You’ve probably heard of Kegel exercises for women, but did you know about Kegel for men? Kegel for men is not a strange concept as it sounds. You can read on to know more. Kegel exercises were developed by an obstetrician named Dr. Arnold Kegel in the 1940s. Kegel exercise is also known as pelvic floor exercises. Kegel for men and women involve repeatedly constricting the muscles of the pelvic floor. Kegel exercises aim to improve the muscle tone of the pelvic floor muscles called the pubococcygeus muscles. These muscles are sometimes colloquially called kegel muscles, and help in controlling urination and defecation. Kegel for men needs to be performed several times a day for at least a few months for noticeable effects. Kegel for men helps in improving sexual performance, urinary incontinence, treating prostate pain, and swelling. How to perform Kegel for men The first step to correctly performing Kegel for men is to identify the correct muscles. The easiest way to do this is to stop your flow of urine midstream. The muscles you use to do these are the pelvic floor muscles. Once you’ve identified your pelvic floor muscles, all you need to do is alternately contract and relax them. It can be done in any position and at any time; however, some beginners may prefer to start by performing Kegel exercises while lying down. To do Kegel for men properly, you should follow the right technique. Contract the pelvic floor muscles and hold them in this position for three seconds before relaxing. Do this a few times and keep increasing the repetitions, as your pelvic floor muscles get stronger. When doing Kegel exercises, make sure that you don’t contract other muscles such as muscle groups in the abdomen, buttocks, or thighs. Contraction of other muscle groups will diminish the effects of the Kegel exercises.

Gum disease is common and results in painful, inflamed, and swollen gums. The early stages of gum disease are called gingivitis. If gum disease isn’t tackled in early stages, then it progresses to periodontitis. The most common gum diseases are called by bacterial infections, that can spread and destroy the gums, and the tissue surrounding the teeth. The bacteria forms plaques around the teeth and gums. If this plaque isn’t removed, it can harden and form tartar. Most early cases of plaque buildup and gingivitis can be treated on your own. Natural treatment for gum disease is a great way to save yourself time, money, and pain of seeing a dentist. Natural treatment for gum disease includes maintaining good oral hygiene and overall health. Symptoms of gum disease Healthy gums are pink, fit securely around the teeth, do not bleed when you touch or brush them, and are not painful or inflamed. In some cases, the initial stages of gum disease are not painful, and there may be no recognizable symptoms. Eventually, as the disease progresses, the symptoms can worsen. The early stage of gum disease or gingivitis has fewer symptoms, and these tend to be nonspecific and vague. The most common early symptoms of gum disease are: Redness or purple discoloration of the gums Swelling Bleeding gums while brushing, eating, or on touching the gums. Painful gums Bad breath ( halitosis ) Natural treatment for gum disease is best initiated during early stages, to halt the progression into a more severe form of gum disease, i.e, periodontitis . The symptoms of advanced gum disease or periodontitis are: An unpleasant taste in the mouth Bad breath (halitosis) Loose teeth Difficulty chewing food Gum abscesses (collection of pus) Receding gums, which make the teeth appear longer. Deep pockets between the gums and teeth.

Depression is a common problem faced by many people. It can have a negative effect on one’s mental health. Food has an important role to play in fighting depression. There are certain food items that can help with depression and improve a person’s general mental health. Antioxidants It is believed that free radicals in the body have a role to play in causing depression. Antioxidants that are found in food can help fight them. This in turn helps to fight the symptoms of depression. Some of the foods rich in antioxidants are broccoli, carrots, peaches, pumpkin, spinach, tomatoes, nuts, seeds, sweet potato, kiwi, pepper, and green tea. Good carbohydrates There are certain food items that have ‘good’ carbohydrates. They are complex carbs that have a number of health benefits. They produce a chemical called serotonin that can help to improve one’s mood and thus fight depression. Good carbohydrates are found in whole grains, legumes, and fruits like apple. Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish like tuna, sardines, herring, and salmon. They are also abundantly found in nuts like walnuts and almonds. Apart from food, they are also available as food supplements. Studies have shown that consumption of omega-3 fatty acids helps to reduce anxiety levels in those who suffer from depression. Protein-rich food Food that is rich in protein can help in boosting the level of serotonin in the brain. This is good for overall mental health and to improve one’s mood. Food rich in protein like turkey, chicken, yogurt, beans, low-fat cheese, chickpeas, and pumpkin can be included in the diet. Leafy greens Vegetables are good for improving mental health. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, collard greens, watercress, and Brussels sprouts have omega-3 fatty acids. They are also rich in folate content that can help in improving the mood of a person.

