6 Health And Beauty Benefits Of Oat Milk

Growing up, we had milk in the house — but, my mom couldn’t drink cow’s milk, so we also often had a variety of non-dairy options. Cashew milk was the most common staple found in our fridge, but there’s another alternative that is taking the lactose-free world by storm.

I’m talking about oat milk, a vegan, non-dairy milk substitute that has a range of benefits. Not only will this “milk” support your health, it can also be used within your regular beauty regimen. Let’s check it out!

The rise of non-dairy alternatives
Plant-based nutrition is all the craze, and for good reason. As reported by Mintel, non-dairy milk sales have significantly grown over the past five years, increasing 61 percent since 2012. Of course, the most common options include almond, soy and coconut.

There have been a number of studies released in the past decade or so, which has largely influenced the perception of cow’s milk among consumers. In fact, Americans now drink approximately 37 percent less milk then they did in the 1970s.

When it comes to milk and other dairy products, in order to break down the lactose (the sugar found in milk), the enzyme lactase is required. When there is not enough of this enzyme present, lactose is broken down in the bowel, resulting in cramps, bloating, nausea and diarrhea.

It is said that around 70 percent of the population will not continue to produce lactase once we are finished breastfeeding (hence the term, lactose intolerant). From the use of growth hormones in dairy cattle to the environmental impact of cow milk production, many are now opting for non-dairy alternatives — including the new kid on the block, oat milk.

Oat milk will offer these six health and beauty benefits
In its most basic form, oat milk is essentially oats and water that have been blended together. Once strained, a smooth, creamy liquid is the end result. If you’re considering switching to oat milk, here’s why it is an optimal choice.

1. Helps you avoid the most common allergens
Being free of dairy, oat milk already protects those who cannot properly digest lactose. However, it is also ideal for those who suffer from a nut or soy allergy. Since oats are also typically gluten-free, it’s a great alternative for people with strict dietary restrictions.

2. Helps lower cholesterol
Oat milk yields a similar calorie content to cow’s milk. However, it is incredibly high in fiber, as well as beta-glucan. Since beta-glucan effectively binds to cholesterol (specifically LDL or “bad” cholesterol) as it passes through the gut, regular consumption could reduce your risk of heart disease.

3. Supports optimal well-being
When you break down the nutrient content of oat milk, you will benefit in so many ways. For those who are vegan, for instance, just one cup of oat milk yields around ten percent of your daily iron intake. In turn, this will reduce your risk of anemia.

Commercial oat milk is also often enriched with calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health. However, if you are going to purchase commercial varieties, be mindful of potential additives (as well as the sugar content). Overall, oat milk is said to boost immunity and supports a balanced diet.

4. Boosts skin health
Oat milk is nourishing for the skin. Based on its lipid and water content, oat milk offers moisturizing properties, removes impurities and helps eliminate dead skin cells. To combat acne, you can combine oat milk with raw honey. This face mask will leave your skin feeling fresh!

5. Provides relief after shaving
Whether you experience little red bumps or itchiness after shaving, oat milk can soothe your skin and provide nearly instant relief. In fact, many women take oat milk directly into the shower with them, as this beauty remedy doubles as an oddly luxurious body wash.

6. Tends to itchy scalps and dry hair
Speaking of showers, you can also apply oat milk to your hair, either as a rinse or as a leave-in conditioner. Just as oatmeal soothes dry, itchy skin, the same rules apply to your scalp. In turn, this will help you combat dandruff while you strengthen and nourish your hair.

So whether you are looking to clean-up your diet, improve your health or are in need of a new, all-natural beauty routine, oat milk has your back. To whip up your own batch, all you’ll need is a cup of rinsed steel-cut oats, approximately three cups of filtered water, and then for flavor, anything your heart desires (cinnamon, vanilla, sea salt, etc.).

They key here is to develop new healthy habits that support both your internal and external health. Utilizing the power of oat milk can act as the first step, as you develop more sustainable health and beauty habits. Once you get comfortable with a recipe you like, have fun with it!

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Effects potassium has on your health and why you should make sure you are getting enough

Most people don’t analyze the vitamins and minerals they take in as they eat throughout the day. Busy lifestyles often dictate grabbing food on the go, sacrificing quality to simply fill the stomach. The question arises, “Are you sacrificing more than just a home-cooked meal?”

Most processed foods have processed the potassium right out of them or to such low levels that if individuals are making these foods their primary sources of nutrition, they probably aren’t getting enough potassium. According to Harvard Medical School, food is the best source of potassium, and WebMD adds that home-cooked, unprocessed foods and fresh fruits and vegetables are where the potassium lies. Here are 7+ effects of potassium on your health and some sources you might want to consider adding to your diet.



1. Blood pressure. According to Harvard Medical School, having enough potassium in your diet helps lower your blood pressure. Keep in mind that diets rich in potassium also tend to be lower in sodium, so the reason for the lower blood pressure may be a combination of both.

