Mind Body Connection 6

Mind-Body Connection: How mental well-being can impact food choices and digestion

Mind-Body Connection, an intricate relationship between mental and emotional well-being and dietary habits. Recent research has illuminated the undeniable link between our emotions and their influence on food choices and digestion.

Mind Body Connection 1
Image By Freepik From Freepik

The Gut-Brain Axis: A Two-Way Communication

The gut-brain axis represents the intricate two-way communication system linking the gastrointestinal tract (known as the gut) and the brain. This communication encompasses neural, hormonal, and immunological pathways. The gut boasts a sophisticated neural network. It is called “the second brain”. Consequently, it’s clear that our emotional well-being  has an impact on our gut health and digestive processes.
Mind Body Connection 2
Image By Lanasham From Freepik

Impact of Stress on Digestion

  1. Stress and Digestive Disorders: A study published in the journal “Gut” in 2018 examined the impact of psychological stress on gut health. It found that stress is linked with an increased risk of developing disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Stress can exacerbate symptoms and trigger flares in individuals already suffering from these conditions.
Mind-Body Connection 3
Image by Storyset from Freepik
  1. Stress and Gut Microbiota: Research published in the journal “Psych neuroendocrinology” in 2020 explored the relationship between stress and gut microbiota composition. The study revealed that chronic stress can lead to significant changes in the gut microbiome. As a result it may  contribute to digestive disturbances and overall gut health issues.

Emotional Eating: The Comfort Food Trap

Mind Body Connection 4
Image by lookstudio from Freepik
  1. Emotion-Driven Cravings: A study in the “Journal of Neuroscience” in 2019 used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate how emotions influence food choices. The findings showed that emotional states, such as stress and sadness, can activate brain regions associated with cravings for high-calorie, pleasurable foods.
  2. Emotional Eating and Weight Gain: A long-term study published in the “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition” in 2017 followed participants for five years. It found a strong association between emotional eating and weight gain. Mainly among those who frequently turned to comfort foods when experiencing negative emotions.

Mindful Eating: The Antidote

  1. Mindful Eating and Digestion: A randomized controlled trial published in “Appetite” in 2018 demonstrated that individuals who practiced mindful eating experienced improved digestion and reduced gastrointestinal symptoms compared to those who did not engage in mindful eating practices. This suggests that mindful eating can positively influence digestive processes.
  2. Mindful Eating an Food Choices: Research in “Obesity” in 2016 indicated that mindful eating interventions can lead to healthier food choices. Participants who underwent mindful eating training showed increased awareness of food choices and greater preference for nutritious foods.
Mind Body Connection 5
Image by Freepik

Cultivating Emotional Resilience for Better Digestion

  1. Stress Reduction and Gut Health: A study published in “Psychosomatic Medicine” in 2021 explored the effects of stress reduction techniques, including meditation and yoga, on gut health. It found that these practices led to improved gut microbiota diversity and reduced gastrointestinal symptoms in participants.
  2. Resilience and Coping Strategies: Research in the “Journal of Behavioral Medicine” in 2019 emphasized the importance of emotional resilience in managing the impact of stress on digestion. Developing coping strategies and emotional resilience can help individuals face the challenges of daily life. Hence, reducing the negative effects of stress on the gut.

Conclusion

The relationship between mental and emotional well-being, food choices, and digestion is the area of study that continues to uncover the depth of the mind-body connection. Understanding how stress and emotions influence our eating habits and gut health, one can  prioritize both mental and physical wellness. Practicing mindful eating and developing emotional resilience are powerful tools that helps keep equilibrium between our minds and bodies. Ultimately leading to a more vibrant and balanced life, as supported by scientific research.

 

Share the article

The Sizzling Benefits of Healthy Grilling in the Summer

Introduction

Summer is the perfect time for backyard barbecues and sizzling grills. Discover how grilling can be a healthy cooking method when approached mindfully. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of healthy grilling and provide tips for incorporating it into a balanced and nutritious diet.

