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Many people cook with butter. However, if you replace them with olive oil, you can do something good for your health. A more detailed look is worthwhile.

Butter or olive oil: (Un)saturated fatty acids – that’s how (un)healthy they are

In general, you can eat and enjoy butter in small amounts, for example occasionally on bread or when you use something for cooking. Apart from the so-called palmitic acid, it usually has no direct harmful ingredients. However, it does not promote health either – in contrast to vegetable oils. In particular, you should avoid large amounts of butter.

It is also important that you eat a healthy and balanced diet overall. The different fatty acids should be balanced.

A distinction is made between saturated and (poly)unsaturated fatty acids. Butter contains saturated fatty acids, olive oil contains many unsaturated fatty acids. Polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids are considered to be particularly healthy because they have a positive effect on blood lipid levels and have an anti-inflammatory effect. Omega-6 fatty acids tend to promote inflammation, but are necessary for the immune system, for example. Edible fish offer ample amounts of omega-3; You can find omega-6 fats in meat and offal in particular.

Olive oil as a healthy alternative

Olive oil is generally considered healthier than butter. It is said to protect against cancer and reduce the risk of death. Olive oil can have a positive effect on cholesterol levels; so there should be fewer heart attacks in Mediterranean areas where a lot of olive oil is consumed.

It may also prevent Alzheimer’s. In addition to the consumption of olive oil, a healthy diet and the consumption of fruit and vegetables as well as an all-round healthy lifestyle play an important role, so that you are physically fit, for example. Olive oil can help you lose weight and is said to have a positive effect on your skin. Olive oil can also help you naturally cleanse your arteries. Butter, on the other hand, is more likely to get stuck in your arteries, which at worst can lead to heart disease.

Still water or sparkling water – what is healthier? Many people ask themselves this question again and again, after all there are many myths surrounding the harmfulness of sparkling water. But what about the arguments against carbonic acid in the water?

Carbonated Water Has Lower pH: What Does That Mean?

A special feature of carbonated water: it has a lower pH value. According to Stiftung Warentest, its pH value is around 5.3, while still water has a neutral pH value of 7. So carbonated water is slightly acidic – that’s one of the reasons why it’s said to be unhealthier and has numerous effects on the body could have.

#1. Carbonic acid is bad for your teeth: What’s behind the myth?

A common belief is that carbon dioxide damages teeth. According to Stefan Zimmer, Head of the Department of Tooth Preservation and Preventive Dentistry at the University of Witten/Herdecke, this accusation is completely unjustified. There are no disadvantages for the teeth when drinking sparkling water, since the carbon dioxide in it breaks down immediately.

A sip of sparkling water after a meal can even help to remove tooth decay-promoting substrates. The rinsing effect can also dilute acids that attack the teeth and tooth erosion

The American Dental Association also disagrees with this argument – ​​it considers carbonated mineral water to be safe. She cites a study

#2. Sparkling water makes you fat: Does carbonic acid increase your appetite?

Fizzy water may promote weight gain, according to a 2017 study. Researchers observed that rats given fizzy drinks gained weight faster than rats fed the same non-fizzy drinks. Apparently the carbonic acid raised the ghrelin level. Ghrelin is an appetite-stimulating hormone

However, the scientists only used rats and 20 students for their study. The results are therefore not meaningful, says Stiftung Warentest. So far there is no reliable evidence that sparkling water can actually make you fat.
Experts advise your own appetite in connection with sparkling water

#3. Carbonated water makes you acidic: Does the drink disturb our acid-base balance?

As already mentioned, sparkling water actually has a higher pH value than still water and is therefore more acidic. With this reason, carbonated drinks are sometimes discouraged in naturopathy.

However, the German Society for Nutrition (DGE) gives the all-clear: “The carbon dioxide it contains is quite unstable and quickly breaks down into its components CO2 and water”. When the bottle is opened, the carbonic acid escapes with a hiss (in the form of CO2). “The rest breaks down in the stomach. This means that you have to belch or a part gets into the blood via the digestive tract and is exhaled unnoticed through the lungs. So carbonated water does not contribute to acidification of the body.”