2. Heart health. Besides helping with blood pressure, WebMD states that potassium triggers the muscles that make the heart beat, helping to keep a nice, steady rhythm.

3. Muscle strength. As people age, they lose muscle mass and strength. Medical News Today shares that potassium is key in preserving muscles mass.

4. Brain Function. No one wants to have his or her mental capacity diminish. According to WebMD, you can help fight the reduction in brain function by taking in proper amounts of potassium.

5. Stroke. As potassium helps lower blood pressure and regulate heart rates, it also helps decrease the risk of stroke, according to Harvard Medical School.

6. Bone Strength. Medical News Today shares that potassium creates an alkalai environment which is critical for maintaining healthy bones.

7. Kidney function. Potassium is critical in helping reduce the risk of forming kidney stones and aiding in the filtration of blood, according to WebMD.

8. Fluid balances. Besides aiding the kidneys, WebMD also reports that potassium helps your body maintain proper fluid balances.

Knowing what potassium does for your body is only part of the solution. You need to know where to get this valuable mineral. Here are 5 sources for it.

1. Beet greens. One of the top sources of potassium, according to Medical News Today, is beet greens. Eating them steamed is best, and for 1 cup you get 1309 mg of potassium.

2. Baked potato. Harvard Medical School recommends eating baked potatoes. Be sure to leave the skin on. One potato yields 919 mg of potassium.

3. Cantaloupe. If you feel like fresh fruit, WebMD recommends eating cantaloupe. 1 cup of cantaloupe gives you 431 mg of potassium.

4. Sweet Potato. Sweet potatoes edge out baked potatoes just slightly, according to Medical News Today, yielding 950 mg per cup.

5. Banana. Bananas make great snacks and are easy to grab on the run or pack in a lunch. Harvard Medical School says that 1 small banana gives you 362 mg of potassium.

With this mineral being so important, be sure to find ways to incorporate it into your diet. If you are on a special diet that limits your potassium because of medication you are taking, be sure to speak with your doctor before trying to boost your intake.

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15 Japanese Secrets for Beautiful and Smooth Skin

Ever wondered how Japanese manage to wear that glow on their face almost throughout their lifetime? You won’t work anymore! Today must be your lucky day to have come across this blog post where I’ll be enlightening you with some precious secrets which Japanese had been hiding since ages.

Before proceeding, let me add that apart from being the most hospitable and traditional country, Japan is famous for having flawless complexions. How do they manage to be perfect? Keep reading and have a look at their purest lifestyle. I’m sure these 15 skin care secrets are going to change your life for good!


In this busy world, we rarely take out time for our pampering. Japanese have never neglected this routine. Hot baths have always been an ideal source of mind and muscle relaxant. Not only it helps in making you fall asleep quickly, but it also prevents you from the flu by clearing all the blockages in your nasal path. Thus, it’s a great way of relieving stress!


Japanese women love oils. However, you’ll be surprised to know that they don’t randomly use mineral oils. It has to be Camellia oil when it comes to removing makeup, moisturizing their skin, making hairstyles and even preventing wrinkles from appearing earlier. Amazing, isn’t it?


As most of us know that green tea is a great replacement for antioxidants, anti-inflammatory products and even acts as an anti-bacterial agent. It is also known for preventing breast cancer. Moreover, it’s quite famous for weight loss as it boosts up your metabolism. One must make a habit of having 2-3 cups of it daily. Even if you don’t like it, just apply it with cotton all over your face once it cools down. It will make your face glow and shrink those huge pores!


Although we all love to spend our winter mornings under the sun, that’s what Japanese avoid. They prefer not being exposed directly to the sun, which prevents wrinkle formation and quick aging. Therefore, whenever you go out, it must never be without sunscreen and that too has to be SPF 50+. Also keep umbrellas or hats always with you.


Your face is the most sensitive and important body part, which needs immense care. Japanese have a habit of massaging their face regularly; be it at homes or spas. The trick is to apply your facial creams by patting it on the skin, starting from chin to forehead. It not only stimulates blood circulation but also helps muscles to become stiff and hence prevent wrinkle formation.


Most of us think that cleanser is only required to remove makeup off your face. Unlike us, Japanese believe that even if you aren’t wearing any layers of makeup or haven’t stepped out of your home, you need to cleanse your face by hook or by crook! Therefore, one must spend wisely in getting their hands on a good cleanser and make it a ritual to cleanse your face every morning and especially at night.


It’s all about eating right! Facial cleansing won’t work if you do not have a balanced diet. Vitamin C is the imperative daily dose in the Japanese diet. Apart from capsule supplements, the most natural source of vitamin C is a fresh orange. Being highly rich in vitamin C, they help in giving you the complexion you had always been dreaming of!


Japanese tend to have the most balanced diet around the world. And as mentioned earlier, beauty comes from within. Replace green veggies with junk food and processed sugary items. Moreover, add fish to your diet because it helps in slowing down the ageing process. It’s interesting how eating habits define your beauty and not expensive beauty products.


