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When stress or worries hit our stomachs, sometimes even our favorite dish can’t motivate us to eat. But you can easily combat a short phase of loss of appetite: with these foods and preparation methods!

Loss of appetite? These 3 foods will help

While the persistent loss of appetite with accompanying weight loss must be extensively clarified with the doctor in order to rule out physical and psychological illnesses, a short, temporary phase of loss of appetite is nothing unusual and threatening. When you are stressed or worried, you often lose your appetite for a few days.

But there are foods and preparation methods that can help to slowly stimulate the appetite again. This includes fruity and light meals – even liquid or soft foods are easier to eat if you just can’t get a bite down. The meals should also be easily digestible and consist of as many fresh plant-based ingredients as possible. Here are three examples:

Smoothie

Even cut into bite-sized pieces, fruit and vegetables don’t want to end up in your stomach? Then smoothies could help against the loss of appetite: Prepared with your favorite fruits and vegetables and finely blended, they are easy to drink and also practical for those who can’t get a bite down early in the morning.

The drinks provide the body with important vital substances and can also be spiced up with oatmeal, nuts, and seeds. This also ensures a robust taste and provides an extra portion of protein and complex carbohydrates, which keeps you full for longer.

Yogurt

Natural yogurt provides the body with protein in top form – as well as vitamins A and D as well as calcium and magnesium! Its lactic acid bacteria contribute to a healthy intestinal flora. The creamy consistency of the yogurt makes for a great mouthfeel; eaten chilled, it is a real refreshment and makes the start of the morning easier.

You can start with a 150-gram cup and spoon it slowly. If you like it sweeter, you can snip fresh fruit rich in vitamins into it. It gets crunchy with nuts or seeds! Serve your fruit yogurt with love, because it is a well-known fact that you eat with your eyes.

Fruit juice

Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, pomelos, or grapefruit are considered natural stimulants and can stimulate the appetite. They also provide vitamins and promote the absorption of the mineral iron. The fruit can be eaten pure or pressed into a juice. Be careful with ready-made juices from the supermarket: they can contain a lot of added sugar.

Stefania Abbona is on a big mission with her Algae Factory: She is looking for ways to feed the growing world population in a healthy and ecologically beneficial way. Her solution: chocolate with spirulina flakes.

Goal: useful and tasty food

The world’s population is growing in seconds, but food resources are limited. The solution: algae. Cultivation is ecologically advantageous and the nutrient content is high. Spirulina is currently mainly available on the market as tablets or in powder form.

But the Algae Factory has a bigger goal. They want to ensure that their products are not only useful but also really taste good. That’s why they combine the beneficial ingredients with goodies. The chocolate variant with spirulina flakes should still be unique. And who knows, maybe that way we can get used to the food of the future better.

Spirulina is so healthy

Said spirulina are cyanobacteria, which are also called blue-green algae or microalgae. Algae are rightly considered super suppliers because they contain a lot of proteins and important vitamins. The vitamin B12 content of some types of algae is even higher than that of meat! Algae also contain important minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron. Algae also provide significant amounts of the important trace element iodine. On average, there is around 10 mg iodine per 100 g of algae. This makes algae particularly valuable for vegetarians and vegans.

It doesn’t necessarily have to be the spirulina chocolate

If you are following a healthy diet and want to include spirulina in your diet, you don’t need to buy Algae Factory’s Spirulina Chocolate. We have great alternative recipes for you that you absolutely have to try!

It doesn’t have to be chemicals: how to remove mildew stains yourself with inexpensive home remedies.

The difference between mildew and mildew

Is the dark spot behind the cupboard mold or mold stains? Mold stains and mildew look very similar at first glance, as both are visible as brownish to yellowish or greyish discolorations on the wall, they also have a musty and musty smell. On closer inspection, however, a difference becomes clear, since most mushrooms consist of what is known as mycelium. This, in turn, is made up of filamentous cells, as evidenced by thin, coherent, and puffy filaments that continue to spread out. In contrast, mold stains do not form any visible threads, although mold is also active here. Due to a higher pressure, these show a different growth, but mold stains can form from the mildew stains over time.

