Category: Health & Fitness

Did you know that gynecologists can help you with almost any female reproductive health problem you can think of? These doctors specialize in all things related to your reproductive system, from your hormones to your ovaries, to your period.

They are extremely helpful in helping you understand your body, as well as helping you prevent or obtain pregnancy.

Additionally, they can offer a variety of tips for you to stay on top of your overall health, as periods are actually an indicator of it.

A gynecologist is trained for several years in medicine, and there are few things that will shock them. Therefore, there isn’t a reason not to see one regularly.

In fact, here are five reasons you should see a gynecologist.

1. They Make Sure Everything Is Healthy

First off, these specialists will make sure everything appears healthy in your reproductive system. After you turn 21, you will receive your first pap smear which will check you for any cell abnormalities in your cervix.

They can tell you if there is anything you need to worry about in relation to your cycle or system.

2. They Can Help You Combat Period Problems

It is estimated that over 20% of women suffer from severe period pain and cramping.

Periods are not intended by nature to be terrible, painful events. Therefore, an OBGYN can talk with you about the pain you experience or any other symptoms such as irregular cycles or PMS.

3. They Will Test for Diseases

The truth is, any sexually active woman should get regularly tested for sexually transmitted diseases.

It is better safe than sorry in most instances, even if you aren’t showing any symptoms of a disease.

4. They Can Help You Will Sexual Dysfunction

OBGYN and other specialists may be able to help you with sexual dysfunction, such as lack of libido or vaginal dryness.

One well-known treatment option for this issue specifically is the o-shot for vaginal rejuvenation, which stimulates cells in your nether regions by using your own plasma cells and blood.

5. They Answer Questions About Pregnancy and Birth Control

A gynecologist is specially trained to answer any questions you have about getting pregnant or avoiding pregnancy.

So, if you are concerned about what you should be doing to attain pregnancy, or you are curious about your options to avoid it, talk with this specialist.

Visit a Gyneocologist for The Health of It

In addition to your primary care provider, OBGYN’s are an essential part of your overall health.

They can answer specific questions about your reproductive system that a regular doctor can’t, and help you move forward accordingly.

Furthermore, they can help get you tested for any diseases or syndromes you may be experiencing, from infertility to PMS.

It is more important to ever to be on top of your female health, as this can very easily influence your overall health, and your monthly cycle can be affected by your environment.

For more ways to combat hormonal issues, check out our post on the best ways to treat adult acne.

Depression is one of the most common serious illnesses for moms in the United States. On a national scale, 1 out of 9 women experiences depression after having a baby. It depends on which state you’re in, with some states having as high as 1 out 5 women suffering from this disorder.

One of the most common ways to prevent depression is to watch out for your health and fitness. The problem is that even people without children struggle to lead healthy lives. As a mom, you’re always on the go because you’re responsible for your children, making it hard to stay fit.

Staying fit and healthy as an “On the Go” mom needs more than an hour at the gym a few times a week. It requires you to stay strong, dedicated, and to work hard. Here are some tips to maintain your health and fitness:

Make Sure You’re Well-Rested

Having a good night’s rest can make a huge impact on your health and fitness. Even if you’re busy, make sure that you get yourself a proper bedtime. Organize your schedule in a way that you have sufficient amount of sleep while fulfilling your busy schedule.

If you get enough sleep, you become well-energized throughout the day. It helps you think more clearly and choose healthier lifestyle choices. It gives you more means to figure out how to quit smoking weed and other possible unhealthy behaviors.

Aside from that, proper sleep boosts your mood, improves your creativity, and makes it easier for you lose weight. Going to bed half an hour earlier than usual can make a big difference to the day ahead.

Don’t Forget to Include the Family

If you want to improve your health and fitness, the best way to start is to include your family in your healthy lifestyle choices. It’s hard to stay committed if you’re going alone, even if you have a supportive spouse. Make meals without over-processed foods for them and set healthy meal times.

You can make fruits, vegetables, and whole grains as your primary food source. Eat as much organic food as your family can. It helps you sleep better, reduce your stress and anxiety, and make you more energetic while on the go.

Spend More Time With Your Kids

Watching over your busy, growing children is one of the best ways to get exercise. Instead of letting them play alone in the yard or in the living room, go with them and run along. You can go biking together and go on hiking trips whenever possible.

Spending time with your children keeps them happy and help you bond with them more. Your children love feeling special. If you have more than one kid, try to spend a one-on-one time with each of them if you have the time.

Plan Your Meals on a Monthly Basis

Taking the time to plan your upcoming meals is one of the best ways to keep your healthy eating on track. No matter what kind of meals you prepare, you should plan it to suit your family’s dietary needs and favorite foods. When you plan your meals, it saves you a lot of time while shopping for ingredients in the grocery store.