Going natural is the secret of Japanese. They utilize Azuki beans in the most efficient facial exfoliation you had never known about. It aids in removing dead skin from your face and giving it a smooth texture. Only take a few crushed beans and apply them all over your face while massaging gently. You’ll be amazed at the results!


Japanese women spend more on their healthy lifestyle rather than ridiculously expensive cosmetics. Moreover, whenever they apply makeup on, it’s always very natural. So go easy on the cakey makeup and try taking care of your skin naturally enough that there’s no need to hide those pores or acne.


Most of the Japanese follow an organic skin care routine. Be it fruits, vegetables or any other natural way. It must be noticed that you should never apply rotten fruits or vegetables on your face. The decayed part can easily travel through the pores inside your bloodstream, causing various diseases. So always remember this tip!


Japanese don’t go haphazardly trying every new product they see in their cupboard. Instead, they set up a routine and follow it gradually in the same pattern. You must also try to make a habit of following the same skin care procedures in the morning as well as at night.
You won’t believe this, but Japanese women wash their hair with the leftover water from soaked raw rice. It is highly beneficial in moisturizing your skin, preventing hair damage from sunlight, and controlling wrinkle formation. We should add this to our lifestyle!


One of the famous skin care products of Japan includes moisturized silk sheets. An alternative to that could be easily made at home. Simply take a cotton ball and soak it with a moisturizer or toner. Let it stay on your face for five to ten minutes. You would want to thank Chizu Saeki, famous Japanese expert, for proposing this remedy.


You must have seen Japanese always in a humble mood, and they never stop smiling. It’s another secret to their flawless skin. Therefore, treat yourself regularly, have your favorite meals, go for a recreational activity more often and stay content with what you have. It honestly gives you a peace of mind, which keeps your worries away from you. Hence, you stay younger!

From all of these fascinating Japanese secrets, now you know how Japanese women are always seen with a flawless, glowing skin and stay forever young! Don’t envy them, rather learn something from these informative tips. Try to adapt to Japanese lifestyle to get that natural beauty on the go and start living a happier yet healthier life!

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Healthy reasons you should be eating cucumber every day

Cucumbers abound in the summertime. As part of the squash family, once a plant takes off, you can get more cucumbers than you know what to do with. Besides being great for making pickles and putting on your eyes to relieve the puffiness, cucumbers have a lot of other uses.

They are vitamin and mineral powerhouses, containing vitamins C and K, magnesium, potassium and manganese. Their health benefits go beyond simple vitamins and minerals, though. Here are 5+ ways eating cucumbers benefit your body.

1. Hydration. Cucumbers are mainly made up of water, so Medical News Today says that snacking on them throughout the day during the summer is a great way to help your body stay hydrated. You can also make refreshing cucumber water by thinly slicing 1 English cucumber and placing it in a pitcher. Fill the pitcher with 1 quart of seltzer water and 1 quart of regular water. Let it sit in the refrigerator for two to four hours to infuse the cucumber into the water. Strain the cucumbers out and enjoy your drink.

2. Brain food. According to Huffington Post, cucumbers contain fisetin, which has “the ability to reduce the impact of age-related neurological diseases on brain function.”

3. Antioxidants. Healthline reminds people that cucumbers contain lots of antioxidants to help repair the damage free radicals do to your body. Enjoy cucumber salad by cutting up 2 English cucumbers and 1 medium onion. Mix 1/4 cup white vinegar, 1/4 cup water, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Pour the mixture over the cucumbers and onion and mix thoroughly. Garnish it with chopped fresh dill.

4. Bone health. As you age, keeping your bones healthy becomes even more important. Medical News Today reports that cucumbers are an important source of vitamin K which is necessary to strong bones.

5. Anti-inflammatory. For those who suffer from arthritis or stiff joints, Huffington Post shares that cucumbers contain flavonoids which help reduce inflammation in the joints. You can enjoy some cucumber juice by peeling 1 1/2 pounds of cucumber and chunking them. Place them in a blender and puree them. Strain them twice to get just the juice out of the mush.
Add 1 cup of sugar, 3/4 cup lime juice, 4 1/2 cups water and 28 grams of grated ginger. Let it chill and then enjoy.

6. Weight loss. Cucumbers make great snacks if you’re trying to lose weight. With only 16 calories to one cup of cucumber, Healthlinerecommends keeping them around to snack on.

Because cucumbers are so healthy, find other creative ways to enjoy your cucumbers throughout the year.

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How to Get Rid of Kidney Infections Naturally

How to Get Rid of Kidney Infections Naturally

Kidneys are the two bean-shaped organs that are found in all the vertebrates. These are located at the back of the abdominal cavity, below the rib cage. One kidney is located on the right side of the spine and another kidney is located on the left side of the spine.

The kidneys are the important organs of our body. Each kidney contains millions of filtering units that are known as nephrons. They work as efficient filters and help to keep the composition of the blood stable, which in turn helps the body function properly. The kidneys filter about 120 to 150 quarts of blood daily and produce 1 to 2 quarts of urine, which mainly contains extra fluid and waste material.

