1:1 Therapeutic Yoga session for weight loss - Get instant access

<h2>What Is A Colon Cleanse?</h2>As the name implies, a colon cleanse is a procedure to clean your colon. The main aim of the colon cleanse procedure is to flush out any residual or toxic content of the large intestine. Our body, especially our colon, is innovatively capable of self-cleaning. However, due to modern lifestyle and dietary habits, our body may need assistance to flush the residues out.It is just like giving your car a service once in a while. This colon cleanse is usually done through colonic irrigation, enemas, or dietary detoxes.&nbsp;<ul><li>Colonic Irrigation: A medical procedure of infusing water into the colon. It is done through a tube inserted into the rectum.</li><li>Enemas: A method of using liquid introduced into the rectum. It helps stimulate bowel movements.</li><li>Dietary Detoxes: Programs that involve consuming specific juices or supplements that can initiate bowel movements and thus aid in cleansing the colon.</li></ul><h2>Potential Benefits Of A Colon Cleanse</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Image_2_Potential_Benefits_Of_A_Colon_Cleanse_be36887e03.jpg" alt="Image 2 -Potential Benefits Of A Colon Cleanse.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Image_2_Potential_Benefits_Of_A_Colon_Cleanse_be36887e03.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Image_2_Potential_Benefits_Of_A_Colon_Cleanse_be36887e03.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">If you are wondering what a colon cleanse does to your body, let's discuss some of the potential benefits of a colon cleanse:1. Improved Digestion And Gut HealthRemoving build-up waste from your colon can increase its smooth functioning. When the colon function becomes smooth, it helps digestion a lot. Moreover, it can potentially reduce symptoms like constipation and bloating.2. Enhanced Nutrition AbsorptionThe colon primarily absorbs water and electrolytes. Your small intestine is where nutrient absorption mainly occurs. Having a clear colon can indirectly affect nutrient absorption by the small intestine.3. Feeling Light And EnergeticAfter a colon cleanse, you can feel a lightness in your body. This can improve your physical activities and will provide you with an energy boost. Psychological factors also play a great role in the feeling of this lightness.These are some of the key benefits of doing colon cleanse. However it is alo crucial to understand potential risks associated with it.&nbsp;<h2>Risks and Concerns of Colon Cleansing</h2>First of all, medically, not everyone is fit for colon cleansing. There are some risk factors that need to be considered before doing colon cleansing.<ul><li>Dehydration: The process of evacuating accumulated wastes from your colon can also cause fluid loss from your body. This may lead to dehydration.</li><li>Imbalance Of Electrolytes: Electrolyte imbalances can result from improper colon evacuation and can cause severe health problems.</li><li>Bowel Perforation: If not properly done, colon cleansing can cause perforation to your bowel wall.</li><li>Infection: The chances of infection are present when you administer unsterile liquids into your colon.</li></ul>All these are risk factors that may come up if the colon cleansing is not done properly. It is your duty to ensure you are availing of the service from a reputed and safe place where expert guidance is available, like Nirva Health.In addition, people with chronic health conditions are also not advised to take colon cleansing unless advised by a medical practitioner.&nbsp;<h2>Natural Alternatives to Promote Digestion</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Image_3_Natural_Alternatives_to_Promote_Digestion_cc16907b87.jpg" alt="Image 3 - Natural Alternatives to Promote Digestion.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Image_3_Natural_Alternatives_to_Promote_Digestion_cc16907b87.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Image_3_Natural_Alternatives_to_Promote_Digestion_cc16907b87.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">When it comes to staying healthy, you can always opt for natural methods. Instead of artificial methods like colonic irrigation or enemas, you could actually try out some of the natural methods listed below for colon cleansing:<h3>1. Fibre-Rich Diet</h3>Following a high-fibre diet will always upgrade your health. Fibre-rich food items like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes can improve your digestive ability. Also, a fibre-rich diet can improve the bulk of the stool, thus helping prevent constipation.&nbsp;<h3>2. Proper Hydration</h3>Always try to drink plenty of water. Adequate hydration helps soften your stools. It aids in regular bowel movements. If you are well hydrated, you are less likely to experience constipation or other digestive issues.<h3>3. Probiotics And Fermented Foods</h3>Probiotics are something which is gaining immense attention at present. When you look around, you can see brands promoting their food products claiming to have probiotics!&nbsp;So, what are probiotics? But, before answering the question, knowing about the reality of your gut is important.&nbsp;Did you know that the human gut holds a very large number of beneficial bacteria? These are collectively called gut microbiomes. The correct balance of the gut microbiome is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system.Now, coming back to the question, in simple terms, Probiotics are food and health products that have live, beneficial microbes. Intake of probiotic foods contributes to the healthy balance of the gut microbiome.Probiotics are typically found in fermented foods. Some of the common fermented foods are yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. Thus, these food items can improve your gut health by promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria.&nbsp;Now, you are aware of what colon cleansing is, its benefits and risk factors. We have also looked at the natural alternatives to it.&nbsp;Read on to know when you can actually think of undergoing a colon cleanse.&nbsp;<h2>When To Consider A Colon Cleanse</h2>So, when will you feel like getting a colon cleanse?&nbsp; Of course, when your digestive system is in trouble, right? The following are the two important stages where a colon cleanse is advised:<ul><li>Preparation For Medical Procedures: Cleansing may be necessary before medical procedures such as colonoscopy. This helps establish clear visibility of the intestinal walls.</li><li>Severe Constipation: If you are experiencing chronic constipation and dietary changes have not alleviated it, you can consider colon cleansing. Medical advice should be sought before considering any form of cleansing.</li></ul>Now, here's something interesting. Have you thought of what traditional medicines offer in correspondence to a colon cleanse? The next session deals with what Ayurveda can offer as an alternative to a colon cleanse.<h2>Basti In Ayurveda</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Image_4_Vasti_In_Ayurveda_57844bb423.jpg" alt="Image 4- Vasti In Ayurveda.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Image_4_Vasti_In_Ayurveda_57844bb423.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Image_4_Vasti_In_Ayurveda_57844bb423.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">The panchakarma procedures in Ayurveda are the most popular alternative therapies. Among them, basti is an important technique involved in many treatment protocols advised in Ayurveda.As said earlier, basti is not just mere colon cleansing. It has numerous health benefits.This method differs from conventional colon cleanses. It uses medicinal substances tailored to individual needs rather than merely flushing out waste.<ul><li>The basti procedure is known for its ability to detoxify and purify not just the intestines but also the entire body.&nbsp;</li><li>It can stimulate colon secretion and also help improve overall health by addressing various ailments associated with vata dosha (the air element in Ayurveda).&nbsp;</li><li>The basti procedure works through the rich blood supply found in rectal areas. Thus, the instilled medicinal substances are absorbed and spread across the body. It provides systemic benefits rather than just bowel cleansing.</li></ul>Another aspect is that you can tailor the procedure according to your individual needs. The different mixtures of medicines, the quantity, the time of administration, and the time of retention of the medicine. All these aspects can alter the net effect of the procedure.In simple terms, the indications and benefits of basti are vast. You can even use it as a mere colon cleanse or as part of a treatment for a severe disease. All you have to do is consult an Ayurvedic practitioner and seek expert medical advice.<h2>Wrapping It Up</h2>Actively finding ways to keep your body healthy is a great aspect of life. Colon cleansing is an amazing way to reboot your digestive system. Even though colon cleansing has numerous digestive benefits, it has associated potential health risks, too. Utmost caution should be taken when you approach such practices.Instead of opting for aggressive cleansing methods, it is always better to adopt natural remedies. Try to follow a fibre-rich diet, maintain hydration, and include probiotics in your daily regimen. These practices can effectively promote your digestive health.If you are considering more traditional approaches like vasti, it is advisable to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. At Nirva Health, we provide personalised treatment plans based on your individual health needs and preferences. Understanding how your body functions naturally will help you make informed decisions about your health.

Can a Colon Cleanse Improve Digestion?

Register for our live workshop - The Good Gut 😃

Ease Gallbladder Health Issues Naturally! 

15 Dietary Strategies for Gallbladder Wellness: What to Eat and What to Avoid

Learn Face Yoga Techniques From the Experts!

<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><a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/face-yoga">8 Best Face Yoga Exercises for Marionette Lines</a></h2>Relax and calmly learn how to perform each step of these unique face yoga exercises with us.&nbsp;<h3>Preparation Before the Exercises</h3>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>Now, we will go through each exercise one by one.<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>Incorporating Face Yoga Exercises for Marionette Lines Into Your Daily Routine</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.<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 skincare 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><blockquote>“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,” says Dr Khusboo Jain, Senior Yoga Coach at Nirva.</blockquote>For more tips and tricks, contact our face yoga experts to clarify doubts about how to go about your daily face yoga routine! They can guide you to work out a personalised routine of facial exercises for your marionette lines.<h2>The Key Takeaways</h2>The face yoga exercises for marionette lines listed 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 Face Yoga Exercises To Treat Marionette Lines

Plan Your Healthy Holiday Season With Nirva!

Delicious and Healthy Holiday Recipes Spiced Up by Ayurveda

Get Access to Our Weekly Newsletter - Sign up!

small_Understanding Breast Pain A Menopausal Symptom.jpg

thumbnail_Understanding Breast Pain A Menopausal Symptom.jpg

Understanding Breast Pain A Menopausal Symptom.jpg

Breast Pain During Menopause

large_banner.jpg

medium_banner.jpg

small_banner.jpg

thumbnail_banner.jpg

banner.jpg

The Best Vitamins For Menopause: What Really Works?

large_banner images.jpg

medium_banner images.jpg

small_banner images.jpg

thumbnail_banner images.jpg

banner images.jpg

The Importance of Gut Health for Immune Function

Antibiotics vs. Probiotics: Finding Balance for a Healthy Gut

large_Bhavya -Dec Banner Imges - Bhavya.jpg

medium_Bhavya -Dec Banner Imges - Bhavya.jpg

small_Bhavya -Dec Banner Imges - Bhavya.jpg

thumbnail_Bhavya -Dec Banner Imges - Bhavya.jpg

Bhavya -Dec Banner Imges - Bhavya.jpg

What Are Vasomotor Symptoms? FAQs Answered

large_Bhavya -Dec Banner Imges - Bhavya (1).jpg

medium_Bhavya -Dec Banner Imges - Bhavya (1).jpg

small_Bhavya -Dec Banner Imges - Bhavya (1).jpg

thumbnail_Bhavya -Dec Banner Imges - Bhavya (1).jpg

Bhavya -Dec Banner Imges - Bhavya (1).jpg

Essential Oils for Menopause Relief: Do They Work?

large_nirva.png

medium_nirva.png

small_nirva.png

thumbnail_nirva.png

nirva.png

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

Dr. Israa Ismail

small_Banner-How Can Stress Lead to the Formation of Gall Stones.jpg

thumbnail_Banner-How Can Stress Lead to the Formation of Gall Stones.jpg

Banner-How Can Stress Lead to the Formation of Gall Stones.jpg

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

<h2>The Physiology of Stress</h2>When your body undergoes stress, it's called the flight or fight response—adrenalin and cortisol cause it to happen on the spot. The hormones, in turn, boost your heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels.For a short period, this response looks good as it helps you prepare to face challenges. However, when your body continues to exist in a constant state of alertness, it can severely impact various body functions, such as:<ul><li>It can suppress the immune system.</li><li>It can disrupt digestion.</li><li>It can lead to psychological stress, interfering with sleep, mood cognition, and overall mental health.</li><li>It can affect your cardiovascular (heart-related) system.</li></ul><h2>The Physiology of Gallstone Formation</h2>Gallstones are like kidney stones, solid deposits in the gallbladder that form from an imbalance in the bile content, a digestive fluid essential for digestion.&nbsp;The main components of bile are :<ul><li>Cholesterol</li><li>Bile salts</li><li>Bilirubin</li><li>Water</li></ul>So, when the bile contains excessive cholesterol and inadequate bile salts to dissolve it, cholesterol can crystallise and aggravate, eventually forming gallstones.&nbsp;Hence, it stands proven that cholesterol is the main culprit leading to gallstone formation.&nbsp;However, where does cholesterol come from? Its main parent character is the liver, and what do they do to give you gallstones?<ul><li>The excess cholesterol solidifies into crystals if the liver produces more cholesterol than the bile salts can dissolve.&nbsp;</li></ul>Additionally,<ul><li>A reduced ability of the gallbladder to empty appropriately or certain medical conditions that alter the composition of bile can contribute to gallstone development.</li></ul>Now, if you are reading that stress and gallstones are related, how does that connection work?<h2>The Stress-Gallstones Connection You Should Know</h2>Even though rarely pointed out, there is a connection between stress and gallstones. At least, that is what the recent researches say.<ul><li>The hormones cortisol and adrenaline released during any stress on the body disrupt the balance between cholesterol and bile salts (which help break down fats and make them easier to absorb) in the gallbladder.&nbsp;</li></ul><h3>What Happens Due to This Disruption?</h3><ul><li>The imbalance or disruption between cholesterol and bile salts causes the crystal formation of cholesterol.&nbsp;</li></ul>Stress does not just cause an imbalance in the digestive enzymes but also causes a difference in your lifestyle and habits.&nbsp;<ul><li>Prolonged stress often leads to unhealthy lifestyle choices, like poor dietary habits and reduced physical activity, further amplifying the risk of gallstone development.</li></ul>Stress can be a culprit of even how well your gallbladder functions. A proper bile output should be present to prevent bile collection around the bladder. So, how are gall bladder contractions and stress related?<h2>Stress-Induced Gallbladder Contractions</h2>Stress-related changes in the body can trigger gallbladder contractions through the communication between;<ul><li>The brain</li><li>The autonomic nervous system&nbsp;</li><li>The gastrointestinal tract&nbsp;</li></ul>How Does This Step-To-Step Messaging Work?<ol><li>When an individual experiences stress, the autonomic nervous system ( the part of the nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions ) responds by activating the branch responsible for the fight or flight response.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>The activation prompts the release of stress hormones, notably adrenaline (epinephrine). &nbsp;</li><li>Adrenaline binds to receptors on the smooth muscle cells of the gallbladder, causing them to contract.&nbsp;</li></ol>The gallbladder's primary function is to store bile, which aids in the digestion and breakdown of fats.<ul><li>When there is an unwanted trigger of gallbladder contraction, there is an irregular release of bile, disrupting the balance of bile and cholesterol, which aids digestion in the body.</li></ul><h2>Gallstones and Anxiety: A Bidirectional Relationshi</h2>Researchers talk about the relationship between gallstones and anxiety. This relation is bidirectional.<ul><li>Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as poor dietary habits and sedentary behaviour, known risk factors for gallstone formation.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>Also, the gallbladder can play a role in causing anxiety and related issues. When our digestive system isn't functioning well, it can affect our mental health. &nbsp;</li><li>When researchers looked into a massive group of people with gallbladder problems and those without, a higher chance (1.69 times higher) of migraines was seen in those with gallbladder problems, which exacerbates anxiety. &nbsp;</li><li>Moreover, those people with gallbladder issues had other health problems, too, like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and more.</li></ul><h3>Why is Understanding the Relation of Anxiety and Stress with Gallstone Issues Important?</h3>The uncertainty and fear associated with the discomfort, pain and worry about potential complications or need for surgical interventions can contribute to heightened anxiety levels, impacting your mental health.Addressing stress and anxiety through appropriate interventions, including stress management techniques and psychological support, can mitigate the risk of gallstone formation and alleviate anxiety.<h2>Managing Stress for Gallbladder Health</h2><ul><li>Mindfulness and meditation to promote a sense of calm and balance. &nbsp;</li><li>Exercise and physical activity to improve digestion and maintain a healthy weight while managing stress. &nbsp;</li><li>A balanced diet involves avoiding high-fat, processed, and spicy foods. Eating one, in turn, adds to a sense of positivity in your mind called Satva of mind in Ayurveda. &nbsp;</li><li>Adequate hydration helps to decrease their body and mental exhaustion. Hydration also supports the effective functioning of the gallbladder. &nbsp;</li><li>Sufficient sleep is required to let the body rejuvenate, recover and reduce stress.</li></ul><h2>How to Recognise the Signs of Stress-Oriented Digestive Symptoms</h2>Stress often manifests in various ways, and one prominent channel through which it communicates with your body is the digestive system.Some of the most common signs you must recognise before you manifest gallstones are:<ul><li>Abdominal Discomfort - Abdominal muscle tension. Discomfort, cramping and even pain.</li><li>Changes in Bowel Patterns - Diarrhoea, constipation or fluctuating patterns between two.</li><li>Nausea and vomiting.</li><li>Loss of appetite or overeating.</li><li>Indigestion and heartburn due to increased stomach acid production.</li></ul><h2>When to Seek Medical Help</h2>If you have gallstones, then monitor your symptoms mindfully and seek medical help if you notice any of the following:<ul><li>Severe abdominal pain which worsens over time.</li><li>Fever above 101.5 degrees.</li><li>If you start vominting bile and blood.</li><li>If you experience shortness of breath.</li><li>Dark urine and pale stools.</li><li>If you find trouble sleeping due to pain.</li></ul>Make sure you get the relevant tests doneto find out what is the stage and condition of your gallstone issue.<h2>To Conclude</h2>Stress can disrupt many factors in our lives, and one of them is the functioning of the gallbladder. &nbsp;Managing stress when present with gallstones has to come across as a combined effort from you, your surgeon or doctor, and the people around you. How? Through mindfulness, exercise, a balanced diet, and seeking professional help. Guidance is crucial in promoting gallbladder health and overall well-being.

How Can Stress Lead to the Formation of Gall Stones?

