beverages at bedtime, and creating a calming atmosphere in your bedroom can help you relax better and get a good night’s sleep.<h3>4. Dress for Comfort</h3>Fashion is all about being comfortable in your clothes. Use lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, and dress in layers so that you can adjust it easily when you feel a hot flash coming on.<h3>5. Acupuncture</h3>A <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4874921/#abstract1">study</a> has shown that acupuncture is effective in reducing hot flashes, improving sleep, and enhancing the quality of life in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.<h2>Supplements for Menopause Symptoms</h2>A balanced diet provides all the necessary nutrients your body needs. However, a hectic schedule and long work hours can sometimes make it challenging to maintain a nutritionally rich and well-balanced diet. In such cases, supplements can play a vital role in bridging the nutritional gaps. Here are some highly beneficial supplements for women during their menopausal years:<h3>1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids</h3>These healthy fats reduce inflammation and support heart health. Fish oil, cod liver oil, flaxseed oil, chia seed oil, and walnut oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids.<h3>2. Magnesium</h3>Magnesium supplements are beneficial in improving sleep, mood and bone density. Magnesium regulates active calcium transport. Studies have shown that the administration of magnesium hydroxide prevents fractures and significantly increases bone density.<h3>3. Probiotics</h3><a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/best-probiotics-for-women">Probiotics</a> are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed. Probiotic supplements increase the absorption of calcium by the intestine, reducing bone damage. They also reduce inflammation and the risk of heart disease in menopausal women.&nbsp;<h3>4. Vitamin B Complex</h3>Low B-vitamin concentrations are relevant factors in cognitive weakening and dementia in menopause and further in older age. Low vitamin B2 results in increased fragility of bones, osteoporosis and fractures. Taking vitamin B complex supplements can improve cognitive function and is also a good supplement for bone health in menopause.<h2>When to Seek Professional Advice</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/When_to_Seek_Professional_Advice_b0cd873fff.jpg" alt="When to Seek Professional Advice.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_When_to_Seek_Professional_Advice_b0cd873fff.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_When_to_Seek_Professional_Advice_b0cd873fff.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Every woman has a unique menopausal experience. Some might not feel any discomfort at all, while others might struggle with severe symptoms that affect them physically and mentally, interfering with their daily activities.&nbsp;If you experience any of the following, seek professional care:&nbsp;<ul><li>You experience symptoms that are severe enough to affect your daily life and relationships.</li><li>There’s significant bone density loss or fractures.&nbsp;</li><li>You have persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, or episodes of confusion and forgetfulness.&nbsp;</li><li>You experience urinary issues like recurrent infections or sexual issues like pain during intercourse.&nbsp;</li><li>Natural treatments do not offer you adequate relief.</li></ul><h2>Wrapping Up</h2>Menopause is not an ending but a time to reinvent yourself and invest in your health. Don’t let menopause hold you down – instead, learn how to enjoy this phase of life.&nbsp;Natural treatments for menopause offer not just relief from symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings and bone loss but also a holistic way to maintain overall health.&nbsp;We have seen how diet, herbs, supplements and lifestyle changes can help you manage menopause better and improve the quality of life. Always consult a healthcare provider before you start out on new treatments to make sure they are safe and effective for you.

Natural Treatments for Menopause Symptoms

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Health Coach Certified in Therapeutic Nutrition and Dietics