Kidney infection can happen to anybody but women are more prone to this in comparison to men as women have shorter urethra which makes the bacteria reach the kidneys easily. Also, younger women and children are more vulnerable to kidney infections.

What is Kidney Infection

A healthy pair of kidneys leads to a healthy body as kidneys play an important role in the functioning of the human body. But sometimes kidneys get affected with some kind of infection, which impacts the proper functioning of the kidneys.

Kidney infection, which is medically termed as pyelonephritis, starts in the urinary tract and then through the urethra it enters into the kidneys. Urinary tract infection (UTI) leads to kidney infection most of the times. It causes unbearable pain and if not treated early may cause serious health concerns like kidney scarring, blood poisoning and pregnancy complications.

Causes of Kidney Infection

There are various causes due to which a person may suffer from kidney infections.

Due to blockage in the urinary tract: If your urinary tracts are blocked due to some factors like the kidney stone or an enlarged prostate gland in men or some abnormality in the structure of your urinary tract,  then it will slow down the urine flow. Your bladder will not be emptied easily and completely when you urinate, which will ultimately lead to kidney infections.

Due to certain medical conditions: If the person is suffering from certain medical conditions like diabetes and HIV, then he or she is more prone to kidney infections.

If the nerves around the bladder are damaged: If the nerves around your bladder or spinal cord are damaged then you will not be able to know when you get affected with UTI, which in turn may cause the kidney infection.

Due to the use of the catheter for a longer period of time: If you are using a catheter for a longer period of time due to certain medical conditions, then you are more prone to kidney infections.

If you are suffering from vesicoureteral reflux:  In this condition, urine flows backwards from the bladder into the kidneys, thus cause kidney infections.

Kidney Infection Symptoms

Now, it is very important to know the various symptoms of kidney infections so that it will be easier for you to detect as well as treat it at the earlier stage.

• If you see blood or pus while you pee
• If you get fever or chills regularly
• Decreased appetite
• If you experience pain in your groin, lower back and side
• Pain in the abdomen
• Urge to pee frequently
• Burning sensation while peeing
• Smelly and cloudy urine
• If you continuously suffer from stomach upset
• Vomiting
• Feeling tired easily

Diagnosis

If you are experiencing the symptoms that are mentioned above then it is indicating that you may have a kidney infection. At this stage it is very important to confirm whether you have the kidney infection or not and to confirm it, you need to give a urine sample to test.  Else you may give a blood sample for culture. There are some other ways, such as ultrasound, CT scan and X-ray, which can confirm it.

How To Get Rid of Kidney Infections Naturally

Once it is confirmed that you are suffering from kidney infection then it is extremely important to treat it as early as possible. There are various natural remedies for a kidney infection that are not only cost-effective but also work without any side effects and the most important thing is that you can try these kidney infection remedies at the comfort of your home. You can go for these remedies if your kidney infection is in its earlier stage.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Consumption of apple cider vinegar helps to keep the balance of the pH level in the body, thus checks the proliferation of bacteria in the body. Its antibacterial property also kills the bacteria that cause and spread infection in the kidneys.

Things You Need:

• Apple Cider Vinegar – 2 tsp
• Water – 1 glass
• Honey – 1 tsp

Process:

• Take 1 glass of water.
• Add 2 tsp of apple cider vinegar and 1 tsp of honey to it.
• Mix the ingredients thoroughly, and then drink.
• Taking this apple cider vinegar drink twice a day will help you to combat kidney infection effectively in few weeks.

2. Garlic
Garlic is a storehouse of antibiotic properties which makes it an effective home remedy for the kidney infection. Its diuretic properties also help your kidneys flush out the harmful toxins and microorganisms from your body easily, this will help treat kidney infection effectively.

Things You Need:

• Garlic Cloves – 3
• Water – 1 glass

Process:

• Chop the garlic cloves into very small pieces and consume them on an empty stomach early in the morning.
• Drink a glass of water after it.
• Take this home remedy regularly till you completely get rid of kidney infection.

3. Celery Seed Tea
Celery seed is a good source of antibacterial and antifungal properties, which helps to kill the harmful bacteria that cause kidney infections. Also, its consumption fastens the process of elimination of the waste material from the kidney, thus protects the kidneys from infection.

Things You Need:

• Celery Seeds Powder– 1 tbsp
• Hot Water – 1 glass

Process:

• Take a glass of hot water and mix the celery seed powder in it thoroughly.
• Leave it for few minutes to cool down.
• Strain it and drink.
• Consume this celery seed drink once daily for 3 weeks to get effective results against kidney infection.

4. Marshmallow Root
The diuretic properties of marshmallow root help to flush out the toxins from the kidney easily thus keep the infections at bay. It is also a good source of antioxidant properties that protect the urinary tract from free radical damage. It fights back the unfriendly bacteria that cause the kidney infection.

Things You Need:

• Marshmallow Root Powder – 1 tbsp
• Hot Water – 1 cup

Process:

• Take a cup of hot water and add the marshmallow root powder to it and mix thoroughly.
• Leave it for few minutes and then strain it.
• Drink this marshmallow solution once per day till you totally get rid of kidney infection.