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

Dr Naveen Chandran

<h2>Understanding Menopause And Its Challenges</h2>Before rushing into what vitamins to take during menopause, knowing what the term menopause means in to health experts. Menopause officially begins 12 months after your last period. It usually strikes between the ages of 45 and 55.&nbsp;The time period immediately before menopause is marked as perimenopause, during which the levels of hormones start changing, further resulting in the menses cycle becoming variable.During this time span, the female body starts producing less estrogen and progesterone, which affects as follows:a) Bones: Due to the depletion of estrogen, osteoporosis comes calling. Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decrease or when the structure and strength of bone change.b) Heart: Menopause also messes with cholesterol levels. This leads to increased chances of heart disease.c) Skin and Hair: In women, lack of progress in the collagen department results in thin-skinned and finer hair. Collagen is a structural protein that’s a building block of hair, skin, nails, and other tissues.d) Mood And Sleep: The moods are all over the place, with heightened anxiety and sleepless nights increasing in frequency.e) Hot Flashes: Hot flashes are frequent uninvited visitors of the menopause period.&nbsp; These are the most troublesome feelings that women find uncomfortable. The proposed reason for this is decreased estrogen levels.&nbsp;You will get more ideas about hot flashes and their natural remedies here: <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/natural-remedies-for-hot-flash">Natural Remedies for Hot Flashes: Effective Relief During Menopause</a>.Vitamins have been an effective solution in countering the adverse impacts. Vitamins can be powerful allies in managing these challenges, helping to support bone health, balance moods, and improve energy levels.Let’s explore each of these vitamins in detail and their relevance in the subsequent sections.<h2>Vitamin D: Crucial For The Immune System And Bones</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Vitamin_D_Crucial_For_The_Immune_System_And_Bones_d36d743533.jpg" alt="Vitamin D_ Crucial For The Immune System And Bones.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Vitamin_D_Crucial_For_The_Immune_System_And_Bones_d36d743533.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Vitamin_D_Crucial_For_The_Immune_System_And_Bones_d36d743533.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Vitamin D is essential for strong bones and is essential while going through menopause, as the decrease in estrogen can lead to bone weakening. Our body can make it when exposed to sunlight.<h3># Benefits Of Vitamin D</h3><ul><li>It helps the immune system, which may weaken as a person increases in age.</li><li>It promotes a sense of calm and even helps with symptoms of depression, which are found in menopausal women.</li></ul><h3># Sources Of Vitamin D</h3><ul><li>Your body: Depending on your skin type, try to spend 10-30 minutes in the sun several times a week.</li><li>Diet: Salmon and mackerel, enriched milk, egg yolks, and mushrooms.</li><li>Dietary supplements: You can also consider supplementing vitamin D during menopause. These would be helpful if you live in a region with limited sunlight or have low Vitamin D levels.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Vitamin B6: Easing Mood Swings And Fatigue</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Bhavya_Dec_24_Blog_Images_Bhavya_1_69fa08d2da.jpg" alt="Bhavya- Dec '24 Blog Images - Bhavya (1).jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Bhavya_Dec_24_Blog_Images_Bhavya_1_69fa08d2da.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Bhavya_Dec_24_Blog_Images_Bhavya_1_69fa08d2da.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Pyridoxine, or vitamin B6, is important for the development of the chemical serotonin, which controls every individual’s mood. During menopause, women experience low levels of serotonin, which is said to cause irritability, depression, and fatigue.<h3>#Benefits Of Vitamin B6</h3><ul><li>It helps to have a steady and less hormonal-jumpy mood.</li><li>Increased energy through red blood cell count.</li><li>Help during perimenopause when women experience water retention and bloating.</li></ul><h3>#Sources Of Vitamin B6</h3><ul><li>Rice, fish, yoghurt, bananas, potatoes, and grain cereals.</li><li>An increased dosage of these vitamins in the form of supplements can be helpful for women who are experiencing severe symptoms.</li></ul><h2>Vitamin E: A Natural Remedy For Hot Flashes</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Vitamin_E_A_Natural_Remedy_For_Hot_Flashes_baf7247c16.jpg" alt="Vitamin E_ A Natural Remedy For Hot Flashes.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Vitamin_E_A_Natural_Remedy_For_Hot_Flashes_baf7247c16.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Vitamin_E_A_Natural_Remedy_For_Hot_Flashes_baf7247c16.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">The most difficult symptoms of undergoing menopause are hot flashes and night sweats. <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9824658/">Research</a> studies prove that powerful antioxidants such as vitamin E reduce the intensity and the occurrence of these flashes.<h3>#How Vitamin E Helps</h3><ul><li>Potentially replaces estrogen to reduce the chances of hot flashes.</li><li>Maintains smooth skin by preventing dryness and wrinkles.</li><li>It protects cells from oxidative stress, which can increase with age.</li></ul><h3>#Sources Of Vitamin E</h3><ul><li>Almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach, avocado and sunflower oil</li></ul><h2>Vitamin K: For Stronger Bones And A Healthier Heart</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Vitamin_K_For_Stronger_Bones_And_A_Healthier_Heart_b55d3fb8c6.jpg" alt="Vitamin K_ For Stronger Bones And A Healthier Heart.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Vitamin_K_For_Stronger_Bones_And_A_Healthier_Heart_b55d3fb8c6.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Vitamin_K_For_Stronger_Bones_And_A_Healthier_Heart_b55d3fb8c6.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Another equally crucial Vitamin is Vitamin K, which helps with various processes postmenopause. Vitamin K is essential for bone health. Vitamin K works alongside Vitamin D and assists in absorbing calcium, which is required for building bones. It also helps with cardiovascular diseases by stopping artery calcification.<h3>#Benefits Of Vitamin K</h3><ul><li>It prevents the chances of osteoporosis and fractures.</li><li>Lowers the chances of heart diseases caused by loss of elasticity in arteries.</li></ul><h3>#Sources Of Vitamin K</h3><ul><li>Leafy greens, such as kale, spinach, and broccoli.&nbsp;</li><li>Fermented foods like natto, which is a Japanese dish of fermented soybeans.</li></ul><h2>Vitamin C: Supporting Collagen And Immunity</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Vitamin_C_Supporting_Collagen_And_Immunity_093d5ed31d.jpg" alt="Vitamin C_ Supporting Collagen And Immunity.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Vitamin_C_Supporting_Collagen_And_Immunity_093d5ed31d.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Vitamin_C_Supporting_Collagen_And_Immunity_093d5ed31d.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Collagen, an important protein for skin and joint health, gets relatively lowered during menopause. Vitamin C helps improve the production of collagen and helps promote immunity.&nbsp;<h3>#Benefits Of Vitamin C</h3><ul><li>It keeps skin tight and glowing.</li><li>Make the joints and connective tissues better.&nbsp;</li><li>It helps in fighting diseases and helps the overall immune system.&nbsp;</li></ul><h3>#Sources Of Vitamin C</h3><ul><li>Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, tomatoes, and oranges.&nbsp;</li><li>To enhance its effectiveness, add a lemon to a glass of warm water and drink it first thing in the morning. This is an excellent technique to improve your vitamin C consumption while also helping with digestion.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Magnesium: The Relaxation Mineral</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Magnesium_The_Relaxation_Mineral_7b26241a14.jpg" alt="Magnesium_ The Relaxation Mineral.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Magnesium_The_Relaxation_Mineral_7b26241a14.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Magnesium_The_Relaxation_Mineral_7b26241a14.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Although magnesium is not a vitamin, it deserves a place on the list due to its ability to aid in menopause care.&nbsp;<h3>#How Magnesium Helps</h3><ul><li>It enhances the quality of sleep by soothing the nervous system.</li><li>It reduces muscle cramps and headaches.&nbsp;</li><li>It strengthens bones and produces energy.&nbsp;</li></ul><h3>#Sources Of Magnesium</h3>It is found in nuts such as almonds and cashews, seeds such as pumpkin and chia, whole grains, and dark chocolate.<h2>Incorporating Vitamins Into Your Daily Routine</h2>It doesn’t need to be complex to make such vitamins part of your everyday life; here are some practical steps to include vitamins in your daily life for better results. Also these healthy practices will help subside your menopause symptoms.<h3>Tip 1 : Eat A Balanced Diet</h3>Look for whole foods and dense nutrients. Add in vegetables and fruits, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Try your best to skip processed foods; otherwise, the symptoms of menopause will get worse.<h3>Tip 2: Plan Ahead</h3>Plan your meals so you can include different types of vitamin-enriched meals. For example, you can prepare a salad of spinach, avocados, and grilled chicken. That way, you will be set for your vitamin K and B6 dose. Similarly, research and prepare suitable food combinations to meet your daily vitamin needs.<h3>Tip 3: Take Supplements If Needed</h3><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10780928/#nutrients-16-00027-t002">Research</a> has proven that proper nutrition is a must to ensure a safer and healthier menopausal journey. If your diet sources aren’t enough or you have certain deficiencies in your body, consumable supplements would solve that problem, of course, alongside the required diet. Consult with your physician prior to starting any new vitamin supplements.<h3>Tip 4: Stay Hydrated</h3>It is universal that hydration is key. Not only does it help with absorbing nutrients, but it also solves dryness, which is common during this period.Cultivating a menopausal-friendly lifestyle requires a lot of effort. You can choose the wise path to a healthy and happy tomorrow or the ignorant path to a troublesome life ahead. We would always suggest a more natural and well-planned approach from the start so that you can tackle those challenges easily during the budding phase itself.At Nirva Health, we are devoted to making every woman brave enough to experience the process of aging that comes with menopause. Taking a more comprehensive view including appropriate supplements, dietary measures, physical activity on a regular basis on top of managing stresses could do wonders.Rose Foster, shared her positive experience, stating that her general and mental health improved after joining the program at Nirva Health."My general and mental health has improved enormously, and I feel so much more able to cope with life’s stresses. Most of my menopause symptoms are either resolved or manageable now. I’ve felt deeply supported throughout this journey, and the yoga sessions tailored specifically for me have been a game-changer.” — Rose Foster.​<h2>Wrapping It Up</h2>Every woman goes through a significant transition through the introduction of the menopause phase, which brings both opportunities and challenges. This phase calls for many actions and precautions to ensure a healthy and smooth journey. One among these is including the right amount of vitamins in your diet.&nbsp;&nbsp;We have discussed several crucial vitamins that would help the transition phase account for a less challenging period. Any woman needs a tailored plan during the phase of menopause to overcome this with confidence and a sense of strategy throughout the process.You may develop these new dietary habits along with taking supplements where needed and being more systematic in your daily routine. You may make this new shift the most productive one. Don’t think of this menopause phase as the end but rather the start of another phase of your life.

<h2>The Gut And Its Microbial Ecosystem</h2>You may already know that the human gut contains trillions of beneficial microbes called the gut microbiome. These can be considered the soul of gut health. These are necessary for the proper functioning of the gut. In short, the diversity of the gut microbiome is higher and healthier, and so is the quality of your gut health.Before addressing the topic, here’s something interesting. You may already know that even conventional medicine is against the regular use of antibiotics.Have you ever thought about why it is not recommended to use antibiotics regularly?&nbsp;Antibiotics kill all the microbes inside the human gut, including the beneficial ones. This is why you feel a bit under the weather after taking a dose of antibiotics. So, the next time you think of getting a course of antibiotics for simple flu and colds, keep this in mind and choose wisely.&nbsp;Now, coming back to the gut microbiome, about 70% of immune cells reside in the gut. This makes the microbiome a frontline player in defending against harmful pathogens. The gut’s immune system trains itself to differentiate between harmful invaders and friendly microbes. This helps ensure a well-calibrated immune response.So, now you know a brief on the gut and its microbiome system. Read on in the next session to learn how these tiny microbes can influence your immune system.<h2>How Gut Health Influences Immunity</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/How_Gut_Health_Influences_Immunity_9cdf5c7caa.jpg" alt="How Gut Health Influences Immunity.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_How_Gut_Health_Influences_Immunity_9cdf5c7caa.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_How_Gut_Health_Influences_Immunity_9cdf5c7caa.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">The gut microbiome is an all-rounder in regulating your health as a whole. Immune response is a major aspect among them.But, how do these tiny group of organisms function to regulate the whole body immune system?<h3>1. Gut Microbiome And Immune System Communication</h3>The gut microbiome directly interacts with immune cells and trains and controls them. For example, certain bacteria in the gut synthesise SCFAs (short-chain fatty acids) that modulate T-lymphocytes. These are very important for controlling infections and autoimmune diseases, as various <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10000530/">research</a> studies have proven.<h3>2. Barrier Function Of The Gut Lining</h3>The gut lining is also a biological and physical barrier. A healthy gut lining stops potent pathogens and toxins from entering the blood circulation system. When such a structural barrier is damaged (a state commonly known as leaky gut), immune responses can go awry, potentially resulting in inflammation.<h3>3. Influence On Systemic Immunity&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>It has been observed that gut microbiota facilitate the secretion of cytokines. These help trigger immune responses throughout the body.A healthy gut microbiome allows for such substances to be produced in the appropriate amounts that enable the body to effectively respond to infections without the danger of causing harm through excessive amounts of inflammation.&nbsp;<h3>4. Reduction Of Chronic Inflammation</h3>Dysbiosis (an imbalanced gut microbiome) of the gut results in chronic inflammation. This has been associated with autoimmune diseases, allergies, and even heart disease. A balanced microbiome does not allow for hyper-activation of inflammatory tracers.As human bodies are complex, these mechanisms are more complex to understand, especially in medical terms. However, what we can do is make our health a priority through simple yet effective lifestyle corrections and a healthy diet. Read on to know:<h2>How To Support Gut Health For Better Immunity</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/How_To_Support_Gut_Health_For_Better_Immunity_39f201262a.jpg" alt="How To Support Gut Health For Better Immunity.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_How_To_Support_Gut_Health_For_Better_Immunity_39f201262a.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_How_To_Support_Gut_Health_For_Better_Immunity_39f201262a.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">As mentioned at the start, preventive aspects in health care have been gaining widespread popularity recently. The whole foundation of preventive medicine starts with how you live your life. Yes, we are talking about lifestyle choices and dietary habits. Read below and understand some of the lifestyle tweaks and adjustments you can follow to take care of your gut health and your immunity in the long run:<h3>1. Add Probiotics Into Your Diet</h3>Probiotics are good bacteria that can help balance the gut microbiome. Such food with probiotics includes:Yoghurt: Stay away from pasteurised yoghurt and always choose one that contains live, active cultures.Kefir: This is an alcoholic or non-alcoholic fermented milk drink containing more active bacteria than yoghurt.Fermented Vegetables: Gut health is improved by sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles.<h3>2. Consume Prebiotic Foods</h3>Prebiotics are indigestible fibres that are consumed to increase gut bacteria activity and population. Prebiotics and gut health have a never-ending connection. Common good sources of prebiotics include:<ul><li>Garlic</li><li>Onions</li><li>Bananas</li><li>Asparagus</li><li>Whole grains</li></ul>Such food increases the diversity of the microbiota of the gut and improves immunity.<h3>3. Raise Your Fibre Intake</h3>Food such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds contain high amounts of fibre, which encourages proper digestion and supports all beneficial bacteria. A mixture of different fibres would be necessary to support a healthy ideal microbiome.<h3>4. Drink Enough Water In A Day</h3>Water assists with digestion and sustains gut tissue. Not drinking enough water can cause constipation, which can lead to increased chances of damaged gut and lower immune levels.<h3>5. Minimise Processed Foods And Sugars</h3>Consumption of processed foods and high-sugar diets, which can also disrupt the gut microbiome, can favour and encourage harmful bacteria overgrowth.It’s wise to swap artificial snacks for nuts or fruits.<h3>6. Manage Stress</h3>Did you know stress impacts your gut health and immunity? When chronically stressed, communication within the gut-brain axis is altered, which can lead to an imbalance of microbes. Keeping stress at its minimum can easily be achieved by:<ul><li>Practicing exercises</li><li>Meditation</li><li>Deep breathing exercises</li><li>Yoga</li></ul><h3>7. Get Enough Sleep</h3>Well-rested sleep can greatly impact the balance of the gut microbiome and the immune system. Lacking sleep can alter the diversity of microorganisms and the functionality of the gut as a barrier.<h3>8. Antibiotics In Excess Should Be Ceased</h3>The use of antibiotics could affect gut microbiota, as certain good bacteria are destroyed in the process. Only take them when prescribed, and make sure you take optimal probiotics after antibiotic therapy. Taking probiotics after antibiotics will help you rapidly recover your microbiome and restore gut flora balance.To cater and design a healthy routine with perfect medicines that suit your unique health needs is a tedious task. At Nirva Health, we have been doing this for the past years with expert and professional guidance, leading to numerous happy customers. If you are in doubt about your gut health, reach out to us, and we can help you.In London, Jennifer is a busy professional lawyer who had problems with her gut, faced constant infections along with chronic tiredness, and little relief from the conventional treatments. Things started to change positively for her once she became a part of Nirva’s team.

Within three months, I noticed a dramatic improvement in my gut health and energy levels. I haven’t fallen sick in months, and I feel in control of my health for the first time in years.

<h2>Wrapping It Up</h2>It takes simple efforts like reducing the amount of sweets you consume, eating more fibre and lowering the amount of stress you experience to have a carry-on effect and a much healthier gut microbiome. Though these may look like minor steps, they are definitely helpful investments in your immunity and health.Due to a balanced microbiome, an improvement in bodily responses to infections and inflammation should be expected, thus preventing the further development of chronic diseases.&nbsp;There is no need for a huge change, just small improvements. Make these changes today and see how your immunity and gut health get better.&nbsp;

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 Are Antibiotics?</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/What_Are_Antibiotics_a2815968e0.jpg" alt="What Are Antibiotics.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_What_Are_Antibiotics_a2815968e0.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_What_Are_Antibiotics_a2815968e0.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Antibiotics address bacterial infections ranging from a sore throat to a swollen bladder. This sounds fantastic, but it has one caveat: they can’t distinguish between nasty and good bacteria. Antibiotics live up to their name by preventing infections caused by unfriendly bacteria from spreading.Unfortunately, It can also eliminate your body’s friendly bacteria, which alters your microbiome’s equilibrium, which isn’t ideal.That is why you might feel diarrhoea or bloating after consuming antibiotics, as your gut is reacting to the sudden loss of friendly bacteria.If you are interested in knowing more about how antibiotics can affect your gut microbiome, please take a look at this <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/antibiotics-impact-gut-bacteria">blog</a> from our team.<h2>What Are Probiotics?</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/What_Are_Probiotics_bb039f666c.jpg" alt="What Are Probiotics.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_What_Are_Probiotics_bb039f666c.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_What_Are_Probiotics_bb039f666c.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Consider probiotics to be bacterial balancing forces that are naturally present throughout your system. As mentioned above, they are included in food products such as pickles and yoghurt and can even be ingested through supplements. They shield your gut from the invasion of harmful bacteria.In case of an imbalance, probiotics can be taken in and suffuse the missing friendly bacteria. Dealing with discomfort can become an annoyance, and that’s where probiotics step in and aid in maintaining a healthy microbiome. This not only helps with the digestive system but also assists the body in battling infections more efficiently.If you want to know more about fermented food options with rich probiotic content and health benefits, read the article -<a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/probiotic-foods-for-better-gut-health"> Gut Health and Probiotic Foods Guide</a>.<h2>Antibiotics vs. Probiotics</h2>Antibiotics and probiotics both play important roles, but they have very different jobs and undertakings. For example, antibiotics are emergency doctors who come to the rescue when an infection occurs. Probiotics, on the other hand, are like gardeners who work on the soil to nurture a healthy gut in the long run.Both antibiotics and probiotics are more like two sides of the same coin. It’s all about when and how best to use them for your gut.You might be having some questions, such as, “Does this mean I should never take antibiotics?”No, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take antibiotics at all. They are potential lifesavers in various emergency conditions. When rightly prescribed, antibiotics are beneficial lifesavers. However, they are over-prescribed for colds and flu viruses, which is sad and unfortunate as antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. Antibiotics should only be taken if advised by a doctor—always follow medical advice.Probiotics are helpful but don’t expect them to be a miracle cure. They are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive gut-friendly routine, which includes a healthy diet and regular fibre consumption. We shall discuss this in more detail in the following sections.For people who maintain healthy guts while consuming fermented items regularly, the addition of excessive probiotics on a regular basis is not really required. On the other hand, if you’ve finished a course of antibiotics, have some gut-related disease, or just want to improve your gut health, having probiotics does help out.<h2>How to Protect Your Gut While Taking Antibiotics</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/How_to_Protect_Your_Gut_While_Taking_Antibiotics_662c62bc11.jpg" alt="How to Protect Your Gut While Taking Antibiotics.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_How_to_Protect_Your_Gut_While_Taking_Antibiotics_662c62bc11.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_How_to_Protect_Your_Gut_While_Taking_Antibiotics_662c62bc11.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">So, if you are taking antibiotics, here are some suggestions so that your gut will be less affected:Tip 1 : Probiotics After Antibiotics: When on antibiotics and after the course is finished, try taking probiotics throughout the time. But do not take them together; instead, have a time gap and consume them to avoid uncomfortable reactions.Tip 2 : Consume Foods With Sufficient Fibre: Good bacteria are enhanced through fibre consumption, and it quickens the process. You can start including more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your meals.Tip 3 : Drink A Lot Of Fluids: Good water intake is essential for better digestion and acid removal.Say no to unneeded antibiotics: Natural remedies for cough and proper hydration are sometimes all your body requires to recover.<h2>Take Care of Your Gut</h2>Once again, it’s worth emphasising that building your gut isn’t just an effort involving antibiotics or probiotics intake. Below are some of the easiest daily life practices to do that.<h3>1. Try The Diverse Range Of Foods&nbsp;</h3>The greater the variety in your diet, the greater the diversity amongst the organisms residing in your gut. And a more diverse microbiome is associated with improved digestion, better immune response, and protection against diseases.Different food types contain different fibres and nutrients, thus feeding different types of beneficial bacteria in a single person’s gut.<h3>2. Exercise On A Daily Basis</h3>Exercise not only makes your muscles firm but also allows you to increase the population of bacteria in your gut and makes them more beneficial for your body.Chronic inflammation can be fought by using SCFAs (Short Chain Fatty Acids), which are able to nourish the gut lining, and research suggests that moderate and regular physical activity increases the amount of SCFAs in the body.<h3>3. Avoid Feeling Distressed</h3>Stress that lasts for an extended period causes damage to the body, including nutritional damage, bloating, and other negative side effects. Stress impacts the microbiota-gut-brain axis (cortisol), a bidirectional communication pathway between the gut and the brain.<h3>4. Get Enough Sleep</h3>Sleep is the time when your gut (and body) gets rejuvenated and healed. Sleep deprivation is detrimental to your gut microbiota and thus your metabolism and immunity.<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1087079222001046?via%3Dihub">Research</a> has shown that lack of sleep tends to lower the level of some species of gut bacteria, including those that help with metabolism and inflammation control.<h3>5. Stay Hydrated</h3>Every bodily function requires water, be it digestion, absorption of nutrients or metabolism.Adequate hydration is crucial as it aids in the maintenance of the gastrointestinal mucus membrane and the propulsion of food throughout the digestive tract. These conditions promote a more favourable environment for good bacteria.<img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Take_Care_of_Your_Gut_1b6f126ea5.jpg" alt="Take Care of Your Gut.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Take_Care_of_Your_Gut_1b6f126ea5.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Take_Care_of_Your_Gut_1b6f126ea5.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"><h3>6. Reduce Processed Foods And Sugars</h3>Along with high-sugar diets, other sources, such as “processed foods,” destroy beneficial gut bacteria, which ultimately leads to inflammation and, later, additional digestive system issues.Harmful bacteria and yeast grow in the gut,&nbsp; thanks to excess sugar consumption, which ultimately results in bloating or what may seem to be an infection. Additionally, ‘trans fats’ found in processed foods damage the intestinal lining.<h3>7. Consume A Variety Of Fermented Foods</h3>Yoghurt, kimchi, kefir, and sauerkraut are all examples of fermented foods that are also considered probiotics.Introducing fermented foods into your meals provides a mixture of bacteria such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium, as well as other beneficial bacteria that play a major role in keeping your gut balanced.<h3>8. Try To Laugh More And Stay Happy</h3>It might be hard to accept the fact, but your emotions actually have an impact on your gut.Emotions that can be classified as happiness result in an increased output of a gut-related antimicrobial peptide along with serotonin and other hormones, resulting in a healthy, supported microbiome.<h3>9. Chew Your Food Adequately</h3>Our digestion actually commences in the mouth. Taking time to chew adequately can ease the responsibility of the intestines.Food that has been chewed well is shredded into smaller particles, which enhances the activity of digestive enzymes existing in our intestines and, therefore, diminishes the load on the gut, leading to better digestion.<h3>10. Listen To Your Gut</h3>Have you ever felt “off” after taking medication, eating junk food, or going through a stressful period? Your gut might be trying to tell you something. Pay attention to symptoms like bloating, discomfort, or irregular bowel movements—they’re clues about your gut health.If you are confused about how to keep your gut healthy and happy, you can reach out to Nirva Health. Our expert team can guide you through each step towards better health and wellness.&nbsp;

After 4 weeks, I have no more gut pain, my bloating has gone down, my bowel movements have returned to normal, and I no longer feel sluggish in the morning! Oh, and I’ve lost 9lbs.

&nbsp;<h2>Wrapping It Up</h2>Antibiotics and probiotics aren’t opposites that need to be avoided; they are balanced instruments if used wisely. Antibiotics are barbarians who ruin the peace and harmony in the gut while being effective doctors in emergencies, while probiotics uphold peace and perfect order in the gut.Stay unworried about the health of your microbiome by eating foods that are good for your gut, using antibiotics only when absolutely needed, and using probiotics according to your condition. So, in the future, when you have an infection or are in the yoghurt section of the supermarket, remember this: it is all about finding your perfect balance. You always feel good whenever your gut is balanced.