But even in this case, according to the Center for Health, there is no clear answer. So it means here too: observe oneself. For some people, carbonic acid can affect pH balance. This can lead to heartburn or digestive problems. For others, the sparkling water can even have the opposite effect. In the case of constipation, carbonated water could even be more advisable than still water.

#4. Carbonic acid damages the stomach: does sparkling water cause heartburn?

The fact is: Anyone who drinks carbonated drinks absorbs gas (CO2) – and this also finds its way out again. According to NDR experts, part of it enters the blood via the digestive tract and is then exhaled via the lungs.

The rest then escapes through belching and annoying flatulence. As a rule, however, this is not a problem – according to the experts, sparkling water is not automatically unhealthier because of this.

But be careful: If you are prone to heartburn, you may well have problems if you drink carbonic acid. When you belch, stomach acid can get into the esophagus and cause heartburn. Therefore, people with sensitive stomachs should drink water that is still or only slightly carbonated.

Conclusion: Carbonated water is not necessarily unhealthier – the effect is individual

In summary, it can be said that carbonated water is not nearly as bad as its reputation suggests. In most points it depends on the individual sensitivities of a person. So if you don’t notice any negative effects on yourself when you drink sparkling water, you can confidently continue to do so.

Eating healthy can be easier than you think. Even doing without a few products can give you a more positive body feeling. We show you 5 foods that you should avoid in the future.

Eat healthier: These 5 foods should disappear from the kitchen

This lowers the risk of diabetes and tooth decay. And it also gives you a good feeling overall: homemade is best after all. This applies to ketchup, ready-to-eat salads and “sweet” muesli in the morning.

But there is also a solution in areas where it is difficult to produce your own food – meat, for example – organic and from the region. The closer you are to the producer, the healthier the meat. In many cases, cheap meat comes from fattening farms that administer antibiotics and other harmful substances to their animals. It’s not healthy for us humans either.

Ketchup
ready-made salads
Sugary breakfast cereal
soft drinks
cheap meat

This is certainly not new. But often it’s the simplest things that you don’t think of – and that make so much difference. It’s worth trying.

Dog fitness is not just a new trend, but an important factor in keeping dogs healthy. Veterinarians warn that there are more and more dogs that are seriously overweight. This affects the heart and kidneys, the animal feels uncomfortable and automatically moves less. Dog sport can therefore help to keep your four-legged friend and yourself fit.

Tips for your dog’s health

A dog is not just overweight when visible signs of obesity become noticeable and, for example, the ribs under the fur are no longer visible and are covered with a thick layer of fat. You often notice the lack of fitness when the dog no longer enjoys exercise, quickly gets out of breath, and would rather lie at home than play in nature or do fast sprints. But dog fitness should not be neglected if you care about your dog’s health. You should also know home remedies for dog poisoning and toxins for dogs to protect your dog’s health.

That’s why dog ​​sport is worthwhile

A good half of all dogs are overweight. And this isn’t just a problem for city dogs. Their peers in rural areas also struggle with obesity. Because the daily stay on the property is not enough for good fitness. Long walks and dog sports are therefore important. Otherwise, the problem of being overweight can shorten the dog’s lifespan. If the excess weight is severe and the dog is proverbially “lazy”, you should therefore consult a veterinarian and trainer and start with more dog fitness.

Increase dog fitness with sport

There are several ways to train that you and your dog can both enjoy. You can also stay fit in everyday life and do your health good. Already active exercise in the forest and in the open field can help to reduce obesity and improve health. You should not let bad weather stop you and look for the way into nature every day and for several hours. Swimming and long walks at a brisk pace are ideal in summer.

1) Parkour with the dog

In the cold season, you can support dog fitness by opting for special training, such as parkour, at the dog training area. The training units are designed in such a way that the dog uses all muscle groups with regular activity and thus converts accumulated body fat into muscle mass.

2) Agility as a dog sport

Another popular type of dog sport is agility training. Agility means mobility. Thus, the training aims to overcome obstacles in a short time, as the example exercises in the video show. At the same time, mutual trust is strengthened and communication between you and your dog is improved. And best of all, it’s fun for everyone. Huskies and Australian Shepards in particular love this sport. Please also note our guide to buying a puppy.

