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Coffee is the most popular hot beverage. But many make a critical mistake when they pour themselves that first cup of the caffeinated beverage early in the morning. We explain the risks of drinking coffee to you.

Coffee before breakfast: Even one cup has negative effects

In an experiment, researchers from the University of Bath examined the blood sugar regulation of a total of 29 healthy men and women. To do this, they ran through different scenarios on three consecutive nights to find out whether the coffee that is drunk before the first meal is negative

During the investigations, in which the test subjects had one night of normal sleep and were awakened every hour on two nights, the test subjects’ blood sugar levels were continuously measured. The scientists realized that just one cup of coffee with about 300 milligrams of caffeine is enough to produce an increase in blood sugar.
The increase is particularly strong after the restless nights.

Conclusion: Coffee should only be drunk after breakfast

Although a high blood sugar level is not initially a serious symptom of the disease, if it rises regularly, it can lead to type 2 diabetes mellitus, according to the researchers.

A high blood sugar level caused by drinking coffee in the morning can be avoided if the hot drink is only drunk after breakfast. So far, five cups of the caffeinated beverage have been considered safe, provided they are not drunk too hot, on an empty stomach, or after too short a night’s sleep.

Oatmeal is traded by many as a real superfood. Because if you combine oatmeal with a certain fruit, you not only lose weight faster, but also do something good for your own health. This is the way to the summer body.

Oatmeal: The popular “oats” are really healthy for the body, skin and hair

Oatmeal is no longer only popular with fitness freaks and athletes. Because they provide energy and contain numerous vitamins and nutrients that the body needs to stay healthy. We tell you what happens when you eat oatmeal every day and how you can promote your health.

According to the Federal Center for Nutrition, oats are one of the most important types of grain grown in Germany, along with wheat, rye and barley. Here, the oats trump the other types of grain with their ingredients: oats contain by far the largest proportion of fat, protein and calcium – but also numerous other nutrients such as manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, folic acid and B vitamins.

According to the health portal Zentrum der Gesundheit, oats are considered the ideal supplier of minerals, vitamins and fats, which can be absorbed in large quantities by eating small portions in the body: 50 grams of oat flakes may not look like much – but they are surprisingly full
After harvesting, the oats are heat treated, pressed, dried and rolled – this is how rolled oats are made.

Important nutrients in bulk: Why oatmeal is particularly important for vegetarians

Iron: Oatmeal contains high amounts of iron – a whopping 2.4 milligrams per 40 grams of the grain flakes. The unbelievable: oats contain twice as much iron as meat. The only problem is the utilization of the iron from the oatmeal: In order for the body to succeed, you should consume foods with vitamin C – this is also a real nutritional tip for vegan or vegetarian people.

Eat oatmeal every day: Healthy thanks to B vitamins

Vitamin B7 (= Bioton, Vitamin H): Oatmeal contains a lot of biotin (0.2 micrograms per gram). According to the Center for Health, the amount of biotin in one serving (approx. 40 grams) corresponds to a quarter of the recommended daily dose. According to the consumer center, the consumption of biotin-containing products has a beneficial effect on maintaining healthy skin and hair – whether biotin also ensures strong nails is controversial. It is not necessary to take nutritional supplements – it is better to have a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine): The high proportion of vitamin B1 is also remarkable, which with a value of 0.3 milligrams per 100 grams of oatmeal is a quarter of the daily requirement. The oats stand out: no other type of grain has such a high vitamin B1 content. In addition to vitamin B6, it is the absolute “nerve vitamin” that counteracts tiredness, dizziness, insomnia and neurological complaints. Oatmeal contains one milligram of vitamin B6 per 100 grams – twice as much as other grains.

