General Health Articles

Healthy Living: Bath vs. Shower – Which one is Better?

It’s the age-old debate – bath or shower? Who doesn’t love a nice, hot soak in the tub to unwind? Or how about those steamy, relaxing showers? But which one is healthier? And why? 

First, we focus on the shower. Besides being timesaving and more efficient, here are some other benefits of taking a shower.

• Reduces tension and improves circulation.
• Gets rid of headaches and helps with sore muscles.
• Massages your skin as the water falls.
• Great for cleaning the body. 

Now for the cons of taking a shower. 

• You must stand (most likely).
• Relies on water pressure.
• Your bathroom becomes a steam room. 

And now let’s take a look at the benefits of taking a bath.

• Helps treat skin conditions like eczema.
• Can improve sleep.
• Good for muscle and joint protection and relief.
• Helps regulate blood pressure.
• May improve breathing.

And the cons of taking a bath.

• Might not be clean (or as clean as a shower).
• Can affect the body’s pH levels.
• Strips the body of natural oils. 

So, who is the winner? Either way it comes down to hygiene. Both baths and showers have pros and cons, so it often comes down to a matter of preference and time.  As long as you are getting yourself clean, you are doing good for your body.

Happy Washing!

Healthy Living: Snore free Night's Sleep

Studies show that 30 to 40 percent of the general population snores, which means there are an awful lot of people out there not getting a good night's sleep.  Whether you snore, or your partner, there are some easy ways to alleviate snoring and catch some zzzz's before you know it.

Snore-free night's sleep

Tongue exercises : believe it or not there are exercises that you can do with your tongue that will help “train” your tongue where to stay in your mouth while you are sleeping to prevent snoring.  One good tongue exercise to practice is making the “t-t-t-t-t” sound : sort of like you are scolding someone.  This strengthens the tip of the tongue.  You can also let your tongue hang out relaxed, then tense your tongue by pointing it and holding this position for three seconds.

Buy a mouthpiece : one of the most effective anti-snoring techniques is using a “boil and bite” mouthpiece.  These mouthpieces form to your upper and lower teeth and pull your lower jaw and the back of your tongue forward.  This process allows your airway to be opened and you to breathe easier.

Wear an air mask : commonly used for severe sleep apnea, a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) mask pushes air into the nasal passages and throat, allowing the airways to be opened.  Unfortunately, only 50 percent of users use their machine correctly, as they cannot keep a mask on throughout the night.

Sleep with a tennis ball : say what? Hear us out on this one, because most people snore while sleeping on their back if you provide a barrier between your body and your back while you are sleeping you will be less likely to sleep on your back throughout the night, thereby reducing your snoring.  Some people suggest putting a tennis ball in a pocket T-shirt then sleeping with the T-shirt on backwards.  You can also put the tennis ball in a fanny pack and then wear that backwards.  If you happen to turn onto your back during the night, the ball, whether it is in your shirt or in your fanny pack, will cause discomfort and you will roll onto your side.

In the News All About Monkeypox – Part I

You can’t turn on the television anymore without hearing about the latest infectious disease: Monkeypox. While there is a lot of information all over the Internet about Monkeypox, here we break down what you need to know, what you should do and how to prevent the spread of this disease.

So, what is Monkeypox?

According to the CDC, “Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It leads to rash and flu-like symptoms. Monkeypox was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in groups of monkeys being used for research. It’s spread mainly through human contact with infected rodents but can sometimes be spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.”

How common is it?

Monkeypox is actually rare. But the number of cases is increasing in Africa, as well as in regions that haven’t seen these infections before. 

Where is it found? 

For decades, Monkeypox was only found in Africa. But 2022 has brought outbreaks to regions outside of Africa, like Europe, the Americas and Australia. 

Who is affected by Monkeypox? 

According to the CDC, “Anyone can get monkeypox. In Africa, most cases are among children under 15 years old. Outside of Africa, the disease appears to be more common in men who have sex with men, but there are numerous cases in people who don’t fall into that category.” 

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In the News Summer Health Tips – Part II

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Health Tip #4: Dehydration 

Dry mouth and eyes, dry skin, a condition where sweating nearly stops, muscle cramps, nausea, heart palpitations and light headedness. To prevent dehydration, drink water, clear broths, and any other water replacements that contain electrolytes, like Gatorade. To combat dehydration, try fluid replacement and control through diet and fever medication. 

Health Tip #5: Foot Infections 

Sweating and humidity can increase your chances of foot infection during summer.
To remedy a foot infection, there are several anti-bacterial powders available in medical stores. And scrub your feet and the toes thoroughly to wash off the bacteria. For severe cases of infection, consult a dermatologist.

Health Tip #6: Summer Diet 

It’s always a good idea to switch up your diet in the summertime to eat foods such as watermelon, yogurt, berries and other fruits and vegetables. Such foods are low in calories and additionally require very little energy for digestion. These foods taste better when chilled and are therefore traditionally eaten that way. Naturally, eating chilled low-calorie foods feel good in the summer months, too. 

Health Tip #7: Food Hygiene 

Many dangerous bacteria and viruses thrive in the summer months as the temperature is conducive for their growth. The bad bugs usually enter the body through food and water. This is why maintaining good food hygiene is crucial in this season.

In the News Summer Health Tips – Part I

While Summer brings longer days, more sunshine, and carefree vacations, Summer can also bring a plethora of problems when it comes to your health.

To stay healthy all summer long, we suggest practicing these Summer Health Tips and share them with your friends and family members.

Health Tip #1: Heat Stroke

Heat stroke, a severe form of hyperthermia, occurs “when the human body absorbs more heat than it can dissipate. This is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention.” The remedy: It is important to lower the temperature of the body, immerse yourself in ice if you must or take a cold shower. You can prevent heat stroke by wearing loose and light clothes, drink water and do not overexert yourself during summer.

Health Tip #2: Heat Cramps

Muscle pains or spasms usually occur in the abdomen, arms, or leg and usually occur in coordination with strenuous physical activity. Home remedies: Rest in a cool place. Drink clear juice or electrolyte-enriched drinks. Do not go back to strenuous activity even after cramps subside since it may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. 

Health Tip #3: Heat Exhaustion

Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, fainting, muscle cramps, and/or fainting are all signs of heat exhaustion.
The remedy:  Rest. Have a cool, non-alcoholic beverage, a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath. Wear light clothing if you plan to be in the sun all day.

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