3) Dog fun with Debility

Unlike dog sport agility, dignity is not about time. The focus here is on endurance, concentration, and muscle building. This type of dog fitness is therefore particularly suitable for overweight and older dogs. You can design debility parkour yourself or complete it in a dog school. To ensure that your dog gets to the dog school safely, follow tips on driving safely with a dog.

4) Obedience is a dog sport

Obedience means obedience in German. Accordingly, this dog sport is all about perfect communication between you and your dog. Together as a team, you show that your dog understands the commonly spoken commands and carries out all the ‘commands’ without any problems. This dog sport is suitable for all dog breeds and especially for dogs that need mental activity.

5) Mantrailing and tracking

To get your dog moving more, you can try tracking or mantrailing. Here the nose work is required. Because your dog should recognize a track or an individual smell and look for it. This can be done outdoors or indoors. It is important that your dog moves a little and enjoys the search.

Good dog nutrition is important

Not only more exercise is important for dog fitness. A good diet also prevents obesity. It can also prevent vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. As a result, health starts with the diet: too fatty food or food unsuitable for the breed or the activity of the dog harms the animal. Reaching for cheap offers often turns out to be a mistake and leads to the dog eating a lot more due to a lack of nutrients and accordingly gaining weight and body fat. Therefore, you should pay close attention to the content of the food and follow the manufacturer’s tips on the quantity according to the weight of the animal.

You probably know sunflower oil primarily as a cheap and versatile cooking oil. But what is it doing in cosmetics? And is it even healthy?

Sunflower oil is one of the most popular cooking oils worldwide. You can buy the oil obtained from the kernels of sunflowers in the virgin or refined variety.

Virgin sunflower oil is cold-pressed and is not processed further after pressing. It is light yellow and tastes nutty. Refined sunflower oil, on the other hand, is cleaned of coloring and bitter substances after it has been extracted. Because of this, it tastes more neutral and has a paler color. Sunflower oil is best preserved when it is cold-pressed and left untreated. You can find out exactly which ingredients are involved in the next section.

The ingredients of sunflower oil and their effects

Sunflower oil mainly consists of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The most important of these are the omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid and the monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid oleic acid. How much of these two fatty acids the sunflower oil contains depends on whether it is “normal” or “high oleic”, i.e. sunflower oil rich in oleic acid. The latter is made from a special variety of sunflowers, the seeds of which contain a particularly large amount of oleic acid.

Here is an overview of the most important ingredients:
Linoleic acid: Sunflower oil contains about 48 to 74 percent of this omega-6 fatty acid (high oleic: two to 17 percent). Linoleic acid is one of the essential fatty acids that our body cannot produce itself. Among other things, it needs them to produce other fatty acids and for healthy skin. However, you should not consume too much of this fatty acid, since omega-6 fatty acids inhibit the function of omega-3 fatty acids in the body. A good omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is between five to one and two to one, according to a 2008 study. Unfortunately, sunflower oil hardly contains any omega-3 fatty acids. You get these from rapeseed and linseed oil, walnuts and fatty sea fish.
Oleic acid: Sunflower oil contains between 14 and 39 percent of this monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid – with high oleic sunflower oil the proportion is logically higher: up to 92 percent can be achieved. According to a study, oleic acid reduces insulin resistance in diabetic patients. Another study concluded that oleic acid boosts the immune system and has anti-inflammatory effects in the body.
Vitamin E: This is where sunflower oil can score: With around 40 to 70 milligrams per hundred grams, it contains significantly more vitamin E than, for example, rapeseed or olive oil. Vitamin E is one of the antioxidants that protect our cells from the harmful attacks of so-called free radicals. In addition, our body needs vitamin E for fat metabolism and healthy skin.

How to use sunflower oil in the kitchen

Depending on the variety, you can use sunflower oil in different ways in the kitchen:
You can use cold-pressed, virgin sunflower oil for dressings or dips that go well with the nutty taste. On the other hand, you should not heat it up – unless it is high oleic sunflower oil. This is very good for frying.
Refined sunflower oil can also be heated to high temperatures, although the frying properties of olive and rapeseed oil are better. Since refined sunflower oil tastes neutral, it goes well with most dishes. According to Stiftung Warentest, however, refined sunflower oils can contain unhealthy trans fats.