In addition to healthy nerves, you also get healthy blood: Vitamin B6 is involved in the formation of hemoglobin. A lack of vitamin B6 can lead to problems with the cardiovascular system, among other things, since the homocysteine ​​levels increase

Slim down with oatmeal: No more cravings thanks to cereal flakes

Regular consumption of oatmeal, for example daily for breakfast, keeps you slim. Because the cereal flakes contain numerous properties that support you with a healthy diet, diet or muscle building.

A British study has examined the link between the risk of death and the daily consumption of certain types of fruit and vegetables. We explain which fruits and vegetables can extend your life.

Nobody knows 100 percent whether we can actually extend our life through our diet. Nevertheless, science is getting a little bit closer to this question. According to the current state of research, many factors are already known that have been proven to lead to a shorter life or a higher risk of death and health, such as smoking. A recently evaluated study now also provides information about which foods you should integrate into your diet in order to reduce your risk of death.

British researcher finds link between risk of death and fruits and vegetables

It has long been known that a balanced diet can have a positive effect on physical health. The consumption of fruit and vegetables in particular is praised to the skies. Primarily because it reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease or cancer. But does consuming these foods really have a direct impact on length of life?

British researcher Oyinlola Oyebode and her team from University College London conducted a study involving nearly two million people. The study was based on the national Health Survey for England. Here, between 2001 and 2013, the eating habits and other health parameters of more than 65,000 Britons were recorded and documented. This is reported by Health News.

The participants corresponded to the population average of Great Britain. Almost 4,400 participants died during the study period. With this data, the scientists have now found a connection between the death rate and the eating habits of people.

Five servings of fruit and vegetables a day achieve best results

The Oyebode study then examined the connection between the general risk of death and the daily consumption of fruit and vegetables. It was found that five portions of fruit and vegetables, integrated into the daily diet, are associated with a longer life. The researchers recommend splitting two servings of fruit and three servings of vegetables. But what do you mean by five servings a day? The ideal would be to consume 150 grams of fruit and 75 grams of vegetables. Sugared fruit is not included here as it can have negative health effects.

What was the study actually about? The participants were divided into two groups. One group ate just two servings of fruit and vegetables daily, while the second group ate the recommended five servings. The participants who ate the five servings had a 13 percent reduced risk of premature death. They were 12 percent less likely to die from cardiovascular disease and 35 percent less likely to die from respiratory disease.

The study concluded that the recommended amount of fruit and vegetables can reduce the general risk of death by up to 42 percent for people of all ages. Vegetables in particular can have a life-prolonging effect. Fruit performs less well in a direct comparison of the two food groups. If a larger amount of fruit is consumed than stated, this has no added health value. It does not bring any additional benefit to the body.

The greener the better: Spinach, lettuce and kale prolong life

Also, not all fruits and vegetables are equally helpful in reducing the risk of death. Basically, it makes the difference how starchy a vegetable is – potatoes, peas and corn do not show any positive effects because of their high starch content. The same applies to fruit juices, as they no longer contain enough nutrients.

Vegetables, which truly confer life-extending effects, are generally said to be green. Leafy greens like spinach, lettuce, and kale fall under this. But carrots also reduce the risk of some diseases. Fresh vegetables in particular lower the risk of death by 16 percent on average. Salad brings a 13 percent risk reduction, while fruit only brings a 4 percent lower risk per serving.

For the two daily servings of fruit, fruits high in beta-carotene and vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and berries, are beneficial. “The clear message from our study is that the more fruit and vegetables you eat, the lower the risk of death at any age. Those who like to nibble on carrots and other vegetables gain the most, but a banana or other fruit is also good,” explains Oyebode finally.

Our brain works around the clock: Whether it’s at school or work, driving a car, cooking and even while we sleep, our brain does a lot. With certain foods we can maintain these functions and slow down the aging process.

It controls every reaction that happens in the body by perceiving influences, forwarding and processing impulses: the brain. The brain takes over many subconscious processes such as breathing or reflexes for us. The cerebral cortex takes up 80 percent of the total volume and is responsible for processing mental images and visual information. But areas such as the thalamus or hippocampus also have their own tasks.