Reduced Fat Content

Grilling helps lower overall fat content by allowing excess fat to drip off the food. Research from the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) indicates that grilling meats can be a healthier alternative to frying or deep-frying. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Food Science found that grilling chicken breast reduced its fat content by 50%, without compromising flavor and tenderness.

Retained Nutrients

Grilling vegetables and fruits helps preserve their natural nutrients better than boiling or steaming. The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry highlights a study showing that grilling certain vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, increases their antioxidant levels compared to other cooking methods. This is because grilling retains water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants like carotenoids.

Intensified Flavors

Grilling imparts a unique and smoky flavor to foods, enhancing their taste and reducing the need for excessive seasoning or sauces. The Journal of Food Science reveals that grilling enhances the overall sensory quality and palatability of various meats and vegetables. By using marinades or dry rubs with herbs and spices, you can further enhance flavors without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy ingredients.

Healthier Cooking Techniques

Grilling promotes healthier cooking by minimizing the need for added oils and fats. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, grilling allows you to cook foods without breading or batter, resulting in reduced calorie and fat intake. Additionally, excess fat drips away from the food while grilling, resulting in a leaner final product.

Conclusion

Grilling can offer numerous benefits when approached mindfully and with healthy ingredients. With reduced fat content, retained nutrients, intensified flavors, and healthier cooking techniques, it’s an enjoyable way to incorporate nutritious meals into your summer menu.

So, fire up the grill, savor the flavors, and embrace the healthy goodness of grilling this summer!

Print

Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon

  • Author: Mubarra Mansoor
  • Total Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Yield: 1
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Western
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Here’s a delicious and nutritious recipe to get you started on your grilling adventure. This one-portion delight is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal:


Ingredients

  • Salmon fillet: 150 grams
  • Lemon juice: 15 grams (juice from approximately half a lemon)
  • Olive oil: 10 grams
  • Garlic cloves: 5 grams (1 clove)
  • Fresh parsley: 5 grams (a small handful)
  • Fresh dill: 5 grams (a small handful)
  • Salt: 2 grams
  • Black pepper: 1 gram

These measurements are approximate and can be adjusted according to personal preference.


Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the salmon fillet on a sheet of aluminum foil.
  4. Brush the marinade over the salmon, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  5. Wrap the salmon tightly in the foil, creating a packet.
  6. Place the foil packet on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky and cooked to your liking.
  7. Carefully remove the foil packet from the grill and let it rest for a minute before unwrapping.
  8. Serve your flavorful grilled salmon with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Conclusion: Embrace the sizzling benefits of healthy grilling this summer. Reduce fat content, retain essential nutrients, intensify flavors, and explore a world of delicious possibilities. So, gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and create mouthwatering meals that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy grilling!



Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 350 Kcal
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Protein: 30 g

 

Share the article

Unlocking Nutrigenomics: Exploring the Dynamic Interaction between Genes and Nutrition

Introduction

Welcome to the world of nutrigenomics! This emerging field of study investigates the fascinating interplay between our genes and the food we consume. By exploring the relationship between nutrition and our genetic makeup, we gain insights into how they collaboratively influence our overall health. Nutrigenomics has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of nutrition and pave the way for personalized approaches to disease prevention and management. 

Understanding Nutrigenomics

At the core of nutrigenomics lies the recognition that our genes significantly impact how our bodies respond to different types of food and the essential nutrients they contain. These genes influence how we process and absorb vital elements like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. By delving into these connections, nutrigenomics seeks to uncover how our dietary choices can shape our health and well-being.

Exploring the MTHFR Gene and Folate

Consider the fascinating relationship between folate, a B vitamin crucial for DNA synthesis and repair, and the MTHFR gene. Research reveals that individuals with a specific mutation in this gene may have a reduced ability to convert folate into its active form. This genetic variation increases the risk of certain health conditions, including birth defects and cardiovascular disease. Armed with this knowledge, we can make informed decisions about our diets and supplements, optimizing folate intake and mitigating these risks.