Away from the kitchen: This is how you can still use sunflower oil

Since sunflower oil contains a lot of linoleic acid and vitamin E, it has a positive effect on the skin. According to a study, for example, it helps with wound healing, has an antibacterial effect and helps the skin to regenerate.

Because of these beneficial properties, you can find sunflower oil in many skin care products – but you can also simply use virgin sunflower oil to rub into your skin. This saves you money and packaging and you know exactly which substances are getting on your skin. Sunflower oil can have similar positive effects on your hair if you use it as a hair treatment. Such an oil treatment also helps against a dry scalp.

Because of its mild taste, you can also use sunflower oil for oil pulling.

Oil pulling and its beneficial effects on dental and oral health. What is it and how does it work? We have all the important facts about the oil pulling effect and possible areas of application.

Drawing with oil originally comes from Ayurvedic teachings and is firmly anchored in a healthy daily routine. It is said to have a positive effect on dental health and detoxify the body. Consequently, it is said to alleviate many health ailments.

What is oil pulling?

Oil pulling is a traditional form of detoxification from Ayurveda. Oil pulling has been used here for thousands of years. And is considered an important part of holistic healing treatment. In addition, this oil cure is firmly anchored in the recommended and healthy daily routine of Indian medicine. Consequently, after getting up, two to three glasses of warm water are drunk and meditated. This is followed by brushing your teeth and pulling with the oil. Also, note our tips on deacidifying the body.

The positive effects of oil pulling

Oil pulling has a positive effect on dental and oral health. Because the application has a caring and antimicrobial effect. Consequently, bad bacteria in the mouth should be fought and ensure healthy teeth. It is also said to help the body with detoxification. And as a result, other health complaints and diseases, such as migraines or heart problems, are also alleviated. However, the spirits also differ here. While many see the positive effects on dental health and other diseases as proven, others lack the scientific evidence.

Which oil can I use?

Oil pulling, but which oil? Lime-pressed sesame oil or sunflower oil is suitable for Ayurvedic use. You can also use virgin coconut oil. Because these were used for most of the studies and showed an antibacterial effect. Anti-inflammatory properties have also been demonstrated in sesame and coconut oil. You should always make sure that the oils are organic. Other oils also show antibacterial effects and could be used for oil treatment.

What does the oil cure help?

As already mentioned, the oil treatment has a positive effect on dental and oral health. In addition, Ayurvedic teachings assume that it can also heal other health problems. In the following, we have collected the most important areas of application against which oil pulling can help. In addition, note our other tips for proper oral hygiene.

1) Oil pulling reduces plaque

Daily oil pulling shows a reduction in dental plaque. Since plaque can damage teeth and cause tartar or periodontal disease, you should remove plaque effectively. An effective home remedy for the plaque is pulling with oil. Therefore, you should incorporate this into your dental care routine.

2) To prevent tooth decay

A 2008 study shows that oil pulling can reduce tooth decay-causing bacteria in the mouth. Thus, the application is a good way to prevent tooth decay. You should also brush your teeth properly and take the time for adequate dental care. Consequently, you can get healthy and white teeth.

3) Oil pulling ensures healthy gums

If you have problems with bleeding gums and bad gums, the oil pulling application may be just what you need. Here, too, a study shows the improvement in gum health through oil pulling. For the application to work, you should draw the oil in your mouth for at least 20 minutes. Also, note our other home remedies for gingivitis for quick relief of the pain.

4) As a home remedy for bad breath

Bad breath is an extremely unpleasant thing. If you suffer from bad breath, pulling oil every day can help you get rid of bad breath effectively. Because removing the coating on the tongue eliminates bad smells. And the antibacterial effect of the oil pulling application also has a positive effect on the oral flora. You can get rid of the bad bacteria that are responsible for bad breath.

5) Oil pulling for mouth sores

There is also a reduction in inflammation in the mouth. You should take advantage of the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects of coconut oil in particular. Consequently, you can quickly get rid of the pain in the mouth. And with daily use, you can also prevent sores in the mouth. Also, read our useful home remedies for mouth sores.

