The Backyard Vitality Team

Sometimes it’s surprising how unexpected simple things can tell us a lot about our state of health. Take for example the color of urine — color changes in pee can be an early indicator of potential health problems. How often do you sneak a peek at your urine? If you are like most people, you probably don’t bother, right? During your lifetime, your kidneys will work very hard to filter over one million gallons of water. Urine is about 95 percent water and 5 percent uric acid, the stuff that your body does not need — including minerals, enzymes, and salts that are dangerous if they accumulate in your body. Urine can fluctuate in color and odor depending on what you are eating and drinking, how active you are, the time of day, or what supplements you are taking. However, urine color and odor can also be an indication of something more serious.

Would you have ever thought that great things could be learned from your pee? Urine should be pale yellow or clear — not glow-in-the-dark yellow or dark yellow. It should not be cloudy or have a knock-you-over odor unless you have been eating asparagus!

Anything apart from clear and odorless could be a sign of trouble.

Urine is made up of excess water and wastes that your kidneys have filtered. Urochrome, a pigment found in blood, gives urine its natural light yellow tone. Depending on how hydrated you are, your urine color can fluctuate from clear to darker yellow or even orange-tinted.

Here is a quick pee primer to fill you in on what you should look for and what your urine may be telling you.

Super clear or transparent

Yep, there is such a thing as urine that is too clear. If your urine is super clear, it may mean you are drinking too many fluids. Be careful not to over-hydrate. The best rule of thumb is to aim for half of your body weight in ounces each day.

This means, if your weight is 120 pounds, you should be drinking 60 ounces of water per day. More serious conditions, such as acute viral hepatitis or cirrhosis, can also cause your pee to turn very clear. However, you will also have other symptoms, such as skin yellowing, nausea or vomiting with these conditions. Pale straw coloring to a transparent yellow hue means you are healthy and receiving a proper amount of hydration.

Dark yellow colored

Urine that is dark yellow in color is still considered within a normal range for healthy individuals. However, it also likely indicates you may not be as hydrated as you should be.

Honey or amber-colored

These darker, orange hues are usually a good indicator that you are becoming dehydrated. It is best to increase your water intake and then check to see if the color returns to a normal yellow range. When combined with pale-colored stools, orange urine may be an indication of liver problems.

Neon yellow colored

Glowing yellow urine may be the result of excess vitamins that are not being absorbed by your body. It is best to eat a diet loaded with whole foods and stick to whole food supplements that your body can absorb.

Light to dark orange colored

This is a somewhat ambiguous color because it could mean something or nothing. This tint can be caused by food dyes, dehydration, or actual health problems with your bile duct or liver. It is always best to check with a physician.

Green or blue-colored

This is most

likely going to be caused by artificial coloring in something that you ate. However, it could be from a bacterial infection in the urinary tract or the sign of a rare genetic disorder. Consult with a physician to rule out health problems.

Brown or cola-colored

This color is a possible sign of serious dehydration or even possible liver disease. Immediately increase your water intake and check to see if the color lightens. If this darkened coloration persists, you should follow up with your physician.

Light pink to darker red-colored

This is hard to interpret. Many foods can cause urine discoloration, such as beets and blueberries. Medications can also contain dyes and compounds that can change the color of your urine. However, it might indicate the presence of blood in the urine, but many times blood in the urine is not visible to the naked eye. There are a number of possible causes that would lead to blood in the urine, like kidney disease, urinary tract infections, and prostate issues. It is always best to consult with your physician to be sure.

Other considerations

Besides color, it is a good idea to pay careful attention to other urine abnormalities including the following:

Cloudy urine

If you are having low back pain, lower abdomen pain, or urinary urgency combined with cloudy urine, see a physician. Cloudy urine may also be the result of kidney stones, generally accompanied by great pain.

Fizzy or foamy urine

Besides the color, it’s important to take notice if your urine appears to be fizzy or foamy. If this only happens on rare occasions then it is likely just a benign cause. If it is occurring regularly, it may be indicating possible high levels of protein in the urine. When in doubt, it is best to get it checked out.

A note about odor

Normal urine should not have a strong odor, but there are also many substances that can alter the way your pee smells. Urine is the reflection of what is going on inside of your body and contains many metabolic by-products and compounds. Some dogs are even able to “smell cancer” in humans.

If your urine has a very pungent aroma, like ammonia, it could be an indication of a urinary tract infection, urinary stones, or a sign of dehydration. Because dehydration causes urine to become concentrated, it will have a stronger than usual odor. According to MDHealth.com, menopause, some sexually transmitted diseases, and certain metabolic conditions can also increase the ammonia smell.

Other reasons for a change in urine odor include the following:

• Medications and supplements — some may change the color of urine.
• Diet — certain foods, such as asparagus, cause urine to smell foul.
• Diabetes — can cause urine to smell fruity or yeasty.

