Depression, stress can reduce vaccine efficacy

Depression, stress and loneliness can weaken the body's immune system, and lower the effectiveness of certain vaccines, including the new Covid-19 preventives that are in development and the early stages of global distribution, scientists say. 

According to a report accepted for publication in the journal Perspectives on Psychological Science, simple interventions, including exercise and getting a good night's sleep in the 24 hours before vaccination, may maximise the vaccine's initial effectiveness. 

The researchers noted that even though rigorous testing has shown that the COVID-19 vaccines approved for distribution in the US are highly effective at producing a robust immune response, not everyone will immediately gain their full benefit. 

Environmental factors, as well as an individual's genetics and physical and mental health, can weaken the body's immune system, slowing the response to a vaccine, they said.

"In addition to the physical toll of Covid-19, the pandemic has an equally troubling mental health component, causing anxiety and depression, among many other related problems," said Annelise Madison, a researcher at The Ohio State University in the US. 

"Emotional stressors like these can affect a person's immune system, impairing their ability to ward off infections," said Madison, lead author on the paper. The report sheds light on vaccine efficacy and how health behaviours and emotional stressors can alter the body's ability to develop an immune response. Vaccines work by challenging the immune system. Within hours of a vaccination, there is an innate, general immune response on the cellular level as the body begins to recognise a potential biological threat.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.     

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Exercises Which Will Strengthen The Pelvic Floor For Women

The topic of pelvic floor disorders isn’t a popular one at parties, as there is an overwhelming stigma surrounding them. Meanwhile, the official U.S. statistics report that 1 in 4 women suffers from a moderate to severe form of a pelvic floor disorder.

The reason for such high occurrence at severe stages is, in part, that the early symptoms are uncomfortable and difficult to admit even to a medical professional. All the more reasons to discuss this topic in depth and teach you how to manage this problem.

 

What Is the Pelvic Floor and Why Is It So Important For Our Health and Well-being?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles located inside of your pelvis. These muscles play one very important role: they prevent the organs from slipping out, as weird as it may sound. As the doctor describes it, “the pelvic floor muscles work like a hammock to support the pelvic organs, including the uterus, bladder and rectum”.

Like all muscles, the pelvic floor muscles can weaken as a result of trauma or aging, which explains the findings that it is predominantly women after childbirth and women post-menopause that suffer from weakened or overstretched pelvic muscles and all the uncomfortable symptoms that go with it.

Other causes of a weak pelvic floor include obesity, straining associated with chronic constipation and constant coughing. When the muscles are weakened, patients can experience the following symptoms:

• leaking urine when sneezing, coughing, laughing or running
• incontinence
• passing wind uncontrollably when lifting things or bending over
• painful sex
• diminished sensation in the vagina
• a sensation of heaviness in the vagina
• tampons that slip out.

Luckily, because the pelvic floor is a muscle, it, too, can be strengthened and returned to its initial happy and healthy form through regular exercise. All of the exercises that we will show you are easy, they can be done in the comfort of your own home and don’t require any special equipment (although we will give you optional uses of some sports equipment that you may have lying around at home).

1. Kegels

This is a great exercise because it is not only effective, but also can be easily done at work, in the car, or anywhere else, really. The movements you will do are so minimal no one will ever know you’re in the middle of exercising. You will benefit from this exercise if you experience leaking after sudden movements or if you have a strong urge to urinate right after urinating.

Here’s how to do this exercise:

Step 1. Identify your pelvic muscles. To do so, just stop urinating midway. The muscles you use to stop the stream are your pelvic floor muscles.

Step 2. Now that you know which muscles we’re talking about, simply contract them and hold for 5 seconds and then release for another 5 seconds. To see progress, repeat this exercise 10 times, 3 times a day.

Extra tip: If you feel like it’s difficult to keep the pelvic muscles activated, let your abdominals join in and suck in your belly as you’re contracting the pelvic floor (we illustrated this in the picture below).

2. Bird Dog

Can you tell from the name that this exercise was inspired by yoga? Well, as many yoga poses, this one is a full body strengthener, so if you found kegels too boring, you are sure to feel an effect after doing this one, especially in your glutes, abs, back and hips.

It will also challenge your sense of balance, so start slowly and be mindful. If you have sensitive knees, we recommend to do this exercise on a rug, yoga mat or a simple towel.

Step 1. Start from an all fours position. Make sure your wrists are aligned directly under shoulders and your knees are under hips. Keep your back straight and protect your lower back by activating your core muscles.

Step 2. Start the exercise by simultaneously straightening  and raising the right leg and left arm (ideally until they form a straight line with your spine, see the picture). Keep your head neutral and relaxed. You will feel wobbly at first and your body might even start shaking a little, that means you’re doing everything correctly. Hold this pose for 2 seconds and then lower the arm and the leg back to the initial position.

Step 3. Repeat the same process, this time with the other arm and leg. This is 1 repetition. Keep in mind that each side may feel different, that’s okay. If you find it difficult to maintain your balance, here’s a trick: rotate the foot that is raised slightly inwards.