Mold stains are just as harmful as mold, and not just for allergy sufferers. Irritation of the mucous membranes, sleep disturbances and lack of concentration can often be the result of mold stains. Mildew stain fungal spores can fly in the air, but will not stick to a surface. As soon as so-called mycotoxins (= metabolites) from mold stains get into the respiratory tract, this can even lead to allergies, gastrointestinal complaints and a weakening of the immune system. In return, mold stains do not cause any structural damage or optical discolouration. If such dark spots appear, it can usually

Mold and mildew mostly develop when there is insufficient ventilation and too much humidity. All factors, such as drying clothes, hot baths, cooking, but also inadequately sealed walls, leaks or holes in pipes contribute to an increase in humidity. Condensation forms, which settles on surfaces and walls, since the air can no longer fully absorb the moisture. Damp, cold and uninsulated walls in particular are the ideal breeding ground for mold stains and dangerous mould. Forced airing ensures sufficient ventilation, a hygrometer helps to determine the humidity level in the air. As soon as mold stains become visible, the cause must be sought, because in many cases mold is a side effect of the discoloration. At best, these should be removed by a specialist, because mold spores can cause significant health problems, ranging from respiratory problems to lung and heart diseases or even burnout. Furthermore, an already widespread mold infestation results in considerable additional costs, which can often lead to lengthy differences in tenancies.

Home remedies for stains

The yellowish to brownish discoloration is not only found on walls and wallpaper, mold stains can also form on wood, paper, textiles or plastic. In the case of mold, professional removal is usually essential, but mold stains can often be removed yourself with the help of household remedies or special cleaners.

However, some protective measures should also be taken here when removing mildew stains. Rubber gloves, a respirator mask and suitable safety goggles are important. Furthermore, the infested stains should not be vacuumed off or swept away, as the fungal spores can easily detach in this way. The inhalation of mold spores should also be avoided by adequate ventilation. Direct skin contact with the home remedies should be avoided due to the sometimes caustic effect. After the stains have been removed, all sponges and cloths used, as well as masks and gloves, should be thrown in the garbage immediately, ideally in the garbage can outside the apartment. Clothing should also be changed, and a shower is advisable to avoid spreading more fungal spores in the area. Other items can be cleaned and disinfected.

Mold stains can be removed from numerous objects, but can only be concealed from some, such as books. Here they appear relatively frequently, often not only on the cover, but also on the pages of the book. When pressed together leaves in a book have soaked up moisture from the environment, they provide a perfect habitat for mold stains. The exclusion of air often causes moisture damage, which can only be concealed by dusting the affected areas with starch. The flour should remain in place for some time so that it sticks to the damp stains and lightens the damaged side at least a little.

Infestation of walls, textiles and wood

Already in earlier times there were stains and mold growth. To this day, some very useful home remedies that have been used since grandmother’s time to effectively remove mildew and mold have proven their worth.

wall and wallpaper
Mold stains can be removed quite easily from walls. If woodchip wallpaper is infested and is not to be changed, glass cleaner can be sprayed onto the stain. After an exposure time of five minutes, you can spray again and then rub the wall clean with a microfiber cloth. However, if the mold stains are deeper in the wallpaper, it usually cannot be saved. Woodchip wallpaper, which you can paint yourself, can still be used to a limited extent after the stains have been removed, but printed wallpaper should be replaced.

If stains are to be removed from the wall itself, you need vinegar or spirit. To do this, one of the two agents is simply placed in a small bowl, mixed with water and a clean cotton cloth immersed in it. The mold stains are then dabbed off with the cloth until they can no longer be seen. Another home remedy is a mixture of 50 grams of baking soda, 50 grams of citric acid and 150 millimeters of water. The solution is applied with a clean cleaning cloth and after half an hour it is wiped off with a lye mixture of water and washing powder. Finally, everything should be wiped off with .

On clean plaster, commercially available chlorine cleaners are suitable for removing stubborn mold stains. Mold stains on the wall are usually caused by moisture. If there is furniture in front of the infested area, move it a little further away from the wall to allow for better air circulation.