The most important thing to remember when checking your urine color is that it can change to a myriad of colors due to a number of factors. Just knowing what normal urine should look and smell like provides a useful measuring tool. See a physician if your urine changes color and the color persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.

Though it may sound a little strange, paying attention to the color of your urine may be a warning sign to catch early health problems. Isn’t it worth a quick sneak peek in the toilet bowl to make sure everything is okay?

 

-The Backyard Vitality Team

 

Epsom salt, which is not really a salt at all but a mineral compound comprised of magnesium and sulfate, gets its named from a saline spring at Epsom in Surrey, England. Epsom salt has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a number of ailments, and also has many beauty, gardening, and household uses. Both magnesium and sulfate are readily absorbed into the skin, which makes their health benefits readily accessible. Over 325 enzymes in the body are regulated by magnesium, which also helps reduce inflammation, alleviates the hardening of the arteries, and improves muscle and nerve function. Sulfates improve the rate at which nutrients are absorbed and help to flush out toxins.

Soothe sore muscles: An Epsom salt bath is a great way to soothe sore muscles, cramps, bruises, and joint pain. Because of this, it is a great after-workout soak. In addition, soaking in an Epsom salt bath is a wonderful way to relax and relieve stress. Add 2 cups of salts to a warm bath. Mix the salt in so it dissolves in the water. Soak for 10-15 minutes for best results.

Exfoliate skin: As we shed our skin naturally, the buildup of dead skin cells clogs pores and can cause blemishes. Exfoliation is necessary to keep skin healthy, glowing, and vibrant. The best way to exfoliate with Epsom salts is to massage handfuls all over the body in the shower or bath. Your skin will feel soft and fresh with this homemade spa treatment.

Homemade hand wash: Mix ½ cup of baby oil with ½ cup of water and add ¼ cup of Epsom salts and a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Set this homemade mixture next to your sink for a nice bathroom hand wash.

Treat insect bites and poison ivy: A compress made with Epsom salts is a great way to treat mosquito bites, bee stings, and poison ivy. Mix 2 tablespoons of salts with 1 cup of warm water. Soak a clean cloth in the mixture and hold on the affected area to remove pain, burning, and itching.

Clean your face: Your face needs to be cleaned and exfoliated just like the rest of your body. Put a teaspoon of Epsom salts in your hand and mix with a little warm water. Scrub your face with the mixture then rinse clean. This facial cleaner not only exfoliates and rejuvenates but also helps remove blackheads and prevent acne.

Remove splinters: Splinters can be tricky and painful to remove. Skip the needles and soak your splintered skin in an Epsom salt bath. The salts will draw the splinter out and leave the area clean.

Lip balm: Dry, flaky, cracked lips are not only unsightly but also painful. Heal this uncomfortable condition with a homemade Epsom salt lip balm. Mix equal parts organic coconut oil and Epsom salts. Apply to lips generously to exfoliate and moisturize.

Tile cleaner: Bathroom and kitchen tile grime can be difficult to clean. Powerful tile cleaners are not only expensive but also often contain harmful chemicals. Make your own hard-working natural Epsom salt tile scrub. Mix equal parts liquid dish soap with Epsom salts. Scrub onto tiles with a sponge and rinse clean with water.

Insect killer: Mix ¼ cup of Epsom salts with 2 cups of water and place in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture around your home and garden to safely deter insects without the use of chemical insecticides.

Relieve constipation: Epsom salts are a great way to relieve constipation. Mix 2 teaspoons of Epsom salts in a glass of water. Drink the entire cup for the best results. If the taste is not appealing to you, try mixing with fresh juice instead.

Fertilize your lawn and plants: Epsom salts make a wonderful fertilizer for your lawn and potted plants. For greener grass, mix 1 cup of the salts for every gallon of water and spray over the lawn area. To fertilize potted plants, simply sprinkle Epsom salts around the base of the plants once every week. This method of fertilizing also works great for tomatoes and other veggies.

Draw out toxins and reduce swelling: An Epsom salt bath is a wonderful way to draw toxins out of your body. Soaking in a bath for 10-15 minutes is also a great way to reduce swelling. Mix 1-2 cups of Epsom salts in a warm bath and mix to dissolve in water.

Boost your laundry: Epsom salts combined with a little essential oil make a perfect fabric softener for your laundry. In addition, the salts will help remove detergent buildup from your washer. Mix 4 cups Epsom salts with 20 drops of your favorite essential oil. Add ¼ cup to each load of laundry.

Kill foot fungus and remove odor: Soaking your feet in Epsom salts not only reduces swelling and draws out toxins but also zaps odors and foot fungus. Add ¼ cup to a large container of warm water. Soak feet for 10-15 minutes.

Sunburn treatment: Soaking in an Epsom salt bath is a great way to soothe skin irritated by sunburn. Mix 1 cup of salts in warm bathwater. Mix to combine and soak in the bath for 10-15 minutes.