Dr Anju Lal

<h2>Understanding Gallstones and Their Impact</h2>What are gallstones?Gallstones, also known as cholelithiasis, are hardened deposits of bile in your gallbladder. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by your liver and stored in your gallbladder. Abnormal changes in the composition of bile cause it to form tiny crystals that harden into stones, which may range in size from a sand grain to the size of a golf ball. Gallstones are usually asymptomatic until they block the flow of bile into the intestines.<h3>Types of Gallstones</h3>Types of gallstones that may form in your gallbladder include:1. Cholesterol Gallstones<ul><li>These are the most common type of gallstones, constituting about 70% to 80% of gallstones in adults. Cholesterol gallstones are made primarily of undissolved cholesterol with a few other components. It appears yellowish in colour.</li></ul>2. Pigment Gallstones<ul><li>These stones are formed due to too much bilirubin (a yellow substance produced by the breakdown of red blood cells) in the bile. They appear dark brown or black in colour. These stones are most often associated with liver diseases.</li></ul><h3>Symptoms of Gallstones</h3>Gallstones cause symptoms if they get stuck in a duct and cause blockage. The symptoms include:<ul><li>Sudden and severe pain in the upper right or middle abdomen</li><li>Pain in the right shoulder or between the shoulder blades</li><li>Nausea and vomiting</li><li>Indigestion</li><li>Abdominal bloating</li><li>Gas or belching</li><li>Fever and chills</li><li>Yellowish discolouration of the skin and whites of the eyes</li><li>Pale coloured stools</li></ul>Read more - <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/guide-managing-gall-bladder-pain">Guide to Managing Gallbladder Pain: Understanding the Cause and Seeking Relief.</a><h2>When Non-Surgical Approaches Are Considered</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/When_Non_Surgical_Approaches_Are_Considered_cbb29daffc.jpg" alt="When Non-Surgical Approaches Are Considered.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_When_Non_Surgical_Approaches_Are_Considered_cbb29daffc.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_When_Non_Surgical_Approaches_Are_Considered_cbb29daffc.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Non-surgical methods to treat gallstones are recommended in the following conditions:<ul><li>The stone is not causing any symptoms, such as pain or digestion-related issues.</li><li>The symptoms are mild and do not cause serious discomfort to the patient.</li><li>The patient is elderly or is not able to undergo surgery due to health conditions.</li><li>The gallstone is small and can be dissolved with medications.</li><li>The patient prefers non-surgical methods due to the fear of surgery if the stones are not causing severe symptoms.</li></ul><h2>Dietary and Lifestyle Changes</h2>Various studies have shown how simple dietary and lifestyle modifications can help support your gallbladder’s health, reducing the risk of gallstones, the symptoms they cause, and the need for surgery to treat them.Here’s how to adopt a gallstone-friendly diet:<ul><li>Eat foods that are rich in fibre, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains.</li><li>Eat healthy fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats) like those found in olive oil, avocado, fish, full-fat dairy, nuts and seeds.</li><li>Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to support healthy bile production and prevent stone formation.