textiles and clothing
Mold stains not only appear on walls, but can also be found on textiles. These unwelcome yellow to brownish stains occur, among other things, when laundry has not been completely dried and placed in the closet. The unsightly mold stains on textiles can also be harmful to health. However, mildew stains can also be removed from clothing with simple household remedies. First of all, textiles that tolerate high temperatures can be washed at 60 degrees. In the best case, light stains have disappeared afterwards. Another inexpensive home remedy for fabric stains is buttermilk. For this purpose, the affected pieces of fabric should be placed in buttermilk for one to two days and can then be washed as usual. Vinegar not only helps with mold stains on the wall, but also on clothing and fabrics. The discolored pieces should be soaked in vinegar for one to two hours and then washed normally. Another way to counteract stains on textiles is alcohol. For this purpose, the areas with the mold stains should be soaked in it and then washed. Smaller stains can be treated with baking soda, for this purpose the areas must be moistened and rubbed with the baking soda. After the powder has dried, it can be removed with a brush. Alternatively, baking soda or baking soda can be used to combat mold stains. Another method is a mixture of water and denture cleaner, in which the laundry can be soaked. This inexpensive and at the same time effective cleaning agent has also proven itself in the area of ​​discolored porcelain and is suitable as an alternative to baking powder. The same applies to other textiles such as seat cushion covers or blankets. In the worst case, chlorine cleaners or bleach may also be necessary for white and robust fabrics. In order to avoid mildew stains from the outset, laundry should not be left wet for too long and should not be sorted when it is damp.

wood
In the event of discoloration of wood, action must be taken quickly. Mold stains caused by water damage appear on wood in the form of gray to black or brownish discolouration, which can also be yellowish depending on the type of wood. To remove stains from varnished wood, the wood must first be cleaned with water. It should be well dry before washing the wood with a 1:1 solution of detergent and water using a brush. The wood surface will then dry and the stains should be gone. However, if these cannot be removed, vinegar can also be applied to the affected areas and allowed to act for around an hour. Finally, the area should be cleaned with water and a sponge.

If it is too late and mold has already developed from the mold stains, you must act immediately. Black mold massively damages the wood substance, it can even completely decompose it within a very short time. In addition to the health consequences, there may be other risks if the wooden components are stable or load-bearing. If the staining is light, superficial, the wood can be treated with a mixture of chlorine cleaner, vinegar essence and pure alcohol. In the case of deeper and larger infestations, a suitable fungicide from a specialist store should be used to prevent complete destruction of the wood. If stains are still visible after treatment with the cleaning agent, the mold has already penetrated deeper into the wood. The stains must be removed mechanically, which requires sanding the wood. In the case of deeper infestations, a planer can even be used in addition to the grinder. The stains must be thoroughly removed and the clean surface rubbed again with vinegar essence. After the treatment, the wood must be dried thoroughly.

Since black mold is harmful to health, care must be taken to protect yourself when removing mildew and mildew. In addition to suitable respiratory protection, work should be done outdoors if possible.

In order to avoid mildew stains on wood, wooden surfaces should be aired regularly and dried completely. Dirt must also be removed promptly. Wooden parts that are exposed to permanent weathering are more susceptible to mildew and mold growth, which is why storing garden furniture is recommended, especially in winter. Regular care of the wood and preventive mold protection are definitely recommended. Even before buying, you should pay attention to a suitable type of wood, for example hardwoods and pine species are considered to be more resistant to discoloration.

Infestation of joints, mattresses and prams

silicone joints
Even if the elastic and hard-wearing silicone is often used in homes, it is exposed to daily stress there and becomes porous over time. Even if it is considered relatively resistant to fungal attack, harmful mold can form again and again, which should be eliminated soon, especially here. Since moisture is always a perfect breeding ground for mildew and mold growth, rooms with high humidity, such as bathrooms and sanitary areas, are particularly affected by mold and need more frequent checks. Long-lasting moisture in combination with heat and condensation can not only cause mold to form on the windows, but also dirt often occurs on the seals and the water gets caught in the joints when it drains, which in turn promotes mold growth.

Basically, you should try to keep these areas as dry as possible. However, mold cannot always be completely removed from silicone joints. First, all gaps should be cleaned of dirt. A grout brush or toothbrush can be used to reach hard-to-reach areas. Then a mushy mixture of water and baking powder can be applied to the joints and worked in. The joint should not be damaged and the baking powder mixture should not dry out. Leave it on for an hour and then rinse off with clear water.

mattress
Unsightly and unhealthy mold stains can also form on mattresses. Reasons for mildew stains on mattresses can be a missing slatted frame, if the mattress is lying directly on the floor, moisture and moisture can accumulate. Air circulation through a slatted frame would be better. When buying a mattress, you should also pay attention to a certain level of breathability in order to rule out unfavorable ventilation and damage to health. Above all, allergy sufferers should prefer a high-quality mattress, as they can be particularly sensitive to pollen. Cold foam mattresses or gel mattresses are particularly suitable for preventing the formation of mold, a breathable cover for pillows and duvets, and regular ventilation and changing of the bed linen is also recommended. Mattress covers or bed underlays that rest on wider slats should also be adequately aired, since excessive pressure can contribute to the formation of mildew stains.