Note: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should refrain from using marshmallow home remedy for the kidney infection.

5. Apples
It is rightly said that take an apple a day to keep doctors away. Apple contains a lot of fiber and nutrients which boost the immunity power of your body and makes you strong enough to fight kidney infections easily. Its acidic content helps to maintain the acidity level in the urine and prevent the growth of infection-causing bacteria. Its anti-inflammatory properties subside the pain that is caused due to kidney infections.

Things You Need:

• Organic Apples – 3
• Apple Juice – 1 glass
• Applesauce – 1 tbsp

Process:

• Take the apples as snacks throughout the day.
• Take a glass of apple juice in the morning
• Add applesauce to your dishes.
• Follow this process 3 to 4 weeks to get rid of kidney infections totally.

6. Baking Soda
Baking soda is another effective ingredient, which you can use, to treat kidney infection naturally.

Things You Need:

• Baking Soda – 1 tbsp
• Water – 8 ounces

Process:

Take the water and mix the baking soda in it thoroughly.
Drinking this baking soda mixture daily once for 3 to 4 weeks will help you to treat kidney infection effectively.

7. Parsley Juice
Other than offering an appetizing look to your food, parsley can also be used to combat kidney infection at home. It is a powerhouse of nutrients as well as work as a diuretic. So its consumption makes your immune system strong enough to fight the infection-causing bacteria as well as help to flush out the toxins, bacteria and waste material from your body, thus will protect your kidneys from getting infected easily.

Things You Need:

• Fresh Parsley Leaves – A handful
• Water – 1 cup

Process:

• Crush the parsley leaves and keep aside.
• Bring the water to a boil and then off the flame.
• Add the crushed parsley leaves to it and cove with a lid.
• Leave for 5 minutes to steep.
• Strain the solution and wait till it becomes cool
• Drink this parsley solution 2 times daily till you completely get rid of kidney infection.

8. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice contains a lot of vitamin c and acetic acid. The consumption of lemon juice can be effective in treating kidney infections by clearing the kidney stones as well as toxins from the kidneys.

Things You Need:

• Lemon – 1
• Water – 1 cup

Process:

• Cut the lemon and squeeze it into 1 cup of water.
• Mix it well and then drink it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
• Take this lemon drink once daily till you treat kidney infections completely.

9. Olive Oil
The consumption of olive oil balances the acidity level in the kidneys and helps to flush out the toxins, thus protect the kidney from getting infected.

Things You Need:

• Olive Oil – 1 tbsp
• Lemon Juice – 1 tsp
• Water – 8 ounces

Process:

• Take the water in a glass and add the olive oil as well as the lemon juice to it.
• Mix well and take the drink.
• Take this olive oil and lemon juice solution daily once to combat kidney infection naturally.

10. Watermelon Seeds Tea
Watermelon seeds act as a good diuretic, so its use is very helpful to treat kidney infection. It helps to flush out the toxins as well as the waste material from the kidney that cause infection. Also, its use makes the kidneys more active. Watermelon seeds also help to alleviate the pain associated with kidney infections.
Things You Need:

• Ground Watermelon Seeds – 1 tsp
• Water – 2 cups

Process:

• Boil the water on medium flame and then keep aside.
• In a pan take the ground watermelon seeds. Pour the boiled water on it.
• Leave it for few minutes so that the ground watermelon seeds can steep properly.
• When it cools down, strain it into a cup.
• Enjoy this watermelon seeds tea once per day to treat kidney infections at home.

11. Corn Silk
Corn silk has antibacterial properties and works as a good diuretic. So its use can definitely help to treat kidney infection and the related pain.

Things You Need

• Dried Corn Silk – 1 tbsp
• Boiling water – 2 cups

Process:

• In a pan take the dried corn silk and pour the boiling water on it.
• Cover it with a lid and leave for 5 minutes to steep properly.
• Strain the liquid and drink it when it is lukewarm.
• Drinking this corn silk tea 2 cups a day for few weeks can give you fruitful results against kidney infection.

12. Plantain Tea
We can very well say that plantain is a storehouse of medicinal properties and can be a very good home remedy for kidney infections. It is a rich source of antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal and laxative properties. It also has mild diuretic properties.

Things You Need:

• Dried or Fresh Plantain (leaves or root)– 1 tbsp
• Boiling Water – 1 cup
• Honey – 1 tsp

Process:

• Take the plantain in a teapot and pour boiling water on it.
• Cover it with a lid and leave for 5 minutes.
• Strain it and mix honey in it thoroughly.
• Drink this plantain tea 4 to 5 times daily to get rid of kidney infection fast.

13. Dandelion Leaf Tea
Dandelion leaf works as a good diuretic. Its consumption can make you urinate frequently to flush out the bacteria as well as the toxins from your kidneys that cause infection.

