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Ladies, vaginal health matters. Paying attention to your vagina is as vital as brushing your teeth or making sure you drink enough water. Unfortunately, many people are too shy or embarrassed to talk about their vaginas – even to their medical practitioner.  A good rule of thumb is that it’s better to ask and be a little embarrassed rather than not ask and miss a clue that something is out of whack.

Here are some of the most frequently thought of but never asked questions women have about their vagina. 

Why does my vaginal discharge have an odor?

Here is some good news. If you have some white discharge that is mildly odiferous, it is generally a sign that your vagina is healthy. The discharge is part of the normal hormonal cycle that women go through. 

Some studies draw a connection between foods that are rich in spices to a change in vaginal smell. Coffee, onions, garlic, dairy, and meat may also alter your vaginal discharge odor. Eating more whole grains, fruits, and veggies produces a milder scent.

If the discharge is like cottage cheese in texture and has a fishy smell, you could have a yeast infection or even a sexually transmitted disease. Best to visit your doctor on this one to get a confirmation.

Why does my vagina fart?

Also known as queefing, vaginal farts should not be worrisome. During sex, air can become trapped, and as it escapes, it sounds like a fart. This does not cause any harm and is not something that can be prevented. Vaginal farts happen!

Why does my vagina itch during my period?

Most women have experienced it…that uncomfortable feeling of needing to itch your vagina. Of course, it usually happens at work or in some public place where there is no way to get the itch without drawing attention to yourself. If you are itchy before your period, it could be that a drop in estrogen is causing vaginal dryness. If you are itchy during your period, you may be allergic to the feminine hygiene product you are using. Try using natural products without dyes or fragrances – maybe it is time for a menstrual cup! If itching persists, see your physician who can test for a yeast imbalance or infection.

Is it possible to lose something in my vagina?

Although losing something in your vagina is not really possible – it is possible to get things stuck in there. The most common things that can get stuck include condoms, tampons, sponges, and diaphragms. If you forget that you already have a tampon in and insert a new one, it pushes the old one further into the vagina where it can get stuck. This can result in an infection with a strong odor. Visit your doctor to have the tampon removed immediately to avoid Toxic Shock Syndrome.

Why do I have acne in my pubic area

If you are an avid shaver, you may have acne-like bumps on your pubic area. While these are generally harmless, they can be irritating. Always use a clean razor and plenty of shaving cream when you shave. Also, follow up with a natural moisturizer like coconut oil. This will help keep the irritation to a minimum. Alternatively, you can opt for waxing which should not cause irritation or go au naturel!

Tips for keeping your vagina happy and healthy

One of the best ways to keep your vagina healthy is to look after your overall health and wellbeing. Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and veggies, and stay active. Make sure that you are drinking lots of water as well. Being hydrated is essential for optimal vagina health.  Eating some fermented foods daily or taking a high-quality probiotic can help maintain the quantity and quality of vaginal bacteria.

The vagina is designed to be self-cleaning. This means that harsh soaps, wipes, douches, creams, and sprays are not necessary and can actually cause severe irritation. To keep the outside of the vagina – vulva area clean, use unscented soap and warm water. The inside of your vagina will take care of itself.

Another healthy habit to get into is using all-natural lubricants like coconut oil as opposed to perfumed lubricants that can irritate your vagina. Coconut oil is highly moisturizing and soothing with no artificial fragrances or dyes.

Here are a few additional tips to keep things healthy and happy down under

• Wear only cotton underwear
• Avoid wearing nylon pantyhose
• Avoid wearing thongs

-The Backyard Vitality Team

While the subject of our bathroom habits is usually either brushed under the rug or discussed in the form of embarrassing jokes, it is actually a complex and important area of health that should not be ignored.

We’ve talked about healthy bathroom habits and ways to resolve constipation, and today we will discuss the buoyancy of poop in particular. Whether your poops bob at the surface or dive to the bottom can be a sign of many things to do with your health and nutritional status.

Here are some of the hidden wellness messages that can be deciphered from the contents of your toilet.

Poor digestion of fats

A common conclusion in the health community is that floating poops are a sign of poor digestion. When the floating stool sticks to the side of the toilet bowl and is difficult to flush, or an oily sheen appears on the surface of the water, fats in the diet are likely left undigested.

So what can be done about floating poop? Talk to a trusted health practitioner about the health of your liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, all of which are involved in producing the bile that is used to digest fats.

Too little fiber

While many sources seem to indicate that sinking poops are preferred, others suggest that floaters are a sign that the diet contains a good amount of fiber. This is because those who eat more fiber, also known as prebiotics, have greater colonies of bacteria in the lower gut. This leads to poop that contains more gases produced by the bacteria. The gases make waste less dense and cause poop to float.

Regardless of whether you are seeing floaters or sinkers in the toilet, make sure that your diet contains lots of vegetables, fruit, nuts, and legumes to ensure that an adequate amount of fiber is being consumed. The goal is to get at least 35 grams each day.

