You can’t be angry with your four-legged friend, even though it pees on your shoes, scratches your furniture and breaks your favourite vase. That’s how much you love your dog. Have you ever thought about whether it loves you or not? In this article, we show you 4 signs that your dog loves you.
People and dogs: an unbeatable team! Dogs have been considered faithful companions of humans for thousands of years. Scientists assume that humans and wolves came closer together as early as about 15,000 to 20,000 years ago. The wolf quickly evolved into the dog – the beginning of a long friendship. Today, dogs are inseparable from humans and firmly integrated into our society. Some dogs even have real jobs. For example, some of the furry noses work as guides for the blind, at customs and in the police and drug squad.
4 signs that your dog loves you
1. Your dog greets you effusively.
Your dog jumps, bounces, wags his tail and whines with joy when you come home? These are clear signs that your furry friend has missed you very much – and is correspondingly happy about your return. It can be enough to take out the rubbish for a moment to trigger the animal dance of joy. Your dog just can’t help himself – and needs to express his love and affection.
2. Your dog is completely infatuated with your shoes and socks.
Your dog loves your shoes and worn socks and regularly pulls them off the shelf or laundry basket? You probably find this behaviour rather annoying, but your dog is demonstrating his affection. Because: For dogs, smells are enormously important. And hardly anything smells as strongly of its master as sweaty socks or old shoes.
3. Your dog shares his favourite toy with you.
Whether it’s a squeaky bone, a stuffed duck or simply a worn blanket, most dogs have an absolute favourite toy that they don’t like to share. When your dog voluntarily brings you his favourite toy, it’s a real sign of love.
4. Your dog uses you as a leaning point.
Dogs only lean on a person when you can trust them. Because then they seek closeness and affection. This behaviour can occur, for example, in everyday life or when going for a walk. Or when your dog is anxious or nervous. It means: I feel safe with you because I know you will protect me.
We love our pets. We love them so much that they are often considered members of the family. They are also considered best friends and confidants.
You can check out our other useful articles about animals here.
If your scalp suddenly itches excessively, an infestation of head lice may be the cause. To feed on our blood, the tiny parasites nest in our hair. Read this article to find out which signs indicate an infestation of head lice and how you can treat it effectively.
What are head lice?
Head lice are widespread in any country, and children between the ages of three and twelve, in particular, are often infected due to close physical contact. Outbreaks occur mainly in schools, mainly between late summer and early autumn. But they can also be found in adults who have close contact with children. Head lice are not transmitted via objects or pets such as dogs and cats.
They are small, wingless insects that are usually only 2 to 3 millimetres in size. Since head lice feed on blood, they bite our scalp and cause an unpleasant itch.
An infestation of head lice should generally not be taken as a sign of poor hygiene. The nits nest in both dirty and clean hair. The length of the hair is also irrelevant and does not influence on the risk of infection. However, head lice are more difficult to detect in thick, curly hair.
Signs of head lice
The following symptoms show how an infestation with head lice manifests itself:
Severe itching, which increases especially at night. This is because head lice are nocturnal.
The feeling that something is moving in the hair.
Bites and puncture marks on the scalp.
The eggs – also called nits – of head lice stick firmly to the scalp, usually in warmer places like behind the ears or on the back of the neck. The nits are easily confused with dandruff. Unlike dandruff, however, they are not so easy to remove from the hair.
Head lice treatment
Simply washing your hair is not enough to remove lice from your head. To effectively remove the lice from the hair, you should get a special lice comb, which is available in pharmacies or drugstores. Wet the hair and carefully comb through each section from the roots to the tips. After each strand, you should wipe the comb with a clean kitchen towel. When you have combed through the entire head, you should rinse the comb thoroughly under hot water.
In addition to the treatment with the lice comb, you should apply a special lice remedy with dimethicone, a silicone oil. This agent coats the lice and their eggs with a thick layer of oil and suffocates them. Dimethicone contains no poison – it is used in many cosmetic products and food production. You should repeat the treatment after about 7 to 10 days, as some lice may survive the first treatment.
By the way: The use of insecticides is not recommended, as the aphids have built up resistance to the active substances in the meantime.
Combating head lice: What else you should consider
In addition to direct treatment of the infested scalp, you should also take other accompanying measures:
Family members should also be thoroughly checked for head lice and treated if necessary.
Wash used bed linen and worn clothing such as pyjamas and towels at least 60 degrees.
Clothing as well as items such as cuddly toys that cannot be washed hot should be kept in a sealed plastic bag for three days. Alternatively, you can put them in the freezer for two days.
Clean used brushes and hair clips with hot water and soap and do not use them for a few days.
Upholstered furniture such as sofas and armchairs should be thoroughly vacuumed.
Head lice prevention: The best tips
To prevent the transmission of head lice, you should avoid close body contact as much as possible. Since lice cannot jump or fly, they travel from one head of hair to the next. Sharing brushes and headgear can also transmit lice. Since especially children are affected by a lice infestation and therefore outbreaks occur again and again in day-care centres and schools, a regular check of the head of hair with a lice comb can also be useful as a preventive measure.
You can check out our other useful articles about health here.
Sometimes our shoes smell and this smell can be a very unpleasant situation in society. Especially in the summer months, when the heat increases, we encounter smelly shoes more often. In this article, we explain how shoe odour occurs and what precautions you can easily take at home against smelly shoes.
What are the causes of smelly shoes?
The most common causes of shoe odor are bacteria and sweat. Sweat in itself is initially odourless, even on the feet. The unpleasant odour develops when the bacteria it contains come into contact with the air. Bacteria thrive in damp areas, so they are more likely to be found on your feet and shoes. Sweat is another reason why shoes smell, as it contains salt, which can make the area smell like a dead animal. And especially in summer, many people sweat more on their feet. This creates the typical stench, which can also spread to the shoes.
