Our
childhood never had the phrase “Eat Chocolate. Do Nothing.”, instead it always
was “Don’t. Eat. Chocolate.” And we today, as adults, still feel guilty about
eating it. But chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is made of more amounts of
cocoa, and cocoa needs to be a part of your diet for a healthy living. Let us
discuss why chocolate does not need to be your guilty pleasure.
Cocoa is
rich in minerals and antioxidants. This makes dark chocolate an excellent source
of magnesium, iron, and zinc. The health compounds in dark chocolate include
flavanols, polyphenols, and theobromine leading it to have abundant health
benefits.
Why Dark
Chocolate?
Dark
chocolate has more cocoa when compared to other types of chocolates. Milk
chocolate contains higher amounts of milk, sugar, and cocoa butter than dark
chocolate. Whereas dark chocolate on the other hand is filled with cocoa and
has less sugar.
According
to the USDA, one bar (101g) of dark chocolate contains:
Protein –
7.87 g
Fiber – 11 g
Iron – 12 mg
Magnesium –
230 mg
Potassium –
722 mg
Zinc – 3.34
mg
Health
Benefits of Dark Chocolate
1. Lower Blood
Pressure:
The high
amounts of flavanols present in dark chocolate stimulate the production of
nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide dilates and widens the blood vessels regulating
the vascular tone and blood flow. This makes the blood flow easier without any
stress, lowering the blood pressure levels.
2. Reduce
Cholesterol:
Polyphenols
and theobromine, the compounds that are present in dark chocolate can lower
low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and contribute to increasing the
levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in the body. But the common
term that is used for LDL cholesterol is “bad cholesterol” and the one for HDL
cholesterol is “good cholesterol”.
3. Reduce
Heart Disease:
The most
crucial factors that affect the heart are high blood pressure and high
cholesterol. But dark chocolate deals with both by lowering blood pressure and
reducing the cholesterol levels in the body. Consistently consuming dark
chocolate might diminish an individual's risk of developing heart disease.
4. Balance
Immune System:
The
flavonols in dark chocolate help reduce free radicals. This prevents the imbalance
in the immune system caused by cells fighting against free radicals.
5. Insulin
Resistance:
The seizure
of response from body’s cells to the hormone insulin is called insulin
resistance, leading to high levels of blood glucose, that may cause prediabetes
or type 2 diabetes.
6. Improve
Brain Function:
The flavonol
content present in cocoa improves blood flow to the brain, making it function
better. This helps in focusing more and prevents dementia.
7. Reduce
Stress:
Researchers have confirmed the reduction in the stress hormone cortisol in a person consuming dark chocolate regularly.
8. Anti-inflammatory:
The compounds
present in dark chocolate contain anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing
inflammation in the body.
Adding to
these, dark chocolate has antioxidants, can boost athletic performance,
and can benefit the gut microbe. Infusing dark chocolate into your diet can bring
many health benefits to your body. But consuming it at a moderate level is advisable
as they also contain high amounts of fat and calories.
We have all felt a cramp that
comes out of nowhere, a twist in the gut, a belly bloating after full meals,
and a dull pain that never goes away. Stomach Pain! Yes. At some point almost
everybody would have experienced stomach pain in their entire lives. Whether it’s
a cramp or a dull ache in the abdominal area, the discomfort that you feel will be
heavy. It can significantly affect your routine day. At times, the stomach can be due to some digestive issues, periods, cramps, etc. It is important that you get the attention of a medical professional if your stomach pain is unbearable.
Never self-medicate. Instead, you can try a few home remedies that don’t harm you in any way. They might soothe your pain and ease your discomfort. In this article, let us learn a few efficient home remedies for stomach pain.
One of the best ways to reduce and soothe stomach aches is by drinking more water and herbal teas. Warm water can help relax the abdominal muscles and improve digestion. Herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, or peppermint are particularly beneficial. Ginger tea is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties. Peppermint helps relieve bloating and gas, making it ideal for general discomfort or pain in the lower abs caused by indigestion.
Heat therapy is an age-old remedy that’s still effective today. Placing a heating pad or hot water bottle on your abdomen can relax the muscles and improve blood flow, reducing cramping or tension. This is especially useful for menstrual cramps or gas-related discomfort.
Tip: Always wrap the heating pad in a cloth to avoid burning your skin, and limit use to 15-20 minutes at a time.
When you're dealing with nausea, diarrhea, or general digestive upset, the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is a gentle way to keep your stomach calm while providing some nutrition. These bland, low-fiber foods help firm up stools and don’t irritate the stomach lining, making them excellent for recovery.