Unraveling the Caffeine-CYP1A2 Gene Connection

Let’s now examine the intriguing link between caffeine and the CYP1A2 gene. This gene influences how rapidly our bodies metabolize caffeine. Some individuals possess a genetic variation that slows down caffeine metabolism, raising the likelihood of adverse effects such as anxiety and sleep disturbances. By understanding this relationship, individuals can adjust their caffeine consumption to avoid these unfavourable consequences.

The Future of Nutrigenomics

While still in its early stages, nutrigenomics has already yielded exciting discoveries, offering a glimpse into the future of personalized nutrition and health optimization. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that genetics represents just one piece of the complex health puzzle. Lifestyle factors, including exercise, stress management, and environmental exposures, also significantly influence our well-being.

Harnessing the Power of Nutrigenomics

Nutrigenomics holds immense potential for tailoring nutrition recommendations and optimizing health outcomes. By comprehending how our bodies uniquely respond to various dietary factors, we can adopt targeted and effective approaches to nutrition and disease prevention. The personalized insights provided by nutrigenomics empower individuals to make informed choices, paving the way for a healthier and more vibrant future.



Share the article

Stress and Digestion: How they are connected and what you can do about it

Title: Stress and Digestion: Managing Stress for a Healthy Gut

Introduction

Stress affects more than just our mental well-being; it can also impact our digestive system. In this blog, we’ll explore the connection between stress and digestion and provide practical tips for managing stress to support a healthier gut.

Understanding the Stress-Digestion Connection

Image Source: Photo by Christopher Oswald, DC, CNS. Retrieved from integrativepro.com

When we experience stress, cortisol—the fight-or-flight hormone—gets released, which can hinder digestion. Reduced blood flow to the digestive tract and inflammation can cause digestive problems like nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. Additionally, stress can disrupt the balance of our gut microbiome, leading to various health issues.

Effective Stress-Management Strategies for Improved Digestion:

  1. Embrace Relaxation Techniques: Engage in deep breathing, meditation, and yoga to combat stress and improve digestion. These practices calm the mind and body, lower stress hormone levels, and promote optimal digestion.
  2. Prioritize Exercise: Regular exercise releases endorphins, which reduce stress levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, most days of the week.
  3. Focus on Quality Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for stress management and overall well-being. Strive for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to support digestion and reduce stress.
  4. Nourish Your Body with a Healthy Diet: A nutritious diet plays a vital role in supporting gut health and reducing inflammation. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals, while limiting processed foods, sugary snacks, and high-fat meals.

Conclusion

Managing stress is essential for maintaining good digestive health. By implementing relaxation techniques, prioritizing exercise and quality sleep, and following a healthy diet, you can effectively manage stress and support a healthier gut.

At FoodnWellness, we recognize the crucial link between stress and digestion. Our personalized programs integrate stress management techniques, providing tailored nutrition and lifestyle recommendations for optimal gut health and overall wellness. Prioritize your well-being by addressing stress and improving digestion for a happier, healthier you.

Share the article

Capsicum Cheela

Print

Capsicum Cheela

  • Author: Mahima Bansal
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Cuisine: Multi
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

This super quick chilla recipe is very easy to make and also is super healthy to kickstart your day. Besides, this breakfast recipe will be loved by all your family members especially kids because of its amazing taste.


Ingredients

  1. Moong dal – 1 cup
  2. Capsicum – 1 Cup chopped
  3. Coriander Leaves – 2 Strands
  4. Green Chilies – 2
  5. Salt as per tase
  6. Garam Masala – 1/2 tsp
  7. Desi Ghee – for greasing

Instructions

  • Firstly, soak a cup of moong dal overnight.
  • Secondly, add the soaked lentil, water, a cup of freshly chopped capsicum, coriander leaves, and green chilies to a mixer and then grind it to form a chilla batter.
  • Once the batter is ready leave it for 5 minutes, then add salt and garam masala to it.
  • Now heat a pan, pour a tablespoon of desi ghee, and gently pour the mixture.
  • Furthermore, start circulating it into a thin round shape.
  • Let it cook on one side then flip it to another side to cook it.
  • Finally, capsicum chilla is ready to be served hot with homemade chutney.