</li><li>Go for low-fat foods such as lean meats. Low fat can reduce the workload on the gallbladder.</li><li>Reduce the intake of refined sugars and unhealthy fats found in fried foods and desserts. These foods may trigger or worsen the symptoms caused by gallstones.</li><li>Nutritional supplements like vitamin C, soy lecithin, and iron may help prevent gallstones.</li></ul>Read more - <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/foods-avoid-gallbladder-issues">15 Dietary Strategies for Gallbladder Wellness: What to Eat and What to Avoid.</a>Apart from your diet, other lifestyle changes that can support gallbladder health include:1. Weight ManagementObesity increases the prevalence of gallstones, and so does rapid weight loss. A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11192327/">study</a> showed that a relative loss of weight greater than 24% of initial body weight, a rate of weight loss greater than 1.5 kg per week, a very low-calorie diet with no fat, or a long overnight fast can increase the risk of gallstones.&nbsp;Then what’s the solution? Gradual weight loss is key. Control your weight loss, reduce the length of overnight fasting, and continue to include healthy fats in your diet.2. Exercise<ul><li>Various studies confirm the protective effect of physical activity on the risk of gallbladder disease. Exercise improves your overall well-being and supports the maintenance of a healthy body weight.</li></ul><h2>Medications for Gallstone Management</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Medications_for_Gallstone_Management_3a4a559e13.jpg" alt="Medications for Gallstone Management.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Medications_for_Gallstone_Management_3a4a559e13.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Medications_for_Gallstone_Management_3a4a559e13.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Certain medications offer you a chance to avoid surgery and treat gallstones by managing their symptoms and even dissolving them. Gallstones that are small and cause mild symptoms can be effectively treated using medicines.<h3>1. Bile Acid Therapy (Ursodiol or Chenodiol)</h3>This treatment for gallstones involves taking oral bile acids orally.&nbsp;How It Works:&nbsp; Bile acids reduce the cholesterol content in bile. This makes the bile less saturated by cholesterol, allowing the cholesterol gallstones to dissolve gradually.Best For:&nbsp; Bile acid therapy can be used for treating small, non-calcified cholesterol gallstones.Duration:&nbsp; Taking bile acid pills can provide symptomatic relief in 2 to 3 months. However, for the stone to disappear completely, it may take several years.<h3>2. Pain Management</h3>Mild pain caused by gallstones can be managed using over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.&nbsp; Medications for gallstones have limitations – they are effective for treating only specific types and small-sized gallstones. Once the medicines are discontinued, there is a chance that other new stones may form.<h2>Alternative and Natural Therapies</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Alternative_and_Natural_Therapies_f8348e2cc3.jpg" alt="Alternative and Natural Therapies.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Alternative_and_Natural_Therapies_f8348e2cc3.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Alternative_and_Natural_Therapies_f8348e2cc3.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">