How to prevent smelly shoes
One way to avoid shoe odour is to wear socks with your shoes or to wear sandals instead of closed shoes when you are outside for a long time. You should also wash and dry your feet thoroughly before putting on socks and shoes, or wear cotton socks that absorb sweat. If the smell is coming from your feet, it may be due to a fungal infection.
The key to avoiding smelly shoes is to keep them clean and dry. It is important to wash your shoes and insoles every few weeks. You can also use a disinfectant spray on the inside of your shoes. Keep your shoes in a cool and dry place, preferably on a shoe rack or shelf. Dry your shoes between wears by letting them air out for a few hours. A popular way to avoid smelly shoes is to store them in containers or bags with lids. This keeps the insides and outsides of the shoes clean and dry and prevents odour-causing bacteria from forming.
How to Clean Smelly Shoes – 3 Home Remedies for Unwanted Odour
1. Peels of citrus fruits
Especially the peels of oranges and lemons help against shoe odour. To do this, remove the peel of fresh fruit from the pulp and place it in your shoes overnight. The peel contains natural essential oils that make the unpleasant smell disappear.
2. Baking powder
Baking powder is a real all-rounder and popular household remedy. The baking soda can, for example, remove a yellow tinge in the hair or whiten the teeth. Baking soda is also effective against stinky shoes and neutralises unpleasant odours. To do this, sprinkle a packet into the affected shoes and leave the agent to work overnight. The next morning, simply tap it out or use a hoover.
3. Baby powder
Let’s stick to powdered home remedies. Baby powder works similarly to baking soda, absorbing moisture and thus drying the shoes. Again, it is advisable to use it overnight: Apply a generous amount of powder to the shoes, let it soak in and tap it out the next day. This home remedy is particularly effective for shoes that are usually worn without socks, such as climbing shoes.
You can check out our other useful articles about lifestyle here.
Vitamin B is a group of water-soluble vitamins that have been shown to have a several important health benefits. Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B10, B11 and B12 are generally grouped under the name of group B vitamins. We show you the functions of B vitamins and which foods contain the most vitamin B.
How vitamin B helps us
B vitamins are one of the most important vitamin groups for humans. Our body needs vitamin B for the brain, the nervous system and the muscles, among other things, but also many different metabolic processes as well as strong skin and plump hair. Most B vitamins can be covered by food, e.g. whole grain products. Only vegetarians and vegans need to pay attention to the supply of vitamin B12 (cobalamin), even though vitamin B12 and vitamin B3 can be stored in the body. The other B vitamins are excreted by the body when the daily dose is exceeded.
The best foods with vitamin B
In your daily diet, make sure you have an adequate intake of vitamin B to meet your daily needs. Therefore, reach for these foods more often to meet your needs!
Fruits and vegetables
Bananas
Avocado
Spinach
Peas and lentils
Kale
Broccoli
Whole grains, nuts and seeds
Wheat germ
Whole grain bread
Sunflower seeds
Sesame seeds
Meat and fish
Mackerel
Oysters
Veal
Beef
Chicken
Herring
1. Oysters
They are somewhat more expensive, but with around 15 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams, they are an absolute supplier of vital nutrients. With 7 milligrams of iron, 100 grams of mussels cover half of the recommended daily requirement.
2. Lamb’s lettuce
It is harvested from October to April and is a surprising vitamin bomb: Lamb’s lettuce contains 145 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams as well as 380 micrograms of vitamin B3, 250 micrograms of B5 and 200 micrograms of B6.
Tip: Consume quickly after purchase, otherwise precious vitamins are lost.
3. Chicken
It is low in fat, high in protein and contains about 0.1 milligrams of vitamin B1, 0.2 milligrams of vitamin B2 and 0.3 milligrams of vitamin B6. With 23 grams of protein per 100 grams, it saturates for a long time and contributes to muscle maintenance.
4. Sesame seeds
Sesame seeds are very rich in vitamin B, as 100 grams contain 0.79 milligrams of vitamin B6, 0.97 micrograms of folic acid, 0.25 milligrams of vitamin B2 and 1.41 milligrams of vitamin B5. They are very rich in fiber, but also very high in calories due to their high fat content.
5. Kale
It provides about 1000 micrograms of vitamin B5 and 47 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams. At the same time, kale has 4.3 grams of protein per 100 grams, which makes it not only a vitamin bomb but also one of the most protein-rich cabbages. It is in season from November to February and is often prepared with Mettenden and Kasseler during the Christmas season.
6. Turkey breast
It provides 11.3 mg of vitamin B3 per 100 grams and is also low in fat. Turkey breast also provides 0.11 mg of vitamin B2 and 0.59 mg of vitamin B5 per 100 grams.
7. Endive salad
It’s delicious, especially in winter, and with 109 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams, it’s a real homocysteine eater. When the amino acid is present in elevated concentrations in the body, serious illnesses can result. Elevated homocysteine levels are caused by folic acid and vitamin B-12 deficiency, excessive coffee consumption, obesity, nicotine, lack of exercise and excessive alcohol consumption.
8. Mackerel
In 100 grams of fatty sea fish, there are 0.31 milligrams of vitamin B6, 0.43 milligrams of vitamin B2 and 7.3 micrograms of vitamin B12. But also 0.3 to 1.6 grams of omega-3 fatty acids, which keep the cardiovascular system going and weaken chronic inflammation, as well as keep the brain fit.
9. Veal
It is very lean and contains 0.56 milligrams of vitamin B6 per 100 grams, as well as 0.26 milligrams of vitamin B2. Tip: White to pale pink meat is usually of inferior quality. This is because the calves are fed milk and straw instead of hay and grass.