With advancing age, most organs start to lose their functional effectiveness. The eyes are prime examples of this statement as vision loss is common in older adults. While some cases can be treated with medications and surgery, some may lead to complete blindness. Even simple changes in your daily food routine can help prevent major eye-health problems to a significant extent. Here are three food types that have proven eye benefits in the long run. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E The lack of vitamin A in daily nutrition is known to cause blindness. Vitamin A mainly helps the retina convert incident light into perceived images to complete your vision. Carrots and sweet potatoes can help replenish this vitamin requirement for better eye health. Moreover, fruits that are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, like blueberries, help repair damaged tissue. Orange, grapefruits, tangerines, and lemons are excellent citrus-rich options that can delay the effect of certain age-related eye diseases. Nuts and seeds rich in vitamin E can further help keep the cells in the eyes healthy and promote better vision. Foods rich in carotenoid antioxidants Lutein and zeaxanthin are examples of carotenoid antioxidants that help protect the eyes from harmful UV and blue-light emissions. Foods that are rich in such carotenoids can help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Several leafy green vegetables can naturally provide this nutrient. Popular picks include Kale, spinach, Swiss chard, parsley, romaine lettuce, collard greens, turnip greens, broccoli, and peas. Avocados, sweet corn, and even eggs can supplement this requirement to promote better eye health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3s are the essential good fats that the body must process to maintain proper eye function. The retina contains a compound called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and any deficiency linked to this DHA can increase the risk of getting macular diseases.

Probiotics are living organisms which provide a lot of health benefits especially in the digestion of food and many other functions of the body. There are various probiotic supplements to improve various functionalities of the body. Therefore, to get the right kind of results, it is important to take the right probiotic supplements. Consuming the best probiotics will help in increasing the better functioning of the gut. Taking these supplements will provide a lot of health benefits especially in digestion such as processing vitamins and fiber by breaking them down. Probiotics supplements can also be taken by consuming fermented foods, yogurt, etc. Benefits of consuming the best probiotics There are many varieties of good bacteria, especially in the gut and colon area. Millions of bacteria from an approximate 500 species live in the gut and various other parts of the human body. The probiotics such as Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Saccharomyces help in digestion. Some of the best probiotics also contain these kinds of probiotic strands. Consuming the best probiotics help in controlling diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, etc. The units to measure probiotics are colony forming units (CFU). The higher doses of probiotics have to be present to give best results. The dosage can vary from 2 billion CFU per day to 20 billion CFU. The advantage with these probiotic supplements is that there are no side effects of consuming an underdose or overdose of these supplements. Some of the best probiotics for constipation Constipation is a condition where the bowel movements become infrequent or less. Constipation is a health condition many people experience irrespective of their age; however, this is more frequent in seniors. Chronic constipation, however, is a serious condition which is also mainly experienced by older adults and many bed-ridden people. While there are many medicines such as laxatives and stool softeners to reduce constipation, probiotic supplements with strains of probiotics such as B.

Deficiencies and diseases are no longer related to a specific timeframe or age. No matter where you stay or how old/young you are, health-related deficiencies can occur at any point in time. For instance, the case of the US, about 43 percent of residents have the likelihood of being diagnosed with a deficiency of magnesium. The deficiency of magnesium in the human body attracts a horde of diseases such as fibromyalgia, heart issues, osteoporosis, diabetes, and even depression. The role and utility of magnesium depend on the role of other linked compounds such as calcium, vitamin K2, and vitamin D. Magnesium naturally occurs in some foods, and the easiest and optimal way to incorporate more magnesium into your body is to go the natural way. However, if you are prescribed bringing a supplement into your daily diet, and you indeed need the same, you could try out one of the following which is considered as the best magnesium supplements in the market. To begin with, you have to understand that the benefits of such supplements vary as per type. Magnesium Glycinate Magnesium Glycinate is a glycine magnesium salt. Glycine is actually an amino acid. This is one of the best magnesium supplements is also available as magnesium diglycinate and magnesium bisglycinate. Mostly “chelated” products of magnesium contain these forms. Of course, the human body easily absorbs these. In order to enhance magnesium levels for hypomagnesemia, this, being one of the best magnesium supplements, is advised to be consumed. The supplement also comes with a high-level for bowel tolerance. Magnesium Oxide This is not usually available in bio-form. This, which is also considered as one of the best magnesium supplements, is used for the treatment of acid reflux or acidic stomach. The low level of bioavailability makes this compound perfect for individuals having constipation.