Many patients consider traditional herbal practitioners due to their promise of non-invasive and pain-free management of gallstones.

&nbsp;Alternative therapies provide a gentle and natural way to treat gallstones. Many report relief from gallstone symptoms with the use of different herbal remedies, gallbladder cleanses and acupuncture. Let us explore some of them:<h3>Herbal Remedies for Gallstones</h3>Many herbs have been used since ancient times as remedies for gallstones and other gallbladder-related disorders. Even though their traditional uses are well known, more scientific studies are required to confirm their efficacy.1. Dandelion Root<ul><li>This herb has been used for many centuries as a remedy for gallbladder disorders. The bitter compounds found in dandelion root stimulate your liver to produce bile, which in turn helps with fat metabolism.</li></ul>2. Milk Thistle<ul><li>Extracts of milk thistle have been recognised as remedies for liver and gallbladder disorders.</li></ul>3. Gold Coin Grass<ul><li>This is a herb used in Chinese medicine to treat gallstones.</li></ul>4. Turmeric<ul><li>A <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4557223/">2015 study</a> conducted on mice showed that curcumin (an active component in turmeric) administered along with piperine (an alkaloid present in black pepper) for 4 weeks prevented the development of gallbladder stones.</li></ul>Read more - <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/gallstones-ayurveda">Understanding the Root Causes of Gallstones and How Ayurveda Addresses Them.</a><h3>Gallbladder Cleanses</h3>The gallbladder cleanse is a folk remedy that is said to promote the passage of gallstones. This involves consuming a combination of herbs, olive oil and fruit juices to flush out gallstones.&nbsp;Caution: Gallbladder cleanse is not scientifically proven and may result in complications like a blocked bile duct. Do not try this remedy without consulting a healthcare professional.<h3>Acupuncture</h3>A&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23342781/"> study</a> showed that the stimulation of GB21, an acupressure point on the shoulder, reduces gallbladder-related shoulder, back, and stomach pain and reduces the gallbladder volume in cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) patients.<h2>Shock Wave Therapy (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy - ESWL)</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Shock_Wave_Therapy_Extracorporeal_Shock_Wave_Lithotripsy_ESWL_5d8755aa8f.jpg" alt="Shock Wave Therapy (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy - ESWL).jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Shock_Wave_Therapy_Extracorporeal_Shock_Wave_Lithotripsy_ESWL_5d8755aa8f.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Shock_Wave_Therapy_Extracorporeal_Shock_Wave_Lithotripsy_ESWL_5d8755aa8f.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Shock wave therapy for gallstones is a non-surgical alternative which uses sound waves to break down gallstones into small pieces that can pass out easily through your digestive system.The physician first locates the gallstone using ultrasound and then focuses shock waves on that particular point.ESWL is used to treat patients with small-sized gallstones and normally functioning gallbladders. It is also very useful in treating cholesterol-based gallstones in patients contraindicated for surgery or refusing to undergo surgery.However, ESWL has a few limitations: this treatment option is not widely available and may require to be followed up with bile acid therapy to dissolve any remaining gallstone fragments.<h2>Preventing Gallstone Recurrence</h2>Preventing gallstones can be easy – protect your gallbladder with these lasting methods:Balanced Diet<ul><li>Practise healthy eating habits. Stick to a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, healthy fats, nuts and seeds. Avoid processed, high-fat and excessively sweet foods.</li></ul>Physical Exercise<ul><li>Engage in physical activities. Staying active can help you maintain a healthy body weight and prevent obesity.</li></ul>Weight Management<ul><li>Avoid rapid weight loss treatments or diets as they can increase the risk of gallstones.</li></ul>Hydration<ul><li>Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Hydration is the key to the healthy functioning of all body processes. It can prevent the bile from becoming concentrated.</li></ul>Regular Check-Ups<ul><li>Getting regular check-ups done can help in early detection, monitoring the progress to know if they are worsening, and preventing complications.</li></ul><h2>Wrapping Up</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Wrapping_Up_9093f81e4d.jpg" alt="Wrapping Up.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Wrapping_Up_9093f81e4d.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Wrapping_Up_9093f81e4d.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Do you suspect you have gallstones? If you experience severe symptoms, repeated episodes of gallstones, or if you have large or numerous stones, cholecystectomy (surgical removal of the gallbladder) becomes necessary.Non-surgical options like simple changes in your diet and lifestyle, medications to relieve pain and dissolve stones, and alternative therapies like the use of herbs or acupuncture can be effective in managing the symptoms and discomfort caused by gallstones.&nbsp;If you suspect you have gallstones, consult a healthcare provider to diagnose it and plan the best treatment approach for your needs.