10. Sunflower seeds
Small seeds, big power – they are bursting with vitamin B6: 100 grams contain 1.27 milligrams. They consist of over 90 percent healthy unsaturated fatty acids and contain plenty of the fat-soluble vitamins A and E.
11. Lentils
The protein-rich legumes provide a proud 0.58 milligrams of vitamin B6 and 0.45 milligrams of vitamin B1. 100 grams consist of almost a quarter of protein, which makes them particularly suitable for a vegetarian and vegan diet.
12. Beef
Even a small steak covers the daily requirement with 5 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams. Cattle process the mineral cobalt in their rumen into cobalamin (vitamin B12). In addition, 100 grams of lean beef fillet contain 2.3 milligrams of iron and 3.2 milligrams of zinc.
13. Bananas
They contain about 0.36 milligrams of vitamin B6 per 100 grams. Depending on the degree of ripeness, it has a low or high sugar content, which provides energy quickly, especially during sports. The starch of the banana also satiates.
14. Soft cheese
Depending on the variety, it is an excellent source of B12 with 3 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams. It also contains a lot of calcium, which is incorporated into the bones with the help of vitamin D. This stabilizes the bones and protects against osteoporosis. This stabilizes the bones, which protects against osteoporosis.
15. Spinach
With 145 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams, it makes you really fit and also contains a lot of vitamin C and beta-carotene. You can also use spinach to make healthy shakes.
16. Herring
This fatty fish provides vital omega-3 fatty acids as well as 8.5 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams, 5 micrograms of vitamin B5 and 0.45 milligrams of vitamin B6. Herring also contains iodine and selenium, which support thyroid function.
17. Avocado
Do not be afraid of the fruit with the highest fat content. It contains 0.27 milligrams of vitamin B6 per 100 grams. And its valuable monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids help lower cholesterol.
18. Brussels sprouts
The green florets should be cooked in as little salted water as possible so as not to destroy their valuable folic acid content of 182 micrograms per 100 grams. In addition, Brussels sprouts contain 1.4 milligrams of iron per 100 grams, more than twice as much as 100 grams of chicken breast.
19. Mussels
Not only are they super tasty, but they also contain 14 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams. They also contain 4.2 grams of iron, which we need for optimal blood formation.
20. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a highly underrated vegetable. Besides 125 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams, it contains a lot of vitamin C and minerals. If it has brown spots, it has been stored incorrectly and has already lost vitamins as a result. To make it last longer, simply remove the leaves and place them in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator. There it will stay fresh for several days.
21. Liver
With 70 to 80 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams, it is the best B12 supplier of all. It also contains vitamin B5, which is very important for fat metabolism. People with iron deficiency should also regularly turn to the liver (pork), as it contains up to 15 milligrams of iron per 100 grams.
22. Wheat germ
They provide 304 micrograms of folic acid per 100 grams – a record! At the same time, by eating sprouts we take in 0.5 milligrams of vitamin B6 and 2 milligrams of vitamin B1, which support the effect of folic acid. Other sprouts, such as bean sprouts, are also a good source of folic acid.
23. Salmon
Salmon is particularly rich in vitamin B3. 100 grams of fish contains 7990 micrograms, which is a good half of the recommended daily intake. In addition, salmon contains the B vitamins B1, B2, B6, B9 and B12. A real vitamin B package for health!
24. Potatoes
Potatoes are not only delicious and versatile but are also full of vitamins in addition to valuable minerals and trace elements. In addition to vitamin C, the tuber contains the B vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5 and B6. Particularly many nutrients are retained when the potato is prepared as jacket potatoes, fried potatoes or in the oven.
25. Mushrooms
Mushrooms are low in calories due to their high water content. Nevertheless, they are rich in vitamins and nutrients. In them, there is especially a lot of vitamin B3 (5200 micrograms per 100 grams), but also a lot of vitamin B5. Vitamins B1, B2 and B6 are present in mushrooms in smaller quantities. If they are prepared gently, many of the vitamins are preserved!
How much vitamin B do I need?
There are a total of eight different B vitamins: B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folic acid) and vitamin B12 (cobalamin). They all belong to the group of water-soluble vitamins, which is why the body cannot store them – except for vitamin B2 and vitamin B12 – and excretes them in the urine. Therefore, it is important to cover the daily requirement with food or, if necessary, with food supplements.
The daily requirement for women and men is as follows:
Recommended daily requirement of vitamin B
Vitamin B
Women
Men
B1
1,0 µg
1,1 – 1,3 µg
B2
1,0 – 1,1 mg
1,3 – 1,4 mg
B3
11- 13 mg
14 – 16 mg
B5
6 mg
6 mg
B6
1,4 – 1,6 mg
1,2 mg
B7
30 – 60 µg
30 – 60 µg
B9
300 µg
300 µg
B12
4,0 µg
4,0 µg
Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
Vitamin B1 is an important component in the metabolisation of carbohydrates and has a high influence on the nervous system. For example, it determines how well the muscles react to impulses.
Vitamin B1 deficiency:
Symptoms of a vitamin B1 deficiency can include indigestion and lack of appetite. Tiredness and depressive moods are also indications of an undersupply of vitamin B1.
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
Vitamin B2 ensures that the brain is supplied with glucose. It also maintains the respiratory system and protects the red blood cells.
Vitamin B2 deficiency:
A deficiency manifests itself, among other things, in torn corners of the mouth, as well as inflammation of the oral mucosa and inflammatory skin changes. A vitamin B2 deficiency can promote cataracts.
Vitamin B3 (niacin)
Vitamin B3 is involved in numerous metabolic processes in the body, e.g. the production of fatty acids.