Have you been taking enough probiotics in your food? Probably, you are not. Essentially probiotics are the good bacteria which line the gut and play a vital role in the absorption of nutrients and support the immune system. Benefits of Probiotic foods Probiotic foods have many immediate health benefits, some of which include: Development of strong immune system Improvement in digestion Evolution of healthier skin as probiotics leads to improvement of eczema. Reduction in incidence of flu and cold Let us look at some of the best probiotic products: Kefir It is similar to yogurt and is a combination of fermented kefir grains and milk. Kefir has been in use since last 3,000 years and is known to contain 34 strains of probiotics. Cultured Vegetables Cultured vegetables are made from fermented cabbage and other such vegetables. Though it is not diverse in probiotics but has a higher proportion of organic acids which gives sour taste and results in the formation of good bacteria. The combination of cultured bacteria is very common in Germany and is especially taken by people who are looking to having a strong digestive system. Kombucha This is an effervescent fermentation of black tea and has been in use since last 2,000 years after it originated in Japan. Its primary health benefits include liver detoxification, support in the digestive system and increase in energy. Coconut Kefir Coconut Kefir is made by fermenting the juice of young coconut and is one of the best probiotic products. This fermentation is done with help from kefir grains. This is a dairy free option and is known to contain a rich proportion of probiotics. This food has several strains of probiotics which are good for health. The great flavor of coconut kefir is another of its additives which can be made better by adding some stevia leaves, lime juice, and water.

Several research studies have been conducted on the supplements for eye health. Specific nutrients can improve eye problems and some others delay discomforts. You might have heard a lot about over-the-counter supplements for eye health containing different types of nutrients. Many people are using them to find a solution to their eye-related discomforts. Seek professional advice When it comes to your eye health, you must seek the advice of your doctor prior to choosing from the popular supplements for eye health. So he/she must be the primary resource for information. Supplements for eye health differ from the prescription medications that doctor offers, but you must seek professional advice because your eyes are one of the most important organs in your body. Vision supplements in multivitamins Prior to taking high doses of supplements for eye health, you must check the existing multivitamins that you have been using. You might be already taking most of the nutrients for healthy eyes through your current multivitamins. If you find that you are not taking any of these nutrients you can go for new supplements. Another important thing is to check the quality of nutrients available in the supplement you are planning to purchase. Most important nutrients that offer good eye health The most important nutrients that provide good eye health are zinc, vitamin C, beta-carotene, vitamin E, folic acid, selenium, zeaxanthin, lutein, thiamine, calcium, omega-3 essential fatty acids, alpha lipoic acid, and n-acetyl cysteine. You must look for these ingredients while choosing supplements for eye health, and if you cannot find a single product contains all these ingredients, separate supplements can be taken to ensure proper distribution of all nutrients. Never purchase a supplement with a broken container You have to ensure that the product you purchase is fresh. The expiration date must be checked before paying the cash.

Lungs, an integral part of the respiratory system, hold oxygen which is then supplied to the rest of the body through the bloodstream. It is essential to keep the lungs healthy to maintain optimum oxygen intake. However, there can be things in the environment that can trigger lung damage. This article lists five such household factors that can trigger lung damage, which can, in turn, cause diseases. Let’s check them out. Mold Mold is a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces and corners. It is common in houses with issues of leaking pipes. The fungus releases spores in the air and can trigger a severe reaction in those allergic to mold. The response is relatively severe in people with lung damage and diseases like asthma and COPD. Carpet Carpets add to the allure and warmth of our homes. But there are some other harmful things that they add. Carpets can act as a storage space for dust mites, cockroach droppings, mold, dander, pet hair, and other allergens. These are released back into the air often. As a result, it is advisable to clean and vacuum carpets multiple times a week to ensure they do not work as carriers for lung-damaging components. Flour Baker’s asthma is a common condition among bakery workers. It is caused by the dust and flour particles that saturate the air and are transported with humans as vectors. Those who suffer from this have a difficult time breathing. Baker’s asthma can also be detected in people who live close to bakers, including their family and friends. Candles Candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum-based product. When lit, candles release chemical-fueled fumes into the environment that can trigger allergic reactions in people. This reaction is enhanced in people with pre-existing conditions like COPD, asthma, allergies, and low immunity.