As soon as mold stains become visible on a mattress, you should act quickly, as mold can form as a result of the moisture. There are several home remedies for this: on the one hand, a solution of buttermilk can be applied to the affected areas, and direct sunlight is also often recommended as a home remedy for mold stains. However, if the mold has spread to the entire cover, the mattress must be disposed of. If the affected area is relatively small, a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water can be applied to the mildew stain. This should act on the cover for 15 minutes and then be washed in the washing machine without rinsing. White laundry and a white cover can also be washed with a bleach containing chlorine.

stroller
Clothing and textiles are not the only things that can start to mold and develop mildew due to moisture. Everyday objects in particular, which are often used in all weathers, have an increased risk of infestation. If the yellow-greenish or brownish-grey spots form on the stroller, caution is advised. There is already a health risk here. However, you don’t have to throw the car away just yet. If you don’t want to resort to a chemical solution based on chlorine bleach right away, you can use simple household remedies to counteract the unpleasant discolouration.

To do this, vinegar essence and water must be mixed in a 1:1 ratio. Instead of the vinegar-water mixture, you can also use undiluted, high-proof alcohol, such as denatured alcohol or isopropanol. Then the respective solution is applied and then the corresponding area is covered with a cloth for at least 60 minutes. To prevent the vinegar essence or alcohol from evaporating, the area can also be covered with foil. Then wash off with clear water and repeat the process until the mold stains have been completely removed. Air out the pram well and let it dry completely. Another home remedy for getting rid of mildew stains on more sensitive areas of less robust fabrics is a paste made from baking soda or baking soda and water. This is applied to the affected area with a sponge or brush and then brushed off with clear water. Here, too, the cleaning process should be repeated until the stains have been removed and the stroller allowed to dry out completely. Washable items should also be cleaned in the washing machine. Stubborn stains can also be removed with an organic mildew remover.

In order to prevent mold from forming in the first place, the stroller should be completely dry, especially after rain. For this purpose, individual parts can be removed and dried separately. Storage in a damp condition should also be avoided. For a longer storage period, attention should be paid to a cool and dry storage location with low humidity.

When it’s really hot outside, we sweat a lot – often an uncomfortable situation. So what helps to stay dry in the heat?

1. Chamomile for sweaty hands

If you suffer from sweaty hands, you should try a chamomile bath.
Add a few drops of tincture to warm water daily and soak your hands in it for a few minutes. This should help you get sweaty palms under control.

2. Lemons for sweating

If you don’t have any deodorant at home or don’t want to use one – for example because of the carcinogenic aluminum in the deodorant – you can get by in other ways. Citric acid acts as a natural deodorant, making it a great home remedy for sweating. It helps to inhibit sweat production and mask the unpleasant smell.

You can either rub the armpits with half a lemon or mix the juice with water and rub it into the problem areas. After about 20 to 30 minutes, however, the juice should be washed off. Repeat this application once a day. Alternatively, baking soda can be used as it has a similar antiperspirant effect.

3. Apple cider vinegar as a home remedy for sweat odor

Apple cider vinegar is another option against sweating. Because: The astringent properties of apple cider vinegar bring the pH value of the skin back into balance and fight the bacteria that cause sweat odour.

Before going to bed, apply the apple cider vinegar to the areas where you sweat the most. It is best to use a cotton pad or something similar for this purpose. Leave the vinegar on overnight, then wash it off the next day.

4. Centaury against unpleasant smell

Another home remedy for sweating is centaury. This plant helps especially against the unpleasant smell of sweat.
The herb is best used in the form of a daily infusion, sipping about a cup of it throughout the day.

5. Sage for night sweats

Sage can help with night sweats. Pour 500 millimeters of hot water over four teaspoons of dried sage leaves daily and leave to steep for about ten minutes. Two cups of this daily should reduce night sweats.

Alternatively, the affected parts of the body can also be cleaned with sage. All you have to do is bring a teaspoon of the leaves to a boil with two cups of water, then let it cool down a bit and rub the parts of your body with the solution. And three times a day for several days.

6. Wheatgrass as a detox

Another home remedy is wheatgrass. This can be used as a detoxification cure. Because it helps flush out all the acids and toxins from the body that are the cause of sweating and the odors that come with it.