Repeat this exercise 10 times and do 3 sets with a 30–60 second interval between the sets.

3. Squats

Squats are a very powerful exercise for engaging the entire lower body. It engages both small and large muscles, such as the gluteus muscles, the back muscles and the leg muscles, and. of course, the pelvic floor. Remember that alignment is key in this exercise because otherwise your can hurt your lower back.

Step 1. Stand with the feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Toes either look forwards or point out slightly. Engage your core and keep your spine straight as you slowly bend your knees and push your hips and bum down and back, as if you’re about to sit down on a chair. Make sure you don't carry all the weight on your knees and that your knees don't splay out.

Step 2. Squat until you can keep your shins perpendicular to the floor, no need to bend forward. Then rise up and straighten your legs, returning to the initial position.
Repeat 15 times.

4. Bridge

Though many people think that the bridge is mainly an exercise for the glutes, by doing it correctly you will also strengthen your pelvic floor and inner thighs. You don’t need any equipment for this, but for beginners it is beneficial to use some kind of object until you understand which muscles to activate. This can be a yoga block, a small book or even a balled-up pair of socks, we’ll explain how to use it later.
Step 1. Lie on the floor with your arms straight and palm facing down. Bend your knees in around a 90-degree angle, legs at shoulder width apart. If you want to use a block or any other object, keep your legs together, hugging the object that you’ve placed between your legs at around mid-thigh level.
Step 2. On an inhale, push your abdomen, hips and thighs up as much as you can or until your body forms a straight line. You will feel the glutes immediately, but the trick is to squeeze your thighs in as well. If you’re using an object, don’t let it fall by holding it with your thighs. Stay in this pose for 1–2 seconds, and then slowly return to the initial position.

Repeat 10–15 times and do 2–3 sets with a 30–60 second interval between the sets.

If you want to do an even more advanced version of this exercise, you can use a stability ball. Instead of keeping your feet on the ground in the starting position, place them on the ball and raise your hips just like we instructed above.

5. Split Tabletop

This exercise looks just like the starting position of an ab workout, which means that you will activate your core. The split element, in turn, will activate your thigh muscles and pelvic floor. If you suffer from back pain, we recommend doing this exercise on a mat or similar.
Step 1. Start laying down with your back on the floor and your knees bent so that your shins are parallel to the floor.

Activate your abdominal muscles and flush your inner thighs together. 
Step 2. Slowly and mindfully start splitting your legs outwards, so that each knee falls outward as much as you can.
Step 3. Return your knees to the initial position.
Repeat 10–15 times and do 3 sets with a 30–60 second interval between the sets.
This was the last exercise we had to offer in this article. Keep in mind that with any exercise it takes time to see any effects, so repeat these exercises for at least a month or two to see any results.
Disclaimer: If you think you might be suffering from a weak pelvic floor, please see your doctor. These exercises may not be sufficient for your condition.

 

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                    PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/                                                                                                                                                         FOR INFO ABOUT KNEE REPLACEMENT, YOU CAN VIEW MY BLOG-                                                  https:// kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com/           

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20 Signs Your Body is Too Acidic and 10 Ways to Quickly Alkalize It

The pH scale (potential hydrogen) runs from 0 to 14 – with 7 as the neutral middle. This means that if the substance’s pH is less than 7, then this substance is acid. But, on the other hand, a basic or alkaline substance has a pH greater than 7. We drink tap water every day, but our tap water is generally a mixture of chlorine, antibiotics, hormones and other heavy metals that will go inside your organism. This means that impure tap water can weaken our immune system and cause many different diseases and health conditions (when the immune system is vulnerable).

Every organ in the human body is affected by acidity. Our lungs, bones, brain, heart, liver, kidneys, stomach, intestines and skin. Well, this means that if your body is too acidic, then you’re not going to feel so good. When our bodies become too acidic, we feel sick, without energy, fatigue, digestive problems, weight gain and other bad side effects.

According to the experts, up to 95% of all cancers have acidic environment behind them. They also claim that cancers can’t survive in an alkaline environment – where the pH level is 7.36 or more. Acidosis (high levels of acidity) is related to other diseases like osteoporosis, diabetes, heart disease and almost all other chronic diseases which we suffer from nowadays.

Here are 20 signs that your body is too acidic:

• Excess mucus/ phlegm
• Persistent Cough
• Chest Pain
• Persistent Fatigue
• Sinus Concerns
• Osteoporosis
• Neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and dementia
• Decreased mental clarity
• Cardiovascular damage caused by acidic plaques– increased threat of cardiac arrest and stroke
• Bladder and kidney infections
• Immune shortage
• Skin issues like eczema, acne, rashes, and dermatitis of all types
• Stomach problems consisting of bloating, indigestion, acid reflux and excess gas
• Yeast and yeast infections
• Weight gain and/or obesity
• Diabetes
• Allergic reactions
• Sciatica and stiff neck
• Cavities and sensitive gums
• Joint discomfort and aching muscles