<h2>Understanding Vasomotor Symptoms</h2>A common experience that many women aged between 45 and 55 face is the vasomotor symptoms of menopause (VMS). VMS refers to symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and chills.The proposed reason for experiencing these symptoms is the fluctuating hormone levels during the menopausal stage.&nbsp;Estrogen is the gonadal hormone that keeps body temperature and other body functions in check. Estrogen levels decline sharply as one goes through menopause, which creates problems with the part of the brain that regulates temperature—the hypothalamus.&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18074100/">Research</a> suggests that the sequence of events runs as follows:<ul><li>Your brain perceives the wrong message that your body is getting too hot.</li><li>Sweating, along with rapid vasodilatation, results in a flushed, sweaty feel. It is a communicative process for the rest of the body to quicken the cooling process.&nbsp;</li><li>This whole process is experienced as hot flashes or night sweats.</li></ul>Along with hormonal fluctuations, environmental factors and lifestyle triggers can exacerbate the condition. In the coming sections, we shall discuss correcting and maintaining these factors for the management of VMS.Having understood the causes and chain of events behind these symptoms, let’s explore more on the experience of going through these:<h3>1. Hot Flashes</h3>Hot flashes are sudden feelings of intense heat that often start in the chest or face and spread throughout the body. They can cause:<ul><li>Flushed Skin: Your face, neck, and chest may turn red or blotchy.</li><li>Sweating: Many women experience heavy sweating, particularly on the upper body.</li><li>Heart Palpitations: You might feel your heart racing or pounding.</li><li>Anxiety Or Discomfort: The abruptness of a hot flash can leave you feeling unsettled or stressed.</li></ul>Regardless of how brief they are, they can typically range from 30 seconds to a few minutes. They occur a few times a week or, in severe cases, multiple times a day.&nbsp;<h3>2. Night Sweats&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>Night sweats are essentially hot flashes that happen while you’re sleeping. You could be in a deep, restful sleep and then suddenly wake up drenched in sweat, with your sheets and night dress soaked. You feel like you have run a marathon in your sleep. This disruption often leaves you feeling exhausted and irritable the next morning due to the poor quality of sleep.<h3>3. Chills&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>After a hot flash or night sweats, just when you believe that was it, those chills start. For one moment, your temperature is too high, and for the next, you are almost groping for a blanket as you have gotten too cold. It’s as if your body is experiencing a bit of confusion!&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>4. Skin Sensations&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>Just like rubbing salt in the wound, adding to the misery, some women report experiencing a peculiar tingling or prickling sensation in their skin during hot flashes. It is as if your body is adding an extra layer of syndrome.Coming to know more about vasomotor symptoms and their cause, you might have started thinking more and encountered questions about this in your mind. Keep reading for further clarification.<h2>Common Questions About Vasomotor Symptoms</h2>Hot flashes, night sweats and chills can ask many questions, and these definitely require answers. Many women often question how long these effects will last and whether there is a way to resolve them.You no longer need to be concerned about these questions since you have come to the right place where your queries will be answered. All you have to do is take the right action for your health at the earliest!<h3>Q : How Long Do Vasomotor Symptoms Last?</h3>Here is the reality: vasomotor symptoms are not the same for all. For some women, experiencing hot flashes as well as night sweats could last a few months, while for others, it could be stretched to years.The general range of these symptoms is around 7 to 10 years, which is a bit worrying. The key point to note is that the majority of the women start experiencing lesser frequency and intensity over time. Initially, you may have multiple hot flashes daily, but over time, as your body starts adjusting, they taper off.Some factors, like stress or overall health, may determine how long they last. If these symptoms are taking a toll on your daily life, then go ahead and talk to your health advisor as soon as possible.<h3>Q : What Are The Most Effective Treatments?</h3>If you’re tired of fanning yourself every few hours or waking up drenched at night, you’re probably wondering: “Is there anything that actually works?” The answer is yes! Managing vasomotor symptoms is all about finding the right approach.There are various approaches you might want to consider which will make a tremendous difference in your life.&nbsp;The happy news is that when you learn about these triggers, you can work on preventing them. By controlling your lifestyle and managing your surroundings, you can regain some control over these symptoms.&nbsp;As we typically begin with the remedy, let us suggest things that can be done right in the comfort of your home.a) Stay Cool<ul><li>In order to ensure comfort during hot flashes, ensure that your sleeping area is cool and well-ventilated.&nbsp;</li><li>Make use of an air conditioner or fan, particularly at night, and it will prove useful.&nbsp;</li><li>When dressing up, wear layers to remove clothing when feeling hot.&nbsp;</li><li>Choose breathable fabrics like cotton for your clothes and bedding.</li></ul>b) Mind Your Food Intake<ul><li>Try to stay away from caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods as they are hot flash triggers.&nbsp;</li><li>Moreover, make sure to drink enough water during the day in order to stay hydrated.</li><li>In foods, include phytoestrogens like soy and flaxseeds to try out the remedy as they mimic estrogen, which helps to regulate hot flashes.&nbsp;</li></ul>c) Relaxation Techniques<ul><li>Deep breathing meditation is another go-to remedy, along with self-practice, such as yoga.</li></ul>d) Adopt A Healthy Lifestyle<ul><li>Maintain a healthy weight; extra weight can make hot flashes worse.</li><li>Get regular exercise—it’s great for managing stress and balancing hormones.</li><li>Quit smoking, as it’s linked to more severe menopausal symptoms.</li></ul>f) Medical Treatments And Options<ul><li>When home care management is insufficient, then medications can be helpful, so talk to your healthcare expert about the options below:</li></ul>g) Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)<ul><li>Vasomotor symptoms are best treated with HRT. This therapy consists of using estrogen and, in some cases, progesterone to balance hormone levels.</li><li>You should always consult with your practitioner before undergoing HRT so that your health background can be properly assessed.&nbsp;</li></ul>h) Non-Hormonal Medications<ul><li>SSRIs class of some antidepressants have been related to an improvement in the frequency of hot flashes.</li><li>Gabapentin, which is an agent that treats nerve pain disorder, is also effective for night sweats.</li></ul>h) Prescription Skin Patches Or Gels<ul><li>The low-dose estrogen patches and gels that are available today have the potential to be the most appealing option for women who prefer not to take oral medication.</li></ul>i) Alternative TherapiesThe Ayurveda system interprets menopause through a completely different lens, providing herbs, diet, yoga, and lifestyle changes that assist in addressing the issue. After reading the lifestyle part, you should have known what lifestyle changes you can adopt to address the issue. Ayurveda can guide you through its principles while correcting your lifestyle, and the best part is that these are tailor-made for your unique health needs.Instead of looking directly at the body, Ayurveda focuses on an individual by seeking balance in the physical, mental, and emotional state. It can manage symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, which occur due to vasomotor activities through herbal supplements, lifestyle correction, yoga and proper diet.If you want to explore more on natural remedies for hot flashes, read our article<a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/natural-remedies-for-hot-flash"> “Natural Remedies for Hot Flashes: Effective Relief During Menopause</a>.”There is no guaranteed way to control vasomotor symptoms, so you might have to try some corresponding methods that suit you. Just keep in mind that it is normal. All you have to do is act wisely and take the necessary steps with proper professional advice.<h2>Managing Vasomotor Symptoms Effectively</h2>Effective vasomotor symptom management includes the right approach and timely intervention. Lifestyle tweaks and controlling environmental triggers can help you manage these symptoms well. However, the golden approach is to be aware of when to seek professional health advice and take the initiative as soon as possible.<h3>Self-Help Techniques</h3>The self-help techniques denote various tweaks and adjustments that you can do yourself to manage these symptoms. These include various aspects that we have already discussed in the previous section, like staying cool, following a healthy diet, adopting relaxation techniques, and adapting to a healthy lifestyle.&nbsp;All these require minimum effort, that is, your own self-effort, dedication and discipline. These strategies can not only help manage these symptoms but also make you a better person in terms of physical, mental, and emotional health.<h3>When To Consult A Doctor</h3>Self-help techniques moderately alleviate the harmful effects of vasomotor symptoms, but in some cases, more professional and technical approaches need to be used. Please contact any health professional if:1. Symptoms Are Severe Or Persistent: When women start to suffer from hot flashes or frequent night sweats, it can intrude on their everyday lives and start stretching for a longer than anticipated time. That is when a visit to the doctor is needed.2. You Experience Other Symptoms: A visit to the doctor is essential if there are other symptoms, such as weight loss without any apparent cause, changes in cycle patterns or irregular episodes of bleeding. This helps the doctor to investigate and check for other health issues.3. Self-Help Strategies Arent Effective: If changes in lifestyle and controlling environmental triggers don’t help much, the doctor may recommend trying other options for treatment, such as hormone replacement therapy or non-hormonal medications, which may yield better results.4. Emotional Or Mental Health Issues: Hot flashes and heavy perspiration at night may cause people to have trouble sleeping and feel anxious or depressed. If you feel that nowadays, these emotional or mental health issues are distressing for you, then it is worthwhile to go for professional help.It’s finding the right combination of things that will work for you and managing vasomotor symptoms effectively. There is help to make you feel better and in control of the situation, from basic lifestyle adjustments to medication options.Dealing with menopause alone can be troublesome at times. If you feel like you need a helping hand, Nirva Health strives to make it easier for you with our top specialists. We will set you up with a wellness plan that is made to help you manage and deal with the symptoms of menopause.&nbsp;We invite you to be a part of the customised service we are providing for our clients. Here is what one of our happy clients said about us:

It’s like I found a friend at Nirva with whom I could talk about my concerns anytime. At Nirva, it’s not about business; it’s about the human touch. I am relaxed and happy.

<h2>Wrapping It Up</h2>Menopause comes with various difficulties, the most troublesome being the vasomotor symptoms. Proper understanding of these symptoms, identifying what triggers, and knowing well-formulated actions to take can reduce their effects. When these actions are merged with proper medical therapies and proper lifestyle habits, they can almost become negligible.Instead of panicking during times of distress, one must strive to maintain self-awareness while also proactively planning and executing steps. Vasomotor symptoms do not diminish without a concerted effort, so there is no need to put the whole pressure on yourself. Seeking professional guidance and support is a greatly effective way to manage these symptoms, making them much easier to live with.&nbsp;If the right support is sought, menopause does not have to be the bane of your existence. You do not have to fight this war alone, which means that when you get support and guidance, relief becomes easier to seek. Reach out for the support you need, face this challenge, and you will be able to relieve the discomfort you have been struggling with.

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 Are Essential Oils and How Do They Work?</h2>

It doesn’t get much greener than essential oils: when used correctly, they are among Mother Nature’s most potent remedies.

&nbsp;Essential oils are concentrated liquids containing volatile compounds from plants. These oils are known for their aromatic and therapeutic properties – they smell great, reduce stress, cure infections and help you sleep better.How do essential oils work?Essential oils are fragrant for a reason – when inhaled, these scent molecules travel through the olfactory nerves (a pair of nerves that is responsible for your sense of smell) directly to your brain.&nbsp;This stimulates the limbic system, the part of your brain involved in behavioural and emotional responses.When essential oils are used for external application or inhaled, it helps reduce various symptoms you experience during menopause.&nbsp;What are the different ways in which essential oils are used? You can inhale its fragrance in aromatherapy, apply it topically after diluting it with a carrier oil, or add a few drops to a warm bath for a soothing and refreshing experience.<h2>Common Menopause Symptoms That Essential Oils May Help With</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Common_Menopause_Symptoms_That_Essential_Oils_May_Help_With_3246c41e10.jpg" alt="Common Menopause Symptoms That Essential Oils May Help With.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Common_Menopause_Symptoms_That_Essential_Oils_May_Help_With_3246c41e10.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Common_Menopause_Symptoms_That_Essential_Oils_May_Help_With_3246c41e10.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">We know that essential oils provide a relaxing and calming experience, but imagine if they could also help with <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/menopause-symptoms-at-every-age">menopausal symptoms</a>. It’s like getting double the benefits; relaxation as well as relief from the discomfort.The use of essential oils relieves various symptoms associated with menopause:Hot Flashes and Night Sweats:Due to the hormonal changes happening during menopause, you might feel a sudden wave of heat spreading through your body, causing a rise in your body temperature and sweating. This can also occur at night, causing you to wake up in the middle of the night all sweaty and uncomfortable.&nbsp;Mood Swings and Anxiety:Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can affect your mental health and lead to mood swings, anxiety and depression.Sleep Disturbances:Many women also experience insomnia (lack of enough quality sleep) during menopause, leaving them tired and dull throughout the day.Vaginal Dryness:The sudden decline in hormones during menopause, especially your oestrogen levels, cause vaginal dryness, thinning of the vaginal walls and loss of elasticity, which causes discomfort and pain during sexual intercourse.Fatigue and Low Energy:The physical changes and mental health issues arising during menopause can leave you feeling tired and exhausted, resulting in low self-esteem.<h2>Top Essential Oils for Menopause Relief</h2>Thinking of using essential oils to ease your menopausal symptoms? Here’s a list of expert-recommended top essential oils that can provide relief:<h3>Essential Oil #1: Clary Sage</h3>Clary sage is a plant cultivated for its essential oil, used in the flavour and fragrance industries as well as for aromatherapy.&nbsp;One <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24802524/#:~:text=After%20inhalation%20of%20clary%20sage%20oil%2C%20cortisol%20levels%20were%20significantly,;%20cortisol;%20depression;%20neurotransmitter.">study</a> shows that clary sage reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels and has an antidepressant-like effect.&nbsp;This essential oil contains a compound sclareol that mimics oestrogen, contributing to its hormone-balancing properties and ability to manage menopausal symptoms like hot flashes.<h3>Essential Oil #2: Lavender</h3>Lavender is more than just an aromatic plant – it&nbsp; has been used both cosmetically and therapeutically since years. Due to its calming properties, lavender essential oil reduces stress and balances your emotions.&nbsp;Rubbing a few drops of this essential oil on your temples or applying it on your pillow can help you sleep better.<h3>Essential Oil #3: Peppermint</h3>Peppermint oil is loaded with benefits – it aids digestion, reduces skin irritation caused by insect bites, and relieves headaches and pains.A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37743153/">study</a> conducted on menopausal and postmenopausal women showed that aromatherapy massage using peppermint oil is beneficial in reducing menopausal symptoms. It effectively reduces the discomfort caused by hot flashes.<h3>Essential Oil #4: Rose</h3>Rose oil, extracted from rose petals, is not just a gentle perfume – it’s a powerful natural healer as well. In a <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5511972/">study</a>, it was observed that rose oil had physiological and psychological relaxation, analgesic and anti-anxiety effects.This soothing oil, when used via inhalation or topically, can reduce mood swings and balance your emotions during menopause.<h3>Essential Oil #5: Geranium</h3>The menopausal symptoms you experience are a result of decline in hormones, especially that of oestrogen. Geranium essential oil relieves symptoms of menopause by increasing oestrogen secretion in your body.&nbsp;A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28326753/">study</a> has shown that inhalation of geranium oil resulted in an increased concentration of oestrogen in saliva.Geranium oil supports hormonal balance and can be effective in reducing menopause-related symptoms.<h3>Essential Oil #6: Frankincense</h3>Frankincense is an essential oil prepared using the resin collected from the Boswellia tree. Frankincense has been used traditionally for the treatment of chronic disease, inflammation, oral health, and microbial infection. This essential oil can help promote relaxation and improve sleep.<h3>Essential Oil #7: Lemon Balm</h3>Lemon balm is a mint plant with a scent similar to lemon. Lemon balm oil has a refreshing fragrance that can enhance your mood and well-being. A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34449930/">2021 review</a> has shown that lemon balm oil is effective in improving anxiety and depressive symptoms without serious side effects.<h2>How to Use Essential Oils for Menopause Relief</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/How_to_Use_Essential_Oils_for_Menopause_Relief_8c9db44a7e.jpg" alt="How to Use Essential Oils for Menopause Relief.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_How_to_Use_Essential_Oils_for_Menopause_Relief_8c9db44a7e.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_How_to_Use_Essential_Oils_for_Menopause_Relief_8c9db44a7e.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">What are the best ways to use essential oils? For relief from menopausal symptoms, you can administer essential oils through these methods:Aromatherapy:<ul><li>Love the fragrance of essential oils? It not just relaxes you but has therapeutic effects as well. Add a few drops of the oil into a diffuser or a bowl of hot water. Inhaling the steam can help reduce stress and keep you calm and relaxed.</li></ul>Topical Application:<ul><li>You can apply the essential oils on your skin after diluting it with a carrier oil ( such as coconut oil, jojoba oil or almond oil) for relieving localised pain or irritation. Applying the diluted essential oils on the pulse points, back of your neck and soles of feet can relieve stress and anxiety.</li></ul>Bath Soak:<ul><li>Want to enjoy a spa experience at home? Add a few drops of essential oil to your warm bath for a soothing and stress-relieving effect.</li></ul>Massage:<ul><li>Enhance your massage experience by adding a few drops of essential oils to your massage oil. Enjoy aromatic relaxation with therapeutic benefits!</li></ul>Room Sprays:<ul><li>In a spray bottle, combine a few drops of your favourite essential oil with water. Creating a refreshing environment around you can also help you relax.</li></ul><h2>Are Essential Oils Safe?</h2>Most essential oils are safe and do not cause adverse reactions when used properly. However, any essential oil can become dangerous if used without diluting, or used in more quantities more often than required.Here’s a list of things to keep in mind while using an essential oil:<ul><li>Ensure that you use a high quality and 100% pure essential oil. Oils that contain added artificial fragrance or ingredients can make it less effective or result in allergic reactions.</li><li>Essential oils should be diluted before direct application on your skin. Do a patch test first to make sure it does not cause skin irritation.</li><li>Avoid ingesting essential oils without consulting a healthcare professional.</li><li>Never apply essential oils near your eyes or sensitive or broken skin, as they can cause irritation.</li><li>If you have other underlying health issues, are taking medications, or are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor before using essential oils.</li></ul><h2>Scientific Evidence and Limitations</h2>Many women have been using aromatherapy either as a complementary therapy alongside conventional treatments or as a standalone treatment to manage their menopause symptoms.&nbsp;Though many have reported positive changes with the use of essential oils, it is still not proven that it brings significant benefits for everyone. Scientific research on the use of essential oils for menopause relief is still evolving and more clinical trials need to be carried out to come to conclusions.<h2>Other Complementary Therapies</h2>Other therapies that can complement aromatherapy in treating and managing menopause-related symptoms include:Lifestyle Changes:<ul><li>A well-balanced diet, physical exercise, and stress-management techniques (yoga, pranayama, meditation, and mindfulness) can help reduce physical and emotional symptoms associated with menopause.</li></ul>Herbal Remedies:<ul><li>Certain herbs like black cohosh, red clover, Indian ginseng and so on can balance hormonal levels in your body and work alongside essential oils to relieve menopause symptoms.</li></ul><h2>The Bottom Line&nbsp;</h2>If you’re looking for a natural way to manage your menopausal symptoms, essential oils can be a good choice. Many women have found relief from hot flashes, sleep disturbances and mood swings with the use of these oils. However, their effectiveness can vary from person to person.&nbsp;Always make sure to use essential oils carefully – follow the guidelines on the label, and consult a healthcare professional to ensure that it’s safe for you.

small_Banner_ Do antibiotics cause fatigue (2).jpg

thumbnail_Banner_ Do antibiotics cause fatigue (2).jpg

Banner_ Do antibiotics cause fatigue (2).jpg

<h2>Understanding Antibiotics and Their Functions</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Understanding_Antibiotics_and_Their_Functions_1f2e01cff9.jpg" alt="Understanding Antibiotics and Their Functions.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Understanding_Antibiotics_and_Their_Functions_1f2e01cff9.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Understanding_Antibiotics_and_Their_Functions_1f2e01cff9.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Antibiotics are a class of powerful medications that play a vital role in modern medicine. They are primarily used to combat bacterial infections.<h3>Definition and Primary Function of Antibiotics</h3>Antibiotics are chemical substances derived from living organisms or produced synthetically in laboratories. They are designed to target and eliminate bacteria responsible for infections specifically.&nbsp;<h3>Targeting Specific Bacteria</h3>Each antibiotic is designed to be effective against certain types of bacteria based on their unique structures and biological processes.&nbsp;<h3>Effectiveness in Controlling Infections</h3>Before the discovery of antibiotics, infections that are now treatable were often life-threatening. These medications have saved countless lives and are instrumental in controlling many bacterial illnesses.&nbsp;However, it is essential to note that antibiotics are effective only against bacterial infections and have no impact on viral infections, such as the common cold or the flu.&nbsp;<h3>Did You Know that Inappropriate Use of Antibiotics Poses a Risk of a Global Threat?</h3>Inappropriate use of antibiotics, such as taking them for viral illnesses, contributes to the global issue of antibiotic resistance, where bacteria become resistant to the effects of these medications, making infections more difficult to treat.<h2>Antibiotics and Fatigue - Connecting the Dots</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Antibiotics_and_Fatigue_Connecting_the_Dots_28de4653c1.jpg" alt="Antibiotics and Fatigue - Connecting the Dots.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Antibiotics_and_Fatigue_Connecting_the_Dots_28de4653c1.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Antibiotics_and_Fatigue_Connecting_the_Dots_28de4653c1.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">While antibiotics are indispensable in treating bacterial infections, some individuals have reported feeling sleepy or tired during or after their antibiotic treatment.&nbsp;<h3>Theories Explaining Fatigue from Antibiotics</h3>Several theories have been proposed to explain the possible reasons behind the perceived fatigue associated with antibiotic use.<h4>Disruption of Gut Microbiota</h4>Antibiotics, while targeting harmful bacteria, can also affect the beneficial bacteria in the gut.<h4>Immune System Response</h4>Antibiotics target bacteria responsible for infections and can affect the body's immune system to some extent. The immune response activation may divert energy from other bodily functions, leading to a sense of tiredness.<h4>Individual Sensitivity Causing Fatigue</h4>People may react differently to antibiotics based on their unique physiology and metabolism.&nbsp;<h4>Underlying Infection</h4>Serious bacterial infections can cause significant fatigue&nbsp;as the body expends energy to combat the disease and repair damaged tissues.<h2>Common Complaints of Tiredness from Antibiotics - Real-Life Accounts of Nirva Clients</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Common_Complaints_of_Tiredness_from_Antibiotics_Real_Life_Accounts_of_Nirva_clients_1fa838b00a.jpg" alt="Common Complaints of Tiredness from Antibiotics - Real-Life Accounts of Nirva clients.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Common_Complaints_of_Tiredness_from_Antibiotics_Real_Life_Accounts_of_Nirva_clients_1fa838b00a.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Common_Complaints_of_Tiredness_from_Antibiotics_Real_Life_Accounts_of_Nirva_clients_1fa838b00a.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">A Nirva client, a 34-year-old schoolteacher, was prescribed antibiotics for a severe sinus infection.&nbsp;She said, "I had to drag myself out of bed every morning, even after a full night's sleep," Sarah recalled. "I love teaching, but during those weeks, it felt like an uphill battle just to get through the school day. I was constantly tired, impacting my ability to engage with my students and enjoy my evenings."While the medication effectively cleared her infection, she noticed overwhelming tiredness throughout her treatment.What are the other common complaints of individuals on an antibiotic treatment?<h3>Typical Complaints Related to Tiredness</h3><ul><li>Persistent Fatigue</li><li>Lack of Energy</li><li>Mental Fog and Difficulty Concentrating</li><li>Muscle Weakness</li><li>Sleep Disturbances</li></ul><h2>Strategies to Manage Fatigue Caused by Antibiotics</h2>Experiencing fatigue during or after taking antibiotics can be challenging, but there are several practical strategies that individuals can adopt to alleviate tiredness and support their body's healing process.&nbsp;<h3>Prioritise Rest and Sleep</h3>Aim for at least 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. If you feel fatigued during the day, take short power naps to recharge.<h3>Stay Hydrated</h3>Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support your body's natural processes.<h3>Eat a Nutritious Diet</h3>A balanced and nutrient-rich diet can aid the healing process and combat fatigue.&nbsp;<h3>Avoid Stimulants Before Bed</h3>Limit the consumption of caffeine, nicotine, and other stimulants incredibly close to bedtime.&nbsp;<h3>Engage in Gentle Exercise</h3>While intense workouts may be challenging during antibiotic treatment, engaging in gentle exercises such as walking, yoga, or stretching can help boost circulation, improve mood, and provide a mild energy boost.<h3>Manage Stress</h3>Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or meditation to promote relaxation and overall well-being.<h3>Consider Probiotics</h3>Probiotics can support a healthy gut microbiota and potentially reduce gastrointestinal side effects.<h3>Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider</h3>If you experience persistent or severe fatigue during antibiotic treatment, don't hesitate to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. They can provide valuable insights, adjust the treatment plan, and address concerns.<h3>Pace Yourself</h3>During antibiotic treatment, listening to your body and avoiding overexertion is essential. Pace yourself throughout the day, taking breaks and distributing your activities to manage energy levels effectively.<h3>Practise Self-Care</h3>Incorporate self-care practices into your daily routine. Take time to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether reading, spending time in nature, or enjoying hobbies.<h2>How to Recover from Antibiotics' Side Effects</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/How_to_Recover_from_Antibiotics_Side_Effects_5288716acd.jpg" alt="How to Recover from Antibiotics_ Side Effects.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_How_to_Recover_from_Antibiotics_Side_Effects_5288716acd.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_How_to_Recover_from_Antibiotics_Side_Effects_5288716acd.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Recovering from antibiotics' side effects involves taking steps to support your body's natural healing processes and restoring balance.Here are some guidelines to aid in post-antibiotic care and self-recovery:<h3>Gradually Resume Normal Activities</h3>As you complete your antibiotic treatment, gradually ease into your regular activities.<h3>Continue to Prioritise Rest and Sleep</h3>Rest is essential for recovery. Continue to prioritise getting adequate sleep and rest as needed, allowing your body to replenish its energy stores and heal.<h3>Monitor for Any Allergic Reactions or Adverse Effects</h3>Seek immediate medical attention if you experience new or concerning symptoms after completing your antibiotic course.<h3>Support Your Digestive System</h3>To aid your digestive system in recovery, consider including easily digestible foods.<h2>Nutritional Supplements to Aid in Recovery</h2><h3>Vitamin C</h3>Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties. It can help strengthen your body's defences and aid in infection recovery. Citrus fruits, strawberries, and broccoli are excellent natural sources of vitamin C.<h3>Zinc</h3>Zinc is essential for immune function and wound healing. It can support your body's recovery process. Foods like lean meats, nuts, seeds, and legumes are good sources of zinc.<h3>Omega-3 Fatty Acids</h3>Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation caused by infections and support overall recovery. Fatty fish, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are rich sources of omega-3s.<h3>Vitamin B</h3>B vitamins, such as B6 and B12, play a role in energy production and nervous system function. Including sources like fish, poultry, eggs, and leafy greens can help replenish these vitamins.Remember that supplements should not replace a balanced diet but can complement it when necessary.<h2>Wrapping Up!</h2>Antibiotics are crucial in treating bacterial infections, but some individuals may experience fatigue during or after treatment. While not everyone will be affected, it's essential to acknowledge individual differences. Being proactive and well-informed empowers individuals to make the best decisions for their health. Let's prioritise your well-being during and after antibiotic use to ensure a smoother recovery and optimal overall health.&nbsp;