Avoid spicy, fatty, or dairy-rich foods during this period, as they can worsen symptoms.
For those suffering from acid reflux or heartburn, which can cause upper abdominal discomfort, a natural antacid might help. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) mixed with water can temporarily neutralize stomach acid. However, this is a short-term solution and should not replace prescribed stomach pain medicine.
Another option is chewing on a few basil leaves or drinking aloe vera juice—both are known for their stomach-soothing properties.
If you're experiencing bloating or gas that leads to pain in lower abs, light movement can help relieve the discomfort. Yoga poses like "Child’s Pose", "Knees-to-Chest", or "Supine Twist" can help stimulate digestion and reduce trapped gas. Walking for just 10-15 minutes can also help get things moving through your digestive system.
While ACV might not be ideal for all types of stomach pain, it can be effective for indigestion. A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed in warm water, taken before meals, may help regulate stomach acid levels. Be sure to drink it through a straw to protect your teeth, and always dilute it properly.
Sometimes, the best remedy is simply giving your body time to heal. Dehydration can make stomach symptoms worse, so sipping fluids throughout the day is key. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, and get plenty of rest. A relaxed body often leads to a calm gut.
While there are so many home remedies for stomach pain, they may help in mild cases. At times it is crucial to consult your doctor and get your symptoms checked to know if it is a common stomach pain or something that must be concerned about. Mostly, in case of stomach pain, you can consult a general physician or a gastroenterologist.
Consult a doctor if you experience:
These could be signs of a more serious condition like appendicitis, ulcers, gallstones, or gastrointestinal infections.
Home remedies basically are a great way to manage stomach pain and digestive discomforts. Just following a few simple things will help. For instance, having herbal teas, warm compress, and dietary changes will offer significant relief. Also, do not hesitate to consult your doctor if the symptoms persist or worsens. In a few cases, getting diagnosed professionally with proper medications will help fast recovery.
Tonsillitis is one of the most common ENT problems, especially among children and teenagers. In fact, many people experience it at least once in their lifetime. However, it can be difficult to differentiate between tonsillitis and other throat infections like strep throat, as the symptoms often overlap. If throat pain becomes persistent and starts interfering with daily activities, it is important to consult an ENT specialist. In this article, we will explore what tonsillitis is, along with its symptoms, causes, and available treatment options.
Tonsils are small, oval-shaped pads located at the back of your throat. They are part of the immune system and help to defend against the bacteria and viruses that enter your mouth. When an infection develops in the tonsils, it becomes inflamed or swollen, and this condition is called tonsillitis.
Tonsillitis can occur in two forms:
People who suffer from tonsillitis experience the following symptoms depending on the severity of the infection. This includes:
· Sore throat
· Fever
· Fatigue
· Bad breath
· Headache
· Difficulty swallowing
· Swollen and red tonsils
· Voice changes or hoarseness
· Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
· White or yellow coating on the tonsils
Tonsils are vulnerable to infections, even though a part of the immune system. When tonsils are infected by bacteria or viruses, it causes discomfort in the throat.
· Viruses such as Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Adenovirus can cause tonsillitis.
· Group A Streptococcus (GAS), Staphylococcus aureus are the most common bacteria that cause tonsillitis.
Other causes of tonsillitis are,
Second-hand smoke
Environmental pollutants
To identify tonsillitis, the healthcare provider takes the following steps to provide treatment.
Medical History: The ENT doctor evaluates the symptoms and their duration, and the recurrent history of throat infections.
In some cases, the ENT doctor might ask for some tests to identify tonsillitis. This test includes a throat swab, blood tests.
After identifying tonsillitis, the doctor provides appropriate treatment based on the severity of the tonsillitis.
Tonsillitis treatment is completely based on the cause. If it is by viral infection, the doctor may suggest taking proper rest, providing an Over-the-counter pain reliever, and a humidifier.
If tonsillitis is caused by bacterial infection, particularly Group A Streptococcus, doctors commonly prescribe antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin, and it is crucial to complete the full course of medication even if the symptoms begin to improve earlier.
In some severe and recurring cases, the doctor may suggest tonsillectomy, a procedure to surgically remove your tonsils.
People can reduce the chance of developing tonsillitis. Here are some tips that help to reduce tonsillitis:
In conclusion, tonsillitis is a common condition;
understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is essential for timely
and effective intervention. You cannot completely prevent tonsillitis, but you
can reduce the risk by following proper hygiene practices. If you suspect or
your throat pain becomes severe, do not hesitate to consult an ENT doctor to
prevent complications.