Hair conditioner: Epsom salts make a great deep conditioner to add volume and remove grease from your hair. Combine equal parts of organic hair conditioner and Epsom salts and apply liberally to hair. Let sit for 20 minutes, then rinse clean.

Soften your hands: You know that soaking your feet in Epsom salts is healthy, but what about your hands? Soaking your hands is a great way to soothe rough skin, calm aching finger joints, remove nail polish and remove any dirt from under your nails. Add 1/4 cup of Epsom salts to a large bowl of warm water. Soak hands in the mixture for 5-10 minutes.

-The Backyard Vitality Team

Hemorrhoids. It’s a condition that few people are comfortable discussing, and even fewer will even admit that they’re suffering from. Hemorrhoids come in many (painful) shapes and forms, but the most common varieties are those that take up residence on the rectum or around the anus. Here’s how to treat them with apple cider vinegar ice cubes, baths, and more.

Internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids aren’t actually visible, as they are located a small distance inside the rectum. While they may not hurt a lot, they’ll be the cause of a lot of internal bleeding, which I’m sure you can agree is not ideal.

External hemorrhoids are those that most people are familiar with. They occur under the skin around the outside of the anus. Because there are a lot more pain receptors here than inside the rectum, external hemorrhoids tend to hurt a lot more than internal ones. It’s also not uncommon for them to bleed.

Are hemorrhoids the same as piles?

Those few people who are comfortable talking about hemorrhoids and piles often interchange their terminologies and assume they’re generally the same thing. But while all piles are a form of hemorrhoids, not all hemorrhoids are classed as piles.

That’s because piles are hemorrhoids that have become inflamed, growing larger due to inflammation, and a whole lot more painful. Surprisingly, all people have hemorrhoids, however, it’s only when excessive pressure or straining is applied to them that they turn into piles. It’s estimated that a whopping half of the U.S. population is affected by piles, and 10 percent of those people will require surgical treatment to remove their piles.

Clearly, if you have piles or inflamed hemorrhoids, you want them to be gone ASAP. If possible, you also want that hemorrhoid treatment to be natural, and to avoid a very unenjoyable trip to the doctor. Enter apple cider vinegar.

Effective apple cider vinegar treatments for hemorrhoids

Apple cider vinegar has been the star of The Alternative Daily for some time now. We’ve discussed how it can make an excellent natural treatment for sunburn and candida, a great way to speed up weight loss, and a potent elixir for stopping leg cramps at night and lowering blood pressure. Given all its wonderful uses, it should perhaps come as no surprise that apple cider vinegar can also provide an effective treatment for hemorrhoids.

It’s not known why exactly apple cider vinegar works for hemorrhoids, but there’s plenty of anecdotal evidence suggesting that this may, in fact, be a very effective treatment. Let’s look at some of the ways in which you can use apple cider vinegar for hemorrhoids.

How to use apple cider vinegar for hemorrhoids

There are four main ways in which you can use apple cider vinegar for hemorrhoids. Depending on where your hemorrhoids or piles are located, and the level of inflammation associated with them, one of the treatments may be more suitable than the others. Use your best judgment, and if in doubt consult your doctor first.

Apple cider vinegar ice cubes for treating hemorrhoids

This is one of the weirder treatments we’ve ever recommended, but certain people seem to think it works wonders for their piles…so why not give it a shot? Simply mix together a solution of one part water and one part raw, organic apple cider vinegar. Pour the mixture evenly into an ice cube tray, and leave in the freezer until frozen solid. After the cubes are ready, gently rub one apple cider vinegar ice cube directly on your hemorrhoids twice a day, without putting them inside your rectum. If everything works out as it should, the ice will reduce swelling and pain while the apple cider vinegar should speed recovery from the hemorrhoids.

Apple cider vinegar consumption for treating hemorrhoids

If you’re suffering from internal hemorrhoids, get back to basics with your apple cider vinegar, simply adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and drinking twice a day. Drinking this elixir of health, which just so happens to also help with a wide range of other conditions, should help to treat your internal hemorrhoids and hopefully stop the associated bleeding.

Apple cider vinegar sitz bath for treating hemorrhoids

While the previous two treatments might have your doctor raising their eyebrows and quite possibly shaking their head, they’d be more than comfortable prescribing a sitz bath to help treat your hemorrhoids naturally. Sitz baths are a proven method for ensuring personal hygiene in the anal and genital areas and is often used to provide relief from pain and itching in these areas. Adding apple cider vinegar to the mix simply amplifies the healing power of these baths.

To make an apple cider vinegar sitz bath, clean your bathtub thoroughly. Then, fill the tub with three to four inches of warm water. Now add around half a cup of apple cider vinegar to the water. Soak in the bath for 20 to 30 minutes, up to twice a day.

Apple cider vinegar rub for treating hemorrhoids

Another great method for naturally treating your hemorrhoids is simply via topical application. Wet a cotton ball with apple cider vinegar and rub the ball directly on the hemorrhoids. If it stings, dilute the apple cider vinegar before soaking the cotton ball in the solution.   