It comes in handy when you’re pulling up a blank on what to cook. However, don’t forget to add date nights with your family. Go out and eat in family restaurants and give yourself and your family a treat.

Spend Some Time for Yourself

Regular diet and exercise are important, but spending some alone time to care for yourself can make it more worthwhile. Your alone time can be a 15-minute intensive skincare routine every evening or an hour’s worth of bubble bath on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Whatever activities you choose, taking the time to enjoy your own company helps make your health and fitness better.

You deserve the break, even for short periods of time. Focusing on yourself can help you find calmness amid an otherwise hectic schedule.

Don’t Forget to Stay Hydrated

If you don’t drink enough water, you are at risk for various complications like urinary and kidney problems. Water is one of the top things you need to have to have good health and fitness. You’re supposed to drink at least 2 liters of water daily, making it an important component of your day.

A good way to stay hydrated if you’re always on-the-go is to keep a water bottle with you at all times. Drink as often as you can and refill it whenever it runs out. For better results, drink water instead of those sweet, sugary sodas you often take.

Choose Your Snacks Wisely

Getting snacks is an unavoidable part of your day. There are lots of times when you feel hungry but it’s not enough for you to eat a full meal. Usually, that can lead you to have some poor health choices.

Be wise when picking the food you snack on. Instead of eating a bag of chips or chocolate chip cookies, eat some fruits and vegetables. Trail mix and mixed nuts are solid choices when it comes to health and fitness too. There are lots of healthy yet tasty snacking choices waiting for you out there.

Get More Health and Fitness Tips Today!

Maintaining your health is a task that needs a lot of strength and dedication. Ignoring your needs for the sake of other things in life will leave you empty. Taking the time to focus on yourself makes you more energized and make it easier for you to interact with your family and finish your tasks with purpose.

A healthy mom is a happy mom. A happy mom becomes a better mom for her children and a better person overall. That’s why it’s important to care for yourself first–to better care for your family in the long run.

If you’re ready to make a big health and fitness change, contact us today. We can help you get started.

Many people believe that back pain arises with old age. However, it’s extremely common to start experiencing this problem around the age of 30.

Women are more likely to suffer from back pain than men do. In fact, 50 to 70 percent of all pregnant women are struggling with this problem.

Back pain can occur from inactivity, weight gain, lifting heavy objects improperly, or too much stress. Accidents (such as car crashes) can cause issues to your back as well.

If you’re struggling with this issue, you came to the right place. We are going to give you seven tips on how to relieve lower back pain. Keep reading to find out more!

1. Walk

This advice may sound like common sense, but many individuals with lower back pain fail to walk enough.

You may start experiencing some aches, and instead of walking for at least 30 minutes to loosen your lower back muscles, you lay down. This is a common mistake.

If you have major back pain and can’t walk for half an hour, start with five minutes.

Most Americans don’t walk as much as they should, which causes even more stress on their spine. Our bodies weren’t meant to sit all day, but to walk around.

If you have a child, take the stroller out and go for a walk. It will be beneficial for your back and relaxing for your kid.

In case you have a teenager, ask him to walk around with you. It’s going to be a good bonding experience for you both.

This may be the best tip on how to relieve lower back pain, so give it a try!

2. Swim

Another easy exercise for lower back pain is swimming. This low impact activity will strengthen your back muscles while increasing flexibility.

Strong back muscles are less prone to pain. Plus, they promote good posture and make daily activities easier.

If you have a pool or live near one, go there and get your daily dose of exercise. Stop wondering how to relieve lower back pain and start moving!

3. Lying Knee Twist

The lying knee twist is a stretch that reduces pressure on your lower back.

Lie on your back on a solid but comfy surface (either a mat or carpet). Keep your legs straight out in front, and bring one knee across your body at hip level. You should feel a light pull on your lower back and glutes.

Hold this position for 30 seconds and then alternate legs. You should do this about three times a day.

By stretching your body and increasing flexibility, you reduce pressure and stress on your lower back.

4. Cobra Stretch

This stretch is gentle enough that almost anyone can do it.

You start by lying on your stomach with your legs extended out. Your arms should be by your side while your forearms and elbows should be touching the floor.

Gently lift your upper body and adjust your weight to your forearms with your hips to the ground. You should feel a pull in your lower back and abdomen. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then slowly go back to starting position.

If you have more flexibility in your back, straighten your arms to intensify the stretch. Repeat this three times.

5. Sit Properly

If you’re a stay-at-home mom, you work from home, or if you work at a desk all day, you should learn the proper way to sit. Actually, everyone needs to learn how to sit properly.

It would be pointless for us to show you these stretches and exercises if you sit slouched for eight hours a day.

If you want to know how to relieve lower back pain, focus on improving your posture when sitting down.