Vitamin B3 deficiency:
A deficiency is very rare in our latitudes. However, should it occur, a deficiency manifests itself in loss of appetite and general weakness. A permanent undersupply of niacin can trigger the disease pellagra, which can manifest itself in dermatitis, diarrhoea and dementia.
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)
Vitamin B helps the body convert food into usable energy. It is involved in producing important substances such as long-chain fatty acid, provitamin D, bile acid, cholesterol and certain amino acids. Pantothenic acid has proved particularly useful in skin and hair care. Together with vitamin B7, it ensures full hair and clearer skin.
Vitamin B5 deficiency:
A deficiency only occurs in cases of severe malnutrition and alcohol abuse. It manifests itself as a painful burning and tingling sensation in the feet.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine helps in the production of serotonin, dopamine, histamine and haemoglobin, the pigment of red blood cells. It also supports fat metabolism and regulates the immune system. Vitamin B6 is also said to be effective for morning sickness and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Vitamin B6 deficiency:
Symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency include acne, inflamed corners of the mouth, fatigue and sensitivity to light.
Vitamin B7 (biotin)
Vitamin B7 is mainly known for its supportive effect on hair growth. It also strengthens finger and toenails, supports energy metabolism, normalises cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels and prevents gestational diabetes.
Vitamin B7 deficiency:
Classic symptoms of a biotin deficiency are hair loss, scaly, red skin rash, cracked corners of the mouth, depression, nausea, weakness and listlessness.
Vitamin B9 (folic acid)
Vitamin B9 affects cell division in the bone marrow and helps in the formation of new blood cells. Folic acid is especially recommended for pregnant women, as a deficiency can lead to malformations of the central nervous system such as open back (spina bifida) in the unborn child.
Vitamin B9 deficiency:
Since the vitamin can only be stored in small amounts by the body, a deficiency is quite common. In pregnant women, a folic acid deficiency can favour premature births. A deficiency can also influence cardiovascular diseases.
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin)
Vitamin B12 – also known as cobalamin – is involved in the development of nerve cells in the spinal cord. It affects many reactions in protein and nucleic acid metabolism and supports the absorption of folic acid into the red blood cells.
Vitamin B12 deficiency:
Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include cell division disorders in the skin and mucous membranes, muscle weakness, fatigue, poor concentration and memory, headaches, migraines, depression, hair loss, allergies and degeneration of the optic nerve. The doctor can recognise a B12 deficiency from your blood values, e.g. from larger amounts of the amino acid homocysteine.
You can check out our other useful articles about health here.
What are the differences between macOS and Windows?
The operating system is the software that runs on a computer and controls how it operates. It is responsible for controlling the interaction between hardware and software and providing a user interface for the user. Although there are many different types of operating systems, two of the most popular ones are Windows and macOS.
Windows is an operating system developed by Microsoft Corporation that was initially released in 1985. The first version was called “Windows 1.0”, but the name was later changed to “Windows 3.1” in 1993 with a significant update to its graphical user interface (GUI). Windows 11 is currently available as Microsoft’s latest release of their flagship operating system, which has been available since October 5th, 2021.
macOS is an operating system developed by Apple. It was first released on January 24, 1984. The system initially had a graphical user interface that was quite different from the command line interfaces of other systems such as MS-DOS. The system had an innovative mouse-based user interface and a hierarchical file system with folders that were represented by icons.
The macOS operating system has been updated over the years to keep up with changes in computer technology, but it remains a proprietary software that is not compatible with other operating systems.
What are the similarities between macOS and Windows?
There are many similarities between Mac and Windows.
Both operating systems use basic hardware components.
macOS and Windows systems use both wired and wireless mouse and keyboard.
macOS and Windows operating systems have similar user interfaces, such as clicking applications to save and run applications on the desktop and browsing files in folders.
Virtual assistants are available on both operating systems. Siri is used on the MacBook system and Cortona on the Windows system.
The cloud systems Dropbox, box.net and Google Drive are allowed on both systems.
Common browsers like Safari, Chrome and Firefox are used in both operating systems.
Documents created with Microsoft Office and other office suites can be viewed on Mac and Windows systems.
User Interface
The user interface is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an operating system. macOS has a sleek and intuitive interface with easy-to-use features. Windows, on the other hand, has a more complex interface with a steeper learning curve.
Software Availability
One of the biggest advantages of Windows is the availability of software. Because Windows is used in so many computers, there is a huge range of software available that is compatible with the operating system. However, MacOS has a more curated and streamlined selection of software.
Price
Price is an important factor to consider when choosing an operating system. macOS is only available on Apple’s Mac computers, which tend to be more expensive than computers running Windows. On the other hand, Windows is available on a wide range of computers, including budget options.
Which operating system is more secure?
This is a question that has been the topic of many discussions and debates. The truth is, there are no clear winners. One operating system might be more secure than the other in one area, but less secure in another. It all depends on what your needs are and what you’re looking for from your operating system.
Which OS is easier to use?
Windows is a very popular operating system for a wide range of devices. It has been on the market for more than 30 years and has constantly evolved to meet the needs of users.
Windows is easier to use because it offers more features and customization options than Mac OS. Windows also has a better track record when it comes to security, which is an important issue these days.
macOS is not as popular as Windows, but it has some advantages over Windows in terms of design and user interface. OS X’s user interface is minimalist in design and generally takes up less screen space than Windows.
Conclusion
Choosing which operating system to use is a personal decision, depending on what you want and need. If you are looking for a sleek and intuitive interface with stable performance, MacOS may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you are a player or require a broader range of software options, then Windows may be the better choice.
You can check out our other useful articles about technology here.
Painkillers like ibuprofen are a quick and easy solution. However, they are not healthy for your body in the long run. We show you proven herbal home remedies that can relieve your pain without any side effects. Here are the best natural painkillers.