With its several hundred billion nerve cells, the brain is one of our most important organs: as soon as a nerve cell is defective or damaged, it can no longer regenerate. It is therefore important that we protect our brain and give it the nutrients it needs to maintain the nerve cells and support them in their functions.

Brainfood: These are the main nutrients for the brain

With a balanced diet, you can keep your brain permanently fit. But which foods are good for the brain and which are harmful?

1. Carbohydrates

Serve as the main source of energy
Overall, the brain uses a fifth of the energy that we absorb from food. However, water also plays an important role in smooth functioning. It is therefore important that we drink enough liquid.

2. Albumen

Proteins are made up of different amino acids that help form cells. In addition, amino acids control different metabolic processes such as the sleep-wake cycle or the ability to learn. A combination of different protein sources represents an optimal supply of nutrients for the brain: Soy flakes, Parmesan, Harz cheese, beef, lentils or peanuts are good sources of protein.

3. Fat

Just as the body uses fat to protect itself from the cold, fat also protects our nerve cells in the brain. Omega-3 fatty acids play a role here
Salmon, herring, mackerel and certain oils such as flaxseed oil or walnut oil contain these important omega-3 fatty acids.

Micronutrients for the brain

In addition to protein, carbohydrates and fats, micronutrients also contribute

1. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an important factor in the maturation and function of nerve cells. The vitamin also supports the reduction of stress factors in the brain. Too high a proportion of this oxidative stress can increase the risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases as well as neurological diseases.

2. B vitamins

We can absorb eight different B vitamins through food, with vitamins B6 and B12 being particularly important. Deficiency symptoms of the former can manifest themselves in a depressive mood, tiredness and cramps. B6 vitamins can be found in meat, fish, bananas, nuts and legumes. Vitamin B12, on the other hand, is only found in animal products such as cheese. Deficiency symptoms of this vitamin are expressed in behavioral fluctuations and a limited ability to think and concentrate.

3. Potassium

Potassium is one of the minerals and influences the regulation of blood pressure. Optimal intake can therefore reduce the risk of a stroke or cardiovascular disease. The brain needs potassium to ensure the transmission of stimuli in the nervous system.

4. Selenium

The trace element selenium is vital for the brain. It is important for motor performance, coordination and memory. A sufficient supply is therefore important to ensure the function of the brain and nerve cells. But the immune system and the thyroid gland also need selenium to be functional.

These foods damage the brain

Fast food, sweets or too much fat

1. Sugar: Addicted to the reward

Sugar serves the brain as a quick source of energy. Especially in ready meals, the component is increasing more and more. According to studies, the consumption of sugary drinks is also increasing in society. Too much sugar not only increases the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, but also acts like a drug on the brain. With a high-sugar diet, the receptors are activated and send a reward signal to the brain. In doing so, they override the self-control mechanisms and create constant cravings. So you can get really addicted to sugar. It is better to use alternative sweeteners such as thick juice or rice syrup.

2. Cola Zero: Aspartame can limit brain power

Not all sweeteners are necessarily better than sugar.

It was found that high consumption of aspartame had a particularly negative effect on spatial orientation and mood

Osteoporosis (bone loss) makes bones brittle and unstable – and increases the risk of fractures. However, the disease is often discovered too late. With the right diet, you’ll strengthen your bones so it doesn’t have to get that far.

Osteoporosis is a metabolic disorder in the bones
Bone loss puts you at an increased risk of fractures
Even small changes in lifestyle can have a preventive effect
Calcium and vitamin D are particularly effective
Which foods help against bone loss? If you suffer from osteoporosis, the bone metabolism is disturbed: the natural breakdown of bone tissue is excessively pronounced, the consequence of osteoporosis (also called bone loss) is an increased risk of bone fractures.