Notes

The fiber and protein content of Capsicum chilla recipe makes it perfect for weight loss.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 156
  • Sugar: N/A
  • Fat: 1.2 gm
  • Carbohydrates: 20 gm
  • Fiber: 4.2 gm
  • Protein: 5.2 gm

Keywords: Breakfast, diet, nutrition, lifestyle, wellness, High fibre, protein, snack.

 

Share the article

Metabolism Boosting Juice

Print

Metabolism Boosting Juice

  • Author: Mahima Bansal
  • Prep Time: 10 - 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Multi
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

A metabolism boosting juice is packed with ingredients that have been proven to have a positive effect on a healthy metabolism. This juice is a metabolism boosting breakfast idea which boosts metabolism and if it happens so fat loss will be good from your body.


Scale

Ingredients

Water – 1/2 cup

Lime – 1

Cucumber – 1/2

Mint leaves – 1/4 cup

35 drops dao drops skinny

Maple syrup – 1 tbsp


Instructions

Blend all the above listed ingredients together and pour in a glass. Add 1-2 ice cubes on top



Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 78
  • Sugar: N/A
  • Fat: N/A
  • Carbohydrates: N/A
  • Fiber: 12 - 15 gm

Keywords: Breakfast, smoothie, fruits, diet, nutrition, lifestyle, wellness, protein, post workout snack, snack.

Share the article

How to boost your Metabolism?

Metabolism describes all the chemical reactions in your body that keep one’s body alive and functioning.

Metabolism is also responsible for converting nutrients from the foods you eat into fuel. This provides your body with the energy it needs to breathe, move, digest food, circulate blood, and repair damaged tissues and cells.

High proteins food meal healthy meal for          boosting metabolism

However, Metabolism is often used to describe your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) or the number of calories you burn at rest.

The higher your metabolic rate, the more calories you burn at rest. Many factors can affect your metabolism, including your age, diet, sex, body size, and health status.

Following are the 9 ways to boost up your metabolism: –

  1. Eat plenty of protein at every meal

Eating food can temporarily increase your metabolism for a few hours. This is called the thermic effect of food (TEF). It is caused by the extra calories required to digest, absorb, and process the nutrients in your meal.

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch

Protein causes the largest rise in TEF. Dietary protein requires 20 to 30 percent of its usable energy to be expended for metabolism, compared to 5 to 10 percent for carbs and 0 to 3 percent for fats.

Eating protein has also been shown to give you a greater sense of fullness and prevent you from overeating. Eating more protein can also reduce the drop in metabolism often associated with losing fat. This is because protein helps prevent muscle loss, which is a common side effect of dieting

  1. Drink more water
Photo by Pixabay

People who drink water instead of sugary drinks are often more successful at losing weight and keeping it off. This is because sugary drinks contain calories, so replacing them with water automatically reduces your calorie intake. However, drinking water may also temporarily speed up your metabolism. Water can also help fill you up if you are looking to lose weight.

  1. Do a high intensity workout

High intensity interval training (HIIT) involves quick and very intense bursts of activity. If this type of exercise is safe for you, it can help you burn more fat by increasing your metabolic rate, even after you have finished your workout. This effect is believed to be greater for HIIT than for other types of exercise.

Photo by Julia Larson

  1. Lift heavy things

Muscle is more metabolically active than fat. Building muscle can help increase your metabolism to help you burn more calories each day, even at rest. Lifting weights can also help you retain muscle and counter the drop in metabolism that can occur during weight loss.

  1. Stand up more

Sitting too much can have negative effects on your health. This is partly because long periods of sitting burns fewer calories and can lead to weight gain.

Standing or stepping at work was associated with lowered cardiometabolic risk (CMR) scores, weight, body fat, waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and fasting triglycerides, total/HDL cholesterol, and insulin. However, stepping rather than standing resulted in greater improvements to lower systolic blood pressure and insulin resistance.

