Category: Health & Fitness

With the recent wave of marijuana debates and legalizations in the United States, pot is a hot topic. But what a lot of people don’t know is that there are different forms of the hemp plant beside the kind that gets you high.

CBD hemp oil is derived from the hemp plant; it’s high in cannabidiol (CBD), as the name suggests. It’s also low in THC, which is the compound that makes you feel high. The high concentration of CBD gives CBD oil a wide range of health benefits.

Check out these 5 amazing health benefits of CBD oil.

1. Positive Effects on the Immune System

Numerous studies have shown that CBD oil can help regulate, and strengthen, the immune system. This has applications with people who have low or defective immune systems, like people with illnesses or people with overactive immune responses.

It also has applications for those with autoimmune diseases, like arthritis, allergies, and even multiple sclerosis.

2. CBD Hemp Oil Can Help People With Sleep Disorders

People who have insomnia, anxiety, sleeplessness, restless leg syndrome, sleep terrors, and other sleep disorders often suffer from extreme fatigue and negative health effects from lack of sleep.

Research shows that CBD oil is able to reduce anxiety, improve insomnia, and better overall sleep time. It has a calmative effect, which can be excellent in promoting a full, good night’s sleep.

It can be inhaled, rubbed onto the skin, or even sprayed onto a pillow to promote restful sleep.

3. Anxiety and Stress Relief

We briefly mentioned in the last section that CBD hemp oil can reduce anxiety. This might be surprising, seeing as marijuana can sometimes give people anxiety due to the THC found in the plant.

CBD oil, however, is low or completely devoid of THC. CBD, unlike THC, has calmative, anxiety-relieving qualities that can significantly reduce stress.

Not only will it lower anxiety, but it can also positively interact with chemicals that make you feel good, like serotonin and dopamine.

4. Pain Relief

CBD oil is perhaps most well known for its pain-relieving qualities. Whether that means chronic pain from migraine headaches, cancer, surgery, or other pain issues, CBD oil can significantly reduce that pain.

It works by interacting with “feel good” chemicals like serotonin and dopamine while simultaneously blocking pain receptors from working properly. You can learn more here.

5. Improves Appetite

A decrease in appetite can be a sign of numerous health issues and be a result of various life events, including:

• Long-term illness
• Persistent nausea
• Cancer
• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Drug addiction
• Dementia
• COPD
• Hormone imbalances

While a decreased appetite might be just a symptom of many things, it can result in a worsening condition because of malnutrition and weakness. CBD oil can help increase the appetite of people suffering from these ailments, which will help them gain strength and stay as healthy as possible.

Wrapping Up

CBD hemp oil has numerous health benefits that range from chronic pain relief to anxiety reduction. With all of these benefits, it can help millions of people suffering from a wide range of illnesses and ailments.

If you enjoyed this article, feel free to check out our other health and fitness articles on our blog.

You’ve probably heard it time and again – supplements are good for you, and you should be taking them.

However, are you a bit unsure about what they actually do, what they are, and why you need them? If so, you’re in the right place because I’ll be covering all of the above throughout this article.

We harbor 2,000 different types of bacteria in our bodies – all of which have a different healthy function and purpose. So, it’s not surprising we benefit from a helping hand when it comes to keeping these bacteria under control.

With that in mind, let’s dive into our favorite organic supplements.

1. ATP Lab Estro Control

Women in comparison to men produce significantly higher levels of estrogen. This is useful for healthy bones and good cholesterol levels.

However, estrogen is a pain in the butt when it comes to achieving an ultra-lean physique. This is because estrogen encourages the storage of fat and water.

You don’t want to get rid of estrogen entirely. Instead, you want to aim for the optimum hormonal balance.

This means you’re able to take advantage of the health benefits associated with estrogen without stifling your body goals.

ATP Lab Estro Control is fabulous when it comes to achieving this.

This should contain most of the following: Calcium-d-glucarate, dim, indole-3-carbinol, green tea extract, and resveratrol – all of which will help you strike the perfect estrogen balance.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

If you’re hoping to improve your overall mood, then omega-3 fatty acids are the supplements for you.

Unfortunately, the difference in our hormonal balance can change throughout the day. This can be a problem for women who are predisposed to mood swings.

Have you ever felt yourself dip into a short period of anxiety or depression? If so, try taking an omega-3 fatty acid supplement to see if it makes a difference.

If this problem persists or worsens, we recommend consulting with your doctor.

3. Maca

Maca is a malt-flavored Peruvian root, jam-packed with calcium.

It’s perfect for your bones and your libido!