Do Antibiotics Cause Fatigue?

large_The Itch Factor banner.jpg

medium_The Itch Factor banner.jpg

small_The Itch Factor banner.jpg

thumbnail_The Itch Factor banner.jpg

The Itch Factor banner.jpg

Register for our live workshop - Menopause Made Easy

Register for our live workshop on Managing menopause naturally with Yoga and Ayurveda

<h2>Itchy Skin : The Symptom Often Overlooked Yet Highly Bothersome</h2>As women go through perimenopause and menopause, their hormone levels fluctuate, leading to physical and emotional changes. These hormonal shifts can also affect the moisture levels and elasticity of the skin, resulting in itching sensations in different parts of the body, like the arms, legs, face, and scalp.In addition, vaginal itching may occur due to decreased estrogen levels affecting the delicate vaginal tissues.Have you ever wondered how a minor symptom like itchy skin can significantly affect a woman's quality of life?Well, the severity of menopause-related itching at night can range from a mild annoyance to an intense sensation accompanied by a burning feeling. These symptoms can be highly distressing, disrupting daily activities and affecting sleep quality due to the constant urge to scratch, adversely affecting the overall quality of life.<h2>Menopause Itching and Role of Hormones</h2>Hormonal changes have a crucial role in itchy skin during menopause. As women transition from perimenopause to menopause, the decline in estrogen levels, essential for maintaining healthy and vibrant skin, contributes to this symptom.<h3>Why are oestrogen levels important in maintaining skin health?</h3><ul><li>&nbsp;They help regulate moisture levels.</li><li>&nbsp;Promote collagen production.</li><li>&nbsp;Enhance the skin's overall elasticity.</li></ul><h3>So what happens when the level of oestrogen declines in the female body?</h3>Skin becomes&nbsp;<ul><li>Dry,</li><li>Less supple</li><li>More prone to irritation, and&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Increasingly sensitive.&nbsp;</li></ul>When the natural balance of oils and moisture in the skin disrupts during menopause, it compromises the skin barrier. This leads to increased moisture loss, resulting in dryness and itchiness.&nbsp;Decreased estrogen levels also reduce blood flow and hinder the skin's ability to repair itself, negatively impacting overall skin health.&nbsp;Recognising the influence of hormone fluctuations, particularly estrogen, on skin moisture and sensitivity is crucial for addressing menopause-related itchy skin and implementing effective remedies to restore comfort and nourishment.<h2>Holistic Approach in Healing: Treat Menopausal Itching at Night with Ayurveda</h2>When it comes to addressing menopause symptoms, taking a holistic approach can help you unlock the path to a healthy way of living.Ayurveda offers a comprehensive system of healing that embraces this philosophy.In treating itchy skin during menopause, Ayurveda provides specific solutions that can bring relief:<ul><li>&nbsp;Herbal remedies such as&nbsp;neem, aloe vera, and turmeric&nbsp;can be applied topically or consumed internally to soothe the skin and reduce itching.</li><li>&nbsp;Dietary modifications, such as&nbsp;cooling and hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon, and coconut water, can help balance the body's internal temperature and support skin health.</li><li>&nbsp;Lifestyle practices like practising&nbsp;stress-reducing techniques such as yoga and meditation, staying hydrated, and maintaining a regular skincare routine can also contribute to relieving itchy skin.&nbsp;</li><li>Ayurveda detoxification therapies under panchakarma&nbsp;can effectively treat skin issues associated with menopause by restoring the natural oils and moisture of the skin by removing the accumulated toxins.</li><li>Incorporating an <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/power-of-morning-rituals">Ayurveda&nbsp;Dinacharya-Daily regimen</a>&nbsp;like&nbsp;Abhyanga- oil massages&nbsp;daily can help improve skin texture.</li></ul>Knowing some natural remedies that can help alleviate the discomfort caused by vaginal itching during menopause.&nbsp;<h3>Natural Remedies for Menopause Vaginal Itching</h3>1. Triphala WashThis involves washing the vaginal area using a solution from Triphala, an Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation.Triphala, consisting of three fruits -&nbsp;Amalaki (Indian gooseberry), Bibhitaki (Baheda), and Haritaki (Chebulic myrobalan),&nbsp;is well known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. When used as a vaginal wash, Triphala can help soothe and cleanse the area, relieving itching and irritation.&nbsp;2. Oil SmearingApplying coconut oil externally to the vaginal area can moisturise and reduce dryness, alleviating itching. This also helps maintain the moisture content without changing the pH balance of the vaginal skin.3. Herbal SuppositoriesAyurvedic herbs such as Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) or Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) can be used as herbal suppositories. These help nourish and rejuvenate the vaginal tissues, reducing dryness and itching.4.&nbsp;Sitz Baths:&nbsp;Regular sitz baths with warm water infused with herbal decoctions like chamomile, calendula, or witch hazel - herbs rich in anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties- can relieve itching.5. Aloe Vera Gel ApplicationAloe vera gel, known for its soothing and healing properties, can be applied externally to the vaginal area to reduce itching and inflammation. Its natural moisturising effects can also help alleviate dryness.6. Neem herbal washNeem, a potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory herb, can be used as a wash or applied topically to the vaginal area. These Ayurvedic remedies offer natural and gentle solutions to manage vaginal itching during menopause, promoting comfort and well-being.Seeking professional help in analysing your condition and planning for better health is highly recommended. Get connected with the Health experts at Nirva Health now!Relieving nighttime menopausal itching with lifestyle modificationsNighttime itching during menopause can be incredibly challenging as it disrupts not only the quality of sleep but also the overall health and confidence of a person.The relentless itchiness can make it difficult to fall asleep, leading to disturbed sleep patterns and subsequent fatigue.Fear not! Practical lifestyle tips can help manage nighttime itching and <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/Uncovering-Healthy-Sleep-Habits-Enhanced-Well-Being">promote better sleep</a>.<ul><li>Choosing breathable fabrics, such as cotton, for sleepwear can allow for better air circulation and minimise irritation.</li><li>Preferimg loose dresses and changing your panties/undergarments whenever you sweat or it gets wet.</li><li>Maintaining a comfortable bedroom environment, with appropriate temperature and humidity levels, can also alleviate itchiness.</li><li>Hydrating the skin before bedtime using moisturiser or soothing oils can help alleviate dryness and reduce itching sensations.</li><li>Drinking herbal teas made from herbs like liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), or fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) can support hormonal balance and help reduce vaginal itching.</li></ul>By incorporating these lifestyle adjustments, women can take proactive steps to manage nighttime itching, enhance sleep quality, and awaken feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.<h3>Wrapping It Up!</h3>In conclusion, managing itchy skin during menopause requires a holistic approach that addresses the underlying causes and promotes overall well-being.&nbsp;It is also essential to understand the significance of the role of hormones in developing menopausal symptoms. Ayurveda offers many time-tested solutions that prioritise balance, self-care, and mind, body, and spirit interconnectedness. We can find comfort and relief during this transformative phase by incorporating Ayurvedic practices into our daily lives. It is important to remember that everyone's experience with menopause is unique. Seeking guidance from a qualified healthcare professional or Ayurvedic practitioner is crucial for personalised advice and recommendations tailored to your needs.

The Itch Factor: Understanding and Addressing Menopause-Related Itchy Skin

<h2>TMJ Disorders: An Overview</h2>The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research claimed data that around 11-12 million adults in the United States had pain in the temporomandibular joint region. Another fact that you must know is that TMJ disorders occur twice as common in women as in men, especially between the age group of 35 and 44 years.If you are curious about these disorders and their cause, here is more information.The classes of TMJ are -<ul><li>Disorders of the joint</li><li>Disorders of the muscles that you use for chewing</li><li>Headaches with TMJ</li></ul>Research scholars have put forth different causes of TMJ disorders, yet nothing is conclusive.<ul><li>Continuous degeneration (just like other joint arthritis)</li><li>Injury to the jaw</li><li>Teeth grinding (bruxism)</li><li>Autoimmune diseases</li><li>Dental surgery complications&nbsp;</li><li>infections</li></ul>Even though dental braces and surgeries have not much evidence to have caused TMJ disorders, an added effect of genetic, physiological, lifestyle, and stress factors do come under the major causes of TMJ disorders.<h2>How Does It Feel to Have TMJ Disorders: The Symptoms</h2>If you have a popping or clicking sound when you chew or move your jaw joint, do not worry; it is normal. However, we cannot rule out that it won't lead to future wear and tear around the joint.Some crucial symptoms of TMJ disorders that you must keep in mind are as follows:<ul><li>Pain in the chewing muscles.</li><li>Pricking or aching type of pain in the joint itself.</li><li>Aching pain near the ear.</li><li>Locking of the joint and difficulty in opening the mouth.</li><li>Pain on touching or pressing the joint.</li></ul>Sometimes, these symptoms come and go within one to two days, and that is when you must start taking care of your TMJ joint, as this may lead to a chronic condition.One of the preventive and curative measures you can take for your TMJ disorders is face yoga.Read on to know what face yoga is and how it can help you.<h2><a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/best-face-yoga-trainer-around-you">The Benefits of Face Yoga for TMJ Relief</a></h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/2_554022d1b8.jpg" alt="2.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_2_554022d1b8.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_2_554022d1b8.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Face yoga consists of all the movements that involve the muscles, ligaments, and other structures in and around the face. The methods promote jaw relaxation and alleviate the symptoms of TMJ disorders. The benefits of face yoga for TMJ disorders are as follows:<h3>Muscle Relaxation</h3>By adopting face yoga exercises, you can release the tension around the face muscles, contributing to TMJ discomfort. Continuous stretching and toning of the muscles through face yoga reduces the pain of TMJ disorders.<h3>Increased Blood Circulation</h3>It's not new information that repeated movement of any area increases blood circulation. Yoga and face yoga do the same to your facial muscles. Face yoga stimulates blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and gives the nutrients for healing around the jaw joint.<h3>Jaw Mobility and Flexibility</h3>Face yoga involves movements that increase the TMJ flexibility and range of motion by stretching the ligaments and improving the fluid movement around the joint.<h3>Stress Reduction</h3>Touch your face, forehead, and cheeks with your palms. You get some comfort from it, a feeling of stress relief. If this simple technique can do so much, what about face yoga? Specific movements of face yoga help reduce stress and impact TMJ disorders.<h3>Mind-Body Connection</h3>Undoubtedly, yoga helps in the mind-body connection. Awareness of facial muscles, joints, and ligaments promotes conscious relaxation. This reduces unconscious clenching and grinding that may lead to TMJ disorders.On the other hand, face yoga is the best non-invasive treatment that you can get for TMJ disorders. You can avoid the surgical procedures and medications involved in the conventional healing of TMJ disorders and take on this safe and accessible natural way to manage your symptoms.Also, there is no harm in combining or integrating face yoga with other physical therapies, dental splints, etc.<h2><a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/face-yoga">Face Yoga Exercises for TMJ Symptoms Relief</a></h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/3_9af08c1aae.jpg" alt="3.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_3_9af08c1aae.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_3_9af08c1aae.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Let us give you some face yoga exercises that you can practise for your TMJ disorder and pain.<figure class="table" style="float:left;"><table><thead><tr><th style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;text-align:center;">Yoga</th><th style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;text-align:center;">Instructions</th><th style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;text-align:center;">Visulas</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><th style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;text-align:center;">Jaw Release</th><td style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;"><ul><li>Sit or stand comfortably.</li><li>Relax your jaw and keep your lips closed.</li><li>Inhale deeply through your nose.</li><li>Exhale through your mouth.</li><li>Allow your jaw to relax completely.</li><li>Repeat for several breaths.</li></ul></td><td style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;">Close your eyes, and as you exhale, let your jaw hang naturally; avoid clenching. Visualise tension leaving your jaw with each breath.</td></tr><tr><th style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;text-align:center;">Cheek and Lip Stretches</th><td style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;"><ul><li>Smile as wide as possible.</li><li>Ensure your lips are closed.</li><li>Hold and try to lift your cheeks towards your eyes.</li><li>Hold for a few seconds and release. &nbsp;</li></ul></td><td style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;">Imagine your cheek muscles lifting towards your eyes, feeling a stretch along the sides of your face.</td></tr><tr><th style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;text-align:center;">Tongue to Roof of the Mouth&nbsp;</th><td style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;"><ul><li>Close your mouth and press the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth.</li><li>Apply gentle pressure and hold for a count of 5-10 seconds.</li><li>Release and repeat.</li></ul></td><td style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;">Feel the gentle pressure of your tongue against the roof of your mouth while keeping the jaw relaxed. &nbsp;</td></tr><tr><th style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;text-align:center;">Neck Rolls</th><td style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;"><ul><li>Sit or stand comfortably with your spine straight.</li><li>Gently drop your chin to your chest, then slowly roll your head to one side, bringing your ear towards your head back to the chest and then to the opposite shoulder.&nbsp;</li><li>Repeat in the other direction.</li></ul></td><td style="border:1pt solid #000000;padding:5pt;">Visualise your neck muscles stretching as you move your head in a circular motion, focusing on a slow and controlled movement.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>These exercises target the facial muscles, promote relaxation in the cheeks, jaws and release tension in the neck and shoulders,Go for regular practice, even for a few minutes a day.<h3>Face Yoga Over Face Exercises?</h3>Both face yoga and face exercises aim to relieve tension. Although face yoga has a broader scope, incorporating relaxation and muscle toning for overall facial health, face exercises for TMJ relief focus more on alleviating jaw-related discomfort.&nbsp;<h2>Additional Techniques for TMJ Relief</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/1_116196fd9f.jpg" alt="1.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_1_116196fd9f.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_1_116196fd9f.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Face Yoga is not just it; you can add other techniques that help you enhance the functioning of the tissues and structures around your jaw and help in overall blood circulation around the joint.<h3>External Jaw Massage</h3>With the help of your fingers or knuckles, you can gently massage the jaw joint in circular motions.Start in the form of the ear and move downwards gradually, slowly along the jawline.&nbsp;Pro Tip: You can add ayurvedic oils such as kumkumadi, neem, or other essential oils like lavender to avoid excessive pressure and friction. You can also use medicated ghee or butter.<ul><li>Ayurvedic medicated oils also help heal the inflammation and degeneration if there is any wear and tear around the joint. &nbsp;</li><li>An ayurvedic practice of keeping oil or any medicated liquid inside the mouth for a stipulated time called "gandusha" and gargling called "kavala" with the same gives an additional plus point to your face yoga by strengthening the facial muscles. &nbsp;</li><li>Shea Butter helps manage joint arthritis by reducing inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also has an analgesic property that reduces the pain associated with muscle soreness.</li></ul><h3>Physical Therapy Techniques</h3>Place a thumb or two fingers under your chin and press on the chin. While you do this, try to open your mouth gently against the resistance of your thumb. Hold for a few seconds, and then close your mouth. Repeat the cycle.It would be best to do this exercise slowly without exerting overpressure.<h3>Jaw Stretches</h3>Slowly and gently tuck your chin onto your inner neck. Hold this way for a few seconds and relax. Repeat this stretch for a few times.Avoid jerking or straining the neck.<h3>Jaw Opening</h3>You can place soft objects between your front teeth (two tongue thicknesses). Now, move your jaw side to side slowly.&nbsp;Pro Tip:&nbsp;Slowly increase the object's size as your stiffness releases and movement becomes more effortless.<h2>Conclusion</h2>Managing TMJ disorders requires multidisciplinary approaches under which a holistic one to manage the local cause and the psychological causes such as stress and lifestyle factors play an essential role.Face yoga helps deal with local changes and heal your mind and body. The gentle movements stimulate an excellent amount of stress-releasing hormones and promote relaxation.Try these face yoga techniques for your TMJ disorder symptoms and heal naturally. Before you start anything, consult our yoga experts for a personalised consultation.&nbsp;