Can apple cider vinegar make hemorrhoids worse?

It’s possible that apple cider vinegar may make your hemorrhoids worse, however, anecdotal evidence suggests that this is uncommon. A good practice is to use only a small amount of apple cider vinegar at the beginning of self-treatment. Then, increase the concentration until you reach the point before the area starts stinging. Because this isn’t a medically proven treatment, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor. Check with a professional if you’re in doubt, losing a lot of blood or in considerable pain.

Has apple cider vinegar worked for your hemorrhoids? Do you have other tricks we didn’t mention? Let us know in the comments below!

-The Backyard Vitality Team

Prostate health is a sensitive issue for most men. The gland plays a very important role in the production of semen. Therefore, it is intimately tied to masculinity. However, prostate disorders are exceedingly common in older males. Indeed, half of all men over fifty suffer from enlarged prostates, which can lead to frequent and painful urination. In addition, prostate cancer is the third most common cancer among males in the United States.

Sexual activity tied to prostate health

Diet, exercise, and regular medical checkups are among the most effective ways of maintaining prostate health. However, a new study suggests that there is another activity men can do to keep their prostates in good order. According to research conducted by Harvard University’s Jennifer R. Rider, which was published in the journal European Urology, high levels of sexual activity appear to reduce the risk of getting prostate cancer.

The study looked at the sexual behaviors of nearly 32,000 men. In sum, it found that higher rates of ejaculation were associated with significantly lower rates of prostate tumors. The study’s authors concluded:

“We found that men reporting higher compared to the lower ejaculatory frequency in adulthood were less likely to be subsequently diagnosed with prostate cancer. This large prospective study provides the strongest evidence to date of a beneficial role of ejaculation in the prevention of prostate cancer.”

How many ejaculations per month?

A panel of physicians discussing the findings on Ultimate Health summed up the research by saying that, “Twenty-one ejaculations or more per month can protect you (males) from prostate cancer.”

Of course, there are other risk factors men need to be aware of too:

• Being overweight and obese
• Heredity
• Tobacco smoke
• The consumption of high-fat processed food products

Prostate health and diet

According to Dr. James Balch, diet is one of the most important considerations when it comes to prostate wellness. As he puts it, “If a man wants to stay out of the operating room and avoid cancer of the prostate, he needs to go full blast to avoid the high-fat junk foods and environmental toxins that contribute to prostate problems and to start a wise nutritional program that includes the basic supplements that affect the prostate.”

There’s little men can do when it comes to their genes. However, the scientific evidence indicates that there is a lot they can do to keep their prostates healthy. Vigorous sexual activity — absent other risky behaviors — appears to be one preventive measure.

Here are some other tips and suggestions for better prostate health:

• Eat lots of fresh tomatoes. Studies show that lycopene in this and other red fruits (yes, tomatoes are fruits) may reduce the risk of prostate disorders.  
• Drink plenty of organic coffee. Research shows that several cups of java can lower the chances of getting prostate cancer.
• Replace animal-based fats with plant-based fats. For example, use olive oil instead of butter.
• Quit smoking. Tobacco use is correlated with a particularly aggressive form of prostate cancer. However, it’s never too late to quit. Ex-smokers who have stopped for at least ten years are not at an increased risk.
• Get moving. Moderate exercise and lots of activity can burn belly fat, which is a known risk factor when it comes to prostate cancer.

Protect your prostate

Researchers still don’t know for sure why frequent ejaculations protect the prostate. However, some scientists speculate that the activity may help flush toxins from a man’s system. In any event, men who ejaculate more than 21 times a month appear to have a 33 percent lower risk of getting prostate cancer. That’s medical news that should be pleasing to a lot of males.

– The Backyard Vitality Team

Your body has amazing ways to communicate with you. It can tell you, long before you feel overwhelmingly symptomatic, that there is a problem. Learning how to understand your body’s language is vital for good health.

Like other parts of your body, your breasts actually talk to you. Not in the way that we are used to talking but rather in their own unique way. Changes in your breasts could be a significant indicator of something that needs to be addressed with your health.

Here are 7 things that your breasts may be trying to tell you:

Your breasts are getting bigger: If you notice that your breasts are growing, it could be a sign of the following:

• You are gaining weight – Forget whether or not your jeans button-up, how does your bra fit? One of the first indicators of a change in body weight is an increase in breast size.
• Your hormones are changing – Before starting your period, when you are pregnant or when you are taking birth control, your breasts can increase in size.

One boob is bigger than the other: Before you get too alarmed, know that this is very common. Most women do not have identically sized breasts. However, if you notice that one breast has changed shape in a big way it could be an early sign of breast cancer. To be sure that it is nothing serious, schedule a routine exam to be checked out.