Recognizing and preventing osteoporosis: Make sure you take calcium and vitamin D

The right diet is largely responsible for physical well-being. In addition to the entire organism, the health of the bones and muscles is strengthened. The most important thing is the right combination of diet and physical activity. Together, the two components ensure a strong and healthy body structure, even in old age.

Our skeleton consists of around 210 bones, which store 98 percent of our body’s calcium. So it’s no wonder that calcium in particular is of particular importance in the right diet. In addition to calcium, vitamin D is the second important building block for strengthening bones. Without the vitamin, not enough calcium can be absorbed in the intestine. Vitamin D deficiency can also have other dramatic effects on the body.

Even small changes in lifestyle make an impact

In most cases, a complete lifestyle change is not necessary to create a bone-friendly meal plan. Small, simple changes are often enough: less meat, sausage, salt and fat – but more vegetables and fruit. Green vegetables and fruits are ideal sources of vitamins, minerals and fiber.

Eat as diverse as possible
Potatoes and grain products are essential
Fresh fruit and vegetables several times a day
Less meat
Less high-fat foods
Sugar and salt in moderation
Drink enough liquid
Fresh and gentle preparation of the food

Calcium intake is particularly important

Milk and milk products such as yoghurt, cheese or certain types of hard cheese are best suited to cover the daily requirement.
Vitamin D* is mainly found in fatty sea fish such as herring, mackerel or salmon. However, only around ten to 20 percent of the vitamin D household can be covered through food.
The rest is absorbed through exposure to sunlight. A short walk is usually enough.

Osteoporosis prevention: beware of the “calcium thieves”

While vitamin D and calcium promote bone formation, there are also numerous foods that are bad for skeletal stability.

Then there is talk of so-called “calcium robbers” that slow down the body’s absorption of calcium. You should therefore avoid the following foods or only consume them in small amounts:
Black tea
Coffee
Oxalic acid (e.g. found in beetroot, chocolate or rhubarb)
Phosphates (e.g. contained in ready meals, fast food, cola, lemonades, processed cheese)
sausage and meat
alcohol
Very greasy food
Too much salt

Often forgotten: magnesium for the bones

Vitamin D and calcium form the basis for strong bones, but 60 percent of the magnesium* in our body is also stored in our bones. It is important for bone metabolism and is mainly found in legumes, nuts and whole grain products.

If you go to a pet store to buy dog ​​biscuits and take a look at the ingredients list, you will be amazed at what you can find there. Carbohydrates and sugar can be found on almost all packages, there is often no trace of meat, or it was only measured in teaspoons and added to the biscuits.

These ready-made biscuits are rarely healthy! Homemade dog biscuits are not expensive, much healthier than those that you can buy in stores, individually adaptable in terms of the ingredients and they are durable on top of that.

What ingredients are allowed in the biscuit?

You can mix everything into the dog biscuits that you would offer your dog for healthy nutrition, e.g. include vegetables, meat, fish, and egg. Since many dogs have grain allergies, it is a good idea to use gluten-free grains such as rice flour, amaranth, millet, corn flour, buckwheat, or chickpea flour. Anything that your dog loves and naturally tolerates is suitable as a vegetable.

Our dog biscuit recipe

  • 220g potato flour
  • 1 tsp barley grass powder
  • 150g granulated cottage cheese
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil

First, we need 220g of pure potato flour. Add a heaping teaspoon of barley grass powder and a pack of 150g granular cottage cheese. The empty pack of cottage cheese can be given to the dog to slurp on. Three eggs and a tablespoon of liquid coconut oil follow. It is recommended to get organic ingredients. The ingredients are placed in a bowl and mixed with a spoon or a hand mixer to form a smooth dough.

Baking in molds

Since the dough is liquid, you can either put it on a baking sheet lined with baking paper and cut it after baking, or you can put the dog biscuit dough in molds. Silicone molds, such as those used to make chocolates or ice cubes, are particularly suitable for this. Now put some dough in the middle of the mold and smooth it outwards until all the dough is distributed. When the preparations are complete, the biscuits are baked.