Your feet should always touch the floor, and your hips should go as far back as the chair allows. The chair should be only slightly reclined, your arms should be at a 90-degree angle, and your computer screen should be at eye level.

Even though this may feel uncomfortable at first, it’s the best way to sit in order to avoid further back pain.

6. How to Relieve Lower Back Pain with Wall Sits

No matter your age, weight, or activity level, wall sits are beneficial for strengthening your back muscles.

Begin by standing 10 inches away from the wall and slowly back into it until your back is flat against the wall. Slide down until your knees are bent and your back is pressing against the wall.

Hold for a few seconds (10 if you’re starting out and 30 if you are comfortable) and stand up. You should repeat this six to 10 times depending on your activity level and the strength of your back.

7. Know When to See a Specialist

If you experience mild back pain for a prolonged period of time or have major back pain, see a chiropractor.

Whether you injured yourself or not, it’s always best to get a professional opinion. If left untreated, back pain can get worse and become chronic.

This condition won’t heal on its own. It takes time and effort to strengthen your back muscles and get rid of aches.

Sometimes, hoping for the best isn’t enough. Make an appointment with the best back pain specialist if you’re experiencing severe pain.

We know that having back pain is scary and that finding out the results may be even scarier. However, waiting for the problem to go away is not an option.

We can give you tips on how to relieve your lower back pain, but nothing can replace medical advice.

Lower Back Pain: When To Take Action?

The answer is now.

Whether you just recently began experiencing lower back pain or it has been bothering you for a while, take the steps needed to heal yourself.

We recommend eating healthy foods and drinking water to maintain a healthy weight. This will reinforce the benefits of these exercises and stretches.

If you need help on how to start eating healthy and taking care of yourself, we have plenty of articles for that too!

With nearly 45 million Americans going on a diet each year and most dieting targeted toward women, it can be hard to know what makes for good health.

No two bodies are the same and it’s rare that one diet can work for multiple people. While there are some basic facts related to calorie intake for women, there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Understanding what number of calories each woman should eat is related to how active you are and what kinds of calories you consume. While calories are measured in a general way, blame has been put on fat instead of the true enemy: sugar. A low-calorie diet high in sugar is as bad as one with high calories and no sugar.

If you’re wondering what the ideal calorie intake for women is, you need to balance it with your activity. Here are a few ways to look at the problem.

For Active Women

Women who walk more than 3 miles a day or perform more than 30 minutes of exercise daily are considered “active.” Those women can easily consume 2,000 calories of fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein and maintain a healthy weight.

The average idea is to have about 18 calories per pound of body weight. For a 120-pound woman, this means 2,160 calories per day. Athletes can consume more calories than this.

If you have a diet full of healthy whole foods and organic produce, consuming this amount of calories will easily balance out the workouts you do on a daily basis.

For Moderately Active Women

If a woman walks about 1.5 to 3 miles per day and or does 15-20 minutes of exercise a day, 1,800 calories can provide a healthy balance.

When eating mostly whole foods, fibers, grains, and a diet low in sugar 1,800 calories can be hard to meet. Prepackaged, prepared, or fast food is where you can start racking up those bad calories that are hard for the body to process.

Calculate about 16 calories per pound of body weight to get a better idea.

For Less Active Women

Women who work at an office job or don’t exercise beyond daily activities are considered to be sedentary. In this case, 1,600 calories a day is an appropriate range.

Multiply body weight by 13 to get an accurate figure.

To lower your calorie intake, try adding more seafood for high-quality protein with low calories.

For Overweight Women

To help with weight loss, a balance of smart drugs, calorie reduction, and exercise are recommended. Avoid “diet” or “low fat” foods, as the natural fats have been replaced with hard to process chemicals that the liver turns into fat.

For this calculation, multiply your desirable body weight by 10. Getting down to the 1,400 calorie range isn’t too hard if you fill your diet with fruits and veggies.

A sugary apple will give you about 90 calories while a carrot has about 25. A really robust salad with oil and vinegar can easily fit under 500 calories.

Calorie Intake for Women Isn’t the End-All

As we’ve described, calorie intake isn’t everything. Activity and the kinds of calories you eat are what makes the biggest difference.

Switch from processed foods and make a rule of eating nothing with more than 5-8 ingredients listed on the package.

If you’re ready to make a big dietary change, contact us today for more tips on how to get started.

Between 40 and 55% of adults suffer from acne, and 54% of women aged 25 and older have adult acne.

If you’re still dealing with acne in your adult years, this post is for you. We’re going to delve deep into why adult acne occurs and the best skincare for adult acne- so you can finally start loving your skin again.

Ready? Let’s get started.

Why Are You Still Getting Acne?