Your breasts are lumpy and sore: There are several reasons why your breasts may feel lumpy and be sore including:

• You are going to start your period – Many women experience tenderness and lumpiness before the onset of menstruation.
• You might be consuming too much caffeine – Breast tenderness may indicate that your body has had more than enough caffeine. Try cutting back on soda and coffee consumption and see if the sensitivity goes away.

Your nipples are leaking a milky white discharge: Contrary to what you might think, you don’t have to be pregnant or nursing to have discharge from your nipples. It may just mean that you are physically stimulated. Leaky nipples is also a side effect of some medications, particularly antidepressants or antipsychotic drugs that increase levels of prolactin, the hormone that encourages the production of milk. Most of the time this side effect is nothing to worry about. Milky white discharge from the nipples could also be a sign of a noncancerous tumor. This is especially true if you are only having a problem with only one breast.

You can see your veins: If your veins are pale or translucent, you may be susceptible to sunburn or skin cancer. Be sure to take all the necessary precautions to protect yourself from too much sun exposure.

The skin on your breast looks like an orange peel: If your breast skin has always been smooth and you notice that it is rough – like an orange peel – it could be a sign that you have breast cancer. This is especially true if your nipple and areola are hard. Make an appointment immediately to get this checked into.

You have a retracted nipple or puckering of breast tissue: Any time you notice a puckering or dimpling of the skin or your nipple appears retracted, it is time to see a doctor. This is generally a sign of breast cancer and needs immediate attention.

Most importantly – do monthly self-exams

Be in touch with your breasts, look at them and feel them regularly. Do your self-exam religiously and pay attention to any changes. Many things that seem odd to others are simply part of who you are. Keeping a close eye on your breasts will allow you to notice any abnormal changes.

–The Backyard Vitality Team

Vaginas can be a touchy subject — even though all of us ladies have ‘em. When you suspect that something may be wrong, it can be challenging to seek advice. Of course, the Internet has been a saving grace in many ways, but it’s also a double-edged sword. The plethora of information available isn’t always the most accurate. Some will head to Google to self-diagnose, only to end up having a panic attack when they see some symptoms that match their own. Before we dive into the wonderful world of vaginas, I just want to remind you that doctors, and more specifically gynecologists, have seen a whole lot of “lady parts” in their day. You may be embarrassed, but for them, it’s just another day at the office. Please, if you are worried that something is abnormal — go get it checked out. Don’t put these things off.

Now that we have that out-of-the-way, I want to focus on something that many of you may be thinking, does my vagina smell normal? Yes, we’re going to go there. Here is what you should know and what you can do about it.

Vaginal odor: what’s normal?

Let’s start off by saying, ladies, we all have our own scent. And yes, your vagina is supposed to have a smell. Although there are a number of factors that increase the intensity, some women just naturally have a stronger odor. Here are a few fast facts to know:

• Depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, vaginal odor can differ.
• Anything from heavily sweating to changing your diet can affect how you smell.
• A consistent, mild scent is generally a sign that your vagina is healthy and has a properly balanced pH. It’s when this scent changes that you need to be more concerned. These changes can represent a short-term issue or may be a sign that something more serious is going on.

My vagina smells a bit funky

If your vagina is smelling a bit funky, it may be due to a range of possible reasons. From a vaginal yeast infection to an overgrowth of bacteria, an unpleasant scent can be both worrisome and embarrassing. Although these issues are fairly common, it’s imperative that you figure out the root cause.

While focusing on bacterial vaginosis (BV), for instance, although you may feel alone and anxious, know that around 29 percent of American women (nearly one in three) experience this overgrowth of bacteria. Basically, when the normal pH of one’s vagina is off, this encourages bacterial growth.

Although douching is a clear risk factor, diet is also an area in which women can focus on as an effective preventative measure. Within one study, published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers observed the link between BV and key dietary factors. It was found that both glycemic load and a low “Naturally Nutrient Rich” score was associated with greater BV prevalence and persistence.

Although you need to listen to your body, abnormal vaginal conditions typically lead to a foul smell, such as a fishy odor. More often than not, if there’s an issue such as an infection, you will also experience other key symptoms — itching, burning, increased discharge, and irritation.

How can I remedy my vaginal odor?

If you’re in the clear with your doctor but are still noticing a fairly strong scent (especially after sex or during your menstrual cycle), you can target this issue without reaching for any toxic feminine hygiene products. For some women, they can even tackle infections in the comfort of their home — here’s how.

 Take an apple cider vinegar bath

Remember, in many cases, the smell you’re noticing is due to an imbalanced pH. Normally, a vagina’s pH is anywhere between 3.8 to 4.5 — meaning, it’s acidic. Once the pH begins to creep up, this is when your lady parts are more prone to infection and bacterial overgrowth.

Apple cider vinegar is often praised and for good reason. Offering both antiseptic and antibacterial properties, apple cider vinegar can help restore the acidity of your vaginal flora. To improve numerous aspects of your health, drink a diluted glass of apple cider vinegar (around one to two tablespoons) daily.