To do this, preheat the oven to 160°C and then bake the biscuits for 30 minutes. Depending on the size of the dog biscuits, if they are larger, they can be baked longer, if they are smaller, shorter.

What is the best way to store the biscuits?

With the right storage of food, it can be preserved for longer. Accordingly, release the biscuits from the mold after baking. But please be careful! If your dog is nearby, be sure to keep him away from the hot cookies or he could get badly burned. To dry, we recommend leaving the biscuits in a safe place out of reach of the dog for at least half a day. When the biscuits are completely dry, they can be fed or stored in cans for a while, as this will keep the biscuits crispy for longer. However, it is advisable to bake fewer biscuits and always prepare fresh ones and feed them.

Adjustment of the recipe

Of course, there are no limits to your imagination and you can add vegetables such as carrots or zucchini to the biscuits according to your dog’s preferences. You can also add meat. Stay creative and dare to try new things. Your dog will thank you!

Those who eat unhealthy food have a higher risk of heart disease and are also generally detrimental to their health. Conversely, with a healthy and balanced diet, you can prevent numerous ailments and diseases. We introduce you to 9 foods that are good for your cardiovascular system, clean your arteries – and thus reduce your heart attack risk.

Lowering the risk of heart attack: How to unclog clogged arteries with healthy foods

A high-fat diet is a risk factor for clogged blood vessels – as are high blood pressure, obesity and high cholesterol. The blood vessels supply our organs with oxygen and nutrients. If they are blocked, it can lead to organ damage, heart attacks or strokes.

In addition to foods that clog your arteries, there are also foods that clean them, helping to prevent cardiovascular disease. This is exactly why you should try to keep your arteries as healthy as possible – i.e. flexible, elastic and stable. The following foods can help with this.

1. Grapefruit – the citrus fruit helps your arteries with a fiber

The grapefruit is not only the largest of all citrus fruits, but also good for your cardiovascular system: the tropical fruit is full of pectins. Pectins are sugar-like dietary fibers that can slow down arteriosclerosis. For those who have lived an unhealthy lifestyle, grapefruit is therefore the ideal snack for heart health. If you don’t like grapefruit, you can also use apples or grapefruit. These fruits also contain pectin. Apples also contain procyanidins – a substance that prevents blood clots. But be careful: not all apples have the same number of procyanidins. It is best to use the Granny Smith or Red Delicious varieties.

2. Green tea – booster for your cardiovascular system

Green tea is also the perfect booster for a healthy cardiovascular system. What makes green tea so healthy for our arteries are also procyanidins. On the one hand, they can prevent blood clots and thus both heart attacks and strokes, and on the other hand, they can stabilize the arteries and ensure more elasticity.

3. Whole grain products, legumes and nuts – this is how they lower the cholesterol level

There is a lot of dietary fiber in legumes, whole grain products, but also in brown rice or oatmeal. These are not only good for digestion, but can also greatly reduce blood lipid levels. Another advantage of high-fiber foods is that you can combine them with almost any meal.

4. Spinach – With vitamins D and E to fight deposits in the arteries

Saying hello to Popeye: While spinach doesn’t contain quite as much iron as was long thought (and portrayed in the popular Sailor comic), it’s all the better for your heart. Because what should actually make spinach famous is its vitamin D and E content. These two vitamins prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. This means that no plaque can form which would build up and constrict the arteries.

5. Fat is allowed: But please use healthy cooking oils

In general, a healthy diet that is good for your cardiovascular system tends to be low in fat. However, healthy cooking oils are an exception. These include olive oil or rapeseed oil, as they contain a particularly large number of unsaturated fatty acids and can reduce the risk of heart attack. They also contain many antioxidants, which can also prevent the oxidation of cholesterol.