A Guide to Face Yoga for TMJ Relief: Stretches and Exercises

<h2>Acne and Benefits of Face Yoga for Cure</h2>Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition where the overproduction of oil and a build-up of bacteria contribute to the formation of pimples. When not appropriately healed, this acne forms a blemish, which means a scar mark on the skin.Indeed, acne is not just a skin condition but often a reason for low self-esteem and lack of self-confidence. That is where we step in. This blog will introduce you to simple face yoga techniques to make you love your skin again!<h3>How Can You Achieve a Clear Complexion Through Holistic Face Yoga?</h3>You can <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/face-yoga">practise face yoga</a> in several ways to help remove acne and blemishes.&nbsp;<ul><li>As mentioned in the previous section,&nbsp;face yoga poses draw more freshly oxygenated blood&nbsp;to the face, giving the skin a rosy glow. That's not all. An increased blood flow to the face eliminates infective toxins from the skin's surface. &nbsp;</li><li>Face yoga also&nbsp;flushes out skin toxins by fluid drainage through lymphatic circulation. &nbsp;</li><li>The face yoga poses also&nbsp;stimulate and regulate your hormonal function, which helps to prolong youth and counter the early ageing of your facial skin. &nbsp;</li><li>Face yoga can do wonders for your skin by working on facial muscles. An excellent facial muscle workout is synonymous with tightening your facial skin, which helps reduce acne blemishes. &nbsp;</li><li>Face yoga also helps reduce mental stress, thus controlling stress levels and acne breakouts.&nbsp;</li></ul>So, what are you waiting for? Let's get clear skin through facial yoga exercises!<h2>5 Face Yoga Poses for Acne-Free Skin</h2>Getting acne-free skin with facial yoga routines is not a magic cure. But these are some safe techniques to perform if you have acne-prone skin or are suffering from active acne. These will help by not aggravating the condition, promoting healthier skin, and making all those blemishes vanish.Before you start, ensure you have clean hands and a spotless face. Apply some thin face serum, face oil, or moisturiser.We are going to start the exercises with a short breathwork.<h3>1. Relaxing Breathwork</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Puff_the_cheeks_411401baad.jpg" alt="Puff the cheeks.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Puff_the_cheeks_411401baad.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Puff_the_cheeks_411401baad.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Breathwork helps in relaxing your heart rate. When your heart rate is relaxed, there is regulated blood pumping to different body parts, including the face, where you need it to heal your acne.&nbsp;<h4>How to Do Breathwork?</h4><ul><li>Close your eyes. &nbsp;</li><li>Concentrate on your breathing. &nbsp;</li><li>Feel all your body parts calm down and relax. &nbsp;</li><li>Inhale to a count of four and pause for two counts at the top of your inhalation. &nbsp;</li><li>Then, exhale slowly for six counts.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>Repeat the slow breathing five times.</li></ul>You can always practise this breathwork at any time of the day, whenever possible. It helps control your stress levels. It works well in controlling your acne. As you already know, it worsens with more stress.<blockquote>Now, discover the secrets of these non-surgical acne treatments with facial yoga.</blockquote><h3>2. Acupressure Technique&nbsp;</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Acupressure_Technique_ace09d31c4.jpg" alt="Acupressure Technique.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Acupressure_Technique_ace09d31c4.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Acupressure_Technique_ace09d31c4.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Applying gentle pressure on some points on your face helps improve the healing activity of your skin. Here, we will show you how to apply pressure on two points that enhance face yoga results for acne and blemishes.<h4>The Step-by-Step Process to Performing Acupressure</h4><ul><li>Keep both hands' index or ring fingers on either side of your nostrils. &nbsp;</li><li>Start massaging this point in circular motions, in a clockwise direction, as you continue breathing slowly. &nbsp;</li><li>After about ten breaths, start massaging in an anticlockwise direction for another ten breaths. &nbsp;</li><li>Finish this acupressure massage with relaxing breathworks.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>The particular point at the nostril we refer to has energy flow related to facial skin health. Applying pressure on this point helps reduce the acne by improving blood circulation. It is super calming as well.&nbsp;Now, let's continue to the second pressure point, the temples.<ul><li>Concentrate on your breaths as you gently put your index fingers on both temples. &nbsp;</li><li>Start massaging the temples in gentle circular movements in a clockwise direction for ten counts. &nbsp;</li><li>After this, continue the circular movements in an anticlockwise direction for ten counts.</li></ul>Pressure on this point mainly helps reduce the acne around the forehead and temple area. It is also a go-to pressure point when your stress levels are rising.&nbsp;Many more acupressure points in face yoga give results for acne and blemishes. However, we have mentioned only two in this blog.<blockquote>Learn more from our face yoga experts. Connect with them now!</blockquote><h3>3. Tongue Out Technique</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Tongue_Out_Technique_2c350649ef.jpg" alt="Tongue Out Technique.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Tongue_Out_Technique_2c350649ef.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Tongue_Out_Technique_2c350649ef.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">The exercise will help you tone your facial muscles, fasten cell regeneration and remove the stagnation or blockage of energy in the lower half of your face. In addition, this technique gives you a well-defined jawline.<h4>How to Perform Tongue Out Technique?</h4><ul><li>Relax your shoulders down. &nbsp;</li><li>Turn your head to one side. &nbsp;</li><li>Stick your tongue out, trying to touch the tip of your nose with your tongue. &nbsp;</li><li>Hold in that position for a count of ten. &nbsp;</li><li>After that, turn your head to the opposite side and repeat the same steps. &nbsp;</li><li>Do the same to and fro on each side five times in total.</li></ul>The tongue-out technique stretches your jaw, neck and chin muscles, thus improving the circulation around the lower side of your face.<h3>4. Eye Flutter with an ‘O’</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Eye_Flutter_with_an_O_3db7583daa.jpg" alt="Eye Flutter with an _O_.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Eye_Flutter_with_an_O_3db7583daa.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Eye_Flutter_with_an_O_3db7583daa.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Eye flutter exercise relieves tension around eyelids and cheeks, promoting tissue regeneration.<h4>How Can You Perform the Technique?</h4><ul><li>Place both index fingertips on the sides of your nose at mid-length and keep them horizontally flat across your cheeks. &nbsp;</li><li>Next, form an 'O' shape with your mouth.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>Now, continuously flutter your eyelids for a count of 10 while keeping your forehead super still.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>After completing the count, slowly release back down.</li></ul>This technique works well for acne on your cheeks and forehead area.<h3>5. Puff-the-Cheeks Technique</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Puff_the_cheeks_411401baad.jpg" alt="Puff the cheeks.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Puff_the_cheeks_411401baad.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Puff_the_cheeks_411401baad.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">This facial exercise works on a lot of muscles around your cheeks.<h4>How to Perform the Technique?</h4><ul><li>Puff your cheeks out with air. &nbsp;</li><li>Now, press gently on your closed lips with four fingers of one hand while continuing to puff out your cheeks. &nbsp;</li><li>Focus on your breathing, slowly inhaling and exhaling for a count of 10. &nbsp;</li><li>When you finish, gently release your breath and lower your cheeks.</li></ul>If you're struggling with active acne on your cheeks and jaw area, the puffing technique might be just what you need. It's a great way to improve blood circulation and eliminate toxins and inflammation, leaving your skin looking and feeling better than ever! Give it a try and see the excellent results for yourself!<h3>Breathwork and Affirmation</h3><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Relaxing_Breathwork_1c02f20cae.jpg" alt="Relaxing Breathwork.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Relaxing_Breathwork_1c02f20cae.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Relaxing_Breathwork_1c02f20cae.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Once you finish all the above steps for reducing acne with face yoga techniques, close your eyes, relax all your muscles and go back to gentle breathwork.Repeat the affirmation to yourself in your mind, 'I am beautiful inside and out'. Say it to yourself three times. Try your best to mean those words.When you finish, continue shallow breathing for another 5-10 seconds.With this, you finish a set of face yoga exercises to reduce acne. You can repeat this set whenever you wish to.Although, you can practise these techniques at least three times a day for the best results.<h2>Holistic Approach to Acne With Face Yoga</h2>Achieving a clear complexion through holistic face yoga must continue with just performing face yoga exercises. You must ensure that your diet and lifestyle go hand in hand with practising meditation and face yoga exercises.&nbsp;&nbsp;One quick advice our experts give you to reduce acne is to have lots of water.&nbsp;

Water is the ultimate moisturiser for the skin. It also ferries nutrients and oxygen to every cell in your face and body while flushing out toxins and other wastes. Drinking 6-8 glasses of water every day is extremely important. 

&nbsp;If you want to learn more about face yoga and traditional acne treatments, contact our Health experts.<h2>Wrapping Up!</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/wrapping_it_up_43abda2dd4.jpg" alt="wrapping it up.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_wrapping_it_up_43abda2dd4.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_wrapping_it_up_43abda2dd4.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Finding the best home remedy for a blemish-free face is a difficult journey. The list goes on, from simple home remedies to dermatologist-recommended surgical techniques. In between all these, achieving acne-free skin with facial yoga routines is a holistic approach you can do at home in your comfort. These techniques clear your skin and give you a well-toned, beautiful face.

5 Face Yoga Techniques to Achieve Acne and Blemish-Free Skin

small_Banner-A Woman’s Guide to Losing Weight and Thriving Post Hysterectomy.png

thumbnail_Banner-A Woman’s Guide to Losing Weight and Thriving Post Hysterectomy.png

Banner-A Woman’s Guide to Losing Weight and Thriving Post Hysterectomy.png

Struggling with Weight Loss Issues After Hysterectomy? Discover Natural Management Techniques with Us!

<h2>Hysterectomy and Weight gain -All That You Should Know!</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Understanding_weight_loss_after_hysterectomy_44bd8876bd.png" alt="Understanding weight loss after hysterectomy.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Understanding_weight_loss_after_hysterectomy_44bd8876bd.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Understanding_weight_loss_after_hysterectomy_44bd8876bd.png 500w," sizes="100vw"><ul><li>Weight gain after the removal of the uterus can be a matter of concern for many of you. Before we solve this issue, Let's find out the connection between weight gain and hysterectomy. Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus, which can disrupt your hormonal balance, leading to metabolism and altered fat storage patterns. These may promote weight gain.&nbsp;</li><li>Can lifestyle changes following the surgery contribute to weight gain? After the surgery, a woman gets advised to rest. Some women may experience reduced physical activity due to fear of discomfort, leading to decreased calorie expenditure.&nbsp;</li><li>Additionally, emotional factors such as stress, anxiety, or changes in body image might accelerate unhealthy eating habits. These habits further contribute to weight gain.</li><li>Some women might also face muscle weakness or core instability after the surgery. As a result, this affects their exercise routines.</li></ul><h3>What Will Help?</h3>It would help if you kept patient and persistent. Despite all these challenges, it is crucial to recognise that weight loss is achievable and essential for overall well-being.&nbsp;Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of certain health conditions. It further boosts self-confidence and improves quality of life. You can make some simple lifestyle adjustments to promote gradual and sustainable weight loss:&nbsp;<ul><li>Adopting a balanced diet.</li><li>Engaging in low-impact exercises.</li><li>Practising Yoga.</li></ul><h2>How to Lose Weight After Hysterectomy?</h2>Losing weight after a hysterectomy can be a gradual and rewarding process with the right approach. It is essential to adopt practical tips and lifestyle changes<h3>Practical Tips for Healthy and Sustainable Weight Loss After Hysterectomy</h3><ul><li>Maintain a balanced diet, emphasising whole foods, lean proteins, and nutrient-dense options.</li><li>Avoid processed and sugary foods to keep calories in check.&nbsp;</li><li>Focus on consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.</li><li>Engage in low-impact activities like walking, swimming, etc.</li><li>Prioritise gradually building core strength and muscle tone, considering any physical limitations from the surgery.</li><li>Setting realistic goals is vital to a successful weight loss journey. Avoid overly ambitious targets and embrace small, achievable milestones.&nbsp;</li></ul>Patience is essential, as weight loss might be slower due to hormonal changes and recovery.<h3>Coping with Weight Gain after Hysterectomy</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Coping_with_Weight_Gain_after_Hysterectomy_ac42bed4e4.png" alt="Coping with Weight Gain after Hysterectomy.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Coping_with_Weight_Gain_after_Hysterectomy_ac42bed4e4.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Coping_with_Weight_Gain_after_Hysterectomy_ac42bed4e4.png 500w," sizes="100vw"></figure>Experiencing weight gain after a hysterectomy can be emotionally challenging for many women. But it's important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. Encouragement and understanding are crucial to navigate through this phase successfully.<pre><code class="language-plaintext">cta-dynamic</code></pre><h2>Strategies for Managing Stress and Emotional Eating</h2><ul><li>Practise mindfulness techniques like deep breathing and meditation to reduce stress.&nbsp;</li><li>Try redirecting your thoughts, reaching out to a friend, or walking.</li><li>Consider practising pranayama.</li><li>Engage in hobbies or activities that bring joy and help alleviate emotional distress.</li><li>Keep a journal to express feelings and thoughts, promoting emotional release.</li><li>Seek professional support, such as counselling or therapy, to address emotional challenges effectively.</li></ul><h2>Role of Support Systems in Coping with Weight Gain</h2>Friends and family can provide a strong support network to lean on during difficult times.<ul><li>Participate in support groups or online communities for shared understanding and encouragement with individuals facing similar experiences.</li><li>Share your concerns with loved ones and allow them to support your weight loss journey.</li><li>Surround yourself with positive and uplifting individuals who can motivate and inspire you.</li></ul>Coping with weight gain after a hysterectomy requires patience and self-compassion. Embrace the emotional aspect of this process, and with the right strategies and support systems in place, you can navigate through challenges, foster a positive mindset, and work towards achieving a healthier and happier you.<h2>Hysterectomy and Weight: Debunking Common Misconceptions</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hysterectomy_and_Weight_Debunking_Common_Misconceptions_8575850414.png" alt="Hysterectomy and Weight_ Debunking Common Misconceptions.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Hysterectomy_and_Weight_Debunking_Common_Misconceptions_8575850414.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Hysterectomy_and_Weight_Debunking_Common_Misconceptions_8575850414.png 500w," sizes="100vw">As you may know, Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of the uterus, and it has long been associated with various misconceptions, especially regarding weight gain.&nbsp;Does everyone gain weight after a hysterectomy?&nbsp;It is a common myth that all women will inevitably gain weight after undergoing a hysterectomy. However, research and evidence-based information clearly state otherwise.<ul><li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2851125/">Studies</a> have shown that not all women experience weight gain after a hysterectomy. Individual differences significantly affect how a woman's body responds to the procedure. Hormonal changes post-surgery can impact metabolism and fat distribution, but they do not guarantee weight gain for every woman.</li><li>The connection between Hysterectomy and weight changes is multifaceted. While some women may experience weight gain due to hormonal fluctuations, others might lose weight because of alleviated pain or improved quality of life, leading to increased physical activity and healthier lifestyle choices.</li><li>Lifestyle factors like diet and exercise are crucial in weight management after Hysterectomy. Engaging in regular physical activity, adopting a balanced diet, and managing stress are essential for promoting overall well-being.</li></ul>It is essential to debunk common misconceptions surrounding Hysterectomy and weight gain. The connection between the two is unique for all women. You should also take into account individual differences.<h2>Rapid Weight Loss After Hysterectomy: What You Should Know</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Coping_with_Weight_Gain_after_Hysterectomy_2_1_1_1_5ad05ca0d9.png" alt="Coping with Weight Gain after Hysterectomy (2) (1) (1) (1).png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Coping_with_Weight_Gain_after_Hysterectomy_2_1_1_1_5ad05ca0d9.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Coping_with_Weight_Gain_after_Hysterectomy_2_1_1_1_5ad05ca0d9.png 500w," sizes="100vw">Rapid weight loss after a hysterectomy is a topic that raises valid concerns among women. While weight management is essential for overall health, rapid weight changes can be risky and potentially harmful. Understanding the importance of healthy and gradual weight loss after Hysterectomy is very relevant.<h3>1. Addressing Concerns and Potential Risks</h3>Rapid weight loss can lead to nutrient deficiencies and muscle loss, affecting overall health and well-being. It may also strain the body's healing process after surgery.<h3>2. The Goal of&nbsp;Healthy and Gradual Weight Loss</h3>Instead of focusing on quick results, aim for steady and sustainable weight loss. Gradual changes in diet and exercise can help the body adjust and maintain a healthy balance.<h3>3. Recognising Signs of Unhealthy Weight Loss&nbsp;</h3>Watch out for signs of extreme calorie restriction, excessive exercise, or rapid fluctuations in weight. If you are experiencing a slow metabolism, weakened immune system, etc., your weight loss is unhealthy. Unhealthy weight loss can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other health issues.<h3>4. Importance of Seeking Professional Advice</h3>If you need more clarification about your weight loss experience concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare professional. They can assess your needs, monitor progress, and provide personalised guidance.Weight management is essential after a hysterectomy; rapid weight loss is not the goal. Emphasise the significance of healthy and gradual changes for long-term well-being. Recognise signs of unhealthy weight loss and seek professional advice when necessary.<h2>Thriving Post-Hysterectomy: Beyond Weight Loss</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Thriving_Post_Hysterectomy_Beyond_Weight_Loss_b8ac3c37aa.png" alt="Thriving Post-Hysterectomy_ Beyond Weight Loss.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Thriving_Post_Hysterectomy_Beyond_Weight_Loss_b8ac3c37aa.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Thriving_Post_Hysterectomy_Beyond_Weight_Loss_b8ac3c37aa.png 500w," sizes="100vw">The post-hysterectomy period allows women to embrace overall well-being and thrive in various aspects of life. Shifting the focus from solely weight loss to a holistic approach will enable women to celebrate their post-hysterectomy journey and discover newfound strengths.<h3>1. Embracing Overall Well-Being</h3>Thriving after a hysterectomy involves nurturing physical, emotional, and mental health. It's about embracing self-care, positive lifestyle changes, and prioritising mental well-being. Women can focus on improving their overall health and quality of life rather than getting fixated on weight loss alone.<h3>2. Positive Influence on Various Aspects of Life</h3>Post-hysterectomy, many women experience increased energy levels as they are relieved from chronic pain or discomfort. With improved health, they can engage in activities they once avoided. This newfound energy can be channelled into pursuing hobbies, spending quality time with loved ones, and achieving personal goals.Moreover, the procedure can lead to improved body confidence. Women may find liberation from health issues that once hindered their self-esteem. Embracing body changes with acceptance and love empowers them to feel confident and beautiful in their skin.<h3>3. Celebrating the women in you!</h3>Always remember to hold yourself close to this transformative phase and recognise your ability to overcome challenges. This can help you plant a positive mindset and help you face life with renewed vigour and confidence.Life after a hysterectomy is beyond weight loss and is more about overall well-being. Balancing your physical health, emotional balance, and mental strength is important.<h2>Yoga for Weight Loss&nbsp;</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/yoga_897988fb6a.png" alt="yoga.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_yoga_897988fb6a.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_yoga_897988fb6a.png 500w," sizes="100vw">You should include Yoga as a lifestyle change during your recovery phase. In the initial stages, you can even practice Pranayama and mild asanas. Once you gain your strength back and after the rest period, practice asanas such as:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li>Pavanamuktasana</li><li>Tadasana</li><li>Baddha Konasana</li><li>Upavistha Konasana</li><li>Virabhadrasana</li><li>Vrikshasana</li><li>Uttana asana</li><li>Adho Mukha svanasana</li><li>Gomukhasana</li></ul>At Nirva, our Yoga experts guide you through your needs. Never hesitate to get our expert guidance for your health.&nbsp;<h2>To Conclude</h2>Every woman will have a different hysterectomy story to tell, and each of them is valid. For women who have undergone a hysterectomy, know this is a part of your story, not the end.&nbsp; Listen to your body, and make choices that help you to thrive.&nbsp; You are your strength, and live your life to the fullest.&nbsp;

A Woman's Guide to Losing Weight and Thriving Post Hysterectomy

small_Banner 2.png

thumbnail_Banner 2.png

Banner 2.png

Register for our live workshop - The Good Gut

Take the first step towards a healthier digestive system

<h2>Bad Breath and Acid Rflux : Is There a Relation?</h2>Research studies say that there is a prevalence of 25% of halitosis in the general population.The most common causes of halitosis are oral conditions and diseases of the mouth.A new analysis by scientific researchers has brought out a new classification of halitosis as;<ul><li>Type 1 (oral)</li><li>Type 2 (airway-related)</li><li>Type 3 (gastroesophageal)</li><li>Type 4 (haematogenous)</li><li>Type 5 (subjective)</li></ul>The most common disorders leading to halitosis include the following;<ul><li>ENT Issues: Chronic sinusitis, infected tonsils, deviated septum, neoplastic changes.</li><li>Gastroenterological: Gastroesophageal reflux disease, H. pylori infection.</li><li>Pulmonary: Bronchitis, lung cancer.</li><li>Metabolic diseases: Diabetes, kidney diseases.</li></ul>According to the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC894">research</a> results, halitosis coexists with symptoms of GERD, such as <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/link-between-gallbladder-and-heartburn">heartburn</a>, regurgitation, and a sour taste in the mouth.&nbsp;Additionally, patients with active IBD forms showed an increased incidence of halitosis compared to patients in remission.People presume that the process may be caused by increased oxidative stress or direct fermentation of products in the diet.<h2>AMLA PITTA in Ayurveda - How are Indigestion, GERD, and Halitosis Correlated?</h2>The scholars of Ayurveda have related almost all the health issues in the human body to indigestion.&nbsp;Ayurveda considers vitiation of digestive fire/agni to be the root cause of diseases.According to Ayurvedic experts, GERD results from improper digestive health, resulting in repeated sour eructations, known as Amlapitta.Amla means sour, and Pitta is the metabolic bioenergy of your body. When the normal Pitta gets fermented and attains a sour taste, the resultant is Amlapitta.This undigested food substance and food regurgitation are the reasons for bad breath in the presence of acid reflux."Oral hygiene or the condition of your tongue and oral health is always correlated with your gut health. If you have bad breath and no other visible cause, we can determine that it results from indigestion. This indigestion leads to the collection of metabolic toxins called 'Aama' in Ayurveda, which reflects as bad breath."Dr. Vindhya, Ayurveda Consultant, Specialised in gut health issues<h2>How to Find If You Are a Victim of Your Breath?</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/2_1_how_to_find_if_you_are_a_Victim_of_Your_Own_Breath_5131f80344.png" alt="2.1 how to find if you are a Victim of Your Own Breath.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_2_1_how_to_find_if_you_are_a_Victim_of_Your_Own_Breath_5131f80344.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_2_1_how_to_find_if_you_are_a_Victim_of_Your_Own_Breath_5131f80344.png 500w," sizes="100vw">Your olfactory sense is highly effective at detecting and distinguishing between scents that may be hazardous, such as smoke, and those that are pleasurable, such as the aroma of your favourite dish cooking. However, as your sense of smell adjusts to familiar scents, they fade into the background and become less noticeable unless they threaten your well-being.Since you get constantly exposed to the scent of your breath, which is not considered a hazard, your olfactory system adapts and no longer detects it.You must be familiar with the old trick of breathing into and smelling your hand, as shown in TV shows. However, in contrast to Hollywood's portrayal, this method could be more reliable.The more effective way to manually assess your breath is to lick the inside of your wrist and smell it. The scent of your breath on your skin will be clearer and more visible to your nose. Nevertheless, it's worth noting that even this technique may be partially foolproof.If you suspect that your breath may be terrible, there are some methods you can use to confirm this:<ul><li>At Home</li></ul>You can ask a trusted friend to tell you if your breath is fresh or not. You can also use a tongue scraper, which will help you both identify and reduce bad breath. You can determine whether your breath is odorous by scraping the back of your tongue, which is often a source of bad breath, and smelling the scraper. If you find any unpleasant smell, consider including tongue brushing or scraping into your daily oral hygiene routine.<ul><li>Gauze Test</li></ul>Use a small piece of medical gauze to wipe your tongue and then smell the gauze to determine how your tongue smells.&nbsp;<ul><li>Airbag Test</li></ul>Here, you exhale into an airtight bag several times and then smell the bag to determine the odour of your breath.&nbsp;<ul><li>Floss Test</li></ul>Use unflavored floss to clean between your teeth and under the gum line, and then smell the floss to determine the odour of the space between your teeth.<ul><li>Bad breath Test Conducted by your Dentist</li></ul>The Halimeter test, for instance, measures the level of volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs) in your breath, which are caused by bacterial overgrowth in the mouth or bowel. Typically, VSC measurements above 100 parts per billion suggest bad breath.&nbsp;You can buy a halimeter to check your breath, but it's a good idea to ask your Dentist for advice first.Your Dentist will use a plastic straw to check your breath. This method is called the organoleptic method. The Dentist will usually compare your exhalations from your nose to those from your mouth to decide. Remember that these tests may only sometimes produce consistent results, so it's best to ask your Dentist which type would be most appropriate for you.Did you know that if your breath smells sour, it can be due to the underlying issues of your gut? It is an identified suggestion that you suffer from GERD-related lousy breath.<h2>Other Reasons for Bad Breath</h2><ul><li>Poor Oral Hygiene: When we don't brush and floss regularly, bacteria can build up in our mouths, leading to bad breath.</li><li>Food and Drinks: Certain foods and beverages, such as garlic, onions, coffee, and alcohol, can cause temporary bad breath.</li><li>Dry mouth: Saliva helps to cleanse the mouth, so when the mouth is dry, bacteria can accumulate and cause bad breath.</li><li>Smoking can cause bad breath by leaving a lasting odour in the mouth and throat.</li><li>Gum Disease: This condition which is also known as periodontal disease, can lead to bad breath due to bacteria buildup in your gums.</li><li>Medical Conditions: Certain health issues, such as sinus infections, respiratory infections, and acid reflux, will contribute to bad breath.</li><li>Medications: Some medications, such as antidepressants and antihistamines, can cause dry mouth and lead to bad breath.</li><li>Stress: Stress can cause dry mouth, contributing to bad breath.</li></ul>“Whenever I used to take coffee, the after-effect was a horrible smell from my mouth. It was so embarrassing. This made me skip coffee dates. I did not know my indigestion and acid reflux was causing my bad breath.” - Nirva Client.Let's see how Nirva fixes such problems for the clients.<h2>How Can You Fix Your Acid Reflux-Related Bad Breath?</h2>In the long term, addressing the root cause of acid reflux is essential, rather than just treating the symptoms. Identifying and treating the primary problem can ease the discomfort associated with acid reflux and prevent it from happening again. Therefore, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to determine the cause of your GERD/reflux and develop a complete treatment plan that addresses it.The changes may involve lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, medication, or other therapies, depending on the underlying cause and individual needs.<h2>Quick Remedies for Bad Breath</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Quick_remedies_ce9d896e2d.png" alt="Quick remedies.png" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Quick_remedies_ce9d896e2d.png 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Quick_remedies_ce9d896e2d.png 500w," sizes="100vw"><ul><li>Start Your Day with a Glass of Water: Drinking water on an empty stomach can help you flush toxins and hydrate your body. You have to avoid drinking too much water right after a meal as it may dilute stomach acid and impair digestion.</li><li>Chew Some Fresh Parsley: Parsley contains chlorophyll. This will help you neutralise bad breath caused by GERD. You can chew on some fresh parsley leaves or add them to your meals as a garnish.</li><li>Squeeze Some Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is acidic but has an alkalising effect on the body. Drinking lemon water or adding lemon juice to your meals can help stimulate digestion and prevent acid reflux. However, you have to be careful not to consume too much lemon juice, which may irritate your throat or erode your teeth' enamel.</li><li>Try Licorice Chews: Licorice is a natural supplement that can soothe the lining of your oesophagus and your stomach without reducing stomach acid.</li><li>Avoid Overeating: Overeating or fast can increase pressure on your LES lower esophageal sphincter and trigger reflux symptoms. You have to aim to eat smaller, more frequent meals and chew your food thoroughly.</li><li>Don't skip meals and rely on coffee: Skipping meals or having only morning coffee can stimulate stomach acid production and worsen GERD. Try to have a balanced breakfast with protein, fibre, and healthy fats.</li><li>Practice deep breathing after meals: Taking deep belly breaths can help activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and digestion. Breathe slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale through your mouth. Repeat several times until you feel calm and centred.</li></ul>Here is a quick tip from Nirva health experts:&nbsp;Take one teaspoon of dried ginger powder, mix it with a teaspoon of ghee, and consume it 10 minutes before food.<h2>How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene?</h2><ul><li>Use mouth rinses</li><li>Brush after food</li><li>Treat any dental disease</li><li>Avoid dry mouth</li><li>Clean dentures, if any</li><li>Regularly get a new toothbrush</li><li>Floss at least once a day.</li><li>Use tongue scraper</li></ul><h2>Why Do You Need Medical Attention for Bad Breath?</h2>While bad breath may seem minor, it can have crucial social and emotional effects. Imagine you being on a first date or job interview and self-conscious about your breath - not a confidence booster!Did you know?Writings dating back to 1550 BC made reference to halitosis, another term for foul breath. Ancient Egyptians utilised aromatic spices and herbs, such as frankincense, myrrh, and cinnamon, to freshen their breath.<h2>Conclusion</h2>Bad breath can also be a symptom of respiratory infections, liver and kidney problems, gum disease, and other underlying medical treatments. You can seek medical help to improve your breath and identify and treat any underlying problems.The next time you reach for a mint or breath freshener, remember that bad breath is more than just an inconvenience. It is a long-standing and occasionally serious health problem that needs to be addressed.