Things You Need:

• Dried Dandelion Leaves – 1 tbsp
• Hot Water – 1 cup

Process:

• Take dried dandelion leaves in a cup and pour hot water on it.
• Cover it with a lid and let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Strain it and then consume this tea.
• Take dandelion tea 2 to 3 times a day to treat as well as prevent kidney infection.

14. Basil
Basil works as a detoxifier as well as a diuretic. It can be mixed with honey to treat kidney infection effectively.

Things You Need:

• Basil Juice – 1 tbsp
• Honey – 1

Process:

• Mix well both the basil juice and honey.
• Take this mixture to get rid of kidney stones.
• Repeat this home remedy one time daily for four months to get effective results.

15. Sage and Peppermint
Sage has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It also offers a relaxing effect to the muscles. It also helps to cleanse the kidneys of the impurities and toxins. Peppermint has also anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. So the use of both these ingredients can treat kidney infections as well as give relief from its pain.

Things You Need:

• Peppermint Leaves – 1 tsp
• Sage Leaves – 1 tsp
• Hot Water – 2 cups

Process:

• Take both the peppermint as well as sage leaves in a teapot.
• Pour the hot water on the leaves.
• Cover it with a lid and leave for 5 minutes.
• Strain it and drink it lukewarm.
• Take this home remedy for kidney infection daily 2 times for 3 months to get fruitful results.

16. Nettle Leaf Tea
Nettle leaf is another natural ingredient that can be used to treat kidney infection. It has diuretic properties, so its use can cleanse the urinary tract as well as the kidneys of the toxins and waste material. It helps to treat and prevent the reoccurrence of kidney infection.

Things You Need:

• Dried Nettle Leaves – 2 tsp
• Hot Water – 1 cup

Process:

• Take the nettle leaves in a teapot and pour the hot water on it.
• Cover it with a lid and leave for 10 minutes.
• Strain it and then drink the nettle tea.
• Use this home remedy 2 times a day to treat kidney stones naturally.

17. Bearberry Leaves
Bearberry leaf which has been used traditionally to treat urine and bladder infection can also be used to treat kidney infection. It treats the kidney infection effectively by killing the E-coli bacteria that causes infection in the kidneys, urinary tract and bladder.

 Things You Need:

• Dried Bearberry Leaves – 1 tbsp
• Water – 2 cups

Process:

• Take the water in a pan and add the bearberry leaves to it.
• Boil it for 15 to 20 minutes or till the water becomes half.
• Off the flame and then strain the tea.
• Drink this tea when it is lukewarm.
• Taking this bearberry tea twice daily can help you to treat kidney infection without going to the doctor.

Note: Breastfeeding and pregnant women should refrain from using this home remedy for the kidney infection.

18. Willow Bark
As willow bark is best known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiseptic properties, it can be used to treat kidney infection naturally.

Things You Need:

• Dried Willow Bark – 2 tsp
• Water – 8 oz

Process:

• Boil the willow bark in water for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Leave it for 30 minutes to steep properly.
• Strain it and drink the solution.
• Take this solution 2 to 3 times a day till you completely get rid of kidney infection.

19. Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate has the good amount of astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. Its use can treat infection in the kidneys as well as alleviate the associated pain.

Things You Need:

• Pomegranate – 1
• Water  – ½ cup
• Lemon Juice – 1 tsp

Process:

• Cut the pomegranate and take out the seeds.
• Using a food processor, make pomegranate juice.
• Strain it to take the juice and mix the lemon juice to it.
• Mix the water in it and drink.
• Taking this juice one time daily can help you to get rid of kidney infection easily.

20. Cranberry Juice
The acidic nature of cranberry juice fights back the infection-causing bacteria in the kidneys. It prevents the proliferation of bacteria in the bladder wall, thus keeps the infection at bay.

Things You Need:

• Fresh or Frozen Cranberry – 1 pound
• Water – 1 quart
• Honey – 1 tsp

Process:

• In a saucepan take the cranberries and add water to it.
• Boil it for few minutes till the cranberries become soft.
• When it becomes cool, strain it.
• Mix honey in the liquid and then drink.
• Take 1 cup of this cranberry drink daily until your kidney infection is treated completely.

Note: Do not consume cranberry juice in huge quantity and also for a longer period of time as it may cause side effects.

21. Aloe Vera Juice
The wonder plant aloe vera is well known for its medicinal properties. It can be used to treat kidney stones too. It is a good source of anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and wound-healing properties. It is also anti-fungal in nature. It has the capacity to kill E-coli bacteria that harms and infects the kidneys.

Things You Need:

• Aloe Vera Leaf – 1
• Water – 1 cup
• Lemon Juice – ½ tsp
• Honey – ½ tsp

Process:

• Peel the aloe vera leaf with the help of a knife and scoop out the fleshy pulp with the help of a spoon.
• Mix honey, aloe vera gel and lemon juice together.
• Add water to the mixture and mix well.
• Consume this aloe vera juice twice daily to treat kidney infection at home.