6) Get rid of dry mouth with oil pulling

Dry mouth leads to swallowing difficulties and dry mucous membranes. And that can be very uncomfortable. Therefore, suitable remedies against dry mouth are needed. Oil pulling for teeth has also been proven effective for a dry mouth. Consequently, you can counteract a dry mouth by infusing a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for about 20 minutes.

Preventive health checks are essential for health. Therefore, a free health check makes sense at any age. As a rule, the costs for certain check-ups are paid by the health insurance company. From when and how often you are entitled, you can find out here.

Free health check as a precaution

As a rule, insured persons over the age of 35 are entitled to an extensive health check every three years. If your health is important to you, you should always see a doctor for the prevention or early detection of serious illnesses. At least this free health check. If there are any symptoms, you should of course seek medical advice from time to time.

Health insurance pays for at least one health check between the ages of 18 and 34. A possible risk profile is determined and the body and blood of the person being treated are examined. Here you should find out about individual offers from your health insurance company. If necessary, you can also change your health insurance company.

1) The sooner the better

The earlier you and your medical staff recognize an illness, the better the chances of recovery. Consequently, symptoms can be better classified with a regular comprehensive examination. Because behind symptoms, such as headaches or circulatory problems, there can also be serious problems. In order for the treatment to be successful, the medical staff must first clarify the causes. Seniors in particular save money with regular free health checks.

2) Coverage of costs for the health check

Contact them so that you can be sure which examinations your health insurance will cover. You can also find important information about health care on the Internet. As a rule, the health insurance companies cover the costs of the check-up every three years from the age of 35. However, there are also special examinations that can be carried out more often.

Here, too, the offers can differ from health insurance company to health insurance company. That’s why it’s important to stay up to date. Many cash registers now offer helpful apps for this purpose. This allows you to see which examinations are pending and to arrange a doctor’s appointment. In addition, note which costs for childcare are covered by health insurance and which care in the home environment is subsidized.

3) Health check as a health test

The procedure for a preventive health check is the same for all doctors. The test focuses mainly on determining whether the so-called “common diseases” such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, or cardiovascular problems can be identified. This major health check should definitely be done as often as possible.

This is how you can prevent serious illnesses and stay healthy and fit in everyday life. In addition, possible risk factors such as obesity are determined. As a result, you can address these factors. And even if you don’t pay for an annual check, you should consider whether it’s not worth the money. Investing in your own health is probably the best thing to do.

We will explain to you whether rapeseed oil is also healthy and what you should consider when buying it.

Rapeseed oil: The oil with the best fatty acid spectrum

Rapeseed oil has the best range of fatty acids compared to olive and sunflower oil (per 100 grams of oil):
7 g saturated fat,
63 g monounsaturated fatty acids, mainly oleic acid,
28g of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including the omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid and the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid in a 2:1 ratio.
The last point is particularly important: According to a study from 2008, the ratio of 2:1 is considered particularly favorable. According to the study, however, most people consume too few omega-3 fatty acids in relation to omega-6 fatty acids. Sunflower oil, which is also popular, contains a lot of linoleic acid, but hardly any omega-3 fatty acids. In that respect, rapeseed oil is healthier.

What about the quantitatively most important ingredient in rapeseed oil, oleic acid? According to studies, it also has various positive effects on the body:
In diabetic patients, oleic acid reduces insulin resistance.
A review shows that oleic acid strengthens the immune system and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Another review also notes the anti-inflammatory effects of oleic acid. However, he also notes that there is still a need for research to substantiate the finding.
In cell cultures, oleic acid is also said to inhibit the growth of tumor cells. Whether this mechanism works in the same way in the human body has not yet been sufficiently researched.

Apply canola oil: taste and smoke point

Whether you choose a virgin or a refined rapeseed oil also depends on the desired taste: while refined rapeseed oil is tasteless, virgin rapeseed oil has a nutty note. With its characteristic taste, it is particularly suitable for salads or steamed vegetables.

Native rapeseed oil is relatively heat resistant due to its high oleic acid content. For searing or deep-frying, however, it is better to use refined oil. Alternatively, according to Γ–kolandbau.de, there is now a particularly oil-rich rapeseed oil variety that you can also heat up to a very high temperature.