6. Fresh salmon – how it lowers the risk of heart attack

Salmon is also good for heart health and may reduce your risk of heart attack. With the high content of omega-3 fatty acids, plaque formation on the artery walls is prevented. It also reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack because blood clots cannot form.

7. Delicious – and very healthy: Swiss chard, garlic and cabbage

Many types of vegetables are only rarely consumed today, even though they are true miracle cures. Swiss chard is such a vegetable. The leafy greens have a very high content of antioxidants and thus reduce the risk of inflammation in the body. In addition, chard has a lot of vitamin D, which prevents the oxidation of cholesterol and thus prevents arteriosclerosis.

8. Did you know? Tomatoes and fruit also clean your arteries

Tomatoes, which by definition are actually a fruit and not a vegetable, are high in lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant substance that prevents the oxidation of cholesterol and thus prevents arteriosclerosis. But: Lycopene is only found in relevant amounts in heated tomatoes, not in raw ones. So it’s better to use tomato soup or sauce instead of raw tomatoes.

9. For those who like it spicy: cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper also protects the cardiovascular system: the spice, made from dried and ground chilies, is rich in capsaicin. The substance prevents plaque deposits in the arteries and thus prevents arteriosclerosis, as an American research group found out. In addition, cayenne pepper has other health-promoting effects: it stimulates digestion and promotes blood circulation.

Conclusion: With the right diet, you can do your heart good

It’s no surprise: Eating a healthy diet has a positive impact on your health. Above all, your cardiovascular system benefits from healthy food – and it can be delicious. You don’t have to constantly limit yourself in your diet, but you should find the right balance in your diet. This keeps your arteries clean and can reduce your risk of heart attack.

You can keep your brain fit through your diet. If you want to reduce your risk of dementia, there are some foods that you can incorporate into your diet. Here is a list of the most important nutrients.

Reduce risk of dementia: These nutrients are particularly important for your brain

Alzheimer’s research assumes that a targeted and conscious diet has a strong influence on the development of our brain. Of course, there is no specific recipe that helps against dementia. Still, certain foods can help with prevention.

Although our brain makes up only a fraction of our body weight, it accounts for about 20 percent of our energy needs. The ideal diet to reduce the risk of dementia consists of various components.

Nutrient combination to prevent dementia:
Secondary plant substances: The polyphenols ensure better blood flow in the brain and are intended to counteract dementia
Vitamins C and E: high doses of these antioxidant vitamins are said to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s
“Nerve” vitamins from the B group, especially B6, B12 and folic acid (B9): Deficiencies in these vitamins are associated with memory problems and an early stage of Alzheimer’s dementia
Omega-3 fatty acids: The fatty acids are said to have a positive effect on the brain and improve memory and everyday skills

1. Polyphenols (plant substances): Tea, coffee and vegetables help against dementia

In addition to water, which we should drink enough of every day, we should also have two to three cups of coffee, black or green tea. The polyphenols it contains stimulate blood circulation in the brain. The secondary plant substance is also contained in red wine. Here, too, a glass in the evening is fine.

It is obvious – the secondary plant substances are also found in vegetables. Since secondary plant substances bring the color to the vegetables, it is advisable to eat colorful food in order to get a bit of everything. As for the amount: The German Society for Nutrition (DGE) recommends three servings of vegetables per day. One serving (400 grams) is about the amount of vegetables that fits in the palm of your hand. Aside from the few calories, vegetables are high in polyphenols and the brain-friendly folic acid.

2. Vitamin C: Dark berries are said to protect against Alzheimer’s

Vitamin C reduces plaque formation in our vessels, which is considered a risk factor for dementia. Fresh fruit should be included in every diet. Here, too, the German Society for Nutrition (DGE) recommends that two meals of 250 grams each are best.

According to the DGE, sea buckthorn berries (juice), peppers, black currants and parsley (all offer over 100 milligrams per 100 grams of vitamin C) contain a lot of vitamin C. However, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, lemon, kiwi and lychee also work.