Medicines and their side effects
Nowadays, medicines are quickly and easily available at the pharmacy, even over the counter, without proper communication of the correct dose or duration of treatment. Ibuprofen is one of the most commonly used medicines. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to relieve pain, reduce fever, and reduce inflammation. It is sometimes taken for headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, or menstrual cramps. However, as with other medicines, taking ibuprofen can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea or constipation and put a strain on your health. Ibuprofen may also cause dizziness or drowsiness. If the symptoms are not too severe, you should therefore resort to herbal, natural remedies.
Herbal painkillers and their effect
It does not always have to be conventional painkillers that help us with severe pain. Remedies from nature have been around since time immemorial, a healing effect is also confirmed and usually also solves the problem. People use them not only because they are natural, but also because they work naturally and do not burden the body with side effects. As a chronically ill person, you should of course constantly consult your doctor. However, the additional intake of natural painkillers can usefully complement therapy and alleviate your complaints.
Important: As long as the complaints remain within limits, natural remedies help to relieve our pain. If there is no significant improvement after taking the home remedies, you should ask a doctor for advice.
Top 8 Natural Painkillers: The Best Alternatives to Ibuprofen
1. Arnica against pain
Arnica is a now widespread and commonly used plant, known especially for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. It is particularly helpful for muscle aches and tears, bumps, stomach aches, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammation.
You should only use arnica externally and not ingest it. To use, pour a cup of warm water over a teaspoon of arnica. Then apply the active ingredient to the affected areas with a clean cloth.
2. Ginger against pain
Many people know that ginger is healthy and strengthens the immune system – but the fact that it can also be taken for pain is certainly new to some. Besides strengthening the immune system, ginger has an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving function, similar to the active ingredients of arnica.
Ginger can be used externally, especially for sprains, arthritis, general inflammation and carpal tunnel syndrome. To do this, cut off a piece of ginger, pour warm water over it and let it steep for about five minutes. Then dab it on the affected area with a cloth and the natural treatment is ready.
If you suffer from nausea, ginger can also help. Eat a small piece of ginger to stimulate your appetite and keep your gastrointestinal tract going.
3. Turmeric against pain
The natural active ingredient turmeric is anti-inflammatory and keeps our joints healthy. Therefore, the medicinal plant has a pain-relieving effect on arthrosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Simply refine your dishes with turmeric, which goes particularly well with oriental dishes such as curry. Golden milk is particularly popular and beneficial to health. A drink that consists of plant milk, turmeric, ginger and a few other ingredients. In Ayurvedic teachings, Golden Milk has been considered healing, stimulating and cleansing drink for centuries. Turmeric milk relieves discomfort in the joints, supports digestion and strengthens the immune system. If you don’t like turmeric in a dish or as milk, you can also take the active ingredient in highly concentrated capsule or powder form.
4. Liquorice against pain
Before you start taking liquorice, you should first talk to your doctor about it. If he sees no objections to the treatment with liquorice, you can easily buy liquorice as a tablet, cream or capsule in pharmacies or health food shops and take it instead of conventional painkillers. However, the active ingredient of the medicinal plant should be avoided in cases of high blood pressure, potassium deficiency, type II diabetes, hepatitis and during pregnancy. The reason: the substance increases blood pressure, cortisol levels and the permeability of the placenta so that the healthy development of the hormone glands and the brain of the unborn child is disturbed.
5. Cayenne pepper for pain
The natural plant cayenne pepper is not only a treat for the taste buds but also has an anti-inflammatory effect. Nevertheless, you should bear in mind that cayenne pepper is hot and very tasty, not everyone can tolerate the spiciness. Avoid contact with mucous membranes and spare your eyes. If you don’t want to use it as a powder, you can buy it as an ointment, cream or oil essence in health food stores.
If you prefer the powder for treatment, pour 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper over hot water and drink small sips throughout the day. If you have decided to use the ointment, apply it carefully to the affected area. Wash your hands thoroughly afterwards or use gloves from the beginning. Otherwise, unpleasant side effects such as a strong burning sensation may occur.
6. Willow bark against pain
Willow bark has an analgesic effect. It is often used as a natural painkiller for headaches, muscular and menstrual complaints. However, willow bark, e.g. as a tea, also helps with fever and with arthrosis and arthritis. If you are allergic to the drug aspirin, we advise you against treatment with willow bark, because both willow bark and aspirin contain salicylic acid, to which some people are allergic.
7. Peppermint oil against pain
Peppermint oil is also a real all-rounder among natural painkillers. It not only helps with digestive complaints and irritable bowel syndrome but also with tension headaches and muscle pain. The reason for this is probably the ingredients contained in the oil, which stimulate the cold receptors of the skin and make the pain fibres less sensitive. If you want to take advantage of this effect, massage the diluted oil directly onto the painful area.
8. Onions against pain
Onions are not only known for their flavourful seasoning, but also as a well-known household remedy for sore throats, earaches and insect bites. The onion acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and has an antibacterial, analgesic and germicidal effect. For sore throats or coughs, you can therefore mix onion juice with honey and take it regularly.
You can also use onions for a painful middle ear infection. Cut an onion into small pieces and wrap it in a cloth handkerchief. Then place the onion bag on your ear. The onion relieves the discomfort and has a decongestant effect.
Food as a natural painkiller
Remedies such as arnica, turmeric and ginger not only serve us as effective natural painkillers. Foods can also alleviate inflammation. Especially plant-based omega-3 sources rebalance the ratio of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Therefore, eat walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, flaxseeds and dark green leafy vegetables regularly, as well as vegetable oils such as olive and linseed oil. Fatty fish can also be on the menu once a week, e.g. salmon, sardines and trout. Try it out!