It is important to drink enough when exercising or exercising in the fresh air. The selection of drinking bottles ranges from plastic to aluminum to glass bottles. But which is the most environmentally friendly and healthiest alternative?

Disposable plastic beverage bottles are a major contributor to the flood of plastic waste around the world. Buying a reusable bottle that you can refill over and over again is a good step towards environmental protection.

There is now a huge selection of reusable drinking bottles made of a wide variety of materials. It is best to take a moment to find out about the advantages and disadvantages of the different variants and to find the most sensible, healthiest and most practical solution for you. Because a reusable bottle that only stands in the cupboard because, for example, after filling with orange juice, all subsequent drinks also taste like it, was not a good buy.

Plastic or aluminum drinking bottles

Many manufacturers rely on plastics for reusable bottles because they are light, comparatively solid and easy to clean. At the same time, plastics are cheap to manufacture. But it can contain plasticizers and other harmful substances that are released into the filled liquids over the course of use. In addition, they ultimately create plastic waste again.

In addition to plastic bottles, there are drinking bottles made of aluminum or stainless steel. They usually look high quality, but are controversial. Acidic drinks can attack the material and, if the coating is damaged, leach harmful substances out of the aluminum. In addition, unsightly dents can appear on the drinking bottles if they fall.

Hygienic and sustainable: glass drinking bottles

Glass drinking bottles, on the other hand, are particularly environmentally friendly and sustainable. Glass drinking bottles are non-toxic, 100% recyclable and tasteless. They can also be cleaned hygienically and used in a variety of ways. Since glass bottles do not absorb foreign tastes, you can fill in any drink after cleaning without the taste of the previous drink remaining.

Summertime is barbecue time – but many people make fundamental mistakes. Anyone who puts the wrong food on the grill or uses inappropriate utensils is harmful to their health. You shouldn’t grill this.

1. Marinated grilled food directly on the grid

One of the biggest health risks when barbecuing: when fat from the food drips onto the embers, so-called β€œpolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons” (PAHs) can form. The substances rise through the smoke, and anyone standing near the grill can inhale them. According to the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, PAHs have a carcinogenic effect.

This means that marinated vegetables, meat or cheese in particular should not be placed directly on the grill to prevent the marinade from dripping off. Use a grill tray instead – ideally a reusable tray. Single-use products only create unnecessary waste.

By the way: If it still happens that liquid drips down and smoke develops, you should put the food aside until the smoke subsides.

2. Acidic or salty foods on aluminum

If you use an aluminum grill tray, however, you have to be careful again: If aluminum comes into contact with acids or salts, a chemical reaction will take place. Aluminum ions dissolve and can migrate to the food.

Healthy people usually excrete the aluminum through their kidneys – but it can also happen that the light metal accumulates in their bodies.

To avoid this, acidic and salty foods in particular should not come into contact with aluminum. So when grilling, don’t put cheese, salted or marinated meats, and vegetables in an aluminum tray or wrap them in aluminum foil. According to the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, the same applies to tomatoes. Instead, use a stainless steel grill pan or vegetable leaves.

3. The wrong fat

Would you like to grill corn on the cob? Make sure you don’t butter it until after – butter doesn’t belong on the grill. It has a high content of unsaturated fatty acids, which cannot tolerate the high grilling temperatures. The result: butter on the cob – or any other food to be grilled – oxidizes and forms heavy smoke. The same goes for margarine and corn oil.

4. Cured and smoked meats

It doesn’t matter whether it’s directly on the grill or in a bowl: What doesn’t belong on the grill at all is cured or smoked meat. These include, for example, Viennese sausages, ham, bockwurst, meat sausage and bacon. These meat products are made using nitrite curing salt – a mixture of table salt and potassium or sodium nitrite.

5. Cheap meat

Apart from the health hazard, there is another point to consider when barbecuing: cheap meat should also be taboo. Steak, grilled sausages or meat skewers for a few euros are produced under extremely questionable conditions. The animals live in a confined space, stand in their faeces and never see sunlight in their lives. They have no opportunities to occupy themselves – the animals often injure each other. Crates, piglet castration without anesthetic and tail docking are still common in industrial mass operations.