Non-Surgical Approaches to Treating Gallstones: What Are Your Options?

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<h2>How Does Alcohol Affect Menstrual Cycle?</h2>The effect of alcohol on menstrual health is different for each individual. Here’s a general explanation of how alcohol affects the menstrual cycle:&nbsp;

Alcohol use affects men and women differently, with women being more affected by the health effects of alcohol use.

&nbsp;<h3>Hormonal Balance Disruption:</h3><ul><li>Alcohol can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to disruptions in the levels of oestrogen, <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/how-does-progesterone-affect-periods">progesterone</a>, and thyroid hormones. This results in irregular menstruation, decreased ovarian reserve (the number of healthy eggs remaining in a woman’s ovary), fertility, and mood swings.</li></ul><h3>Impact on Ovulation:</h3><ul><li>The hormonal imbalance caused by excessive alcohol consumption can reduce the number of healthy egg cells, cause you to not ovulate or get regular periods, and lead to infertility and early menopause over time.</li></ul><h3>Altered Menstrual Flow:</h3><ul><li>Some women experience heavy menstrual bleeding, while others experience light or missed periods due to alcohol consumption. Changes in menstrual flow are linked to alcohol, causing thinning of blood, dilation of blood vessels, and hormonal changes.</li></ul><h2>Common Menstrual Issues Linked to Alcohol Consumption</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Common_Menstrual_Issues_Linked_to_Alcohol_Consumption_8ad2d120bf.jpg" alt="Common Menstrual Issues Linked to Alcohol Consumption.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Common_Menstrual_Issues_Linked_to_Alcohol_Consumption_8ad2d120bf.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Common_Menstrual_Issues_Linked_to_Alcohol_Consumption_8ad2d120bf.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Among the menstrual problems linked to alcohol consumption are heavy bleeding, irregular cycles, and fertility problems. Even if you only drink at gatherings and weekends, it’s important to recognise the effects alcohol can have on your menstrual health.<h3>Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):</h3><ul><li>PMS is a variety of signs and symptoms like mood swings, <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/understanding-bloating-during-and-after-ovulation">bloating</a>, breast tenderness, irritability, tiredness, and food cravings that many women get before the start of their menstruation.</li><li>Alcohol can intensify these symptoms by disrupting the hormone levels, affecting the production of mood-regulating hormones like serotonin, and causing dehydration in the body.</li></ul><h3>Increased Risk of Menstrual Cramps:</h3><ul><li>Alcohol raises the levels of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6790261/">prostaglandin</a> (a lipid with hormone-like activity), which causes contractions of the uterus, leading to more painful cramps. It contributes to inflammation and dehydration, which are responsible for menstrual cramps.</li></ul><h3>Menstrual Irregularities:</h3><ul><li>Excessive intake of alcohol can disrupt your menstrual cycles by affecting hormone levels and ovulation. Chronic alcohol consumption can cause skipped periods and may even lead to anovulation (when the ovaries don’t release an egg during the menstrual cycle) and <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/premature-and-early-menopause">early menopause</a>.</li></ul><h2>Alcohol and Menstrual Pain</h2>Alcohol consumption can significantly increase menstrual pain due to the following reasons:<ul><li>Alcohol causes dehydration, which can worsen muscle cramps.</li><li>Alcohol stimulates the production of prostaglandins responsible for causing uterine contractions while promoting inflammation that acts to aggravate menstrual pain.</li><li>Alcohol depletes magnesium levels (which is responsible for muscle relaxation), increasing muscle tension and cramps.</li><li>Drinking alcohol along with pain medications like aspirin or ibuprofen can increase the risk of stomach irritation, ulcers, heartburn, and bleeding.</li></ul><h2>The Relationship Between Alcohol and Hormonal Health</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/The_Relationship_Between_Alcohol_and_Hormonal_Health_99bac2705b.jpg" alt="The Relationship Between Alcohol and Hormonal Health.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_The_Relationship_Between_Alcohol_and_Hormonal_Health_99bac2705b.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_The_Relationship_Between_Alcohol_and_Hormonal_Health_99bac2705b.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">

First you take a drink, then the drink takes a drink, then the drink takes you.