You should avoid white flour products as much as possible because of the large amounts of omega-6 fatty acids. Animal products should only be eaten in moderation, as the purines they contain can attack your joints and lead to gout.
You can check out our other useful articles about health here.
Do you suffer from nausea and simply feel unwell? There is not necessarily a serious cause behind these complaints. In this article, we explain tested home remedies that will help you get rid of the queasy feeling in your stomach quickly.
Nausea is a feeling of unease and discomfort in the stomach. It can be caused by many different things, such as food poisoning or intolerance, side effects of medication, motion sickness, anxiety or pregnancy. In addition to nausea, other symptoms may include headaches, dizziness and diarrhoea. When vomiting occurs, it is usually unpleasant but nothing more than a normal reaction of the body.
Quick help for nausea
If you suffer from nausea, you don’t always have to see a doctor. The symptoms can also be relieved with simple home remedies. However, if nausea occurs more frequently and lasts longer, you should consult a doctor and have it checked out. The same applies if the nausea is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, heartache and dizziness. In a serious case, the symptoms can indicate a stroke or heart attack. Therefore, prevention is still the best precaution for your health.
In the following sections, you will learn which home remedies are the best way to combat nausea and malaise.
Abstaining from certain foods
Spicy and fatty foods irritate and strain the stomach even more and can make nausea worse. For this reason, you should avoid them. The same applies to convenience foods and sweet, sugary foods like chocolate. If you also suffer from vomiting, give your stomach a short break and avoid eating for the most part. As soon as you feel better, you can eat foods that are easy on your stomach again. For example, mashed potatoes and bananas or rusks are suitable.
Ginger helps against nausea
Ginger is not only a great tip for colds, but the healthy tuber can also help with nausea. The essential oils of the all-rounder relieve nausea and nausea and promote digestion. Either chew on a piece of ginger or brew the tuber as a tea.
Carrots help quickly against nausea
Fibre helps to relieve nausea. Carrots contain a lot of fibre, which binds toxins in the intestines and thus plays its part in relieving nausea. Carrot porridge or a fresh carrot soup are just a few of the many recipe ideas.
Lemons are good for nausea
Both the smell and the taste of a fresh lemon can dispel nausea. Those who dare can suck directly on a slice of lemon, for all others a glass of water mixed with fresh lemon juice is recommended. Drink it in small sips.
Apple cider vinegar helps against nausea
Not particularly tasty, but effective for mild nausea: apple cider vinegar, stimulates the metabolism and has an antibacterial effect. Mix one tablespoon with about 250 ml of water and drink the liquid in small sips.
Herbal teas provide quick relief from nausea
Herbal teas are particularly popular home remedies for nausea. A tea made from caraway, chamomile, fennel, anise or peppermint relieves nausea and vomiting and has a calming effect on the digestive tract.
Peppermint, for example, contains essential oils in its leaves, most of which is menthol. Drinking a cup of warm peppermint tea not only stimulates digestion but also has a relaxing effect. Prepare the tea rather thinly and not too strong so that the menthol does not put additional strain on the stomach.
Fresh air helps with nausea
If you feel shaky on your feet, fresh air can work wonders. A short walk, proper ventilation or simply an open balcony door can relieve nausea and possible vomiting. Breathe the fresh air slowly and deeply. This relaxes the whole body.
Warm compresses for the stomach
Warm compresses with certain ingredients such as healing clay, peppermint or camomile also help well with nausea. Oil compresses with lavender are another alternative. The essential oil soothes and helps with discomfort.
Mix a good carrier oil (e.g. almond oil) with a few drops of lavender oil and warm the mixture. Then soak a cotton cloth with the oil, squeeze it out and place it on the stomach. Cover the poultice with another cloth and leave it on the stomach until it has cooled down.
Taking Schüßler salts for nausea
Schüßler salts are not a typical home remedy, but they are still helpful for nausea. You can resort to No. 2 Calcium phosphoricum, No. 4 Kalium chloratum, No. 7 Magnesium phosphoricum, No. 8 Natrium chloratum or No. 9 Natrium phosphoricum.
Acupuncture and acupressure for nausea
Pericardium 6 is the best-known point in acupuncture and acupressure for nausea. It is a point on the inside of the forearm, between the two palpable tendons. It is three fingers wide below the crease of the wrist. The discomfort can be relieved by placing special acupuncture needles on the pericardium 6 or by continuously simulating the acupuncture point with acupressure.
What helps against nausea after alcohol?
After a night of drinking, a hangover usually sets in the next morning. Typical complaints are severe headaches, dizziness and also nausea and vomiting. Alcohol stimulates the production of gastric juices and slows down digestion. This can irritate the stomach and lead to nausea. In addition, when alcohol is broken down, it is converted into acetic acid, which can also cause nausea.
To relieve your hangover symptoms, drink plenty of still water or unsweetened herbal tea in particular to replenish your fluid balance. In order not to irritate your stomach, even more, you should resort to wholesome, light foods such as salt sticks, rusks, broth or bananas. It also helps to rest. If you feel better and want to get your circulation going, go for a short walk.
What helps against nausea during pregnancy?
Especially in the first three months of pregnancy, many women suffer from nausea and vomiting. Pregnant women should therefore pay attention to a constant blood sugar level. If the blood sugar level drops, nausea can increase. For this reason, you should always have a few healthy snacks with you when you are out and about. Unsalted nuts and dried fruit are good choices. Adequate fluid intake also helps to relieve nausea. Pregnant women should therefore drink two to three litres a day. Regular exercise in the fresh air can also relieve morning sickness.