If fiber is a new thing in your diet, start slowly! Otherwise, the number of bacteria feasting on all that fiber may increase too quickly and cause digestive discomfort.

Celiac disease

Some experts believe that floating poops could be a sign of celiac disease. Gluten leaves the gut inflamed and unable to digest food properly. Stools may float and be grey or tan in color and have a foul odor. A particular concern is if you see floating, soft, diarrhea-like stool frequently or for an extended period. If this is you, consider getting tested for celiac disease, or better yet, simply decide to eliminate gluten from your diet!

Constipation

On the other hand, sinking poops can be a sign of chronic constipation. Constipation can occur when a person doesn’t have enough digestive motility (i.e., the intestines are not working to push the waste along). There are many causes of constipation, such as poor diet, anxiety, lack of exercise and not drinking enough water.

Common solutions are to drink more water to help hydrate the bowel and the stool, take magnesium supplements to relax the intestine, and use herbal remedies such as aloe vera juice and cayenne pepper, which are known to improve elimination.

Does the floater vs. sinker debate really matter?

In the end, many health experts do not emphasize the buoyancy of poop (or lack thereof). More important are the frequency, shape, color, and smell. Use the following checklist to determine if you are a healthy pooper:

• Eliminate at least once per day (but not more than three times).
• Have poops that are smooth and about the shape of a banana, not too hard and not too soft.
• Color should be an even medium brown with no visible bits of food, fat, blood, or mucus.
• The smell should be fairly neutral, not overly unpleasant.

The more points you answer “yes” to above, the better your poop health is! Ideally, you will experience a mix of floaters or sinkers on different days, along with some that just hover in the water and don’t go to either extreme.

How does your poop stack up? Make sure you take a moment to check it out next time you go!

-The Backyard Vitality Team

 

Finding the perfect deodorant can be hard. You want to stay away from the chemical-laden, aluminum-heavy, propylene glycol and paraben-infested commercial deodorants on your pharmacy shelf, but those natural deodorants and antiperspirants just don’t seem able to keep the sweat or stench away. And going au naturel isn’t an option since you don’t want to smell like you just finished running a 5k when you’re simply going about your workday. Thankfully, baking soda is to the rescue. Here’s why you should use this powder in your armpits and other ways it can prove useful in your personal-care lineup. 

Baking soda as deodorant

One of the baking sodas’ most well-known benefits is its ability to effectively absorb odors and actually get rid of them, instead of just covering them up. So it makes sense that it would rise to popularity as a natural alternative to harsh chemical deodorant. Though most of the evidence proving its effectiveness at smell control is anecdotal, studies have found that baking soda has antimicrobial benefits, which could explain its ability to fight off odor-causing bacteria under your arms.

Remember, baking soda could be irritating for your sensitive armpit skin, so it is important to test it on a small patch of your forearm before using it under your arms. Also, while baking soda is a great way to reduce odor, it may not be useful for preventing sweat since it is not an antiperspirant. 

Make a paste with water for the low-key, easy version, or use cornstarch as well to help increase the antiperspirant effects. Many people enjoy combining baking soda with shea or coconut butter and their favorite essential oils to create a more traditional deodorant paste. Experiment and do what works for you! It may take some time for your body to adjust, so be patient and don’t ditch it right away because it “just doesn’t work for you.” You can also buy natural deodorant with baking soda as an active ingredient if you don’t want to go the DIY route. 

Other ways to use baking soda for personal care

Odor removing handwash

Hate the lingering scent of garlic or fish on your hands after you finish cooking dinner? Is hand soap alone just not cutting it? Rub a 3 part baking soda to 1 part dish soap mixture into your hands and wash with warm water. The nasty odors will be gone, and your hands will even be a little softer due to the extra exfoliation. 

Halitosis busting mouthwash

Nasty odors can accumulate on your hands, but it’s even worse when your breath starts to smell up a room. Instead of chowing down on mints and gum that merely mask the scent, dissolve 1 tsp of baking soda in a glass of water and swish it in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Spit and rinse out your mouth with clean water. Because baking soda has a neutral pH, it is perfect for neutralizing acidic odors in your mouth. 

Relaxing and exfoliating bath soak

Add ¼ cup of baking soda to your warm bath along with ½ cup of Epsom salts and your favorite essential oils. The baking soda will make your skin extra smooth, while the Epsom salts and aromatherapy from the essential oils will help you relax and unwind. 

Rejuvenating foot soak

Target your feet specifically and give them some much-needed love with a rejuvenating baking soda foot soak. Simply sprinkle some into your foot soak container along with warm water, let your feet sit for about 15 minutes, and then scrub them with some extra baking soda. This gentle exfoliation is perfect for sensitive feet and will help eliminate dry, cracked heel skin, and leave your feet sandal-ready. 