Famous for their speckled flesh and vibrant pink skin, dragon fruits, also called pitaya fruits, are an excellent tropical delight globally. These pitaya fruits have endless health benefits, more than just being a good-looking fruit inside. It is a powerhouse of antioxidants, nutrients, and hydration. So, does this pitaya fruit have side effects, too? Let’s check out.
This article explains dragon fruit, also known as pitaya fruit, its benefits, side effects, and more.
Pitaya fruits, commonly known as dragon fruit, are basically from a cactus species native to Central America. But today, it is a very well-known fruit throughout the Asian continent, the Caribbean, and Australia. The fruit is consumed in two common types: white-fleshed and red-fleshed; both contain black seeds. This pitaya or dragon fruit has numerous health benefits regardless of the type. Now, are you ready to get to know them in detail?
The following are a few proven health benefits of dragon or pitaya fruit. Keep reading!
With so many health benefits, dragon fruit is a magical delight everyone should include in
their healthy diet. This is the primary reason for the prominence of the pitaya
fruit’s health globally.
While dragon fruit's health benefits are impressive, there are a few mild and rare side effects to consider, mainly if you are a first-time dragon or pitaya fruit consumer.
Despite these dragon fruit side
effects, they are generally rare. Most people enjoy the benefits of dragon
fruit without any adverse outcomes.
Dragon fruit or pitaya fruit can be consumed in various forms. You can add it to salads, toasts, pancakes, salsa, desserts, and ice creams, make smoothies, or scoop it and eat it raw. In any form, it is crucial to have it often.
From improving digestion to boosting your immune system and skin health, the benefits of dragon fruit are truly commendable. Including it in your daily routine is an excellent addition to your health. This nutrient-rich and vibrant pitaya fruit is a delicious way to support your wellness naturally. With all these benefits, it is also crucial to consider its rare side effects to enjoy this tropical delight responsibly. So, enjoy dragon fruit based on your taste and preferences.
Cough Syrup is a ubiquitous OTC or prescription medicine that relieves cough caused by colds, flu, allergies, and other respiratory conditions. As it provides the best relief, knowing its uses, side effects, and dosage information is essential, particularly while giving it to kids. In this article, we will learn a few things about cough syrup for kids and cough syrup for adults in detail.
Cough Syrup Types
Cough syrups are broadly classified under two categories:
Along with these two, a few syrups contain both expectorant and suppressant properties to provide comprehensive relief.
Compared to adults, children are more prone to coughs due to allergies and infections. However, not all cough syrups are undoubtedly safe for children. Cough syrups for kids are compounded with minimal dosage and active ingredients containing natural extracts like ivy leaves and honey.
Cough syrups for adults contain more active ingredients and may include additional components such as antihistamines (for allergies) or decongestants (for nasal congestion).
Dosage Guidelines for Adults
While cough syrups are generally safe when used correctly, they can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include:
If any severe reactions occur, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.
When used correctly, cough syrup is one of the best ways to relieve cough and other discomfort associated with it. However, choosing the proper syrup—whether for kids or adults—and following dosage guidelines and precautions is crucial to ensuring safe usage. Always consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen despite medication. Using cough syrup responsibly allows you to manage your cough effectively without unnecessary risks.
Tinnitus, commonly called ringing in the ears, is an illness that affects many people globally. For some, it is a very minor inconvenience, while for others, it affects the quality of their lives. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and available tinnitus treatment options is essential for managing this condition effectively.
Tinnitus is a perception of noise or ringing in the ears with no external sound. It could manifest as a hissing, clicking, buzzing, or whistling sound. The frequency and severity of tinnitus vary from person to person. While it is not a disease, it often signals an underlying issue that requires attention and proper tinnitus treatment.
Tinnitus can result from various factors, including:
The primary symptom of tinnitus is hearing an internal sound that others cannot hear. The sound can be:
In severe cases, tinnitus can interfere with concentration, sleep, and daily activities, making tinnitus treatment necessary.
Even though there is no cure for tinnitus, several options will help treat the condition. The following are a few common approaches to managing tinnitus:
If the tinnitus condition remains or worsens, accompanied by symptoms like hearing loss, dizziness, or pain, consult your doctor immediately. An ENT specialist or audiologist can quickly diagnose and help get tinnitus treated effectively.
Tinnitus can be irritating and disruptive, but it can be easily managed with the proper treatment approach. From sound therapies and lifestyle changes to medical treatments, there are many options to recover from it. If you or someone you know is struggling with tinnitus, the best action is to consult a healthcare professional for a personalized treatment plan.
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