If you have a desk job, try standing up for short periods to break up the length of time you spend sitting down. You can also try going for walks during the day or invest in a standing desk.

  1. Drink green tea

Green tea has been shown to increase metabolism and fat burning. These teas help convert some of the fat stored in your body into free fatty acids, which may increase fat burning when combined with exercise. As they are low in calories, drinking these teas may be good for both weight loss and weight maintenance.

It is thought their metabolism-boosting properties may help prevent a weight loss plateau in people who are losing weight that occurs due to a decrease in metabolism.

  1. Eat spicy foods

Peppers contain capsaicin, a compound that can boost your metabolism. However, many people cannot tolerate these spices at the doses required to have a significant effect.

The effects of capsaicin at acceptable doses. It predicted that eating peppers would burn around 10 additional calories per meal. Over 6.5 years, this could account for 1 pound (0.5 kg) of weight loss for an average-weight male. Alone, the effects of adding spices to your food may be quite small. However, it may lead to a slight advantage when combined with other metabolism-boosting strategies.

  1. Get a good night’s sleep

Lack of sleep is linked to a major increase in the risk of obesity. This may partly be caused by the negative effects of sleep deprivation on metabolism. Lack of sleep has also been linked to increased blood sugar levels and insulin resistance, both of which are linked to a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It has also been shown to affect levels of ghrelin, the hunger hormone, and leptin, a hormone that controls fullness (satiety).

  1. Drink coffee
Photo by Chevanon Photography

Caffeine in coffee can help temporarily boost metabolism. Like green tea, it may also promote fat burning. If your goal is weight loss, several studies have found that coffee’s effects on metabolism and fat burning may contribute to successful weight loss and maintenance.

The Bottom Line

Making small lifestyle changes and incorporating these tips into your routine can help increase your metabolism. Having a higher metabolism can help you lose weight and keep it off, if that is your goal, while also giving you more energy.

Share the article

Berry Cinnamon Smoothie

Print

Berry Cinnamon Smoothie

  • Author: Mahima Bansal
  • Prep Time: 5 - 7 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Multi
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

Summer days are back which is why people like to have quick refreshing, protein packed smoothie in hand to start the morning or after a nice workout. This creamy, protein packed blueberry smoothie is scented with warm cinnamon and fragrant vanilla. Ideal for breakfast or as a post workout snack. It’s the perfect on the go smoothie recipe to give you lasting energy all morning long.


Ingredients

Banana – 1 riped

Mixed berries – 1 cup

Almond Milk – 1 cup

Vanilla Extract – 1/2 tsp

Cinnamon – 1/2 tsp

Pumpkin seeds – 1 tsp

Ice cubes – 2-3 cubes


Instructions

Place all the above listed ingredients in a high speed blender / mixer and puree until smooth. Add ice to reach the desired consistency and enjoy healthy smoothie.



Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 199
  • Sugar: 18 gm
  • Fat: 4 gm
  • Carbohydrates: 31 gm
  • Fiber: 6 gm
  • Protein: 13 gm

Keywords: Breakfast, smoothie, fruits, diet, nutrition, lifestyle, wellness, protein, post workout snack, snack.

Share the article

“Essential Nutrients For Period Health”

Nutrition can make a BIG impact on your period health. How you are fueling your body and the amount of essential nutrients you are getting through diet can make a big difference in a variety of different essential hormone pathways.

When looking at reasons for low thyroid function, painful cycles, PMS, and other hormonal concerns, we should always be assessing diet and lifestyle to see if someone is getting the building blocks they need for healthy hormone production and clearance.  And in some cases, even with a good diet you might not be getting everything you need which is when it might be appropriate to bring in targeted supplements.

A number of stereotypes are frequently associated with periods, including feeling lethargic, sobbing, eating chocolate, and a general need for comfort. The key to truly feeling your best may lie in providing your body with the nutrition it requires during menstruation.

Regular menstrual cramps and agony may make it difficult to function normally and also affect one’s mood. Menstrual pain negatively affects a person’s ability to function efficiently, their attitude, and a variety of other aspects. The foods that one eats have an impact on menstrual pain in addition to one’s exercise regimen and lifestyle.