Did you sail through those hormonal teen years without a blemish insight, only to get stuck with a pizza face in your early twenties? Maybe you’ve been battling acne for the past decade and you keep getting your hopes up that it has to end “sometime soon?”

Many people assume acne is a problem for young people since most of us have ou most severe breakouts during our teens. Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean your pimples will magically disappear on your 21st birthday. In fact, it’s common to be battling both acne and zits at the same time. Life isn’t fair.

Every pore on your face is part of a hair follicle. When those follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, the bacteria that causes acne will flourish inside that follicle, instead of staying on the surface of your skin, where it can be washed away.

The bacteria eats away at the contents of the follicle, starting a domino effect. This produces inflammatory enzymes and chemicals, attracting white blood cells and leading to more inflammation. Then the wall of that follicle breaks down, which leads to zits.

Here are some reasons why you may have adult acne:

Hormone Sensitivity

Some people are unlucky and their oil glands have more hormone receptors. This means that when they have androgens in their system, they’re more likely to end up developing acne. The number of receptors we have is determined by our genetics, but for women, birth control pills and other hormonal treatments can block the receptors.

Immune System

While we all want a healthy immune system, some of us have a gene known as TLR7. When this gene senses bacteria, it sends out more white cells than it normally would. This makes it more likely that you’ll have inflamed zits. Anti-inflammatories can be a great way to stop this from occurring.

Cortisol

Noticed that stress seems to make your acne worse? You’re not alone. Research has shown that stress and acne severity go hand-in-hand. That’s because the stress hormone cortisol can impact your androgen receptors, triggering a breakout.

Diet

While it’s a myth that chocolate causes acne, too many refined carbs can indeed increase your breakouts. A balanced diet is not only good for your overall health, but it’s a great way to beat the zits too.

Carbs raise our insulin levels, which trigger the release of hormones that increase oil production and inflame our follicles. Try to avoid high-carb and high-sugar foods and introduce more sources of protein, vegetables, and low-glycemic foods.

Women

Women are more likely to have adult acne. That’s because their hormones change throughout the month. As they get closer to that time of the month, estrogen levels dip, meaning testosterone is left unchecked.

Testosterone is an androgen which can crank up the oil production in your skin, meaning a higher chance that your pores will become clogged, leading to pimples.

The Best Skincare for Adult Acne

Luckily, there are more treatments and skincare options for adult acne than ever before. Whether you want to rely on a cleansing regimen like CleaRx, topical medications, or homemade acne treatments, here are a few things you can do:

Chill out

It turns out that the best skincare for adult acne may start with your stress levels. Since stress impacts your cortisol levels, and cortisone contributes to oiliness and inflammation, it’s a good idea to get this under control.

Think about ways you can de-stress. This could mean taking a kickboxing class, talking to someone about your problems, or practicing mindfulness.

Choose Adult Products

It may seem obvious, but many people are still using the same acne regimens they were using in high school.

These are specifically designed to treat teenage acne and are therefore not the best skincare for adult acne. As we age, our skin becomes less resilient. And harsh acne treatments can make the problem worse. This can also include harsh side effects like sensitivity, flaking, redness, and itching.

Consider Retinol

Retinol A is a derivative of vitamin A, and you can find it in a number of products. Topical retinoids are one of the most effective acne treatments around. They also happen to be one of the most effective antiaging ingredients because they actually help build collagen in your skin. Two birds, one stone.

Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation is crucial, and one of the most important things you can do to fight acne, prevent it and treat it.

You should try to exfoliate 3-4 times a week. Look for products with glycolic acid which help get deep down into your skin.

Spot Treat

When you really need to kill a pimple (or pimples) ASAP, consider benzoyl peroxide. Ok, it’s harsh, but it’s your best friend when it comes to zapping your zits. Just dab it onto your trouble spots and it’ll dry them out and kill bacteria.

Fight Inflammation

Unfortunately, inflammation is always part of a breakout. It causes the redness and swelling that we’re usually trying to cover up with concealers. Look for skin repair treatments that are rich in antioxidants and ergothioneine which repair skin cells that have been damaged.

Don’t Pick

Many people have cystic acne. These large, painful pimples will scar if you prod and pick them. The only way you can reduce these zits is by draining them, but it’s not something you should do yourself. The reason they’re so painful is that they expand and stretch the nerves.

Take an anti-inflammatory, apply either a cold or warm compress (see what feels better to you) and visit a dermatologist who will give you a cortisone shot.

Wrapping up

Acne sucks no matter what your age. But by using the best skincare for adult acne, you’ll reduce your breakouts and avoid acne scars.

Remember: What you eat will show on your skin, so check your diet, get enough sleep, and treat your skin well and you’ll be rewarded will clear, glowing skin.

Looking for more beauty tips? Check out some of our most popular beauty posts today.