In addition, the vitamin B contained in it helps against frequent and heavy sweating by supporting the body’s natural temperature regulation system. One to two glasses of wheatgrass juice a day is sufficient for this.

If all else fails:

If you still sweat excessively for no apparent reason and none of the home remedies give you relief, then it is advisable to see a doctor to be on the safe side to find the exact cause. In some cases, hyperhidrosis is diagnosed, i.e. abnormal sweating.

They often occur, especially when doing sports: calf cramps. There are simple ways to avoid the annoying pain. Read the best tips for relieving and preventing calf cramps here.

Electrolyte Imbalance – Most Common Causes of Leg Cramps

Common causes of cramps are overexertion of the muscle or a disturbed electrolyte balance. However, if the symptom occurs regularly for no apparent reason, it can be a sign of kidney disease, diabetes or an underactive thyroid. In this case, a doctor should be consulted.

A disturbed electrolyte balance, on the other hand, can easily be avoided. The body needs a variety of minerals such as magnesium, iron, potassium and calcium, especially when exercising. During strenuous physical activity, large amounts of it are lost through sweat production. If this loss is not compensated promptly by the intake of fluids, there is a risk of a deficiency and imbalance in the electrolyte balance, which then manifests itself in the form of cramps.

Magnesium plays a particularly important role: The mineral has a major influence “on the activities between nerve cells and muscles,” explains Apotheken Umschau. If there is too little magnesium in the body, the muscles can cramp more quickly.

These tips will help against calf cramps

If the cramp is already occurring, stretching exercises are particularly helpful to loosen the cramped muscle. The following tips can also help to prevent calf cramps:

Balance electrolytes: The loss of electrolytes through the urine or heavy sweating must be balanced, for example by drinking. Isotonic drinks can help with this.
Walking around: If you get a cramp while exercising, walking around can help a little. Even if it is painful, the movement stimulates blood circulation in the leg and relieves the cramp.
Stretching: Stretching is particularly helpful. An effective exercise for calf cramps is to lock your leg and pull your foot in toward your body. At the same time, the heel must be pushed through. After half a minute at the latest, the pulling should subside.
If you want to avoid calf cramps, you should make sure that you drink enough. However, the electrolyte balance can also be controlled through diet. Affected people should pay attention to balanced meals with minerals such as magnesium, iron or calcium. Dietary supplements are also an option to compensate for the loss of electrolytes.

In addition, you should always pay attention to the right footwear when doing sports. Anyone who regularly suffers from calf cramps should still see a doctor.

Older people in particular are affected: rheumatism, arthrosis and arthritis lead to painful joints and restrict movement. Some sports can even contribute to healing.

What is what: The difference between rheumatism, arthrosis and arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is commonly referred to as “rheumatism”. Rather, rheumatism is the generic term for over 100 different diseases that are characterized by chronic pain in the musculoskeletal system. They mainly affect the bones, joints and spine as well as the associated muscles, tendons and ligaments.

According to the Rheumaakademie, rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common inflammatory rheumatic diseases. The disease is caused by a malfunction in the immune system. This leads to chronic inflammation of the synovial membrane, which manifests itself in swelling, overheating and functional restrictions. If left untreated, this process leads to the destruction of cartilage and bone.

Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is due to the wear and tear of the joints over the course of life. However, you can counteract this with the right diet.

Osteoarthritis: Which sports can you do?

Osteoarthritis patients often do not exercise due to severe pain. Under certain conditions, however, some sports are possible despite the illness. The Society for Orthopedic-Traumatological Sports Medicine (GOTS) recommends:
Cycling: Especially on the bike, the cyclic movement in a sitting position that relieves the strain on the lower extremities is particularly beneficial. A women’s bike or a low handlebar make it easier to get on and off.
Hiking with sticks
cross country skiing
water aerobics
In some sports you should already be practiced. This includes, for example, Nordic walking. The poles relieve the joints, but the steps are larger than with normal walking. This increases the effort. Experts speak of a higher impact. According to GOTS, sports with higher technical demands should also have been mastered before arthrosis develops, since learning with arthrosis is difficult or impossible. These include, above all, a restricted level of performance, these sports can certainly continue to be practiced. However, the experts recommend cushioned shoes, possibly walking aids or the use of a cart when playing golf. If you modify your sport, e.g. if you do without a pronounced trunk rotation in tennis, these sports can be very useful and also health-promoting according to GOTS.