Dealing With Period Cravings

In order to influence hormone production and secretion, nutrients from the diet directly affect the gut and the brain system. Your diet during periods, how much you eat, and how frequently you eat all have an impact on the health of your hormones as well.

Period cravings are totally normal and natural. However, munching on anything could keep you from achieving your health goals. Swapping out what you crave during your periods for healthier alternatives can help your body get what it needs without making you feel worse. Here’s a few options of food to eat during period and their associated nutrients.

Food To eat on around Period Time

Focus on the following nutrients during menstrual cycle: –

Iron: – Beans are a rich source of iron and an excellent option for period time foods. Consuming beans is crucial for the healthy production of hemoglobin, a red blood cell protein that transports oxygen throughout the body. Iron supports blood building, which is essential after losing blood during cycles.

Photo credit to Yulia Gusterina

Vitamin B12: – Vitamin B12 is found in abundance in cashews. It is crucial for maintaining hormone balance, as evidenced by the fact that many diseases linked to hormone imbalances are also linked to vitamin B12 deficiencies. For females who have frequent or lengthy periods, these minerals are especially critical. Moreover, vitamins B2, B6, and B12 can have an adverse effect on reproductive outcomes through altering reproductive hormones. Vitamin B6 is especially found to help reduce mood associated PMS.

Photo Credit: LumenSt

Magnesium: – When it comes to choosing the best food during periods, avocados are an excellent pick. They are filled with the goodness of magnesium aiding in relaxing the uterine smooth muscles (menstrual cramp). The diet can include chocolates, nuts, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, and green leafy vegetables.

Zinc: – As a cofactor for estrogen and progesterone receptors, zinc is employed to deal with menstrual cramps and discomfort. Both of which could be reduced by the ingestion of zinc. It is essential for thyroid hormone production and testosterone. There’s plenty of zinc found in seafood like oysters. Other options for food to eat during period are pumpkin seeds, grains, beans, and legumes.

Calcium: – Yoghurt is one of the calcium-rich meals to eat on your period. The functional role of calcium in the treatment of menstrual discomfort symptoms. The nutrient relieves water retention and behavioral changes during the premenstrual phase. Calcium-rich foods include almonds, yoghurt, ragi, Channa, paneer, drumsticks, and seeds.

Photo Credit: bit245

Omega 3 Fatty Acids: -The body’s inflammatory chemical, prostaglandin, which causes headaches and cramps, is counteracted by diets high in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Eggs are one of the major sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. However, it can also be found in fish, walnuts, flaxseeds, and soy.

Photo Credit: bit245

Fibre: – The amounts of estrogen are reduced when you consume fibre rich food, which considerably lessens menstrual cramps. Other fibre-rich foods include oats, whole grains, and sprouts. Therefore, limiting processed foods and incorporating nutritious foods rich in micronutrients can assist in relieving menstrual discomfort.

istockphoto-1020930592

Folic Acid: – Citrus fruits like grapefruit, citron, and sweet orange contain plenty of citrus fruits to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This nutrient aids in overcoming anemia and menstrual cycle maintenance.

So, these were some of the best foods for menstruation. In particular, magnesium, folic acid, and iron are essential nutrients for the female body. They are crucial for the production of blood, balancing blood loss and relieving menstrual cramps.

istockphoto-927517754

 

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our period diet significantly affects every aspect of health, including our menstrual cycle and symptoms. You can try a few iron rich dishes to increase your iron level, which will ultimately ease your menstrual cycle issues.

Along with the food to eat in periods, we also advise you to steer clear of several others that may be making your cramps worse. You can also give some workouts a try to see if they can ease your period cramps or affect your health during menstruation in a positive way.

 

 

 

 

 

Share the article

8 Signs You are Addicted to Sugar

Sugar addiction is increasing because of high sugar present in the food we eat. The worst part is that sugar is linked to so many health issues and diseases such as obesity to headaches. Mostly people are not aware that they are addicted to sugar.