From Heartburn to Halitosis: Understanding and Treating Acid Reflux and Bad Breath

small_banner (3).jpg

thumbnail_banner (3).jpg

banner (3).jpg

Dr Remya

<h2>Acne Diet Guide: Understanding the Impact of Food on Skin</h2>You can trace the connection between diet and acne to our Ayurveda texts. Plus, it is well-documented. Foods high in sugars, unhealthy fats, and dairy result in increased acne breakouts. Therefore, you need to understand how these foods affect your skin. Doing so will help you make better choices that reduce and control acne.<h2>11 Foods to Avoid for Acne Prevention: What Contributes to the Best Food for Healthy Skin Complexion?&nbsp;</h2>Understanding why these foods may contribute to skin issues is the essential key to managing acne effectively:<h3>1. Dairy Products</h3>Are you a dairy-holic? You should rethink how much of it you consume daily! Dairy, especially skim milk, results in frequent acne breakouts. How? Because hormones and growth factors present in milk might stimulate acne production. Instead, you can opt for plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk. How about you include them in your diet to control pimples? Good idea!<h3>2. Refined Sugars and Carbs</h3>Have you heard or read about the foods best for skin complexion? Yes, the ones that help enhance your acne diet guide! If not, you may want to know this - Foods like candies, cakes, and white bread can spike your blood sugar and insulin levels, increasing oil production and inflammation. Both of these can worsen acne.<h3>3. Fast Food</h3>High in calories, fats, and refined carbs, the fast food you are so fond of can increase the risk of developing acne. How? The answer is simple. It happens due to its ability to promote inflammation and insulin resistance.<h3>4. Chocolate</h3>Some studies have predominantly defined the link between chocolate and acne, although this is still under debate. It might be due to the sugar and dairy content of most chocolate products.<h3>5. Greasy Foods</h3>While they don't cause acne directly, greasy foods can aggravate oily skin conditions. As a result, this may lead to clogged pores and acne flare-ups.<h3>6. Whey Protein</h3>What can stimulate your hormones when employed in supplements and bodybuilding products? The answer is whey protein. And these triggered hormones tend to trigger acne. So, one of your clear skin diet tips should comprise steering away from it.<h3>7. Alcohol</h3>While that sparkly champagne and the evergreen wine can give you immense pleasure, they also bring other issues. Alcohol dehydrates the skin, disrupts your hormonal balance, and impacts the immune system - All of which can contribute to acne flare-ups.<h3>8. Nuts</h3>The tiny but nutritiously power-packed nuts are super healthy. However, some people may suffer from nuts-triggered acne, possibly due to their high-fat content.<h3>9. Soy</h3>It contains phytoestrogens that can mimic estrogen in the body. Its consumption can potentially lead to hormonal imbalances and acne in some individuals.<h3>10. Caffeine</h3>Excessive caffeine intake in coffee or any other beverage can affect sleep quality and stress levels. Thus indirectly contributing to acne outbreaks. Hence, it stands proven that it does not contribute to being one of the foods for your complexion.<h3>11. Spicy Foods</h3>For some, spicy foods can trigger inflammation and acne breakouts. If you are sensitive to certain spices, avoiding spicy foods can help.Each of these foods can affect individuals differently depending on their body types. Monitoring your diet and skin's reaction to these foods is essential. Why? Because personal experiences with acne and pimple triggers can vary widely across the globe. Reducing or eliminating these foods from your acne diet guide may help improve your skin health.<h2>Diet to Control Pimples: Practical Strategies for Acne Management</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/2_1_8aeb7f8a2f.jpg" alt="2 (1).jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_2_1_8aeb7f8a2f.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_2_1_8aeb7f8a2f.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">How about we outline a diet chart to control and prevent acne, commonly called pimples? The idea sounds enticing, doesn't it? It's not merely about avoiding certain foods anymore. It is also about incorporating the best foods for clear, glowing skin. The key here is striking the right balance - Crafting an acne diet that includes the right mix of nutrients can help! Doing so will not only aid in reducing inflammation or balancing hormone levels but also support overall skin health. These are crucial factors in managing acne. Here are some practical strategies you may want to follow:<h3>Incorporate Anti-inflammatory Foods</h3>Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids contribute to being the best foods for a healthy skin complexion. For instance, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and fatty fish (such as salmon and mackerel) can help reduce inflammation - A critical factor in acne.<h3>Increase Your Antioxidant Intake</h3>Foods comprising antioxidants help combat oxidative stress, which can result in acne. Berries, Ayurvedic herbal teas, and dark leafy greens are excellent sources of antioxidants.<h3>Stay Hydrated</h3>Drinking plenty of water and juices is essential for maintaining the good health of your skin. Hydrating yourself will help detoxify your body and keep the skin moist.<h3>Low Glycemic Index Foods</h3>Foods with a low glycemic index, such as whole grains, most seasonal fruits, and cruciferous vegetables, can help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Consuming such foods as a part of a clear and glowing skin diet is essential for controlling acne.<h2>Foods to Get Clear, Glowing Skin: Incorporating Healing Nutrients</h2>Nirva's nutrition experts recommend including specific foods that are particularly beneficial to control pimples. The cause becomes all the more noteworthy if you're following a diet for controlling pimples and achieving clear and glowing skin. Now, what's critical to note is that these foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that nourish the skin. Further, they promote natural healing from the inside out and enhance the skin's natural glow. Here's a list of such foods:<h3>Vitamin-Rich Foods</h3>Nirva's Senior Nutrition Expert, Dr Remya, says, "Vitamins A, C, and E are crucial for skin health. Foods like carrots, sweet potatoes (rich in beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A), citrus fruits (rich in vitamin C), and almonds (rich in vitamin E) are excellent choices."<h3>Healthy Fats</h3>Foods like avocados and olive oil provide healthy fats, essential for supple and moisturising skin. If you want to follow another of our clear skin diet tips, these foods are a must-have in your pimple diet chart.&nbsp;<h3>Protein-Rich Foods</h3>Numerous lean proteins, like chicken, fish, and legumes, are acing the market. They support skin repair in addition to regeneration.<h3>Fibre-Rich Foods</h3>These superfoods for glowing skin should belong in your kitchen's pantry. Fibre-rich foods include seasonal fruits and vegetables, melon seeds, flaxseeds, whole grains, and more. "Such ingredients of your diet to control pimples help maintain a healthy gut linked to clearer skin," adds Dr Remya."As a part of our acne diet guide, I recommend you follow a diet comprising high-quality lean proteins, fibre, seasonal fruits and leafy greens, fibre, and spices that support healthy skin," Dr Remya explains. "These foods house high-quality amino acids that lay grounds for firm and nourished skin. Moreover, they comprise antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory ingredients that further optimal skin metabolism and defence against environmental stressors."Focusing on these practical dietary strategies will help you reduce acne and promote a more transparent, radiant complexion.<h2>The Key Takeaway</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/conclude_2dc9e10e60.jpg" alt="conclude.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_conclude_2dc9e10e60.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_conclude_2dc9e10e60.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Your diet requires both - Understanding what foods to keep yourselves away from and what to incorporate. Following clear skin diet tips, understanding the intricacies of our acne diet guide, and executing practical strategies for acne management are the keys to improving your skin health. For what makes a genuine difference, you can make significant strides. Remember, your skin is a reflection of what you eat and drink. Your journey to clear and glowing skin starts with mindful eating and informed choices.

11 Foods to Avoid If You Battle with Acne

large_banner - Panchakarma at Home DIY Ayurvedic Detox Plan.jpg

medium_banner - Panchakarma at Home DIY Ayurvedic Detox Plan.jpg

small_banner - Panchakarma at Home DIY Ayurvedic Detox Plan.jpg

thumbnail_banner - Panchakarma at Home DIY Ayurvedic Detox Plan.jpg

banner - Panchakarma at Home DIY Ayurvedic Detox Plan.jpg

Say Goodbye to Toxins-Get Your Personalised Guide

Panchakarma at Home: DIY Ayurvedic Detox Plan

large_banner - Understanding the 3 Gut Types and How They Impact Digestion (1) (1).jpg

medium_banner - Understanding the 3 Gut Types and How They Impact Digestion (1) (1).jpg

small_banner - Understanding the 3 Gut Types and How They Impact Digestion (1) (1).jpg

thumbnail_banner - Understanding the 3 Gut Types and How They Impact Digestion (1) (1).jpg

banner - Understanding the 3 Gut Types and How They Impact Digestion (1) (1).jpg

Understanding the 3 Gut Types and How They Impact Digestion

small_Banner-A Comprehensive Guide to Managing Anal Fissures with Holistic Approaches (2) (1).jpg

thumbnail_Banner-A Comprehensive Guide to Managing Anal Fissures with Holistic Approaches (2) (1).jpg

Banner-A Comprehensive Guide to Managing Anal Fissures with Holistic Approaches (2) (1).jpg

Dr Valsala 

A Comprehensive Guide to Managing Anal Fissures with Holistic Approaches

large_banner - Creamy White Discharge What Does It Mean.jpg

medium_banner - Creamy White Discharge What Does It Mean.jpg

small_banner - Creamy White Discharge What Does It Mean.jpg

thumbnail_banner - Creamy White Discharge What Does It Mean.jpg

banner - Creamy White Discharge What Does It Mean.jpg

<h2>What Is Creamy White Discharge?</h2>Creamy white discharge is a type of vaginal discharge which is produced by the female body as a part of the menstrual cycle. It will be thicker and creamier during ovulation or just before menstruation. It is a sign that your reproductive system works every day until the discharge starts showing a significant change in its characteristics that are different from usual in terms of colour, smell, and consistency.<h2>Causes of Creamy White Discharge</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Causes_of_Creamy_White_Discharge_602723ca7f.jpg" alt="Causes of Creamy White Discharge.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Causes_of_Creamy_White_Discharge_602723ca7f.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Causes_of_Creamy_White_Discharge_602723ca7f.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"><ul><li>Pre - menstruation: The vaginal discharge becomes thicker and creamier before menstruation is a preparation for an upcoming menstrual period.</li><li>Ovulation: The vaginal discharge becomes slimy, sticky and white during ovulation. This is nature's technique to improve it as a natural lubricant to prepare for impending fertilisation.</li><li>Post – menstruation: the creamy white thick discharge immediately after menstrual periods occurs as a cleansing mechanism for vaginal health</li><li>Pregnancy: during pregnancy, the hormone levels will be high, causing milk-white vaginal discharge. This is called leucorrhoea during pregnancy or pregnancy discharge, which helps to prevent vaginal infection.</li><li>Hormonal Changes: The main causative factor of creamy white discharge is hormonal fluctuation, which is quite common during various phases of the menstrual cycle. If the hormonal fluctuation occurs due to any unknown reason, then also it causes vaginal discharge. At that time, it may manifest with some associated symptoms like itching.</li></ul><h2>When to Be Concerned About Creamy White Discharge</h2>Even though white discharge is a common occurrence during the menstrual cycle, it is a cause of concern when it is associated with a few other symptoms.The associated symptoms are:<ul><li>A strong, unusual, unpleasant, fishy odour.</li><li>Itching, burning sensation, redness in and around the vagina.</li><li>Changes in colour from white to yellow, green, grey and so on.</li><li>A drastic change in the consistency and amount of usual.</li><li>Pain during urination or intercourse (dyspareunia).</li></ul>When the symptoms mentioned above arise along with vaginal discharge, it is a signal to show that there may be an underlying cause, and medical attention is required the earliest.A thorough understanding of this topic is so essential for every woman to maintain vaginal health and overall health by consistent monitoring.<h2>Common Conditions Associated with Creamy White Discharge</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Common_Conditions_Associated_with_Creamy_White_Discharge_f54070f20e.jpg" alt="Common Conditions Associated with Creamy White Discharge.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Common_Conditions_Associated_with_Creamy_White_Discharge_f54070f20e.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Common_Conditions_Associated_with_Creamy_White_Discharge_f54070f20e.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Creamy white discharge is a common and normal phenomenon in women. But sometimes, it may be abnormally high in quantity or show some variation in its characteristics. Identifying whether it is normal or due to any underlying issue is crucial.&nbsp;Early identification of the exact cause helps initiate the proper and target-specific treatment earlier.In normal conditions, creamy white vaginal discharge is seen during various menstrual cycle phases, especially before ovulation.It can occur due to some potential health issues mentioned below.1. Yeast InfectionsCommon cause of the white creamy vaginal discharge is due to yeast infection, caused by an overgrowth of a yeast. The vaginal discharge due to yeast infection becomes thick, creamy and clumsy. It is often associated with symptoms like Itching, burning sensation, swelling, and redness, irritation in and around the vagina.2. Bacterial VaginosisIt is yet another cause of abnormal vaginal discharge. In bacterial vaginosis, the discharge will be thin and watery. It may be associated with additional symptoms sometimes, like greyish colour, itching in and around the vagina, a fishy odour and so on. Bacterial vaginosis is caused mainly due to imbalance in the vaginal bacterial flora.3. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)Certain STIs can cause changes in vaginal discharge along with some other symptoms.&nbsp;For instance,&nbsp; STI called trichomoniasis starts as a creamy white discharge. It later transforms into a frothy, yellow or green discharge, often accompanied by a foul odour and genital irritation, indicating its increasing severity.Chlamydia is yet another STI, which is termed a "silent infection" due to its mild or absent symptoms in the initial phase. Later it causes unusually high vaginal discharge (white, grey or yellow), pelvic pain, unusual bleeding either between two consecutive menstrual periods or after sex, pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia), painful urination, burning sensation and so on.Another STI called gonorrhoea also causes increased vaginal discharge (white or yellow). It also shows almost all symptoms seen in chlamydia infection. It can also have an additional symptom, i.e. fever and chills when the infection spreads.<h2>How to Manage Creamy White Discharge</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/How_to_Manage_Creamy_White_Discharge_bfe9aadabc.jpg" alt="How to Manage Creamy White Discharge.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_How_to_Manage_Creamy_White_Discharge_bfe9aadabc.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_How_to_Manage_Creamy_White_Discharge_bfe9aadabc.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"><h3>1. Maintain Good Hygiene</h3>Hygiene of the vagina is essential to prevent abnormal vaginal discharge. Regularly wash the vaginal and vulval area with warm water and mild soap. But make sure to avoid harsh products which are scented and made of harsh chemicals because they can disrupt the normal vaginal pH.<h3>2. Avoid Irritant Products</h3>Excess use of scented soaps, bubble baths and douches irritates the vaginal area. This also disrupts the normal pH of the vagina.<h3>3. Wear Comfortable and Breathable Clothing</h3>Avoid tight, synthetic underwear that traps moisture and heat. Instead, opt for comfortable, loose cotton undergarments that help in air circulation. Always try to maintain the vaginal area dry.<h3>4. Wipe Correctly After Using the Toilet</h3>Always wipe from front to back to prevent the bacterial transfer from the rectum to the vaginal area after using the toilet.<h3>5. Use a Panty Liner</h3>If the white discharge is heavy, it creates a moist environment where bacteria and yeast grow faster and easier. To prevent this, wear a panty liner which keeps the vaginal area dry and comfortable.<h3>6. Change Underwear Frequently</h3>During the days of heavy white discharge, change underwear frequently to keep the vaginal area dry.<h3>7. Opt for an Intimate Wash, Which Is Hypoallergic</h3>As regular soaps are harsh and disrupt the normal vaginal pH, choose an intimate wash which is not allergic to you to maintain vaginal Hygiene.<h3>8. Menstrual and Sanitary Hygiene</h3>During menstruation, change tampons, menstrual cups, or pads every few hours. They should be left in for no more than 8 hours to prevent bacterial growth.<h3>9. Post-intercourse Hygiene</h3>Wash and maintain the Hygiene of the genital area after sexual intercourse to reduce the chances of bacterial or fungal infections.<h3>10. Mandatory Drying After Washing</h3>Make sure you dry the area with a soft towel after washing. The towel should also be washed regularly with mild detergents.&nbsp;<h3>11. Know Your Normal Pattern of White Discharge</h3>Track your white discharge pattern before, during, or after menstruation and ovulation and take preventive hygienic measures when it is excessive.<h3>12. Triphala Wash or Sitz Bath</h3>According to Ayurveda, washing with lukewarm triphala decoction or sitz bath in Triphala decoction helps prevent its escalation to bacterial, fungal, or yeast infections.All the above-mentioned practices help you to effectively manage your white discharge and help to maintain your vaginal health.<h2>When to See a Doctor</h2>When you experience white discharge in an increased volume than usual or with an unpleasant colour, thickness, or consistency of the discharge different from the usual pattern, associated with symptoms like itching or burning sensation, consult a health care professional without further ado.White, creamy discharge can be expected, but if it becomes thick and resembles cottage cheese, it can be a symptom of a premonitory yeast infection.If you experience a foul, unpleasant smell, it can be a symptom of impending bacterial vaginosis or a sexually transmitted infection (STI), which requires immediate medical supervision.Keep yourself aware of your body signals. You will be the first person to properly understand the discharge's change in pattern, colour, or odour.If you are pregnant, consult with a gynaecologist if you find an abnormal vaginal discharge because it can be an indicator of pregnancy. If you are planning to conceive, sharing about the changes noticed in the vaginal discharge can help you rule out any reproductive health issues.<h2>Conclusion</h2>Managing white discharge is like taking care of a garden. The abnormal variation should beidentified, such as how a garden identifies a weed among good flowers and plants. The first person who can do it is yourself. Suppose you find something suspicious or different from the usual pattern, consult a doctor. In such cases, immediate medical supervision is essential. Immediate treatment helps to uproot the cause, like uprooting the weeds from the garden to protect the flowers. With proper care, you can maintain your vaginal and entire reproductive health.

Creamy White Discharge: What Does It Mean

large_banner - Menopause and Mental Health Managing Depression and Anxiety (1).jpg

medium_banner - Menopause and Mental Health Managing Depression and Anxiety (1).jpg

small_banner - Menopause and Mental Health Managing Depression and Anxiety (1).jpg

thumbnail_banner - Menopause and Mental Health Managing Depression and Anxiety (1).jpg

banner - Menopause and Mental Health Managing Depression and Anxiety (1).jpg

<h2>Understanding the Connection Between Menopause and Mental Health</h2>Curious how menopause affects your mental health? The hormonal fluctuations during menopause play a significant role in these changes.<h3>1. Hormonal Impact:</h3>Hormones are chemical messengers in your body that travel through your bloodstream and affect different functions. The female sex hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, play an important role in mood regulation.&nbsp;

Functional brain imaging studies have indicated that oestrogen regulates the activation of brain regions implicated in emotional and cognitive processing.