The human body needs to maintain a balanced pH level – in order to stay healthy. Well, this means that when we eat acid-forming foods, the body tries to balance the blood’s pH level by releasing alkaline-rich minerals into the bloodstream, such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. And – if we aren’t eating enough alkaline-forming foods, the body has to pull these minerals from our bones, teeth, and organs, which can cause fatigue and compromise the immune system, making us more vulnerable to illness. In this article, we’re going to show you 7 tips how to decrease the levels of acidity in your body.
Useful tips to decrease your level of acidity:

1. Make sure you drink a lot of filtered water every day. Spring water is a good choice. This will help you flush the harmful toxins from your body – much faster.
2. You should eliminate acidic foods from your diet. Foods and drinks like soda, popcorn, dairy, pastries, alcohol, coffee, white vinegar, sweeteners, meat, wheat products, eggs, fish, soy, and seafood.
3. You should consume more greens because they’re extremely alkalizing. Green shakes, green juices, salads, etc.!
4. Did you know that your emotions can impact the pH levels in your body? Anger, fear, animosity, and jealousy will increase the acidity. So, you should meditate or practice yoga. It will help you de-stress.
5. This is very important for you to remember – you should definitely avoid GMO foods.
6. Consume alkaline-forming foods– vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, beans, and legumes.
7. Drink lemon water in the morning!

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                    PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/       

                                                                                                                                                                    FOR INFO ABOUT KNEE REPLACEMENT, YOU CAN VIEW MY BLOG-                                                  https:// kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com/           
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9 Natural Treatments Against Herpes Sores on the Lips

Those who suffer from herpes already know that there is nothing more distressing, painful, and embarrassing than waking up with such a sore on the lips, especially when it comes to a day when we have a very important meeting or event. The herpes virus tends to attack the body in situations where the immune system is weakened, meaning, if you usually suffer from then you can expect them to occur after the onset of a disease that is accompanied by fever, as well as during transitional seasons, stressful situations and periods of extreme hormonal changes. The solution for most of those suffering from this problem is a special ointment that can be bought at the pharmacy. However, if you have a herpes sore on your lips and don’t have time to go to the pharmacy or just want to treat it more naturally, there are 9 natural methods to help you get rid of herpes quickly and efficiently. Note that these treatments are only meant for herpes sores found on the lips.

1. Milk

It may surprise you to discover that the simple milk in your refrigerator can provide you with an effective solution for herpes. All you have to do is soak a cotton ball with 1% milk and leave it on the sore for a few minutes. Repeat this several times a day and don’t rinse the area after soaking, so that the active ingredients in the milk can work against the wound.

2. Licorice root

Licorice root is an effective remedy for herpes sores because it contains an acid called glycerin, which helps stop the development of the virus and "equips" the body with what it needs to fight the wound. You can try to eat licorice root as it is while in a situation which may pre-empt a sore, but the best way to use it is by mixing licorice powder (available in health stores) with a little water to make an ointment and apply it a few times a day.

3. Garlic

Some of you may remember your mother saying that garlic is an excellent cure for colds and flu, but what she may not have known is that garlic also helps get rid of pesky herpes sores. The antiviral abilities of garlic make it an excellent solution if your plagues with a sore. All you have to do is crush one clove and place it directly on the wound for a few minutes and then rinse the area with lukewarm water.

4. Mint oil 

The essential oil derived from mint also has anti-viral properties, and there is no doubt that its smell is preferable to that of garlic. If you have mint oil, you should use it. Apply it to your lips with a cotton bud 3 times a day.

5. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has many uses and is also known as a natural remedy that helps to relieve wounds of all kinds. Applying to your herpes sore will help dry it and get rid of it within one day. Just make sure to apply it to the sore several times during the day, and before bedtime.

6. Vanilla extract

Vanilla extract is used mainly in baking but is also known for its various medicinal abilities, because it has high levels of alcohol, which makes it difficult for viruses to survive. Apply it directly to the sore with a cotton bud 4-5 times a day to cure it.

7. Ice

Ice has no health benefits worth mentioning, but it is on the list of natural remedies for herpes sores, and the advantage of it is that it’s the simplest and most common of all the natural treatments on this list. Once you notice a sore popping out on your lips, take an ice cube and place it on the area. Cold ice will help to prevent pain and swelling, which will also help you avoid the urge to pick at the sore and consequently worsen its condition.

8. Olive oil

Olive oil is known to be an excellent skin moisturizer, but it is also used as an effective remedy for the treatment of herpes sores. Take a cup of olive oil, heat it in a pot and add a little honey and lavender oil. After a few minutes remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool down. After it has cooled, apply it to the affected area.

9. Black coffee

Black coffee provides a particularly effective solution against herpes sores in particular and mouth ulcers in general, as it helps to get rid of the pain and swelling that accompanies them. To use this grandmother's medicine, prepare yourself a cup of black coffee, soak a cotton round in it, and place it on the sore. Do this twice a day and experience significant relief in the sensation and appearance of your lips.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/                                                                                                                                                                             FOR INFO ABOUT KNEE REPLACEMENT, YOU CAN VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                                                             https:// kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com/                                                                                       FOR CROCHET DESIGNS                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com