22. Cream Of Tartar
Cream of tartar helps to make a balance of the pH level in the urine, thus can treat kidney infection properly. It also works as an antibiotic for the kidney infection. Its use gives you relief from the pain caused due to infections in the kidneys.

Things You Need:

• Cream of Tartar – 1 ½ tsp
• Lemon Juice – 1 tsp
• Warm Water – ½ cup

Process:

• Mix the cream of tartar, water and lime juice together.
• Consume this mixture.
• Take this natural remedy 2 times daily to get rid of kidney infection.

23. Lemon Juice, Apple Cider Vinegar and Olive Oil
We read about the usability of apple cider vinegar, lemon juice and olive oil to treat kidney infection. So when we combine all these three wonder ingredients, then it will make a very effective home remedy for the kidney infection.

Things You Need:

• Olive Oil – 2 oz
• Lemon Juice – 2 oz
• Apple Cider Vinegar – 1 tsp
• Water – 1 cup

Process:

• Take 1 cup of water and add olive oil, lemon juice and apple cider vinegar to it.
• Mix all the ingredients well and drink the mixture.
• Take this remedy 2 times daily to treat kidney infection naturally.

24. Yogurt
Yogurt is a rich source of antibacterial and antioxidant properties. It also contains a lot of probiotics which makes it a potent ingredient to cure kidney infections. Also, its regular consumption increases your immunity power, thus helps your body to fight back the bacteria that infect your kidneys.

Consuming 2 to 3 bowls of yogurt every day may help you to give relief from kidney infections. It will prevent the reoccurrence of kidney infection if you take yogurt daily.

25. Consume Vitamin C Enriched Food
Vitamin C is one such nutrient that helps to treat as well prevents kidney infections to a great extent by increasing your immunity power. Also, its acidic nature destroys the bacteria that cause infections in the kidneys.

Include food that is rich in vitamin C, such as grapefruits, oranges, tomatoes, berries, kiwi, peppers, strawberries, sprouts, etc., in your daily diet.

26. Increase Your Fluid Intake
One of the most effective and easy ways to combat kidney infection is to increase the amount of fluid you take every day. More fluid intake means more flushing out of the infection-causing bacteria, toxins and waste material from your body.

If you are suffering from the kidney infection, it is mandatory for you to drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water every day. Also, you need to include coconut water or lemon water in your daily fluid intake routine. You can also take vegetable juice and fruit juice to combat kidney infection.

27. Hot Water Compress
The use of hot water compress can give you relief from the pain that is caused due to the kidney infection. Its use relaxes the abdominal muscle and lessens the pain.

Take a heating pad and place it on the area that is paining and hold for few minutes. Repeat this process till you get relief from the pain.

How To Prevent Kidney Infection

Kidney infection is not a life-threatening illness and can be treated with home remedies when it is in its earlier stage. But the most important thing here is that it will be wiser if we can protect our kidneys from infections. So to prevent kidney infection, it needs to keep your kidneys healthy and for it, we should follow certain things. Let’s know about them!

• It is important to keep yourself clean and maintain a daily personal hygiene routine to prevent kidney infection in the first place. Clean your genitals after every time you go to the toilet. While using the toilet paper wipe it from front to back rather than back to front.
• Do not hold back your pee. Use the toilet as soon as you feel the urge to pee and empty the bladder completely.
• Always urinate after having sex. It will decrease your chances of kidney infection.
• Do not eat the foods that are rich in potassium and phosphorus.
• To keep your kidney healthy, cook your food in olive oil or extra virgin olive oil.
• Refrain from using unlubricated condoms, diaphragms and spermicidal lubes as they increase the chances of kidney infections.
• If you are overweight, then it is advisable to shed few kilos as obese people are more prone to the kidney infection.
• Avoid the use of pain killers like aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, etc., as they impact heavily the kidneys which in the later stage may lead to kidney infection.
• Do not smoke if you want to keep your kidneys healthy. Smoking adversely affects the health of your kidneys.
• Do not wear tight-fitting clothes and synthetic undergarments as it obstructs proper air movement and causes sweating, which makes a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
• Do not go for a bubble bath with perfumes and chemical additives.

You can very well go for these home remedies to get rid of kidney infections if it is in its earlier stage. But if after using the home remedies, if the symptoms do not subside or if you are getting the infection recurrently, then it is time to see a doctor. Your doctor may check to find out the actual reason for your kidney infection and prescribe proper medication.

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10 Things You’re Doing That Are Killing Your Kidneys

Our dietary and lifestyle changes affect our mental, heart, and digestive health, as well as our entire body. However, we often forget about the importance of our kidneys, which can become seriously damaged, and thus lead to severe side-effects and disease.

Namely, the function of the kidneys is to filter our blood and eliminate waste, dead cells, excess water, and toxins, that are excreted through the urine.

According to HealthLine:

“Kidney disease affects approximately 26 million American adults. It occurs when your kidneys become damaged and can’t perform their function. Damage may be caused by diabetes, high blood pressure, and various other chronic (long-term) conditions. Kidney disease can lead to other health problems, including weak bones, nerve damage, and malnutrition.”