Even better, try an apple cider vinegar bath right before you go to bed. Here’s how to do it: Draw a warm bath and pour one to two cups of apple cider vinegar into the water. Next, soak for 20 to 30 minutes. When you’re done, rinse off with a quick cold shower to remove any apple cider vinegar on your skin.

Take an Epsom salt sitz bath

A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that keeps the perineum ( the space between the rectum and vulva) clean and smelling fresh. It also provides relief from pain and itching in the genital area. Fill a shallow bath bowl that fits on your toilet with warm water and add one tablespoon of Epsom salts. Let your vaginal areas oak for about ten minutes and repeat at least twice a week for best results.

Use tea tree oil

Throughout history, tea tree oil has been used based on its potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Within one study, at 300 milligrams per milliliter, tea tree oil was able to kill all cells of Trichomonas vaginalis — a sexually transmitted infection caused by a one-celled protozoan organism.

Whether you have a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis, source quality, organic tea tree oil. You can apply it in one of two ways. First, you can add 10 to 15 drops to a warm bath and sit in this solution for at least half an hour. Or, you can add a couple of diluted drops to an organic tampon. Since your vaginal lining is quite sensitive, dilute the tea tree oil in a little coconut oil prior to insertion.

3. Consume more probiotics

Although your doctor will more than likely prescribe antibiotics, this can cause a vaginal infection to actually come back with a vengeance. Sure, you’ll be killing harmful bacteria, but you’ll also wipe out friendly bacteria, encouraging overgrowth of “bad” bacteria once again.

Instead, start taking probiotics to encourage optimal balance and positive health. When you suffer from BV, for instance, your vagina is out of equilibrium, and Lactobacillus numbers are reduced. While studying the effect of probiotics, researchers found that oral administration helped restore a woman’s vagina to normal levels.

By taking probiotic capsules, this “friendly” bacteria recolonized the vagina’s microbiome, leading to a Lactobacillus-dominated state in 64 percent of the experimental group, in comparison to 13 percent of the placebo group. To increase your intake, you can also consume foods such as miso, kefir, yogurt, tempeh, microalgae, sauerkraut, pickles, and other probiotic-rich options.

Pay attention to what you’re eating

It’s also important to note, that when aiming to change your vaginal odor, pay attention to what you’re eating on a regular basis. Although certain milk products, meat, and alcohol can cause short-term varying vaginal odors upon metabolism, it’s sugar that you want to watch out for.

It’s well understood that sugar is detrimental to our health. But in terms of vaginal odor and bacteria, it is also a key food source. Whether you are suffering from a bacterial or fungal infection, a high intake of sugar can essentially provide nourishment. This can worsen symptoms.

So ladies, there you have it — a little light vagina talk to end the week. The above suggestions are great to target odor and the severity of some infections. However, you must listen to your body. If you notice that symptoms worsen or are unaffected by some of the suggested methods above, it’s imperative that you take a little trip to the doctor.

Just like your heart or liver, you only have one vagina — so take care of it!

— The Backyard Vitality Team

These days, with the threat of antibiotic resistance, is on the rise, finding alternative ways to combat various forms of bacteria is essential. The good news is, natural antibiotic agents from the Earth – such as certain foods, herbs, and oils – are the best and often the most effective first line of defense against harmful pathogens. Using these first before turning to antibiotics can help preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics when they’re truly needed.

If you have an emergency or an infection that is spreading or persistent, go straight to the doctor. However, in the case of mild bacterial conditions and situations and to boost overall immunity, check out the following seven superfoods (number one is highly noteworthy):

Apple cider vinegar (ACV)

Science has long known that vinegar can help slow or stop the growth of several forms of bacteria, and raw, organic apple cider vinegar can safely be called a “super-vinegar.” It has been used traditionally for centuries as a “cure-all” tonic, and it is known to have highly potent antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.

This amazing vinegar derives these characteristics from several components. These include both acetic acid and malic acid (which protects the vinegar against bacterial and fungal agents), a soluble fiber known as pectin, vitamins A, B6 C, and E, a wealth of minerals, and numerous antioxidants including beta carotene and lycopene.

Just a few of the traditional, time-tested uses of ACV throughout the years include combating infections including ear and skin conditions, alleviating fungus and warts, soothing digestive disorders, reducing allergy symptoms and inflammation, alkalizing and detoxifying the body and helping to prevent and treat seasonal illnesses.

Although scientific research on the use of ACV for some of these therapies is somewhat limited, the anecdotal evidence is vast. When it comes to both prevention and a great natural remedy, having a bottle of apple cider vinegar on hand is a smart move.

However, wait just a second. To enjoy all the benefits it has to offer, always choose raw, organic apple cider vinegar. You’ll know it because it will be brownish and cloudy, with a web-looking, murky substance afloat inside. This is the “mother of vinegar,” and lets you know your ACV is the good stuff.