3. B-group “nerve” vitamins: Beans, peas and lentils help the brain cells

Legumes contain plenty of natural B vitamins, folic acid and polyphenols for the brain. B vitamins are healthy and stimulate communication between cells and each other. They increase the performance of the brain and protect against memory disorders.

As an alternative to beans, peas, lentils and the like, tofu schnitzel, falafel or hummus can also be used. The vitamins are also included here.

4. Whole grain: Reduce the risk of dementia with the brain food par excellence

Whole grain products contain a lot of dietary fiber. The complex carbohydrates help to keep the blood sugar level constant and thereby increase the ability to concentrate. The amino acids it contains, such as methionine, have also proven to be particularly valuable for healthy brain function.

5. Omega-3 fatty acids: Oil for a fit brain – reduce the risk of dementia

Omega-3 fatty acids are among the “good fats”. They are said to protect against cardiovascular diseases and improve metabolism. But the fats are also supposed to help against dementia. Omega-3 increases the performance of the brain and helps us with our daily processes. Top omega-3 suppliers include flaxseed oil, chia seeds, and walnuts.

All of the foods mentioned can be combined into wonderful recipes and thus contribute in a delicious way to reducing the risk of dementia. So you can do something for your physical and mental fitness at the same time.

Pack your bags cleverly and off you go on vacation. But before your well-deserved vacation, the first thing to do is to gather the necessary utensils that should not be missing on vacation. Then the question arises as to how all the things fit in the suitcase. We have the best packing tips.

Nothing should be forgotten! Our tips and lists will help you so that you can spend the time as pleasant and carefree as possible. As a result, you have the most important utensils at a glance. And on vacation, you don’t have to go out again to buy forgotten things.

Everything you need for a relaxed holiday season

With a bit of a system and our packing tips, the packing will go smoothly. The best way to do this is to create a checklist with different categories. Then you can search for the things you need one after the other. You should work through the luggage list carefully. If there is still space, you can take other things you love with you. You should also decide beforehand what can go in the suitcase and what you will take with you in your bag. In addition, note our useful tips for vacationing with the family.

1) Appropriate clothing for vacation

Clothing will likely take up the bulk of your suitcase. In order to save space, you should clarify beforehand whether you will be able to do your laundry during your holiday. Then put everything in order next to the suitcase until you have everything together. This way you can see if anything is missing. Additionally, note our packing list for clothing.

  • underwear and stockings.
  • At least one sturdy pair of shoes and open-toe shoes.
  • Warmer clothes in case it gets colder.
  • Light things when it should get hot.
  • Swimwear: bikini, beach towel, sunglasses
  • Appropriate sleepwear, a pair of thicker socks
  • Depending on the destination, rain gear may be necessary.

2) Pack important cosmetics in the suitcase

When it’s time to go on vacation, you should also think about your cosmetics. Many have selected products for their daily routine that they cannot do without. And these may not be available in the destination country. So make a packing list and pack your wash bag with the following items. Of course, some hotels also provide the basic set of care products, so check with your hotel beforehand. Our article on making natural cosmetics yourself is also interesting.

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss.
  • hairbrush and razor.
  • Soap, shower gel, and shampoo.
  • deodorant and perfume.
  • Sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
  • Care cream and washing lotion for the face.
  • Make-up articles: mascara, eyeshadow, make-up, etc.

3) Pack helpful medication

If you take medication regularly, you should pack it. It can often be helpful to have the leaflet with you or a corresponding prescription. This allows customs officials to quickly determine what it is about. In addition, you should determine important vaccinations for the holiday in advance. There is also medicine that you should always carry with you just in case. These include the following resources.

  • Motion sickness pills.
  • Medication against diarrhea and constipation.
  • Painkillers and stomach-soothing medicines.