Hair product eliminator

Do you feel like your shampoo isn’t getting your hair as clean as it used to? If so, you may have a buildup of styling products and conditioners on your scalp that is preventing your shampoo from doing its job. The next time you wash your hair, sprinkle some baking soda into your hand and then mix with your shampoo in your palm. Use it as you usually would, making sure to scrub your scalp. This will help eliminate the product buildup and leave your hair squeaky clean. Remember, don’t use it every wash as it can dry out your hair follicles if used too frequently. 

-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

While I know that many people in the Western world find them off-putting, I absolutely adore sea vegetables. Red, brown, green, crispy, chewy… they all taste great to me. My favorite kind has to be the delicious nori used to wrap sushi rolls (it’s also the kind of seaweed you’ll find dried and crisp for snacking), but I also love the little bites of kelp found in miso soup. They add such a wonderful, salty flavor. As a bonus, kelp is incredibly healthy.

Kelp, also known as kombu, is a type of brown algae. It is also sometimes simply referred to as “large seaweed,” and can represent about 300 types of seaweed that fall under the kelp category. Seaweed itself is ancient, and part of the oh-so-healthy algae family. It’s also very versatile. Kelp can be used to flavor foods; seaweed has a great natural “umami” flavor and is often used in Japanese and Chinese soup bases. It can also be used to add a green, nutritious accent. It can even be eaten on its own if you like the taste (I do, it’s mild and pleasant).

If you want a good reason to add more kelp to your meals, here are eight that come to mind.

1. Vitamins and minerals galore

Eating kelp is a great way to get some vitamins and minerals into your system. This yummy seaweed contains vitamins C and K, along with several B-vitamins. It also contains many minerals and other nutrients, including calcium, copper, potassium, iodine, fiber, magnesium, manganese, and zinc.

Eating the traditional Western diet, as so many of us do all too often, can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Choosing to switch to a healthy lifestyle, and adding kelp to your nutritious recipes, is a great way to get replenished.

2. Iodine for thyroid health

One of the most important benefits of brown algae such as kelp is its high content of iodine. Having an adequate balance of iodine in your body is key to the health of your thyroid. The thyroid is an organ located in your neck. It produces hormones, which are involved in many different functions of your body and mind. If you don’t have enough iodine in your body, your thyroid function may suffer.

Eating kelp on a regular basis may help to improve your thyroid function if your iodine levels are low. Of course, if you suspect your thyroid may be out of whack, your first step should be to see a health professional you trust to get to the bottom of the issue. Then, you’ll be able to find out how much iodine your body needs.

3. Antioxidants to fight inflammation and free radicals

Kelp is high in several antioxidants, including carotenoid and flavonoid antioxidants. It also contains vitamin C, which is known to have potent antioxidant properties within the body. On top of that, kale contains various alkaloids with antioxidant properties. All of these antioxidants combined can help to combat chronic inflammation throughout your body (which can be very dangerous when left unchecked) and keep you feeling your best.

4. Chlorophyll content benefits your blood

Kelp, like other green plants, is high in chlorophyll. Chlorophyll does more than make plants green. Its structure resembles that of human blood, and because of this, may be very beneficial to the health of our blood and entire circulatory system. One such benefit is stimulating the body’s production of red blood cells, which encourages better oxygen delivery to all of the vital organs in your body. Chlorophyll also has many other important benefits.

5. Fiber is vital for your gut and your heart

You probably already know this, but your body needs fiber to function properly. Luckily, kelp contains a wealth of it. Fiber is not only important for digestion, it’s also key to heart health, and the health of your gut, which greatly affects your immune system.

6. Kelp is a vegan source of protein

For those looking for a yummy vegan protein to add to their diets, kelp is a great option. It’s not an entirely complete protein, but it’s close, as it contains numerous amino acids. So, while kelp may not work as a lone protein source, combined with other healthy sources of protein, such as beans, legumes, seeds, and a variety of veggies, it can augment your diet significantly.

7. Kelp is alkaline

Many people who regularly consume the Western diet are too acidic, and this can lead to health issues. Kelp is alkaline in nature, which may help to balance out some of that acidity. Of course, getting rid of the junk in your diet and focusing on whole, nutritious foods is the first step. However, kelp is one of the great nutritious foods you can add.

8. Kelp may help fight cancer

Sea vegetables including kelp may help to fight cancer thanks to their nutrients and anti-inflammatory compounds. They may be especially helpful to estrogen-related cancers such as breast cancer, however, much more research needs to be done on this topic.

But before you eat it every day…

While kelp is incredibly healthy, don’t go overboard. Too much iodine in your system can produce toxicity. If you’re thinking of eating more kelp than would normally be called for in recipes, talk to a health professional you trust first. Also, talk to your doctor if you are considering adding kelp to your diet if you have a cardiovascular or metabolic condition, because of sodium concerns.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy kelp?

-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