Women’s health mag reports a study that showed women on antidepressants who ate half a teaspoon of this powder for 12 weeks noticed a rise in their sex drive!

However, take this supplement with caution. Too much can increase blood pressure and toy with your liver – not cool.

4. Cocoa

Cocoa is full of flavonols which are great for your heart.

Plus, this supplement is an excellent source of fiber. One tablespoon of cocoa has more fiber and magnesium (great for boosting your mood) than half a cup of brown rice!

If you’re considering taking these organic supplements, opt for raw cocoa, but not the “Dutch process” or “alkalized” kind. These don’t have as many healthy flavanols in them.

5. Acai

If you’re looking for something that fights inflammation, acai is the supplement for you. This fabulous powder contains amino acids that are great for helping your muscles repair after an intense workout.

Plus, it contains fatty acids which help give your mood a little lift while boosting your brain power.

6. Bee Pollen

Bee pollen isn’t just super tasty; it’s full of protein, vitamin B, and leucine.

This fabulous combination is excellent for boosting your metabolism and burning fat!

However, steer clear of organic supplements related to bees if you’re allergic to pollen.

7. Baobab

For those of you who don’t know, this powder is the ground pulp of an African tree fruit and has a delicious citrusy taste.

Astonishingly, this has the highest antioxidant content of any foodstuff. In addition to this, it’s an incredible source of soluble fiber – win-win!

8. Spirulina

It may sound a tad gross, but this supplement is literally powdered freshwater algae. Stay with us because it’s really good for you!

Astonishingly, one tablespoon of spirulina has roughly ten times the amount of iron than spinach! Plus, it has an insane amount of vitamin A which is excellent for boosting your immune system.

9. Iron Supplements

Having healthy iron levels is essential for your overall well-being. Out of all of the organic supplements discussed, this is probably the most important.

Iron helps carry oxygen around your body, is brilliant for your immune system, helps regulate your temperature, is imperative for cell growth (and has loads of other benefits that we won’t bore you with) – iron is great for your body, you get the idea.

If you don’t get enough iron, you’ll struggle to produce the correct amount of red blood cells. This can result in anemia.

Anemia isn’t something you want to suffer from because you’ll be held back by the following symptoms:

• Constant fatigue
• Difficulty breathing while participating in everyday activities.
• Difficulty maintaining body temperature
• A poorer performing immune system

It’s also worth mentioning that if you suffer from heavy periods, you’re more likely to lose valuable iron. If this sounds like you, make sure you eat plenty of food that contains iron and/or take an iron supplement

10. Calcium

As you probably already know, you need calcium to keep your bones and teeth healthy.

However, did you know calcium is imperative for aiding both your muscles and blood vessels to contract and expand? This is necessary to successfully send vital messages from your brain to the rest of your body.

So calcium is pretty darn important! Especially if you’re over the age of 65. As you get older, you run a higher risk of contracting osteoporosis.

This is especially true of women because their bone density starts deteriorating from the age of 20!

If you’re looking to purchase organic supplements, be sure to check out I Am Healthy Store, as they have some fabulous stock over there!

Did You Enjoy This Blog Post on Organic Supplements?

I hope you enjoyed reading this article as much as I loved writing it! If you did, you’d probably like our other blog posts over on the health and fitness blog.

Everything from how to cure back pain, to improving your circulation, is covered. So, we’re sure you’ll find something of interest.

Alternatively, please feel free to reach out and contact me if you have any questions or comments. I’d love to hear from you. Speak soon!

In case you didn’t know, your circulatory system is really important. It’s responsible for maintaining and nourishing inherently every cell in your body!

While many factors can impact your blood flow, there are many fantastic ways to improve circulation naturally.

Let’s get to our favorites!

1. Move Your Body

You already know that consistent exercise is good for you. You know that it keeps your bones and muscles healthy, torches calories, and tones your body. You also know that it’s vital for maintaining good physical and mental health.

Did you know that exercise can also help improve circulation?

That’s because activities that increase your heart rate boost blood flow around the body. The takeaway here? To move is to improve circulation.

So, get running, hiking, climbing, lifting- whatever activity you like, and stay consistent with it.

2. Drink Tea

Not only can it keep you warm on a blustery winter day, but tea also has numerous health benefits.

Teas contain antioxidants, which can boost heart health and improve circulation. It’s as easy as drinking a cup or two a day.

Just be mindful and avoid prepackaged tea bottles (they often contain preservatives and added sugar). Stick to looseleaf bags of green, white, or black tea.

3. Stand and Stretch

Ever heard the warning, sitting is the new smoking? Whether it’s true or not, repeatedly sitting in the same position can wreak havoc on your circulation.