You Feel the Need to Eat or Snack All Day Long – If you find yourself mindlessly snacking throughout the day, you may be secretly addicted to sugar. Frequent snacking can also be a sign that you are riding the blood sugar roller coaster. The solution is to focus on eating a combination of the three macronutrients (fats, proteins, and carbohydrates) at every meal or snack.

Photo credits to Andres Ayrton

You Eat a Lot of Fruit or Drink a Lot Juice – Fruit juices are particularly high-glycemic and if one is frequently craving or eating fruit, it could be a sign of an underlying sugar addiction. The solution is to focus on fruits that give more nutrients with less sugar. Berries are rich in antioxidants and other beneficial phytochemicals while containing less sugar than most the fruits.

       Photo Credits to Pexels – Engin Akyurt

You are A Coffee Hound and Crave Sugary – Alcoholic Drinks – The sweeteners and mixers used in coffee and alcoholic drinks can contribute substantially to sugar intake. Many people who quit drinking alcohol or coffee find themselves craving other sources of sugar to replace what is been lost from these drinks. The solution is to add fat to your coffee and skip on the honey and other coffee sweeteners. Be sure to drink alcohol in moderation, and skip on the dark-coloured liquors, mixers, and beer which are all high in sugars.

                Photo Credits to Pexels Chevanon

You’re Chronically Stressed Out – Cortisol hormone promotes hunger and sugar cravings and eating sugar can spike cortisol hormone levels. The solution is to learn to retrain your stress response by practicing breathing through your nose and belly breathing techniques. Try not to eat when you are stressed out – take a walk instead.

             Photo Credits Pexels Energepiccom

You Crave Sugar During or After Meals – If one cannot get through dinner without thinking about dessert, it is a sign that you are addicted to sugar. The solution is to think you may have adrenal fatigue, there are saliva tests that can confirm it. If you suspect you have SIBO, there are breath, urine, and stool tests that can reveal hidden causes of infection that could be contributing to relentless sugar cravings.

         Photo Credits to Pexels Tim Samuel

Hunger – If hunger comes on suddenly, urging to eat immediately, one could be suffering from hypoglycemia. Riding the blood sugar roller coaster makes us crave sugary foods when our blood glucose drops, and hypoglycemia becomes a health hazard when blood sugar levels are too low. The solution is to eat protein and fat at every meal and snack, especially if you are eating carbohydrates. Avoid eating carbohydrates in isolation.

You Crave Carbs in The Morning – Eating a carbohydrate rich meal can increase the blood sugar levels, resulting in frequent hunger and sugar cravings. Craving something sweet first thing in the morning, in the middle of the night, or when you wake up from a nap may be a symptom of a secret sugar addiction. The solution is to eat a protein rich breakfast that contains healthy fats and non-starchy vegetables. Eating starches with dinner, however, can help to promote sleep and weight loss.

         Photo Credits to Pexels Dana Tentis

Cravings for Sugar Increase the Longer You Go Without It – Try giving up sugar for a few days – the more frequent and intense the cravings, the more addicted you probably are. The solution is to eating green salads which helps to naturally balance glucose levels by providing a healthy macronutrient ratio and focusing on low-glycemic carbohydrates to help maintain steady blood glucose control throughout the day.

 

The Bottom Line

Quitting sugar can lead to some uncomfortable side effects. Many people do best with gradually overcoming sugar addiction by fueling their body with the food.

The Paleo diet advocates for a return to natural sources of sweetness coming from a moderate amount of fruit and some sweet and starchy vegetables. It may take some time, but eventually the taste buds will adapt to having less sugar. It may not seem like you are getting enough sweetness on your Paleo diet but be patient as the taste buds evolve.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Share the article

Hello there
Get health tips, recipes and front seats to our free health talks and online events delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter!
Hello there
Get health tips, recipes and front seats to our free health talks and online events delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter!
Get more of the goodness delivered to your inbox. No Spam - No Ads
Subscribe