Rheumatoid arthritis: which sports can you do?

For those affected by arthritis, the AOK recommends endurance training or strengthening exercises two to three times a week. According to the study, it has a positive effect on the heart and circulation. This is particularly important for rheumatism patients because they are at higher risk for

Swimming and water aerobics in lukewarm water
To go biking
Nordic walking
tai chi
yoga
training on devices
Sports that involve strong vibrations, poor posture and one-sided stress, such as tennis or soccer

Stress is not only exhausting, but also extremely unhealthy. In addition to relaxing exercises and behaviors, diet can also have a positive impact on your stress level. We tell you which 7 foods help against stress.

These 7 foods help fight stress

When we are under stress, our body is constantly on alert. This is not healthy in the long run and can, for example, lead to chronic inflammation and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Even our brain can be damaged under constant stress and our memory can be impaired, American brain researchers found out.

Diet has a major impact on our health. And it can also be used to successfully combat stress. These 7 foods help against stress:

1. Avocado

Yes, we can’t hear the name of the trend food anymore either. Nevertheless, the avocado has to be on this list because it is considered the superfood among anti-stress foods. Not only does it fuel our bodies and get our brains working at peak performance, but it also helps to reduce stress.

Avocados work against stress because they contain a lot of B vitamins, especially vitamin B1. Vitamin B1 is also known as thiamine, a substance that is essential for a functioning nervous system. Thiamine promotes the exchange of information in our brain and thus also the ability to concentrate. The vitamin also has a stress-relieving effect. It is not without reason that thiamine is also called the nerve vitamin.

Avocados are also rich in potassium, other B vitamins, magnesium and unsaturated fatty acids. However, they have a relatively poor eco-balance because their cultivation uses a lot of water. This leads to water shortages in the cultivation areas, which are also often at the other end of the world. You should always keep this in mind when buying avocados.

2. Nuts

Nuts are the perfect nerve food for on the go. The stress-relieving snack is high in vitamin B2 and vitamin E, especially walnuts, pistachios and hazelnuts. Here’s why pistachios are so healthy yet potentially dangerous.

The nuts also contain magnesium, which supports the energy metabolism. But the most important anti-stress ingredient in nuts is potassium. Both nutrients help to strengthen the immune system, but potassium is a real stress killer. Potassium is so effective against stress because it regulates the heartbeat and blood pressure and ensures a calmer pulse even under stress.

Among the nuts, the Brazil nut is way ahead when it comes to stress-relieving effects. This is because Brazil nuts have a relatively high selenium content. Selenium is particularly good against stress because it inhibits the transmission of impulses in the nerves and thus calms the nervous system. This automatically creates less stress in the body and you are calmer.

3. Spinach and other leafy green vegetables

It is a misconception that spinach has incredible amounts of iron. Although spinach is still a good source of iron, this has little to do with the myth of the miracle cure. Regular consumption of spinach won’t give you the strength of a bear like Popeye does, but it will give you iron-hard nerves.

The reason for this are the nutrients vitamin B6 and potassium contained in spinach, which protect the nervous system. The additional calcium it contains also contributes to good signal transmission between the nerve cells. The high magnesium content in spinach also promotes healthy functioning of the nervous system.

However, the most important anti-stress substance in spinach is folic acid, which leafy greens have in abundance. Folic acid is a B vitamin that helps the body produce mood-enhancing neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin in the brain. Spinach thus contributes to a better mood, which allows you to cope better with stressful situations. Tip: In order to retain as many of the nutrients as possible, you should only sauté the spinach briefly and not boil it.

4. Tea

The fact that tea is said to have a calming and stress-relieving effect is nothing new. The fact that this effect has now been scientifically confirmed is news. Researchers from University College London have shown in a study that people who drink tea are less stressed than people who have consumed a placebo drink.

One of the most well-known teas with a calming effect is chamomile tea. In various studies, the tea has now been attested to have a sleep-promoting effect. One of the best ways to combat stress is getting enough sleep, which makes chamomile tea a real anti-stress tea. Chamomile tea also has an anxiolytic effect, which can prevent stressful situations and help you cope better with stress.

Green tea also has an anti-stress effect: the high content of the amino acid L-theanine supports the formation of alpha waves in the brain, which leads to a feeling of relaxation. But: Green tea contains caffeine, so it is not necessarily recommended at any time of the day.