We, humans, are lazy these days. We sit in the office, we sit in the car, we sit on the train – and we also sit at home most of the time. Yet our bodies want to move. And it has to. At the turn of the year, many people resolve: “I’m going to do more sport this year! Because the holidays make themselves felt with extra belly or hip fat. Sort burns the most calories. But which sport is most effective? Jogging, Zumba or aerobics? In this article, we will explain which activity burns the most calories in the shortest time.
What are calories?
Put simply, you can think of the body as a stove. The calories are the wood that is thrown into the stove, and the energy we need to breathe and move is the heat that is produced when it burns. If too much wood is thrown into the stove, the fire burns like a blaze and warms more than the room needs. In this case, it usually helps to open the window to cool down. However, our body has no window to get rid of the excess energy. The “too much” is stored as fat and shows up as “hip gold” or “raccoon belly”.
Those who want to lose weight should know that only with a negative energy balance can the fat on the hips melt at all. This means that the body must be supplied with fewer calories than it consumes. But what are calories? They are an almost obsolete unit of measurement from thermodynamics. A calorie is the amount of energy needed to heat one millilitre of water from 14.5 to 15.5 degrees Celsius.
How does the body burn calories?
For the human body, the unit of measurement for burning fat is important. This is a constant process. In the process, the body gets the energy from food, which is then needed for muscle movement, body heat regulation, mental activity and many other things. Here, too, the vernacular often speaks of calories, but scientifically the energy requirement is expressed in kilocalories (Kcal) or (more modern) in joules (J). One kilocalorie is equal to 4.1868 kilojoules, one joule is equal to 0.239 calories.
However, energy is also needed for energy production. To break down the food and convert the fats, proteins and carbohydrates into energy, the body also has to make some effort. The remaining energy is called the “physiological calorific value”. The information on food packaging, therefore, refers to the energy that is ultimately available to the body from that food. For example, one gram of fat provides nine kilocalories, one gram of protein and one gram of carbohydrates each provides four kilocalories, and one gram of alcohol provides seven kilocalories. “Burning calories” is, therefore, in simplified terms, nothing more than the consumption of energy.
Why exercise is so important for losing weight
If you want to lose weight, you have two options: eat fewer calories or consume more through exercise. Experts always advise against short-term diets, because they are often followed by the unpopular yo-yo effect. Option two is therefore more sensible. Get moving! You burn calories both during and after exercise: Trained and larger muscles consume significantly more calories even when at rest.
Sport makes you smart and happy
During a training session, the brain receives significantly more oxygen and releases the hormone ACTH. This so-called creativity hormone lowers blood pressure and improves thinking and concentration. But the sport also makes you happy, because the happiness hormone serotonin is also released into the body in greater quantities during sport. And last but not least, sport makes you attractive. A well-toned body goes hand in hand with fresh, smooth skin and enhanced radiance. Sport also stimulates libido, lowers cholesterol, prevents diabetes and strokes, and so on. The list is almost endless.
Calorie consumption: What kind of exercise burns how many calories?
But which type of exercise is right for everyone? Those who have a choice are spoilt for choice because not every training session burns the same number of calories. Consumption also depends on other factors such as height, weight, age and training intensity. Therefore, the following are guidelines and may vary from person to person. Here are our top ten ways to burn the most calories in the shortest time:
High-intensity interval training (HIIT), e.g. Tabata: up to 700 Kcal/hour.
Jogging: up to 540 Kcal/hour
Strength training: up to 480 Kcal/hour
Tae-Bo: up to 460 Kcal/hour
Nordic walking: up to 440 Kcal/hour
Swimming: up to 435 Kcal/hour
Cycling: up to 410 Kcal/hour
Inline skating: up to 408 Kcal/hour
Cross-country skiing: up to 300 Kcal/hour
Zumba: up to 280 Kcal/hour
Undisputedly at the top of the list is high-intensity interval training – often abbreviated as HIIT. With intense intervals, such as those common in Tabata or circuit training, you burn by far the most calories. The reason is simple: short, high-intensity workouts throw our bodies out of balance – they have to adapt quickly. As a result, our muscle activity, breathing rate and heart rate increase. All this burns large amounts of calories. Especially the use of large muscle groups, e.g. thighs and buttocks, leads to high-calorie consumption.
But classic jogging also burns some calories. Those who put on their running shoes not only do something for the cardiovascular system and gain endurance but also burn an enormous number of calories. A 39-year-old test person, weighing 60 kilograms and 1.70 metres tall, burned 547 kilocalories per hour during a measurement in Cologne. However, jogging is only suitable for people with healthy joints. Those who do not want to or cannot run should switch to swimming or cycling.
Tae-Bo made it onto the list because it burns a particularly large number of calories during intensive training. This is because training with boxing elements involves, among other things, intensive arm movements. Simple walking is out today. Those who reach for the Nordic walking poles achieve a higher speed and also consume more energy. Inline skating is also comparable. Here, coordination is trained in addition to fitness.
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Hula hoops are fun and easy to use. They provide a full body workout and are great for strengthening muscles. They are also a great way to get in shape and burn calories. You can even use them in the office while you’re on the phone or waiting for an important email. We explain step by step how to learn hula hoop as a beginner.
Hula hoop: burn calories and strengthen muscles
It’s the fitness trend! We used to spin the hoop around our hips as kids, now we spin in the comfort of our own homes and have a lot of fun doing it. Besides, hula hooping is a real calorie killer – half an hour of hula hooping burns around 200 calories, which is the equivalent of running for 60 minutes on the treadmill. In addition, Hula-Hoop offers many other benefits:
Your endurance and fitness improve.
The movements improve the blood supply to your tissues and can make them firmer. The waist automatically looks narrower.
Your coordination and sense of balance are trained.
You train your abdominal, leg, arm, back and buttock muscles.
Hula Hoop can prevent back and neck pain.