The foods we eat play a significant role, and that dictates how our organs function. The eyes are vascular, and it is necessary to eat nutritious foods to keep the blood vessels in good health. Eating unhealthy foods may block the veins that provide the eyes with the essential nutrients and oxygen. Such restrictions may affect one’s vision. Keeping this in mind, here are five foods that can worsen eye health. Margarine Margarine is considered a healthy alternative to butter, as it is made from vegetable oils. However, it still contains trans fats. These fats may increase a person’s cholesterol levels and put them at risk of heart diseases and eye problems. Red meat Red meat contains preservatives like salt, cholesterol, and fat, making them tasty and increasing their shelf life. However, these chemicals may harm one’s health and lead to high blood pressure. Such pressure spikes can lead to Choroidopathy, a fluid buildup below the retina. Fish Several fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and may offer health benefits. However, fish also contain hints of mercury. People who eat lots of fish may be at risk of eye damage because of the chemical element. Coffee Coffee contains caffeine, an energy-boosting component that helps people stay active. But studies link caffeine to a slew of health problems, including those related to the eyes. Caffeine may increase the pressure inside the eye, especially in people with ocular hypertension (OHT) or glaucoma. The increase in pressure may result in loss of vision and even blindness. Sweetened beverages Sweetened beverages like energy drinks, sodas, and lemonade contain an abundant amount of sugar. Each drink might contain about seven to ten teaspoons of added sugar. Such sugars may increase the risk of type-2 diabetes and heart diseases. These diseases may also lead to conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy.

Depression is a health condition characterized by feeling low and out of control of one’s moods for a long time period. Often, there is no specific cause this can be traced back to, but rather, it is the result of multiple factors at play at the same time. Depression has serious effects on one’s physical health and mental health. Individuals lose the motivation to indulge in hobbies, are listless throughout the day, and are unable to partake in their routine activities. Aside from medication and therapy, consuming the right food that can help boost mental health and fight depression is recommended. Foods that help manage the condition Just as some foods are good for the bones, there are some foods that go a long way in helping boost one’s mental health. Fighting depression is a gradual process, and the nutrients and foods listed below aid in the same. Omega-3 fatty acids Nuts like walnuts, fish, avocados are examples of food that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and are among the favored foods to fight depression and boost mental health. Antioxidants Foods containing antioxidants help to fight the damage caused by free radicals, which in turn fights depression. Such foods are rich in vitamins. Proteins To help boost mental health in an individual, proteins should form a necessary part of their diet. Food items like eggs, chicken breast, and yogurt are protein-rich help boost mental health and fight depression in a person. Zinc Food containing zinc boosts the immune system of the body and also boosts mental health. Some examples are nuts, beans, and whole grains. Vitamin B Foods containing vitamin B aids in fighting depression and reducing mood swings. Some examples of food that are rich in vitamin B are eggs, oysters, fish, and whole grains. Mushrooms Research has shown that mushrooms are excellent to boost one’s mental health.

In the modern world today, many people don’t know about the importance of an insurance policy which leads to various problems. Insurance allows a person to ensure more protection from financial loss during critical situations. There are different types of insurance policies available in the markets which help to overcome risks in life. A medical insurance or health insurance covers expenses for injuries and illnesses that ultimately give ways for reducing the burden. It is a suitable one for individual, family, and employees to gain major benefits. Leading insurance companies offer health insurance plans with best premium rates to save money. The importance of having a family health insurance plan The medical treatments are becoming an expensive one, and many families find it difficult to afford them due to low income and other factors. A health insurance policy will ultimately help to manage them effectively for accomplishing goals in life. Another benefit is that it provides methods for reimbursing the amounts after undergoing treatment in a hospital. Some of the key features of a health insurance policy include cashless treatment, ambulance charges, tax benefits, medical check-up, no claim bonus, co-payment, pre and post hospitalization. A family health insurance plan covers all the members, and the costs are usually high than an individual plan. However, the costs may vary with the gender and age allowing them to receive better care services in hospitals. An indemnity plan can benefit a family a lot which gives ways for accomplishing goals in life. At the same time, it is a difficult one to choose a right plan that exactly suits a family. The following tips can help a family to select a plan at affordable rates. Determining the plan type Most insurance companies provide health maintenance organization (HMO), preferred provider organization (PPO), exclusive provider organization (EPO), and point of service (POS) plans to families at the best prices for reducing expenses considerably.