5. Dark Chocolate

Cocoa or dark chocolate is a real stress killer. Dark chocolate contains a lot of magnesium, which has a stress-relieving effect. It also contains the amino acid tryptophan, which is essential for the formation of the happiness hormone serotonin – but the mood-enhancing effect of chocolate is well known.

Dark chocolate also contains flavanoid, an antioxidant that breaks down stress hormones and lowers blood pressure. The rule here is: the darker the chocolate, the more flavanoids it contains. You should therefore always choose chocolate with a minimum of 70 percent cocoa content, for example the Lindt Excellence with 90 percent cocoa content*.

Another ingredient in dark chocolate that helps reduce stress is anandamide. Anandamide is an unsaturated fatty acid that binds to the same brain receptors as cannabis. Important: Only dark chocolate has the stress-relieving effects.

6. Berries

Berries – the local superfoods. Berries are true wonder weapons, also against stress. On the one hand they are rich in vitamin C, on the other hand berries have a very high anthocyanin content. Anthocyanin is an antioxidant that gives many berries their dark color. The antioxidant produces the mood-enhancing dopamine in the brain and thus prevents symptoms of stress.

All berries contain these substances, but some in particularly favorable amounts. Blueberries, strawberries and raspberries help particularly well against stress. Goji berries are said to be best at helping with stress, according to a study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.

Berries are not only easy to portion, they can also be wonderfully processed into ice cream. Simply put frozen berries and some milk (vegetable or animal), possibly some sugar, in the blender and you’re done.

7. Coffee

Who drinks too much coffee is nervous and stressed? none. Coffee can even help against stress attacks. The reason for this is the caffeine, which docks onto the adenosine receptors in the brain and blocks them. Adenosine is the body’s own sedative. Not only that, but it is also partly responsible for the development of stress symptoms.

A recently published study examined how caffeine counteracts the loss of performance caused by lack of sleep. The result is clear and underlines the importance of sleep.

How caffeine affects cognition during sleep deprivation

It is well known that sleep deprivation has negative effects on cognition. The research team led by psychology professor Kimberly Fenn therefore investigated to what extent the increase in caffeine can counteract this.

The 276 subjects were initially asked to complete a simple task that required little attention. There was also a difficult task to solve in which the participants had to complete several steps in a specific order – no steps could be skipped or repeated.

“We found that sleep deprivation impaired performance on both task types and that caffeine intake helped people successfully complete the easier task,” study author Fenn said in a Michigan State University news release. However, the intake of caffeine mostly had little effect on the more difficult task.

Conclusion: Caffeine cannot replace sleep

While caffeine can help you stay awake and get a task done, it does little to prevent procedural errors that can lead to medical errors or car accidents, for example. “Caffeine increases energy, reduces drowsiness, and may even improve mood, but it certainly doesn’t replace a full night’s sleep,” says Fenn.

The right diet has been proven to provide relief. We have lots of tips for you on how to tackle your joint pain with the right foods.

Proper nutrition for joint diseases: what is osteoarthritis?

Wear and tear can cause the cartilage on a joint to be completely eliminated. This in turn leads to the joint becoming inflamed and causing massive pain – arthrosis is present. It occurs most commonly in the hands, knees, and hips, but can affect any joint in the body. In the early stages of osteoarthritis, there is only cartilage damage. Not all of the cartilage is damaged here, only a small part of it. Arthrosis is not yet spoken of here, as it always means a change in the bone. In contrast to this is the late stage of arthrosis: the cartilage is severely damaged or even completely destroyed. As a result, the bones rub against each other, making them harder and wider. The joints appear wider from the outside and are painful.

What treatment options are there? There are both conservative and surgical treatment options. The conservative treatment options are always aimed at significantly relieving the respective joint. For example, crutches, shoe inserts or physiotherapy are tried and tested means.

But medications such as cortisone or painkillers are also used. Surgery is the last resort of choice. Here, for example, artificial joints are used or joints are stiffened. But the right diet also provides relief from arthrosis symptoms. We have some tips for you here.

How do foods help osteoarthritis?

When it comes to relieving osteoarthritis pain, foods that have been proven to have anti-inflammatory effects are particularly important.

Here is a list of foods that have been shown to be helpful in managing this pain.