Furthermore, most of us have poor posture when we sit and do work, which can exacerbate the circulation issues.

Try this instead: put a time on your phone and make sure to get up and walk around or stretch every half hour.

Walk to a colleague’s office instead of firing off an email. Take the stairs to another suite instead of hop in the elevator. Most of us are far too sedentary- you need to take conscious steps to break this habit.

4. Pay Attention to Your Feet and Hands

Poor foot or hand circulation can lead to numerous problems, including strokes or heart attacks.

You probably know that it’s important to layer up your body when your cold, but this also applies to your hands and feet.

This is especially important if you have medical conditions. You’d be amazed to learn what do diabetic socks do. You’d also be amazed to discover that there are many ways compression can help you live a happier and healthier life.

5. Stay Hydrated

The world runs on water, and your body is no different. It’s important to stay hydrated to improve circulation and maintain your overall health.

Get yourself a refillable water bottle (preferably one that you’re excited to use), invest in a water filter system if needed, and get sipping.

Drinking enough water each day will make you feel infinitely better. This is not an area worth skimping out on!

6. Quit Smoking

Here’s yet another reason proving why cigarettes are terrible for you.

They can damage nearly every organ in the body, including your blood vessels, lungs, and heart. They also clog our blood vessels (you know the ones sending blood to the heart and brain).

Smoking impacts all your blood vessels, from the ones associated with aging to the ones related to tooth loss and hearing.

If you needed another reason to quit your habit, consider this one: if you need to improve circulation, it’s nearly impossible to do while smoking.

7. Eat the Right Foods

You aren’t surprised that a healthy diet can improve circulation, are you? As it turns out, there is some substantial evidence suggesting that the food you eat plays a huge role in boosting your circulatory system.

Fish – Research shows that Omega-3 Fatty acids can benefit the heart and improve blood circulation. Not a big seafood fan? Consider taking a fish oil supplement.

Nuts – Nuts contain Vitamin B3, which can boost your blood and stave off circulation issues. Grab yourself a handful of almonds, walnuts, or cashews.

Seeds – Many seeds contain Vitamin E, an essential vitamin shown to keep blood flowing. Consider the following ‘superfood’ seeds- pumpkin, chia, and flax.

Citrus fruit – Vitamin C can serve as a natural blood thinner, which helps prevent excess plaque build-up. Feast yourself on pineapples, mangoes, kiwis, or oranges to get your Vitamin C fix.

Dark chocolate – Here’s your permission to eat chocolate! Cocoa contains antioxidants and flavonoids, which improve blood circulation. The darker the chocolate, the better it is for your help. And, remember: a little goes a long way. This is not permission to gorge!

8. Add Herbs & Spices

Eating a diet rich in superfoods can improve your blood circulation, but sprinkling on the following spices can also go a long way, too!

Garlic – Garlic helps prevent plaque build-up and can even stimulate blood flow. Yes, your breath may stink, but your circulatory system will thank you for the added boost!

Gingko Biloba – Gingko Biloba can improve blood circulation and increase flow to all systems of your body. It can also support your energy levels!

Cayenne pepper – It heats your body up, and it also can supercharge your circulation by basically strengthening your cardiovascular muscles. This super spice can also improve nutrient absorption and aid in digestion.

Parsley – Next time it’s on your restaurant dinner plate, nosh it down! Parsley can act as a natural circulatory booster because it contains Vitamins C and B12.

Ginger root – Ginger can also open up blood vessels. It contains many anti-inflammatory properties, which also boosts your immune systems.

Improve Circulation Today

By integrating the following suggestions into your routine, you’ll be well on your way to improving circulation.

Interested in learning more tips about optimal health and fitness? Be sure to check out our extensive blog today!

It’s always difficult when you can’t breastfeed. Breast milk is every mother’s ‘go to’ when they have a growing baby on their hands. However, several factors contribute to the inability to breastfeed.

Formula becomes necessary.

But formula can be untrustworthy. You probably read the facts on different mommy blogs, and it’s scary.

Most formula doesn’t contain the necessary vitamins and fatty oils necessary for your baby to grow. And have you read the ingredients? All of the preservatives and artificial ingredients are every mother’s worst nightmare.

Fortunately, HiPP Formula has your back. Hailing from Germany, HiPP abides by the EU’s strict formula regulations. HiPP also makes formula for babies of all ages.

However, HiPP is very expensive. Here’s some advice on how to save when buying HiPP Combiotic Formula.