Garlic

Garlic has been found to contain 39 different antibacterials, antiviral, antifungal, and antiparasitic agents – that’s really something. This bulb contains a chemical known as allicin, which is responsible for many of its germ-fighting powers. Eating garlic on a regular basis provides a huge boost to the immune system, and may help combat existing infections as well.

For best results with garlic, use raw, organic bulbs.

Manuka honey

This unique type of honey is known as the “Queen of Honey” by many, and for good reason. Honey has natural antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal compounds (little surprise, as it never spoils), and manuka honey has been found to have up to 200 times the antibacterial ability of any other honey.

Some common applications for manuka honey (which is used in hospitals around the world) include treating wounds, burns, dermatitis, and abscesses. It has also been used to help women recovery after a Caesarian section (C-section).

Turmeric

Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant – it has been found to be up to eight times stronger than vitamin C. This is great for keeping your immune system in top shape, and for helping to prevent, and recover from, a variety of illnesses.

This Indian spice also contains a compound known as curcumin, which may help to maintain proper cellular organization, and thereby, optimal health.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon contains numerous essential oils, with active components including cinnamyl acetate, cinnamyl alcohol, and cinnamaldehyde. These compounds not only help to lower inflammation throughout the body, they also have powerful fighting power against pathogens.

Studies have found that cinnamon can help to stop the spread of foodborne bacteria, and this is just the tip of the iceberg for this delicious spice.

Lemon

Lemons are high in immune-boosting, disease-fighting vitamin C – and are not to be caught without come cold and flu season. They also contain limonene, a powerful antioxidant compound, as well as citric acid and calcium. All of these combine to make lemon an antibacterial powerhouse.

Lemons are perfect both for adding meals and beverages and for use in homemade cleaning solutions.

Ginger

Ginger is also chock full of volatile essential oils, which house antimicrobial compounds including gingerols and shogaols. This rhizome has been used for centuries to aid in detoxification and reduce inflammation, and eating it on a regular basis will help to keep your body’s systems ready for anything.

Detoxification is also very important for healthy gut bacteria, which are directly tied to a healthy immune system.

Note: Before starting to use any of these foods and spices therapeutically, talk to a health professional you trust about how to most effectively use it – as well as how much, and for how long – for your intended purpose. Nature’s offerings are potent, so make sure to use these amazing remedies wisely.

-The Backyard Vitality Team

Millions of Americans start their day off with a hot cup of coffee. There is just something comforting about the aroma and taste of a good cup of joe. There are lots of good reasons why I feel good about my love of coffee, and I have found a new way to reap even more health benefits. For the last month, I have been eating a keto diet and adding delicious and nutritious fat to my morning brew.

Before I reveal the results of my month-long self-experiment, I want to remind you of a few of the reasons why you should embrace your coffee habit.

Coffee kick-starts metabolism

Caffeine has a stimulating effect on the central nervous system, which raises metabolism and increases the oxidation of fatty acids. It also mobilizes fatty acids from fat tissues, and there is good evidence that it increases athletic performance

Coffee may reduce your risk of Type 2 diabetes

Type ll diabetes in our country is skyrocketing in America and now afflicts almost 1 in 8 people. Coffee appears to do a good job regulating blood sugar. Numerous studies demonstrate that coffee has been associated with a 23% to 67% lower risk of diabetes.

Coffee has nutrients and antioxidants

Coffee beats fruits and vegetables as the best source of antioxidants in the American diet. Many people think that coffee is nothing but black water. Well, you can now tell them that they are wrong. Here are percentages of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) contained in one cup of coffee:

• 6% RDA for vitamin B5
• 11% RDA for vitamin B2
• 2% RDA for B3 and B1
• 3% RDA for potassium and manganese

Drink a few cups, and you will have consumed quite a few essential vitamins and minerals for the day!

Coffee improves mood and brain power

Now, this is one I can totally agree on. I always feel better after a cup of coffee, and I was never quite sure why until I dug a little deeper. According to research, drinking coffee can also boost your brain power and your mood.

Caffeine blocks the effects that the neurotransmitter adenosine has on the brain. By doing so, the caffeine increases brain activity and the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Controlled trials have examined the effects that caffeine has on the brain and have found that it improves mood, reaction time, memory and overall cognitive function.

What’s so special about grass-fed butter and MCT oil?

First of all, it is important to identify the two sources of fat that I added to my coffee. The first was grass-fed butter and second was MCT oil. Let’s explore a few of the health benefits of each of these.

Grass-fed butter

Grass-fed cows graze on green pastures which is the best possible food source for them. They produce grass-fed milk which creates grass-fed cream, which is made into grass-fed butter.

Non-grass-fed butter is made from milk produced by cows that eat an unhealthy and unnatural diet including:

• Corn
• Soy
• Grains
• Miscellaneous high starches
• Hormones
• Antibiotics
• Other supplemental byproducts of vegetable oil

Remember, you get all of that filler and bad stuff inside of you when you buy butter that is not from grass-fed cows. It is totally worth spending the extra money.