4) Pack your suitcase properly

After you have found everything together and nothing is missing, everything has to be put in the suitcase. And that’s usually a challenge. There are also many different ways to place things in your suitcase. But which is the most space-saving way? We have the most important tips and a video for more information on how to pack your suitcase cleverly. Also, note favorable sun destinations for the winter.

  • Roll your clothes instead of folding them. Because that way you get more in the suitcase and your clothes stay wrinkle-free.
  • Put heavy things down. This way you shift the weight below and the case is easier to pull. Likewise, no heavy things press down.
  • Sensitive things go on top. Then they cannot be broken by heavy things and they are better protected. This includes cosmetics or other fragile items.
  • Use separate bags or pouches. You can use it to pack shoes or underwear separately, for example. This will prevent your shoes from getting dirty.

A guide to making your own paint. So you can produce colors yourself naturally, quickly, and cheaply. And that sustainably and without chemicals, with food from your own household!

Step by step to your own color: Producing natural colors is very easy and doesn’t take much time or money. You can store homemade food-based paints in the fridge for a few days and use them as you like during that time. The big advantage: They are naturally degradable and contain no chemical components.

1) What are colors made of?

Colors consist of three main components: pigments, binders, and solvents. Many substances that are suitable as basic components for DIY paint production can either be purchased cheaply in hardware stores (acrylic binder, white glue, etc.) or can be made in your own kitchen using simple household products.

2) Gain color pigments

Pigments can be obtained from food colors, which are available in pharmacies, or made from the food itself. You can see which food you use to achieve which color in the table below.

3) Egg as a binder – egg tempera

You can use egg tempera to bind your paint. For this, egg yolk, oil, and water are mixed together in the same ratio. The amount of oil and water can vary (less oil and more water can be used).

Any vegetable oil can be used as an oil. However, linseed oil is particularly suitable because it dries quickly. The color pigment is then worked into the mixture of egg and oil until the desired color is achieved.

To avoid lumps, small amounts of the pigments should be worked in one at a time. If the shade is too intense, the mixture can be diluted with water. Such paints from egg tempera are well suited for painting.

4) Flour as a binder

As an alternative to the egg as a binding agent, you can also use the top household remedy flour. To make such so-called paste paints, you have to heat 2 tablespoons of flour in a saucepan with 400 to 500 ml of water and bring it to a boil. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming. If there are any lumps, you can simply pour them off through a sieve.

Alternatively, you can add the flour directly to the colored juices. However, you have to mix this mixture very thoroughly. The more heat, the fewer lumps will form. The pigments can be incorporated into the mass once it has cooled. Again, water can be added to get lighter shades. Paints made with flour as a binder can be used well as finger paints.

5) Milk as a binder

Instead of flour and egg, you can also use dairy products as a binding agent. For such a color, which uses casein as a binder, a tablespoon of quark (alternatively milk or condensed milk) is mixed with pigments in the same ratio.

You can then stir a small amount of water into this mixture. You can then use water to correct the color tone you have achieved afterward. This color is suitable for painting walls and artistic painting.

6) Starch as a binder

To make cornstarch-based paints, cornstarch and baking powder are mixed together in equal amounts. Then twice as much vinegar is added. Then food colors or natural colorants (see table) are added. Such starch-based paints are particularly useful as water-based paints.

At a glance: This is how you can make colors yourself

To make your own paints, you’ll need things you probably already have at home. So it’s a perfect DIY that doesn’t even require you to leave the house and buy special materials. All paints consist of three elements – pigments, binders, and solvents.

You can always use water as a solvent. You can find the right home remedy as to a basis for the pigmentation of your desired colors in the table above. As a rule, different ingredients lead to the goal there, so there is a high chance that you have one of the foods you need for your favorite color at home.

You have four different classic baking ingredients to choose from as binding agents: egg, flour, milk, and cornstarch. This depends on the purpose for which you want to produce the paints. The egg is suitable for classic painting, flour for finger paints, milk for both classic painting and painting walls, and cornstarch for making watercolors.