Hula Hoop strengthens the pelvic floor and is therefore a great fitness tip for new mothers.
It also massages the internal digestive organs such as the intestines, which stimulates digestion.
Learning the Hula Hoop: These tips must be followed by beginners
But especially as a beginner or newcomer, the hula hoop does not stay on your hips and quickly falls to the ground! With these seven tips you will become a hula hoop queen in no time:
1. The right hula hoop
The right hoop size is crucial. Therefore, buy a hoop that reaches up to your belly button when you stand next to it. Your hula hoop should have a diameter of about one metre and a thickness of about two and a half centimetres. For the beginning, you should take a slightly heavier hula hoop that weighs at least a little more than one kilo – then hula hooping will be much easier for you. Make sure that the hoop is stable. It should not give or sag – this makes the hula hoop more difficult.
2. It depends on the clothes
Before you even start, you should choose the right clothes. Disturbing folds in the fabric can interfere with the swinging of the hoop. It is best if the belly is free or you wear a tight top. A waistband that is too high and thick can also make it difficult to spin around.
3. The starting position
Find a place where you have enough space to gyrate your hips and ring. Stand hip-width apart and position one foot further forward. For right-handers, this is usually the right foot. To have the most secure footing, it is best to stand barefoot.
4. The position of the ring
Get into the hoop and hold it at hip height. The back is straight while doing this. Important: Make sure that the hula hoop is held parallel to the floor. If you hold the hoop at an angle, the hoop will wobble around your hips.
5. The right hip movements
Give the hoop some momentum and move your hips and belly slightly back and forth. Beginners usually make the mistake of letting their hips gyrate wildly. Keep your hands above the hoop. You can either cross them in front of your chest or stretch them out to the side. If all this works, the hula hoop should swing in circular motions around your belly, backwards and forwards again.
6. The direction of rotation
You will notice right at the beginning in which direction the hoop spins better. In the beginning, stay on your “chocolate side”. Once you have more experience, you can try a change of direction. This may feel unusual at first and you may not be able to pull in the other direction at first. But don’t worry – with a little practice and time you will be able to swing the tyre in the other direction.
7. Straightening the ring
The more often and the longer you swing the hoop, the longer you will be able to keep it up. As your hoop slowly slides down, bend your knees slightly to give it a little more momentum.
Learning Hula Hoop: What to do if the hoop keeps tipping over?
Despite our tips, it doesn’t quite want to work and instead of circling your hips, the hula hoop keeps landing on the floor? Keep trying and don’t get discouraged. Give yourself enough time to get used to the new movements and internalise all the tips. With the hula hoop, it’s a bit like riding a bike. Eventually, you get the hang of it and it gets easier each time.
Pain and bruises after training?
At first, the hula hoop can be painful and cause a bruise or two. But over time, the connective tissue layer on the abdomen becomes firmer and bruising no longer occurs.
You can check out our other useful articles about fitness here.
Your gums are an important part of your mouth. It helps keep your teeth stable, cushions and protects your teeth from bacteria and food particles, and also produces a lot of salivae. Because these functions are so important to the health of your mouth, it’s best to take care of them throughout your life. If you do not take care of your gums, you may cause gum disease.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a serious oral health problem that can lead to tooth loss, bone damage and even death.
Gum disease is caused by bacteria in the mouth that can enter through small cuts or sores in the gums or through food debris on the teeth. The bacteria then produce acids that attack the gums and cause inflammation.
There are two main types of gum disease: Gingivitis and Periodontitis.
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that affects only the gums, not the bone or tissue around the gums.
Periodontitis is a more severe form and affects both the gums and the bone and surrounding tissue.
What are the Signs of Gum Disease?
Gum disease affects the gums and the tissues that hold the teeth in place. The signs of gum disease are not always visible to the naked eye. However, some symptoms can be seen by looking inside the mouth. These include: Bleeding gums, receding gums, pus between teeth and gums, loose teeth, bad breath, and sensitivity of teeth to hot or cold foods. If you pay proper attention, you can prevent gum disease.
5 ways you can prevent gum disease:
1) Dental Floss
Dental floss is a necessary task for healthy gums. It removes plaque from the teeth and from under the gum line. Plaque is a thin film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that dissolve tooth enamel and can lead to tooth decay. It is important to floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime, because food debris can also lead to bad breath and tooth decay. To floss, take dental floss between two fingers and wrap it around each tooth in an up-and-down motion.
2) Regular visits to the dentist
Regular dental cleanings are important for healthy gums because they remove plaque that has formed on the teeth. Plaque is the sticky, colorless film that forms on teeth every day. If left untreated, it hardens into tartar, which leads to gum disease and tooth loss. A dentist is a good person to contact for regular dental cleanings because he has all the necessary instruments for this.
3) Brush twice a day
It is important to brush your teeth twice a day. Brushing your teeth twice a day is the best way to maintain good dental health. You should brush your teeth for two minutes each time, using a toothbrush that is suitable for your gums. It is also a good idea to scrub your tongue, as it can harbour bacteria.
4) Use a fluoride toothpaste
Fluoride toothpaste is a great way to protect your teeth from cavities and tooth decay. It also helps fight gingivitis.
Fluoride toothpaste has been proven to reduce the risk of tooth decay by up to 40%. This is because the fluoride in the toothpaste helps remineralize the teeth and reduces plaque formation, which leads to the formation of tartar.
5) Therapeutic mouthwash
The mouth is the gateway to the body and therefore very important for our health. Therapeutic Mouthwash can be used as a preventive measure to reduce plaque, prevent or reduce gingivitis and remove food particles. It can also help slow the development of tartar. When plaque builds up on teeth, it can lead to gingivitis, which in turn can cause bad breath and tooth decay.
You can check out our other useful articles about health here.
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