The Mayo Clinic lists the following risk factors for chronic kidney disease:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Being African-American, Native American or Asian-American
• Family history of kidney disease
• Abnormal kidney structure
• Older age

Additionally, make sure you know the most common early signs and symptoms of chronic kidney disease:

• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue and weakness
• Sleep issues
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Changes in how much you urinate
• Reduced mental sharpness
• Muscle twitches and cramps
• Swelling of feet and ankles
• Persistent itching
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath

In case you experience these symptoms, and in order to improve the function of the kidneys and avoid complications, you should avoid the following 10 most detrimental habits that damage your kidneys:

— Dehydration- If you are not drinking enough water, the function of the kidneys will be significantly reduced, leading to kidney stones and chronic kidney disease. According to Dr. M R Pari, consultant urologist, Fortis Malar, “Kidney stones are the result of an accumulation of dissolved minerals in the inner lining of the kidneys. According to research, people with kidney stones have a significantly higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease that can even lead to diabetes and hypertension. Drinking enough water helps to wash away the accumulated salts, which are likely to turn to stones at a later stage. ”

— Smoking – Smoking has been found to drastically reduce the function of the kidneys

— Too much protein- A diet very high in protein can lead to renal hyperfiltration, in case you already suffer from chronic kidney disease

— Too much sugar- High sugar amounts can seriously damage the kidneys

—  Soft drinks- the kidneys can suffer a lot from the consumption of soft drinks, like fructose-glucose-rich soda, and the additives in diet soda damage these organs and increase the risk of chronic kidney disease

— Painkillers- Studies have found that the long-term use of painkillers double the risk of kidney cancer

— Over the counter medications- Drugs like ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen have been shown to damage the kidneys

— Magnesium deficiency- Magnesium deficiency can lead to the formation of kidney stones and kidney damage

— Extreme exercise- Extreme exercise habits can seriously damage the kidneys, so you need to speak with a medical practitioner about the safety of your workout routine

— Poor sleep- It has been linked to renal hyperfiltration, which is an early warning sign of kidney disease

Therefore, regarding the huge importance of the function of the kidneys for our overall health, make sure you take all the needed steps to ensure their health.

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5 Day Apple Diet Plan to Lose 10 Pounds in a Week

Have you heard of the “apple diet”?

It’s a low-calorie diet plan that has you eat apples with every meal: lunch, breakfast, and dinner.

It’s based on the belief that eating an apple at each meal can make you feel fuller and cause you to eat less.

Given that apples are low in calories and dense in nutrients, they are a perfect fit for weight loss.

Depending on size, an apple can contain anywhere from 80 to 100 calories.

Apples also a rich source of calcium, iron, potassium, vitamin A, B, and C, and fiber. It’s not only a weight loss friendly fruit but also helps to improve your health as a whole.

How Does the Apple Diet Work?

The apple diet keeps your daily calorie intake low to about 1200 calories per day.

The 5-day apple diet plan includes:

Day 1
Breakfast: 2 Apples.
Lunch: 1 Apple.
Dinner: 3 Apples.

Day 2
Breakfast: 1 apple, 1 glass of skim milk or almond/ soy milk.
Lunch: 1 apple and avocado green salad, topped with seeds and nuts. Dress it with a lemon and apple cider vinegar dressing.
Dinner: Apples.

Day 3
Breakfast: 1 apple; one slice of whole-grain bread and a slice of low-fat turkey bacon
Lunch: 1 apple and cabbage and carrot clear soup with chicken breast.
Dinner: Apples

Day 4
Breakfast: 1 apple, a boiled egg, and one slice of whole-grain bread
Lunch: 1 apple, 3-4 oz skinless chicken, and raw vegetables.
Dinner: Apples

Day 5
Breakfast: an apple and a bowl of whole-grain cereals and nut milk.
Lunch: an apple, baked salmon, and green salad with a lemon and apple vinegar dressing.
Dinner: Apples.

The Benefits of the 5-Day Apple Diet

This 5-day apple diet is comprised of common, affordable, and accessible ingredients.

When the meal consists of just apples, you can eat any amount of them.

Throughout the diet, good hydration is recommended. This prevents constipation, fosters detoxification, and aids weight loss.

Although most of your meals are nutrient-rich, it’s not to say the apple diet is without downsides.

Here are a few to note.

The Disadvantages of the Apple Diet

The apple diet is extremely calorie restricted. This means you may experience side effects like headaches, dizziness, and irritability.

You may also experience gastric hyperacidity due to increased apple consumption.

You may also get triggered to overeat after the 5-day diet and experience a rebound fairly quickly.

As a rule of thumb, if you cut calories, exercise, you will lose weight without dieting.

Takeaway

If you decide to give this 5 Day Apple Diet a try, check with your doctor first, as you should with any diet.

How much weight you’d lose depends on many factors such as your weight, age, gender, and activity level. The heavier you are the more weight you’ll lose.

Good luck!

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