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Lifestyle
Social Media And Changing Social Habits
Since the creation of Facebook in 2004, we have been able to connect around the world through the touch of a button. Although, some would argue that this new form of social interaction has some negative side effects.
Less Connected Than Ever
Is it possible that something meant to bring people together has made us less connected than ever? YES. According to Mehrabian's Theory, only 7% of communication is based on the written or verbal word and 93% is based on nonverbal body language. We never truly know how a person is feeling from written word alone. We need the eye-to-eye contact that comes with in-person communication.
Addiction
Many of us have experienced the jolt of excitement that comes with seeing that numbered red box appear in our notifications. That is a quality of addiction and the result of feel-good chemicals released in response to a stimulus (the like/comment). Studies have shown that Facebook activates the same areas of the brain that are activated by substance and gambling addiction.
Self Loathing
Social media allows people to portray only the positive things that are happening in their life, and they show the very best version of themselves. The feeling of everyone around you having it all without worries or regrets can leave you in puddle of self-pity and loathing. We begin to feel like our lives are not as good and you wonder what you have done wrong. We never see what is truly happening in another persons life behind the perfect picture painted by social media.
Weight Gain
A study by University of Ulster researchers showed that "the amount of time spent on social network websites was negatively correlated with the respondents’ level of physical activity". In other words, if time is spent on social media it is taking away from time spent doing other activities like exercise and sports it could lead to weight gain.
Social media is not something that is going to disappear anytime soon. We simply need to incorporate it into our lives in a healthy fashion. Have difficulty doing this? Try this free software called Cold Turkey which blocks websites like Facebook and helps to increase focus and productivity. Try making it a rule in your home that cellphones and computers stay out of the bedroom or perhaps they get turned off in the evening. Think about the amount of time you spend on social media and decide to dedicate some of that to physical activity, reading, interacting face-to-face or cooking. Utilize social media as a motivator to become more active by sharing a fitness goal or achievement on social media. Use innovative apps like Sworkit, Nike Training Club and Couch to 5K. Social media can be part of a healthy lifestyle!
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What are your strategies for incorporating social media into your life in a healthful, balanced way? Tell us in the comment section below.
How To Beat A Hangover Naturally
Feeling a little under the weather after the big game last night? We've got some great tips for alleviating the unpleasant side effects of a nasty hangover.
A Good B-Complex
Taking a daily high-quality B-complex can assist liver function and metabolic processes. Try purchasing a liquid form for better absorption or if you're having difficulty swallowing large capsules.
Electrolytes
Alcohol is a diuretic and therefore dehydrating. It is important to continually drink water during and after times of alcohol consumption. Consuming coconut water with a pinch of sea salt can help to hydrate and replenish electrolytes lost through urine. The electrolytes will also assist the liver in processing excess alcohol.
Show Your Liver Some Love
Consume foods that support liver processes. Cruciferous vegetables like kale, broccoli and cabbage all contain an anticancer compound called sulforaphane which promotes liver functions. Dandelion tea, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar and green juices also help to support the liver.
Eat Real Food
Do not use an evening of drinking as an excuse to consume greasy and sugar-laden foods. Adding these things to your liver's load will only make you feel worse. Choose nutrient dense foods like avocado, quinoa and protein-rich smoothies to balance your blood sugar and provide sustainable energy.
Don't Reach For Coffee
As we said before, alcohol is a diuretic, and so is coffee. Waking up dehydrated and then consuming a big mug of coffee will only further dehydrate you and amplify your symptoms. Instead have a big glass of room temperature lemon water.
Want to be more informed the next time that you plan to enjoy a beverage or two? Check out our past blog post on choosing healthier cocktails.
National Eczema Awareness Month
What is eczema?
Eczema is a non-contagious (contrary to popular belief) inflammatory rash identified by itching and redness. There are several different types of eczema but the most common types are:
Atopic Dermatitis: often chronic and associated with a family history.
Contact dermatitis: a result of skin contact with an allergen or irritating substance.
Who is affected by eczema?
Eczema can affect anyone at any age, although it is often seen in infants and young children.
What causes eczema?
No true cause of eczema has been determined but there are varying theories as to why it occurs. Atopic dermatitis can be the result of food sensitivities or intolerance's to things like gluten, dairy, eggs and soy. Eczema can also occur because of certain deficiencies to nutrients like zinc, selenium, and essential fatty acids. There is also evidence that stress can aggravate eczema symptoms.
How to ease symptoms of eczema?
- Moisturize the skin with coconut oil, calendula or essential fatty acids after a bath or shower.
- Test for food sensitivities and intolerance through a qualified professional.
- Consume 6-8 glasses of water each day to support skin and overall health.
- Avoid pro-inflammatory foods like refined sugar, fried foods and red meat.
- Increase your intake of leafy green vegetables.
- Applying Aloe Vera topically may sooth inching and inflamed skin.
- Avoid harsh chemical-based soaps.
- Find ways to manage or decrease stress.
- We are big fans of Glacier Mountain soap and lotion for easing eczema symptoms.
What supplements can help?
- Probiotics will help to support gut and immune function.
- Zinc helps to balance copper, which many eczema suffers are often too high in.
- Essential fatty acids are anti-inflammatory.
- Digestive enzymes may help to alleviate digestive issue caused by the consumption of allergens.