Why You Should Buy HiPP

A lot of formulas in the United States are filled with additives and are sweetened with ingredients such as brown sugar syrup rather than lactose, which is the sweetener found in breast milk.

HiPP Combiotic Formula doesn’t contain any of these ingredients. HiPP is organic and follows the EU’s strict regulations regarding what to add to infant formula. HiPP also makes their formula with essential prebiotics and omegas.

HiPP also uses milk with no GMOs. The cows graze on grass not tainted with chemical pesticides.

Here are the vitamins and minerals in HiPP formula:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Prebiotic oligosaccharides (GOS)
• Omega 3 and 6 LCPs (DHA and AA)
• Iron

All of these vitamins help your baby develop a healthy brain and a healthy immune system. The prebiotic also aids in digestion. You can supplement and even replace breastfeeding with HiPP formula.

HiPP formula is available in Stage 1 (0-12 months), Stage 2 (6-12 months), Stage 3 (1-2 years), Stage 4 (2+ years), Good Night Milks (6+ months), and even baby food.

Choose a Store You Can Trust

So many mothers are raving about HiPP Combiotic Formula. It is expensive, but you know every extra penny is worth it when you consider the well-being of your child.

So the most important fact is choosing a store you can trust.

Choose one that always has HiPP in stock and you can rely on for shipping and other factors. This is especially important for American parents, very few American retailers sell HiPP Organic Formula and you can only find HiPP online.

How Long Does HiPP Formula Last?

HiPP Combiotic Formula lasts about two and a half weeks if used every day. It comes in a box, and the formula in this box can be reusable.

Are you breastfeeding and only use the formula every so often? Have formula on-hand. Unopened boxes last a year after shipped, or you can read the expiration date printed on the box.

If already opened, wrap the formula in tin foil and keep the formula in a cool place, such as the pantry. Don’t store in the refrigerator, this will be too cold. The opened formula shouldn’t be used after two weeks.

Always keep in mind how much your baby needs and serving sizes recommended by their pediatrician. These numbers are estimates — always discuss feeding with your pediatrician.

Buy in Bulk

You’ll be using a lot of this product. Buying in bulk is smart in general, but it could also save you lots of money.

Certain retailers have discounts when you buy in bulk. Others offer perks such as free shipping or even a gift or sample.

When you look at the price tag and compare buying in bulk to buying a few, you may opt for buying a few. Depending on how food your baby needs, buying in bulk could save you money.

If you’re just switching your baby over, then you buy a few to make sure the food works for your baby. You can also buy little at a time if you’re also breastfeeding, but it’s still better to buy in bulk.

Keep Storage in Mind

Since HiPP is made without additives, it can spoil easily. One of the main tasks of additives is to preserve the formula longer. Since HiPP doesn’t contain additives, they’re strict on storage.

The formula should not be stored above 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celcius).

If the formula is stored in an area that’s too hot, it can ruin the consistency. High temperatures can even ruin the taste, color, and aroma, ruining your infant’s appetite.

Even if it’s left in these extreme temperatures for a short period of time, it could cause severe changes. Try and keep the formula between 55 and 75 degrees.

If you want to increase storage, keep the formula in an airtight container. However, don’t use the formula beyond three weeks.

It would be a shame if you spend a lot of money on the formula and having to throw it out. If you’re ever unsure about the way you’re storing the formula, contact the company, retailer, and your pediatrician.

Make Sure You’re Preparing the Formula Correctly

Mothers, especially American mothers, are confused that you need to boil the water first before mixing in the formula. American formula doesn’t require this; rather, only asks to mix the formula in water or in a water bottle.

As we stated previously, American formula is different than European formula — American formula is filled with additives to kill bacteria and European formula isn’t made with these additives.

Therefore, the powder can be a growth area for bacteria.

Boiling the water helps to kill bacteria. The lack of sterilization and the chance of bacterial growth, specifically Cronobacter sakazakii, can make your baby sick.

Make sure you follow all preparation instructions. You don’t want to spend the money to result in your baby being sick. If you have any questions about preparation, call the brand or retailer.

Time to Buy HiPP Organic Combiotic Formula

HiPP sent 50 years devising their quality formula. HiPP makes their formula without additives, GMOs, and sugar substitutes. Their formula is made with essential vitamins, cows treated humanely, and even prebiotic.

If you’re looking for other parenting tips and savings advice, take a look through our articles.

As a mom, you know just how difficult it can be to find the time for self-care.

Between making meals, keeping your kids from breaking everything in your home, and coordinating carpool with that weird mom on your block, you barely have time to think!

However, self-care is essential — not just for your sanity, but so you can set a great example for your children.