&nbsp;The low levels of oestrogen and progesterone in your bloodstream during menopause can lead to symptoms like mood swings, anxiety and depression.<h3>2. Brain Chemistry Changes:</h3>Oestrogen maintains blood flow to the brain, protecting it from degenerative disease and cognitive decline. Oestrogen receptors are widely distributed in the brain. Many changes occur in your brain cells when these molecules bind to oestrogen. Oestrogen is also responsible for producing the happy hormones dopamine and serotonin in the brain, which improves your mood and makes you feel good.Low oestrogen levels during menopause lead to decreased production of serotonin and dopamine. The drop in these neurotransmitters makes you more prone to mental health challenges like depression and anxiety.<h3>3. Psychological Stress:&nbsp;</h3>Some women may find the transition to menopause itself very stressful. Factors like natural ageing, reduced libido, and responsibilities in life might cause you to lose confidence and have low self-esteem. This stress can lead to depression and anxiety.<h2>Common Mental Health Symptoms During Menopause</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Common_Mental_Health_Symptoms_During_Menopause_920da3945d.jpg" alt="Common Mental Health Symptoms During Menopause.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Common_Mental_Health_Symptoms_During_Menopause_920da3945d.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Common_Mental_Health_Symptoms_During_Menopause_920da3945d.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Have you been feeling low? Look out for these symptoms – if they align with what you’re experiencing in your daily life, it could mean that you’re facing anxiety and depression during menopause.<h3>1. Depression:</h3>Here’s what it feels like to experience depression:<ul><li>A feeling of sadness.</li><li>Feeling like you’re worthless.</li><li>Loss of interest in activities that you used to look forward to previously.</li><li>Changes in appetite—some people experience a loss of appetite, causing weight loss, and others may turn to <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36904172/">emotional eating</a>, resulting in weight gain.</li><li>Changes in sleep routine—some may experience disturbed sleep while others may sleep excessively.</li></ul><h3>2. Anxiety:</h3>If you have anxiety, you may feel:<ul><li>Excessively worried and nervous all the time.</li><li>Panic attacks (a short period of intense anxiety).</li><li>Restlessness, such as racing thoughts or uneasiness, and physical symptoms, like constantly moving your legs or an inability to sit or stand still, are also symptoms.</li><li>Cold and sweaty hands and feet.</li></ul><h3>3. Mood Swings:</h3>Menopause can cause a rollercoaster of mood changes—one moment, you’re feeling sad and tearful, and the next moment, you feel anger or frustration. These sudden mood changes can be irritating and unpredictable.<h3>4. Cognitive Impairment:</h3>Some women experience “brain fog,” a decline in cognitive functions that leads to forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and reduced problem-solving and decision-making skills.&nbsp;Read more about <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/ayurvedic-solutions-for-brain-fog-and-memory-loss">Ayurvedic remedies for brain fog and memory issues during menopause</a>.<h2>Risk Factors for Mental Health Issues During Menopause</h2>Are hormonal fluctuations the only cause of mental health problems during menopause? Let us look at other factors that might contribute to anxiety and depression.<h3>1. History of Depression or Anxiety:</h3><ul><li>If you have experienced mental health issues earlier in life, or if you have faced stressful life events, chances are high that you might face anxiety and depression during menopause.</li></ul><h3>2. Genetics:</h3><ul><li>Do you have a family history of mental health issues? If your mother or sister faced issues like mood swings, anxiety and depression during menopause, it is likely that you will, too.</li></ul><h3>3. Lifestyle Factors:</h3><ul><li>Lifestyle factors like a poor diet, lack of physical exercise, high stress levels and inadequate sleep can contribute to anxiety and depression during menopause.</li></ul><h3>4. Chronic Health Issues:</h3><ul><li>If you have other long-standing conditions like diabetes or heart disease, the stress associated with managing these can also contribute to anxiety and depression during menopause.</li></ul><h2>Strategies for Managing Depression and Anxiety During Menopause</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Strategies_for_Managing_Depression_and_Anxiety_During_Menopause_1a3a194f5b.jpg" alt="Strategies for Managing Depression and Anxiety During Menopause.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Strategies_for_Managing_Depression_and_Anxiety_During_Menopause_1a3a194f5b.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Strategies_for_Managing_Depression_and_Anxiety_During_Menopause_1a3a194f5b.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Struggling with anxiety and depression? Worry not – these proven techniques can help you manage mental health issues during menopause.<h3>Tip 1 : Regular Physical Activity:</h3>A <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3270074/">2012 study</a> concluded that habitual physical activity has many health benefits, including longevity, decreased risk of diseases, maintenance of energy balance and improved physical and mental health.&nbsp;Exercise can boost the production of endorphins and serotonin (happy hormones released by the brain), which improves mood and reduces anxiety and stress. Make sure you exercise regularly—even simple ones like walking, cycling, swimming, or yoga can help.<h3>Tip 2 : Mindfulness and Meditation:</h3>Practising these stress-relieving techniques can help calm your mind, manage stress and anxiety and improve your mental well-being, allowing you a smooth transition to menopause.&nbsp;Read more about how mindfulness and meditation can help you in our blog “<a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/mindfulness-meditation-finding-zen-in-the-chaos">Mindfulness and Meditation: Finding Zen in the Chaos</a>”.<h3>Tip 3 : Therapy and Counselling:</h3>Undergoing psychological therapies and counselling for depression and anxiety during menopause, like behaviour therapy and cognitive therapy, can help you identify and manage troubling emotions and embrace yourself.<h3>Tip 4 : Support Groups:</h3>Join support groups where you can interact with people going through a similar experience as you without being judged. The feeling of connection you develop can reduce loneliness, allow you to learn from others’ experiences, and motivate you to overcome the emotional challenges of menopause.<h3>Tip 5 : Healthy Diet:</h3>Did you know your gut is key to a healthy, happy mind? Keeping your gut and digestive process balanced through a healthy diet, including fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains, nuts, seeds and healthy fats, and natural supplements like probiotics can influence your mood, keeping you happier and stress-free.Want to know how your gut affects your mind? <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/gut-brain-connection-how-your-gut-health-affects-your-mental-wellness">Read more here</a>.&nbsp;<h3>Tip 6 : Adequate Sleep:</h3>Your body requires adequate sleep to relax and recharge amidst a busy life. A good night’s sleep improves your mood, health and metabolism. Techniques like <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/healthy-sleep-habits-children-guide">sleep hygiene practices</a> and tips to relax before going to bed can help you sleep better.<h3>Tip 7 ; Stress Management Techniques:</h3>Practising methods to manage stress, like yoga, deep breathing exercises (pranayama), meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36833525/">tai chi</a>, can help reduce stress levels and manage depression and anxiety that you experience during menopause.<h2>Medical Treatments for Mental Health Issues During Menopause</h2>Are stress-relieving methods not working out for you? If your anxiety and depression are severe and interfere with your daily life activities, your doctor may prescribe medical treatments.<h3>1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):</h3>HRT is a treatment that replaces hormones which have declined during menopause. This treatment relieves menopause-related psychological symptoms like mood swings, anxiety and depression. However, HRT is not suitable for women who are oestrogen-sensitive or have specific underlying health concerns like fibroids or endometriosis – discuss with your doctor about the right treatment for you.<h3>2. Antidepressants and Anxiolytics:</h3>Are the stress management techniques not working out for you? In such cases, medication can help you. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is a commonly used antidepressant.<h3>3. Non-Hormonal Options:</h3>For some women, hormonal treatments might not be suitable due to underlying health conditions, while others may prefer non-hormonal options by choice. Venlafaxine and duloxetine are the most commonly prescribed non-hormonal medications for treating anxiety and depression.<h2>When to Seek Help</h2>Menopause is a new chapter of your life and should not feel like a burden. If the symptoms of anxiety and depression during this time last for more than a few weeks and are interfering with and disrupting your daily activities, relationships, and overall well-being, you should seek medical help.If you are experiencing severe mood swings, confusion, or suicidal thoughts, seek immediate medical help or contact the mental health hotline for support.<h2>Wrapping Up</h2>

Just as we teach people physical hygiene to help preserve their physical health, for a happy and peaceful mind, we need to teach people about emotional hygiene – how to tackle their destructive emotions.

Just like the physical symptoms you experience during menopause, mental health is just as important and should not be overlooked. Combining lifestyle modifications with medicines and the right support and guidance can help you manage anxiety and depression during menopause.&nbsp;Be empowered! Your health is in your hands, and support is at your fingertips! Make your menopausal journey a time of growth and self-discovery!

Menopause and Mental Health: Managing Depression and Anxiety

large_banner - Menopause and Dizziness Is It a Symptom Here's What You Need to Know.jpg

medium_banner - Menopause and Dizziness Is It a Symptom Here's What You Need to Know.jpg

small_banner - Menopause and Dizziness Is It a Symptom Here's What You Need to Know.jpg

thumbnail_banner - Menopause and Dizziness Is It a Symptom Here's What You Need to Know.jpg

banner - Menopause and Dizziness Is It a Symptom Here's What You Need to Know.jpg

Health Coach Certified in Therapeutic Nutrition and Dietics

Dr Anju Lal

<h2>Understanding Dizziness During Menopause</h2>What is dizziness? This term is used to describe many sensations like feeling faint and disoriented (light-headedness), unsteady like you’re about to lose balance and fall, or a feeling that the world is spinning around you (vertigo).Dizziness is not a health condition – it is a symptom caused by other health issues.Even though menopausal symptoms do not usually mention dizziness, many women have reported experiencing it.&nbsp;

Some days, I feel like everything around me is spinning. It happens unexpectedly – when I get up too quickly or even during my daily activities. It’s frustrating and a bit scary when it catches me off-guard.

&nbsp;<h2>Possible Causes of Dizziness During Menopause</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Possible_Causes_of_Dizziness_During_Menopause_90e4d5af6e.jpg" alt="Possible Causes of Dizziness During Menopause.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Possible_Causes_of_Dizziness_During_Menopause_90e4d5af6e.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Possible_Causes_of_Dizziness_During_Menopause_90e4d5af6e.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Wondering what causes these spells of dizziness during menopause? Is it the hormones, stress, or something else? Here is a list of possible causes of dizziness during menopause.1. Hormonal Changes:Oestrogen plays an important role in maintaining your postural balance. During menopause, the decline in oestrogen affects the fine balance of your <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30422573/">vestibular system</a> (complex structures of the inner ear and their nerve pathways, responsible for balance and posture) impacting the processing of spatial orientation and balance. This results in sensations of light-headedness or dizziness.2. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats:Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause – you feel a sudden wave of heat spreading through your body, causing a rise in your body temperature and sweating. When hot flashes happen at night, it is called night sweats. The sudden increase of body temperature combined with excessive sweating and dehydration can leave you tired and make you feel dizzy.3. Low Blood Pressure:In some women, the hormonal changes during menopause lead to a drop in blood pressure, causing a racing heart, a feeling of light-headedness and loss of balance if you stand up too quickly (postural hypotension).4. Anxiety and Stress:Hormone changes during <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/menopause-and-mental-health">nopause affect your mental health</a> as well – it can leave you with feelings of anxiety, depression, stress, mood swings and low self-esteem. This can also contribute to the dizziness you experience during menopause.5. Dehydration:Hormonal fluctuations during menopause affect your body’s ability to retain water. Along with that, menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats cause sweating, leading to further water loss. These changes make you more susceptible to dehydration and can make you feel tired, dizzy or light-headed.&nbsp;6. Vestibular Disorders:The vestibular system, consisting of inner ear structures and complex nerve pathways maintains your balance and spatial orientation. Hormonal changes happening during menopause, particularly the decline in oestrogen can exacerbate vestibular disorders, and cause vertigo or unsteadiness.<h2>When to Worry: Warning Signs and Red Flags</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/When_to_Worry_Warning_Signs_and_Red_Flags_f98b146e8b.jpg" alt="When to Worry Warning Signs and Red Flags.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_When_to_Worry_Warning_Signs_and_Red_Flags_f98b146e8b.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_When_to_Worry_Warning_Signs_and_Red_Flags_f98b146e8b.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Dizziness is usually not a cause for worry, but sometimes, it might be your body’s way of telling you about underlying health issues. These symptoms indicate red flags and require medical attention:1. Severe or Persistent Dizziness:Is dizziness making it difficult to open your eyes or even sit up? If you experience dizziness frequently and it disrupts your daily activities, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying causes.2. Other Symptoms to Look Out For:If dizziness is associated with any of these symptoms, get emergency medical attention. It could be a sign of cardiovascular disease or other serious health conditions.<ul><li>Severe headache</li><li>Chest pain</li><li>Trouble breathing</li><li>Blurred or double vision</li><li>Vomiting</li><li>Weakness or numbness of arms, legs or face</li><li>Slurred speech</li></ul>3. Hearing Loss or Tinnitus:If dizziness is accompanied by loss of hearing or ringing or buzzing noise in your ear (tinnitus), it could suggest possible inner ear issues or <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30725640/">Meniere’s disease</a>, which requires medical treatment.<h2>How to Manage and Alleviate Dizziness During Menopause</h2>Don’t let dizziness hold you back during this transformative phase. Here are some expert-recommended tips for managing dizziness during menopause:1. Stay Hydrated:<ul><li>Drink plenty of water – staying hydrated maintains your blood pressure and helps reduce the chances of experiencing dizziness.</li></ul>2. Eat a Balanced Diet:<ul><li>Certain nutritional deficiencies like iron and vitamin B12 can cause dizziness. A <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/healthy-eating-habits-guide">well-balanced diet</a> gives you all the nutrients required by your body to function well and keep you healthy.</li></ul>3. Practise Stress Reducing Techniques:<ul><li>We have already seen how anxiety and stress you experience during menopause can lead to dizziness. Taking <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/manage-stress-healthier-mind-and-body-techniques-and-tips">steps to relieve stress</a>, like yoga, breathing exercises (pranayama), meditation, and mindfulness, can help reduce stress-related dizziness.</li></ul>4. Regular Exercise:<ul><li>“Regular physical activity is a lifestyle with the potential to decrease the risk of vertigo in women.” - Physical Activity in the Prevention of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4296996/">Pubmed</a>.</li><li>Even simple exercises like walking or riding a cycle improve your balance and circulation and help reduce dizziness.</li></ul>5. Avoid Sudden Movements:<ul><li>Sometimes, you may feel light-headed when you stand up quickly from a sitting or lying position. This is called postural hypotension, the sudden drop in your blood pressure while changing posture. Avoiding sudden movements can reduce the chances of blood pressure drops and dizziness.</li></ul>6. Track the Triggers:<ul><li>Keep a diary of when you experience dizziness – this can help you identify possible causes, such as certain foods, medications, activities or the time of the day.</li></ul><h2>Treatment Options for Persistent Dizziness</h2>Is dizziness troubling you? It’s time to take control – of your balance!Here is a list of treatment options for persistent dizziness:1. Consult Your Doctor:<ul><li>If you experience dizziness frequently or are accompanied by other symptoms like headache, chest pain, or vomiting, consult a healthcare professional and get a full evaluation done. Your doctor might ask you to get blood tests, check your blood pressure or carry out vestibular function tests to identify the cause of dizziness.</li></ul>2. Medications:<ul><li>In certain cases, like if your dizziness is caused by other health issues, your doctor may prescribe medications.</li></ul>Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):<ul><li><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29630243/">HRT</a> is a treatment that replaces and stabilises the hormones that have declined during menopause. If you are experiencing severe menopausal symptoms, HRT can help you.&nbsp;</li></ul>A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17091024/">study</a> has shown that initiation of hormone therapy soon after menopause rapidly improves postural balance to levels normally seen in young women.<h2>Prevention Tips</h2>What if you can avoid all the frustration and inconvenience caused by dizzy spells? Here are some tips to help you keep dizziness at bay:1. Avoid the Cause:<ul><li>Is your dizziness brought on by certain foods, alcohol, standing for long periods, or crowded places? If so, avoiding these factors can help you prevent dizziness.</li></ul>2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:<ul><li>Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly and practise stress-relieving methods like yoga and pranayama. Also, make sure you don’t skip your routine medical checkups.</li></ul>3. Use Supportive Products:<ul><li>Using non-slip mats and grab bars in the bathroom can help prevent accidents due to sudden dizziness. You can also use wearable devices to monitor your blood pressure and oxygen levels regularly.</li></ul><h2>The Bottom Line</h2>Dizziness during menopause is more common than you think. It may happen due to hormonal fluctuations, stress, dehydration or other health conditions.&nbsp;Though most cases of dizziness can be managed with simple lifestyle modifications and tips, very severe or frequent bouts of dizziness require medical attention.Ladies, do not let your menopausal years go off-balance!Our expert Ayurveda and Yoga practitioners at Nirva are here to guide you on every step of your wellness journey. <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/">Book your appointment now</a>.

Menopause and Dizziness: Is It a Symptom? Here’s What You Need to Know

<h2>What Causes Itching During Menopause?</h2>Itching is a common symptom experienced by many women during menopause due to the hormonal changes they undergo.<ul><li>The primary cause of itching is the decline in oestrogen levels. A reduction in oestrogen levels leads to a reduction in the production of natural oils in the body. This affects the skin's hydration, leading to dryness and itching.</li><li>As natural oil and collagen production reduce, skin becomes more sensitive to allergens and irritants. This leads to itching and a crawling sensation called formication, especially after mild exposure to triggers that cause allergies.</li><li>Reduced estrogen levels and reduced natural oil production by the skin lead to vaginal dryness followed by itching of the external genitalia, which is called vulvar pruritus. This condition gets aggravated by irritation due to exposure to soaps or detergents.</li><li>The hormonal fluctuations during menopause cause excessive sweating, leading to itching, especially in the neck, chest, inner thighs, and underarms.</li><li>Women of menopausal age experience sagging and thinning skin due to reduced collagen production, which can also result in itching.</li></ul><h3>Symptoms of Perimenopause: Itching</h3><ul><li>Perimenopause itching all over the body parts, generally on the face, neck, chest, back, both limbs, armpits and so on</li><li>Specific itching on the vulva and vagina is associated with vaginal dryness.</li><li>Skin sensitivity and rashes at times</li><li>Dry, flaky skin</li><li>Redness on skin associated with inflammation</li><li>Crawling sensation on the skin, which is also called formication</li></ul><h2>Common Areas Affected by Itching During Menopause</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/common_areas_dc993e8264.jpg" alt="common areas.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_common_areas_dc993e8264.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_common_areas_dc993e8264.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"><ul><li>Face: As the facial skin is more sensitive, women experience itching on their faces, especially on the forehead, nose, and chin.</li><li>Neck: As the skin on the neck is thinner, itching and dryness will also occur there.</li><li>Chest and Back: Because the chest and back are covered mainly by clothing, they are more prone to sweating and itching.</li><li>Arms and Legs: Both limbs also experience itching due to reduced collagen production, which leads to prickling sensations or formication.</li><li>Scalp: As the scalp gets drier faster and easier, women experience itching and irritation on the scalp. Sometimes, it is also associated with flakiness and dandruff-like symptoms.</li><li>Genital Area: Vagina is the area where itching will be more in the majority of the women. Vaginal itching is known as vulvar pruritus. Some women experience itching both in the inner and outer parts of the vagina.</li></ul><h2>Treatment Options for Menopause Itching</h2>Menopausal itching of mild and moderate intensity can be effectively managed with natural remedies, proper diet, and lifestyle correction. Excessive itching requires medical supervision and treatment.A few treatment options include:<ul><li>Antihistamines: These help in faster alleviation of itching and pruritus caused by an exaggerated allergic response.</li><li>Over-The-Counter Anti-itch Creams: Creams containing hydrocortisone also help reduce inflammation and itching.</li><li>Herbal Supplement: Supplements containing phytoestrogens (plant-based compounds that mimic oestrogen) like soy, flaxseed, and legumes compensate for reduced oestrogen and help eliminate symptoms like itching and skin dryness caused by low oestrogen.</li><li>Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Nowadays, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is usually done by doctors to address menopause symptoms. HRT can greatly reduce itching. However, it has potential side effects, so it should be considered only after strict medical supervision.</li><li>Vaginal Moisturisers and Lubricants: These topical moisturisers prevent dryness and itching of the vaginal area</li><li>Topical Oestrogen Creams: These creams restore the oestrogen levels of vaginal tissues in approximately two weeks' time period.</li><li>Oestrogen Suppositories: A form of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) that deliver oestrogen to the vaginal area directly.&nbsp; Oestrogen suppositories are usually recommended for more severe cases.</li></ul>For some women with milder symptoms, menopausal itching can be subsided with natural home remedies, dietary corrections, and lifestyle modifications.<h2>Natural Remedies for Menopause Itching</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/remedies_6116d07d6e.jpg" alt="remedies.jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_remedies_6116d07d6e.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_remedies_6116d07d6e.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"><ul><li>Moisturise the skin regularly with creams containing hyaluronic acid, glycerine, and ceramides to hydrate and prevent dryness.</li><li>Oatmeals are known for their dermal anti-inflammatory properties. Soak yourselves in a warm bath, or apply warm colloidal oatmeal onto the skin to help eliminate skin irritation.</li><li>Coconut oil is the oil most suitable for allergy and skin irritation patients. It helps with the oleation of the skin rather than simply hydrating. It is also known for its<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37594604/"> antimicrobial action</a>.</li><li>Aloe vera gel is yet another instant remedy for skin itching for those who can't use coconut oil because of acne-prone skin. Freshly prepared aloe vera gel provides a cooling effect and soothes skin instantly.</li><li>Try Cold Compresses or ice packs on the irritated skin. This helps reduce the inflammation and itching of the skin.</li><li>Vitamin E oils also help in skin hydration and prevent dryness.</li><li>Use herbal oils like Chamomile, lavender, and tea tree oil in diluted form by adding a carrier oil to the skin. This also helps prevent skin irritation.</li><li>Topical application of neem leaves, either in powder form (leaves dried and powdered)</li><li>Or, as paste form (leaves ground to paste), it helps relieve itching because of its<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9195866/"> antimicrobial</a> and<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3092905/"> anti-inflammatory properties</a>. Water boiled with neem leaves and crushed turmeric together lukewarm can be used as a wash or douche.</li><li>Dong Quai, an oestrogenic herb, also known as female ginseng, helps eliminate skin issues associated with menopause.</li></ul><h3>Dietary Inclusions</h3><ul><li>Drink an adequate amount of water often. This maintains skin moisture and helps in skin hydration.</li><li>To nourish your skin from within, consume foods rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids (like cod liver oil, fatty fish oils, flax seeds, almonds, and other nuts).</li><li>Quercetin-rich foods like apples, berries, and green leafy veggies are rich in antioxidants that help reduce skin inflammation and irritation.</li><li>Turmeric is known for its anti-allergic properties. Try adding a pinch to the recipes you cook daily.</li></ul><h3>Lifestyle Modifications</h3><ul><li>Try to avoid extremely hot water when showering. Instead, try using lukewarm.&nbsp;</li><li>Try to switch to organic, natural, and skin-friendly drugs instead of skin irritants such as harsh soaps or products containing chemicals.</li><li>To reduce skin sensitivity, avoid wearing synthetic fabrics and tight-fitting clothes. Instead, wear loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibres or cotton.</li><li>Stay away from sunlight as much as possible. UV rays from the sun cause skin dryness, eventually leading to itching.</li></ul>Including the above-mentioned natural remedies, dietary inclusions, and lifestyle modifications can easily manage the condition in most cases of menopausal itching.<h2>Prevention Tips for Managing Menopause Itching</h2>Managing menopausal itching is essential for maintaining quality of life and comfort. Here are some tips to prevent menopausal itching and associated discomfort.<ul><li>Drinking plenty of water and Stay Hydrated. Hydration helps your skin moisturise from within.</li><li>Consume foods rich in Vitamins A, C, and E and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, nuts, flaxseed avocados, and so on. These foods improve skin elasticity and reduce itching.</li><li>Moisture regularly. Opt for natural options like aloe Vera gel, calamine and so on.</li><li>Use gentle, unscented cleansers and lukewarm water for skin cleansing.</li><li>Ditch smoking and alcohol intake, as these might dehydrate the skin.</li><li>Regularly exercise or engage yourself in any physical activity to keep stress and menopausal symptoms at bay.</li></ul>Incorporate the above-mentioned strategies into your daily routines to effectively manage menopausal itching. If it becomes uncontrollable and challenging to manage, seek medical attention as early as possible.<h2>When to See a Doctor</h2>Consulting a doctor is crucial for getting the most appropriate treatment suitably customised for an individual.Immediate medical attention should be sought when you find the condition escalating. For instance<ul><li>If the itching lasts for more than a few days or if other symptoms like swelling, respiratory illness like jaundice, difficulty breathing, and chest tightness accompany it, persistent itching along with these symptoms requires further investigation.</li><li>Prolonged intense itching in the vagina, along with dryness of the vagina, may be due to a condition called vaginitis. It requires immediate medical supervision.</li><li>Sometimes, itching accompanies unusual symptoms like bleeding, heavy discharge, and skin infections. Medical evaluation is mandatory in such conditions for an accurate diagnosis.</li><li>Sometimes, skin texture changes, rashes appear, and a crawling sensation called formication starts. Consult the doctor for further evaluation if the above-mentioned symptoms are present.</li></ul><h2>Conclusion</h2>Itching during menopause is a manageable symptom. Itching can be managed in most cases with proper hydration from both outside and inside, routine skin care, diet, and lifestyle adjustments. In rare cases, further medical investigations and appropriate treatment may be required.First and foremost, understand the underlying cause. Based on the cause, remedial measures and strategies can be adopted, improving the quality and comfort of life.