&nbsp;The effects of alcohol range from a commonly experienced next-day hangover to serious long-term impairment of various bodily functions.<h3>Liver Function and Hormone Metabolism:</h3><ul><li>The liver plays an important role in processing hormones within the body. Drinking too much may <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546632/">decrease liver function</a>, thereby disrupting the metabolism of hormones such as oestrogen and cortisol. Hence, hormonal imbalance and other health consequences arise.</li></ul><h3>Impact on the Endocrine System:</h3><ul><li>Consuming large amounts of alcohol can disrupt the communication between the nervous, endocrine and immune systems and cause hormonal disturbances and serious health problems affecting both your body and behaviour.</li></ul><h2>Tips for Responsible Alcohol Consumption During Your Menstrual Cycle</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tips_for_Responsible_Alcohol_Consumption_During_Your_Menstrual_Cycle_dca20f7018.jpg" alt="Tips for Responsible Alcohol Consumption During Your Menstrual Cycle.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tips_for_Responsible_Alcohol_Consumption_During_Your_Menstrual_Cycle_dca20f7018.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tips_for_Responsible_Alcohol_Consumption_During_Your_Menstrual_Cycle_dca20f7018.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Looking to enjoy an occasional drink without compromising your health or aggravating menstrual symptoms? Here are some expert-backed tips for responsible alcohol consumption during your menstrual cycle:<h3>Stay Hydrated:</h3><ul><li>Alcohol is a diuretic and can lead to dehydration if you don’t drink enough water with it. <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/hydration-for-optimal-menstrual-health">Drinking plenty of water</a> can prevent some of the negative effects of alcohol on your menstrual cycle, like severe and painful cramps.</li></ul><h3>Moderation Is Key:</h3><ul><li>Avoid binge drinking. According to the National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, women should drink no more than one standard drink per day. Limiting alcohol intake can reduce hormonal disruption and prevent inflammation.</li></ul><h3>Choose Your Drink Wisely:</h3><ul><li>Opt for low-sugar drinks like dry wine. Avoid sugary drinks like cocktails, which can cause a sudden spike in your blood sugar levels and worsen PMS symptoms.</li></ul><h3>Eat Before Drinking:</h3><ul><li>Eating before consuming alcohol slows down the rate at which alcohol enters your bloodstream. This can reduce the impact of your drink on hormones.</li></ul><h3>Avoid Alcohol Near Your Period:</h3><ul><li>Avoiding intake of alcohol near and during your period can help prevent menstrual irregularities and symptoms like heavy menstrual flow and discomfort.&nbsp;</li></ul><h3>Balance With Magnesium Rich Foods:</h3><ul><li>Alcohol consumption can cause <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7836619/#:~:text=A%20comprehensive%20and%20critical%20review,can%20occur%20in%20this%20setting.">magnesium deficiency</a>, which can cause painful uterine cramps. To replenish magnesium levels, consume foods like soy products, cashews, almonds, bananas, dried apricots, and leafy greens.</li></ul><h3>Maintain a Balanced Diet:</h3><ul><li>Maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals can help support hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, and reduce menstruation-related symptoms like cramps, bloating, and fatigue.</li></ul>Read more - <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/diet-for-balancing-hormones-naturally">A Diet Guide for Balancing Hormones Naturally in Women</a>.<h2>Myths of Alcohol and Menstruation Debunked&nbsp;</h2>Are you ready for some serious myth-busting? Let us shed light on how alcohol affects your menstrual health.&nbsp;Myth: Alcohol soothes cramps.<ul><li>Fact: Alcohol encourages relaxation and gives the illusion of numbness from pain, but this actually worsens period pains in the long run because of increased inflammation, dehydration, and raised prostaglandin levels.&nbsp;</li></ul>Myth: Alcohol does not have any effect on the period.&nbsp;<ul><li>Fact: Alcohol can disturb hormone balances, causing disruptions of the menstrual cycle such as missed periods, heavy or light flow during menstruation, and exacerbation of PMS symptoms like cramping, bloating, fatigue, and mood swings.</li></ul><h2>When to Seek Medical Advice</h2>When does a drink become a problem? See a doctor if you notice these changes in your menstrual cycle:<h3>Irregular or Missed Periods:</h3><ul><li>If your cycle becomes unpredictable, shorter, or longer, or if you skip periods in certain months, it may be a result of frequent alcohol consumption.</li></ul><h3>Heavy Bleeding:</h3><ul><li>If you notice your menstrual bleeding is significantly increased and leads to fatigue and anaemia, you should consult a doctor.</li></ul><h3>Worsening of Menstrual Symptoms:</h3><ul><li>If your symptoms related to menstruation become worse or intensified and don’t relieve with natural remedies, consult a healthcare professional.</li></ul><h3>Fertility Problems:</h3><ul><li>If you are trying to conceive and are experiencing irregular or skipped periods, you might want to talk to your doctor about alcohol consumption.</li></ul><h2>Wrapping Up</h2>Do you enjoy an occasional drink? That’s absolutely fine – as long as you do it responsibly. Drinking in moderation does not usually lead to serious health issues.However, consuming excessive amounts may lead to serious health issues, including menstrual health problems, such as irregular periods, heavy, painful menstrual flow, hormonal imbalance, worsened PMS symptoms, and difficulty conceiving.Knowing how alcohol affects your body isn’t just wise; it’s a necessity. A few drinks may be harmless, but too much of it can take a toll on your health.Understanding its effects can help you take control and make choices that support your long-term well-being.Ladies, enjoy your wine, but don’t forget to take care of your menstrual health, too. Make smart choices and keep your menstrual cycle balanced.

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