Fish: Above all very rich fish species, such as salmon, mackerel, trout or sardines. Fish is so helpful because it’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. It also contains vitamin D, which also has an anti-inflammatory effect.
Garlic: also has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. So, in the future, you can season with the tuber with a clear conscience!
Curcumin: The curcumin contained in turmeric has also been shown to fight inflammation. Studies have shown that curcumin is even equivalent to anti-inflammatory drugs – so turmeric is a real miracle spice.
Broccoli: This healthy vegetable should also be consumed regularly as it reduces inflammation.
Walnuts: Like fish, nuts contain many omega-3 fatty acids – an absolute inflammation killer.

Garlic has become an indispensable part of our kitchen and, in addition to its great taste, scores with many health benefits. Among other things, it promotes heart health, is good for the liver and intestines and protects against infections.

However, what is often a bitter aftertaste: Due to the ingredients contained, an annoying smell sticks to your fingers after preparation – not to mention the unpleasant bad breath that you carry around with you for a long time after eating garlic. We’ll give you tips on how to get rid of that garlic smell – using simple home remedies.

How to get rid of the garlic smell

Allicin is made from the amino acid alliin and is responsible for the typical smell of garlic. It is formed when the garlic is crushed or cut up. This is a sulfur compound that has been identified as the main ingredient responsible for the healthy effects of garlic. The allicin is quite unstable and also sensitive to heat, which is why it evaporates relatively quickly and is broken down into compounds such as ajoene.

#1: Neutralize odor with lemon juice

Attention: sour! Our first tip is very good for getting rid of the annoying smell of garlic that hangs on your hands after cutting the garlic cloves. To do this, put some lemon juice in your hands and rub them well with the juice.

The lemon juice is then rinsed off with clear water. Be careful with small wounds on your hands: If the lemon juice gets there, it will burn very badly – so it is better to inspect your hands thoroughly before the lemon shower.

#2: Coffee takes the stink out of garlic

What tastes delicious when brewed also helps you get that garlic stench off your fingers. To do this, take a little coffee powder or coffee grounds and rub it thoroughly in your hands.

Then, rinse your hands well with water and you should be rid of the garlic smell. As a little extra, you’ve also done something good for your hands with a coffee peeling.

#3 Salt drives away the garlic stink

Another alternative to get rid of the garlic smell: a salt scrub. The same applies here as with coffee – the hands are rubbed thoroughly with the salt, which should normally neutralize the garlic smell.

After the salt peeling, rinse again with clear water and your hands will be like new. Caution also applies here if you should have small wounds on your hands: Just like lemon juice, the salt burns if there are injuries on the skin.

#4 Toothpaste against the smell of garlic

Everyone also has this remedy at home: toothpaste can be used to remove the strong smell of garlic from your hands. It serves as a kind of hand washing paste that cleans hands deeply.

The hands are rubbed with the toothpaste, the whole thing is given a short time to take effect and is then washed off with clear water. Afterwards, it is advisable to apply lotion to your hands, as the toothpaste has a drying effect.

# 5 milk also helps against garlic smell on the hands

Milk is also a good option to get rid of the garlic smell on your skin. To do this, bathe your hands in milk or rub your hands with it.

In addition to getting rid of the garlic smell, your hands get a nice moisturizing bath as the fat in the milk nourishes your skin.

#6 stainless steel neutralizes the smell of garlic

Stainless steel also acts as a neutralizer for unpleasant smells of garlic on your hands. There are special stainless steel soaps that, in combination with cold water, put an end to the smell of garlic on your hands.

Alternatively, you can rub your fingers on a stainless steel object, such as a stainless steel sink or similar.

#7 Milk drives away the garlic breath odor

Drinking milk has proven itself to banish garlic bad breath: To get rid of the stench, you should drink a glass of milk immediately after eating garlic-containing food. It is best to drink the milk while eating.

#8 Milk drives away the garlic breath odor

Drinking milk has proven itself to banish garlic bad breath: To get rid of the stench, you should drink a glass of milk immediately after eating garlic-containing food. It is best to drink the milk while eating.

#9 Ginger and lemon help freshen breath

Chewing on a piece of lemon or a piece of ginger is also a real miracle cure to neutralize the garlic stench in your mouth.

Cut a piece of paper and chew the piece very thoroughly and for a long time. It is best to spit out the ginger or lemon afterwards.

#10 Chewing on cumin seeds and coffee beans eliminates the garlic smell

As with ginger and lemon, chewing on coffee beans or cumin also helps. These have a strong taste of their own and a neutralizing effect, which finally gets rid of the annoying bad breath.