Menopause Itching: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention Tips

large_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (5).jpg

medium_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (5).jpg

small_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (5).jpg

thumbnail_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (5).jpg

Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (5).jpg

<h2>What Is Vaginal Folliculitis?</h2>First, let us understand the terms vaginal folliculitis and genital folliculitis. Are they the same? Even though these terms are used interchangeably, there is a slight difference between the two.&nbsp;Vaginal folliculitis is a skin infection caused by inflammation of the hair follicles around your vagina, especially the labia. Genital folliculitis refers to the same condition, but here, the painful, pimple-like bumps appear anywhere in your genital region, like the inner thighs, pubic mound or labia.&nbsp;If you look closely, you can observe these small pus-filled pimples at the base of your hair follicles, right where the hair emerges from your skin. Vaginal folliculitis causes pain, swelling, irritation, itching and redness in the genital region.&nbsp;<h2>Causes of Vaginal Folliculitis</h2>Everyday habits like shaving and waxing, wearing tight clothes and sweating excessively may result in vaginal folliculitis. Surprising, right? Here’s a list of causes of vaginal folliculitis:1. Bacterial Infections:<ul><li>Bacteria (most commonly <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29858291/">Staphylococcus aureus</a>) can enter the hair follicles when your skin is irritated due to shaving, excessive sweating, friction caused by clothes rubbing on your skin and so on. These bacteria infect your hair follicles.</li></ul>2. Fungal Infections:<ul><li>Just like bacteria, fungi can also cause hair follicle infections. Fungal infection occurs particularly in women with a weak immune system.</li></ul>3. Ingrown Hairs:<ul><li>Shaving or waxing the vaginal area can cause the hair to grow back into the skin instead of outward, leading to irritation, infection and folliculitis.</li></ul>4. Sweating and Tight Clothes:<ul><li>If you sweat excessively or use tight clothes, the warm and moist environment, along with friction, allows bacteria to grow easily and enter your hair follicles, causing infection.</li></ul>5. Poor Hygiene:<ul><li>Lack of proper hygiene and using harsh soaps and chemicals will irritate your skin and cause folliculitis in the genital area.</li></ul>6. Weak Immune System:<ul><li>Health issues like diabetes, treatments for long-standing illnesses like cancer, use of immunosuppressive medicines, poor nutritional status and stress can lower your immune response, making you more susceptible to folliculitis.</li></ul>7. Sexual Activity:<ul><li>Engaging in sex can sometimes cause friction and minor scratches in your genital area, which increases the risk of infections and folliculitis.</li></ul>Being aware of what might cause vaginal folliculitis can help you make better choices to keep those painful red bumps at bay.<h2>What Are the Symptoms of Vaginal Folliculitis?</h2>One of the primary symptoms of vaginal folliculitis is the presence of reddish pimples in your genital area.&nbsp;Here are some other common symptoms to look out for:<ul><li>Pain and tenderness around the bumps.</li><li>Itching of the skin around the bumps.</li><li>Pus-filled blisters that break open and form crusty sores.</li><li>A cloudy or yellowish pus discharge from the red bumps.</li></ul><h2>Risk Factors for Vaginal Folliculitis</h2>Are your everyday habits putting you at risk for vaginal folliculitis? Protect yourself from these pesky little pimples by understanding the conditions that make you more vulnerable to them.1. Shaving and Waxing:&nbsp;The use of razor and waxing can result in tiny cuts or scrapes in your genital area, which acts as a passage for harmful bacteria to penetrate the hair follicle. It may also lead to chances of vaginal folliculitis due to ingrown hairs and more friction.2. Tight Clothes:Frequent use of tight clothes also causes vaginal folliculitis from the chafing of tight clothes and the warm and moist environment it creates, which is conducive for bacteria.3. Excessive Sweating:Excess sweating or excessive engagement in sports or workouts can make your sebaceous gland produce oil, which, along with dead skin cells, blocks the follicles, causing irritation and bacterial growth to occur.Hormonal Changes:<ul><li>Hormonal changes happening during your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause can increase oil production and weaken the skin’s natural protective barrier making you more susceptible to vaginal folliculitis.</li></ul>4. Weakened Immunity:<ul><li>If you are diabetic, under treatment for long-standing health concerns or taking <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26170177/">immunosuppressive medicines</a>, you have a higher risk of vaginal folliculitis.</li></ul><h2>How Vaginal Folliculitis Is Diagnosed</h2>Your doctor can easily diagnose vaginal folliculitis by taking a thorough history and carrying out physical exams. It usually does not require any complicated diagnostic testing or radiographic evaluations. Diagnosis of vaginal folliculitis involves the following steps:<ul><li>Your doctor will take a thorough medical history by asking you questions about the medicines you take, how often you shave or wax, how much you tend to sweat and so on.</li><li>A physical examination of your genital area is done to look for possible symptoms like bumps, redness, or swelling.</li><li>Sometimes a swab test to check the pus or fluids from the bumps may be done to pinpoint the microorganism responsible for vaginal folliculitis and to treat it accordingly.</li><li>If your vaginal folliculitis keeps recurring, or in severe cases, blood tests are carried out to check for other health issues that increase the risk of folliculitis.</li><li>In rare cases when vaginal folliculitis does not respond to treatments or if the bumps look unusually big or widespread, you might also need a biopsy, where a part of your infected skin is removed and studied under the microscope.</li></ul><h2>Treatments for Vaginal Folliculitis</h2>“Vaginal folliculitis can be treated using simple measures because it is self-limiting and usually resolves on its own. However, if the bumps are bigger and accompanied by severe pain, discharge and discomfort, medications or even draining the pus might become necessary.” – Dr Anjana A R, Health Coach at Nirva.Treatments for vaginal folliculitis include:1. Antibiotics:<ul><li>If your folliculitis is caused by bacteria, your doctor will prescribe antibiotic creams or gels, like mupirocin, to be applied to the infected area. If the infection is more widespread, then you may have to take oral antibiotic pills like clindamycin or cephalexin.</li></ul>2. Antifungals:<ul><li>If fungus is the cause of folliculitis, the application of antifungal creams like clotrimazole can relieve the symptoms and heal your skin.</li></ul>3. Steroids:<ul><li>If folliculitis is triggered by an allergic response or associated with severe inflammation or swelling, steroid creams are useful.</li></ul>4. Draining the Follicle:<ul><li>If the infected follicle is filled with fluids or pus and is big in size, the doctor makes a small cut over it to help drain and heal it.</li></ul><h2>Home Remedies for Vaginal Folliculitis</h2>There is always a high chance that vaginal folliculitis will resolve by itself with simple home remedies. Here are a list of expert-recommended tips you can practise to treat vaginal folliculitis at home:<ul><li>Keep your genital area clean and dry. Use a mild soap and water to clean this sensitive part of your body.</li><li>Applying a warm compress to the infected area can give you quick relief from pain and swelling.</li><li>Try not to scratch the infected area.</li><li>Do not squeeze or pop the pimples, as it can worsen the infection.</li><li>Opt for loose-fitting cotton clothes. Avoid tight clothes and synthetic fabrics.</li><li>A warm sitz bath can soothe the irritated skin and promote the healing of the infected follicle.</li><li>Applying aloe vera gel to the infected area can soothe the skin, reduce irritation, and help heal.</li><li>Turmeric paste application on the infected follicle can help in reducing pain and inflammation.</li><li>Dilute tea tree oil with coconut oil and apply this on the irritated skin to reduce infection and irritation in mild cases.</li></ul><h2>Tips to Prevent Vaginal Folliculitis</h2>Did you know that making a few simple changes to your routine can keep those uncomfortable bumps away for good? Here are some tips to prevent vaginal folliculitis:<ul><li>Use a clean, sharp razor and a gentle shaving cream for shaving.</li><li>Apply a moisturiser to hydrate and soothe your skin after shaving or waxing.</li><li>Keep your genital area clean and dry.</li><li>Exfoliate your genital area to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogging of hair follicles.</li><li>Use undergarments made from breathable fabrics like cotton.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid tight-fitting undergarments and pants to reduce friction and moisture build-up.</li><li>Change out of sweaty and damp clothes as soon as possible.</li><li>Make sure to use only mild soaps and water to clean your genital area.</li><li>Stay away from harsh chemicals like hair removal creams, perfumed soaps, douches and bleaching creams.</li><li>Maintain a healthy diet and drink plenty of water for healthy skin.</li></ul><h2>When to Consult a Doctor&nbsp;</h2>Is your vaginal folliculitis not getting better? You must know when to turn to the doctor. If the condition is not easing up with home remedies, or if it is worsening, you should see your physician.&nbsp;If you experience frequent episodes of vaginal folliculitis, your doctor might conduct some tests to identify any related health issues, such as lowered immunity or hygiene habits. Seek immediate medical attention if the infected follicle develops into a pus-filled abscess or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or chills.<h2>Complications</h2>Although vaginal folliculitis is a minor health problem, ignoring it or leaving it untreated can cause complications like:<ul><li>Recurring infections and outbreaks.</li><li>Formation of pus-filled abscesses.</li><li>Scarring in the genital region.</li><li>Damage to hair follicles, causing permanent loss of hair.</li><li>Inflammation and redness of skin, called cellulitis.</li><li>Patches of skin that are darker (hyperpigmented) or lighter (hypopigmented).</li><li>Spreading of infection to surrounding skin.</li><li>Spread of infection into the bloodstream, causing <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18060918/">sepsis</a>.</li></ul><h2>Summing Up</h2>Vaginal folliculitis is easily preventable with the right approach, like proper hygiene and simple lifestyle changes. Catching the infection early and treating it can prevent complications and help you recover quickly.&nbsp;For more insight on natural ways to treat folliculitis, get in touch with expert Ayurvedic practitioners at Nirva. <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/">Book your appointment today!</a>

Vaginal Folliculitis, or Genital Folliculitis: Causes and Treatment

large_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (4).jpg

medium_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (4).jpg

small_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (4).jpg

thumbnail_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (4).jpg

Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (4).jpg

Brown Vaginal Discharge: What May It Mean

large_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (2).jpg

medium_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (2).jpg

small_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (2).jpg

thumbnail_Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (2).jpg

Sept, Oct  nov dec'24 Blog banner images (2).jpg

Dr.Aswathy Krishnan

<h2>Understanding Menopause: What Happens To Your Body?</h2>Before we start on menopause skin rashes, let’s have a brief discussion on “what menopause is?”&nbsp;As any woman will tell you, menopause is a natural part of growing older. Quite commonly, it occurs at the age of about 40-50. So, it is the cessation of menstruation for a woman that indicates she has not had her periods in the last twelve months.Even though its normalcy is out of context here, menopause and its related side effects usually occur because of a decrease in estrogen hormone production in a woman’s body. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28778334/">Research</a> studies prove that a lack of estrogen causes a woman’s skin to lose elasticity, moisture, and even thickness.<h3>How Does This Connect To Your Skin?</h3>Women during menopause experience a myriad of skin disorders. They suffer from dry, patchy skin or reddening patches that usually take a considerable amount of time to heal. This happens because when estrogen levels drop, the skin produces less collagen and natural oils. Collagen keeps the skin firm and smooth, while natural oils keep it hydrated and soft. Without these, the skin can become dry, thin, and more prone to irritation or rashes.Have you experienced a sense of irritation or noticed that your skin is feeling different recently? These changes might be a direct result of menopause.<h2>Why Does Menopause Cause Skin Rashes?</h2>It isn’t strange that skin rashes may occur during menopause. These occur for several reasons that we have already mentioned in the previous section. Here, let’s discuss the underlying mechanism that leads to skin rashes.1. Dry SkinThe primary symptom of menopause that is most evident is cracked skin. Skin that has an insufficient level of hydration will definitely peel off, feel dry, and become rash-prone. Decreased levels of natural oils further decrease your skin’s barrier effectiveness, leading to irritants affecting your skin.&nbsp;2. Hormonal SwingsWhen estrogen levels go below a certain threshold, the skin becomes thinner, which leads to a loss of elasticity. Thin skin is easily irritated by germs or chemicals that did not affect the person before.&nbsp;3. Hot Flashes And SweatAre you experiencing the most dreaded symptom of menopause, “hot flashes”? These sensations of heat can result in sweating.&nbsp; This sweat can be trapped in the skin pores, which causes the surrounding skin to get hot or inflamed.Curious to know more about hot flashes and their natural remedies? Read our blog, <a href="https://www.nirvahealth.com/blog/natural-remedies-for-hot-flash">Natural Remedies for Hot Flashes: Effective Relief During Menopause</a>.4. Growing Sensitivity LevelHave you ever noticed your skin reacting to things it never used to? Menopause can make your skin more reactive to allergens or irritants, such as perfumes, detergents, or skincare products.<h2>Types of Rashes You Might Experience&nbsp;</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Dec_24_Blog_images_2_bfa5389a07.jpg" alt="_Dec '24 Blog images (2).jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Dec_24_Blog_images_2_bfa5389a07.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Dec_24_Blog_images_2_bfa5389a07.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">There are different kinds of skin rashes. Suffering from one of them doesn’t necessarily mean that you will experience the other. In this section,&nbsp;we highlight some of these skin rashes to be on the lookout for during menopause:&nbsp;1. EczemaEczema rashes appear on the body surface as inflamed, dry, and itchy patches. Some women may develop them due to increased sensitivity during menopause.2. Heat RashHot flashes may cause the body to sweat. If the sweat glands become blocked, this may lead to tiny, itchy bumps, commonly known as heat rash.3. Contact DermatitisIf you notice that your body is reacting to products you have been using for some years now, this might be an allergic reaction to your skin, known as contact dermatitis.4. Rosacea&nbsp;&nbsp;Hormonal changes that occur during menopause may trigger the symptoms of Rosacea, which causes redness or flushing of the skin or rashes on the face.If you can relate to or identify with any of these symptoms, don’t worry; proper identification is the first step in managing any condition.<h2>How To Manage Menopause-Related Skin Rashes</h2>Now that you understand why rashes occur, let’s discuss how to manage and prevent them. There are multiple methods of managing them. You don’t need to be scared. A bit of care and precaution can save your skin. Here is how you can manage them.<h3>1. Keep Your Skin Hydrated</h3>Dry skin is the most common reason women develop rashes during menopause. Proper moisturising and hydration are both key components that help ease the irritation.Why it helps: Drier skin is more prone to cracking, itching, or inflammation; thus, the protective barrier of the skin is also weakened, and it becomes more susceptible to irritants.&nbsp;&nbsp;What to use: Moisturisers containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides are useful in retaining moisture.&nbsp;&nbsp;How often do you drink water? Considering that hydration starts from the inside – drink at least eight glasses of water.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>2. Switch To Gentle Products</h3>As your skin grows more sensitive, how do you care for it? Steer clear of harsher chemicals and fragrances.&nbsp;&nbsp;Why it helps: Strong soaps and heavily perfumed products can make the skin drier than it is by stripping it of its natural oils, which makes the skin even more rash-prone.&nbsp;&nbsp;What to use: Choose skincare products labelled as hypoallergenic or meant for sensitive skin. For their soothing qualities, seek out products containing aloe vera, oatmeal, or chamomile.&nbsp;&nbsp;What not to use: Alcohol-based toners, scrubs with coarse, large grains, and powerful cleaning agents.&nbsp;&nbsp;Do you usually go through the ingredients of the products you use? Certainly, you should from now; it’s time for a change.<h3>3. Wear Comfortable Clothing</h3>Clothes tend to either break you out or ensure your body stays protected. Overly tight or synthetic clothes can sometimes irritate sensitive skin types.Why it helps: Loose clothes eliminate friction, allowing the skin to breathe as the skin is not constantly rubbing against clothing.What to wear: Fabrics such as cotton and bamboo are gentle on the skin. Also, these help wick away sweat and thus are good for the skin.What to avoid: Tight-fitting clothing and polyester clothing should ideally be avoided, as the fabric can build up heat and sweat.Is your closet menopause-friendly? There are some minor replacements that will help greatly.<h3>4. Stay Cool</h3>A sign of the body going through menopause is hot flashes, which can leave a person sweaty and feeling hot.Why it helps: Keeping your body’s temperature balanced reduces the chances of getting heat rashes alongside irritation.How to stay cool: Install a fan in your room, avoid heavy clothes, or even sleep with light blankets.&nbsp;Diet tips: Caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods should be avoided, as they indirectly trigger hot flashes.Have you noticed what triggers your hot flashes? Identifying and avoiding triggers can help you stay more comfortable.<h3>5. Modify Your Food Intake</h3>Skin health is directly associated with food intake, and during menopause, ensuring that you are on a good diet is essential for the skin.Why it helps: Foods that are high in vitamins help enhance the skin’s elasticity, moisture, and health condition.What to eat: Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, walnuts), foods containing vitamin E (almonds, spinach), and foods with antioxidants (berries or green tea) should be included.What to avoid: Alcohol, sugar, or other processed foods are best to stay clear of as they can cause dehydration of your skin and may instigate inflammation.<h2>Stress And Its Impact On Your Skin</h2><img src="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Dec_24_Blog_images_3_edeece9c47.jpg" alt="_Dec '24 Blog images (3).jpg" srcset="https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Dec_24_Blog_images_3_edeece9c47.jpg 245w,https://nirva-strapi-soure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/small_Dec_24_Blog_images_3_edeece9c47.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw">Menopause is one of the stressful periods for women, and when under stress, your skin can be adversely affected. Stress triggers the body, which causes an involuntary release of cortisol, a hormone that can further increase inflammation and sensitivity.Why it happens: An increased concentration of cortisol interferes with the functioning of the skin, which can lead to dryness, irritation, and rashes.How to deal with stress: Set aside time for relaxation. Try practising yoga or meditation and even going for casual walks for a better feeling.What do you do to manage stress? Choose one that suits you and keeps you happy, and remain consistent with it.Pro Tip : Apply Sunscreen: Sunlight exposure can stress your skin and speed up ageing. Always apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even on overcast days. But make sure to use products with gentle ingredients.&nbsp;If your rashes become severe or you are unsure how to handle your symptoms, it’s time to reach out to specialists for menopause rash treatment. Nirva Health is equipped to assist you in managing your menopause with ease.&nbsp;Nirva’s caregivers craft custom plans based on a woman’s unique needs during menopause and the support she requires.&nbsp;This is what our happy customer says after a 2-month consultation and treatment from Nirva Health."I was battling severe skin rashes and dryness for the past couple of months. Upon contacting Nirva Health, their team walked me through a tailored skincare and lifestyle step-by-step plan. In a few weeks, my rashes disappeared, and my skin turned healthier. I feel like myself for the first time in ages!" - &nbsp;Sarah M, Nirva Client<h2>Wrapping It Up</h2>At this point, it’s clear that there’s a link between menopause and skin rashes. You have realised that changes in hormonal levels trigger dry skin, increased sensitivity, and risk of rashes. You’ve learned to recognise common skin rashes such as eczema, rashes from heat, rashes from contact dermatitis, or rashes from rosacea.We also discussed effective methods to treat and avoid getting rashes in the first place. Remember to drink water, use non-irritating skin care products, dress lightly and eat properly. Stress control and cooling oneself when having hot flashes are just as crucial for skin health.Keep in mind that menopause should be viewed positively. It is part of life, and it does have its upsides, like being able to take care of oneself. If armed with adequate information and practices, it is completely possible to overcome those obstacles and maintain healthy, comfortable, and beautiful skin.

Breast Pain During Menopause

Author Name

Featured Posts

Breast Pain During Menopause

The Best Vitamins For Menopause: What Really Works?

The Importance of Gut Health for Immune Function

Antibiotics vs. Probiotics: Finding Balance for a Healthy Gut

What Are Vasomotor Symptoms? FAQs Answered

Essential Oils for Menopause Relief: Do They Work?

Breast Pain During Menopause

Author Name

Featured Posts

Breast Pain During Menopause

The Best Vitamins For Menopause: What Really Works?

The Importance of Gut Health for Immune Function

Antibiotics vs. Probiotics: Finding Balance for a Healthy Gut

What Are Vasomotor Symptoms? FAQs Answered

Essential Oils for Menopause Relief: Do They Work?

Rated Excellent Trustscore 4.8/5