One of the easiest and most basic forms of self-care? Good oral hygiene.

You might think you’re taking good care of your teeth. But how can you be sure?

Read our list of these dental tips to find out — and be sure to share them with your kids!

1. Make Sure You’re Brushing Correctly

Pretty much everyone (thankfully) is aware that they need to brush their teeth a minimum of two times a day.

But are you actually brushing the correct way?

To make sure you’re getting the most out of your brushing experience, position your brush at about a 45-degree angle. This way, when you brush, you’ll clean both the teeth and the gums.

Also, resist the temptation to move your brush only from side to side.

Instead, aim to make small circular motions with your brush, which will help to knock more plaque and debris loose.

Also, make sure you replace your toothbrush at least every three months.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to brush your tongue! In fact, your tongue is where the worst-smelling bacteria in your mouth live. You can invest in a tongue scraper, but a simple toothbrush will do the job just as well.

2. Try A Waterpik

We know that many of you likely aren’t too thrilled with the prospect of flossing your teeth every day.

However, even if it’s uncomfortable, it’s also incredibly important.

It stops plaque from building up, cleans areas your toothbrush can’t always get to and can help to prevent periodontal disease. If you just can’t stand the string version, try a Waterpik instead.

Waterpiks can help you to clean the areas around braces and other orthodontic work and offer a deeper clean than flossing alone.

3. Know What To Avoid

If you want your teeth to stay looking beautiful (and working perfectly) there are a few things you need to stay away from.

The number-one thing to avoid?

Smoking and tobacco. This isn’t just a dental tip — it’s a health tip, too.

First of all, it turns your teeth an unsightly yellow shade and can cause your gums to deteriorate quickly.

According to research compiled by the American Dental Association, smoking can also lead to:

• Complications after dental procedures/surgery
• Gum disease
• Cancer in the mouth
• A weakened sense of taste
• Stains on the tongue

In short, if you aren’t smoking, don’t pick up the habit, and if you are, look into ways to quit.

But avoiding tobacco isn’t the only thing to remove from your lifestyle on this list of dental tips.

You should also aim to reduce your intake of sugary sodas, coffee, and (unfortunately for all the wine moms out there) alcohol. This is because all of these drinks contain high amounts of phosphorus.

Over time, this can actually lower your overall levels of calcium, which can weaken your teeth. Plus, the corn syrup in sodas can lead to tooth discoloration. Cut back on these drinks, and try to brush your teeth immediately afterward.

4. Get Regular Dental Checkups

We know that not a lot of people like going to the dentist. Some may even experience great anxiety before an appointment.

Take steps to calm yourself down, like learning as much as possible about your procedures and even bringing a friend to your appointment. Colgate’s website also has lots of information about what you can expect to go on during your dental appointment.

Also, you’ll feel a lot better when you find a dentist you know you can trust. You can learn a lot about a dental practice from its website.

For example, Forest Park Dental dentists include an introductory video on their homepage, clearly display their contact information, and include customer reviews on their website.

Remember that not all dental problems are visible to the naked eye — much less to someone who isn’t a professional.

Whether the appointment is for you or your child, you need to make sure you visit the dentist at least once every six months to stop any problems from getting worse.

5. Choose The Right Mouthwash…

Next up on our list of dental tips?

Make sure you’re using a mouthwash that’s doing more than just freshening your breath.

When you’re selecting your mouthwash, look for options that contain chlorine dioxide. Listerine is a great example.

This is because the agents in these mouthwashes actually help to eliminate the bacteria in your mouth while assisting in strengthening your teeth.

6. And Pick The Right Toothpaste!

Just like mouthwashes, not all toothpaste is created equal.

When you’re shopping for your next tube, make sure you look for one that has the ADA seal on it. This means that the manufacturers have followed regulations put in place by the American Dental Association.

In addition to helping you to clean your teeth more thoroughly, this seal means that the amount of fluoride in the toothpaste has been regulated.

Embrace Your Pearly Whites With These Dental Tips

Thanks to these dental tips, you’re ready to take your oral hygiene to the next level.

One final tip?

Always make sure that you supervise the brushing and flossing of your children. Consider setting up a rewards system or tracking their brushing with a sticker chart.

Explain to them that taking care of their teeth now will help them to avoid serious problems in the future!

Looking for more tips on how to be the best mom you can be? Need advice on how to find coupons for that ADA-approved toothpaste we mentioned here?

Check out our website to find the best deals for exactly what you’re looking for. Be sure to spend some time on our blog to get access to the latest parenting hacks and money-saving deals.

Now, it’s time to book your dental checkup!