Grass-fed butter protects you from heart disease

The antioxidants in butter work to combat all of the dangerous free radicals roaming throughout our body. Butter also contains a number of essential nutrients that protect you from heart disease including vitamins A, D, K2, and E, iodine, selenium, and lecithin.

A survey conducted by the Medical Research Council demonstrated that men eating butter had half the risk of developing heart disease as those eating margarine.

Grass-fed butter boosts the immune system

Butter contains a type of vitamin A which is also found in meat, poultry, and dairy. It is essential to immune system function as well as healthy lung, kidney, and heart function. In places where vitamin A deficiency is common, infectious disease is a significant problem. Vitamin A is also necessary for growth, reproduction, eye, and skin health.

Grass-fed butter protects your joints

A Dutch researcher name Wulzen found that butter contains an “anti-stiffness” hormone that is known as the Wulzen factor. This protects joints from degenerative arthritis as well as hardening of the arteries, cataracts, and calcification of the pineal gland. However, this substance is destroyed during the pasteurization process so eating raw milk and grass-fed butter is best.

Butter is good for your thyroid

Butter contains a fair amount of iodine in a highly absorbable form. Consuming butter regularly will keep your thyroid functioning properly. If you feel tired, depressed, or have a tough time losing weight, you may have a problem with your thyroid.

About five percent of all Americans suffer from hypothyroidism (inadequate levels of thyroid hormone). It could be that the food you thought you needed to steer clear of to manage your weight is just the one you need to be eating more frequently.

Butter protects from cancer

Butter contains a plethora of short and medium-chain fatty acids which have been shown to have potent anti-tumor effects. In addition, butter contains conjugated linoleic acid which provides exemplary protection from cancer. Also, vitamin A, vitamin E, selenium, and cholesterol protect against cancer and heart disease.

MCT Oil

MCT, or medium-chain triglycerides, are saturated fatty acid compounds that are extracted from MCT-rich oils like coconut oil or palm kernel oil. Unlike long-chain fatty acids, medium-chain triglycerides are efficiently digested and sent directly to the liver, where they are instantly converted from fat into heat, boosting metabolic processes and supporting healthy cardiovascular function.

As with many other forms of saturated fatty acids, MCTs are often deficient in the average American diet, largely due to the misinformation fed to the general public by the U.S. government for 30-odd years. Contrary to popular belief, we now know that saturated fats from healthy sources like coconut oil should actually be consumed every day.

Here are just a few of the health benefits of MCT oil.

MCT oil can increase weight loss

It might seem a little hard to believe that consuming fat could actually help you lose weight, but that’s precisely what the research suggests! A 2015 study found that replacing long-chain fatty acids with MCTs could induce weight loss without adversely affecting lipid profiles, while a 2017 study showed that MCT oil was superior even to coconut oil in increasing satiety and reducing food intake. And increased satiety means losing weight just got a whole lot easier!

MCT oil improves insulin sensitivity

As most people know, a major precursor to diabetes is increasing insulin resistance. This means that blood glucose can run rampant without adequate levels of insulin to keep it in balance, and type 2 diabetes is just around the corner. A 2016 study showed that feeding MCT oil to mice on a high-fat diet not only prevented body fat accumulation, it also prevented the development of insulin resistance that was seen in mice fed a high-fat diet without MCT oil.

MCT oil supports a healthy gut

MCT oil supports a healthy gut, and in so doing may help to fight obesity. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Nutrients found that MCTs can “ameliorate metabolic health via their capacity to improve both the intestinal ecosystem and permeability.” Researchers concluded that MCT oil could not only help to improve gut health but can also help to prevent the development of obesity by supporting a healthy gut microbiome.

MCT oil improves memory and concentration

Recent research proves that the claims regarding MCT oil’s brain-boosting prowess are very much true. A 2015 study showed that supplementing with MCT oil was able to increase circulating ketone bodies, a process that is known to improve brain function. Study participants who received 56 grams per day of MCT oil for 24 weeks showed improved memory, improved concentration, and overall improvement in cognitive function.

What happened when I put these delicious and healthy fats in my morning coffee

For the past month, I have been putting one tablespoon of grass-fed butter and one tablespoon of MCT oil in my 16-ounce cup of organic coffee along with some cinnamon and vanilla stevia for added flavor. First, of all let me tell you that when you put this in the blender, it makes a beautiful, tasty frothy cup of coffee that I look forward to each morning.

I have kept notes as to the things I have noticed since drinking my fat coffee each morning and here are some things I have noticed:

• I am full enough to not eat until 3 pm each day. This helps with the intentional intermittent fasting that I am doing.
• I have experienced increased mental clarity and focus.
• I have experienced sustained energy all day long.
• My hair and skin seem healthier.
• I can work out longer without getting tired.
• My nails are stronger.

These were enough preliminary benefits to convince me that my mornings just wouldn’t be the same without my fatty cup of “Jo.”

-The Backyard Vitality Team