Author: everbella
What Is Black Cumin Seed Oil (And What Are Its Benefits?)
You may have just recently heard of black cumin oil. But this isn’t because it’s new – far from it. It’s because black cumin seed oil is making headlines for its many impressive health benefits.
If you want to learn exactly what black cumin seed oil is and how it can benefit your health, just keep on reading!
What is black cumin seed oil?
Black cumin seed oil – also known as black seed oil, kalonji oil, or nigella sativa oil – is an amber-colored oil extracted from tiny black seeds of the flowering Nigella sativa plant that originated in Southwest Asia and has been used throughout the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe.
For thousands of years, black cumin seed oil has been used medicinally to treat a wide range of conditions.
In fact, black cumin seed oil is so ancient that black cumin seeds were found in King Tut’s tomb, and they even got a mention in the Old Testament as being able to cure anything but death!
But what makes the oil of these seeds so great in the first place?
Well, for starters, it contains omega-3, -6, and -9 essential fatty acids, along with cholesterol-lowering plant compounds called phytosterols. Though, the source of its impressive benefits is often attributed to a particularly potent active compound called thymoquinone (TQ), which is a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy, and immune supporting properties.
So, what kind of benefits can you expect from black cumin seed oil? Just keep reading to find out!
6 benefits of black cumin seed oil
In recent years, there have been quite a few studies done on this oil with some interesting findings. Below are the top 6 benefits to look forward to when taking black cumin seed oil.
1. Supports digestive health
Black cumin seed oil has been used for quite some time to promote overall digestive health. In fact, it’s one of its oldest traditional uses, with tinctures of the seeds being used for indigestion, bloating, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. [1]
In addition, studies have found that black cumin seed oil helped prevent the formation of gastric ulcers in rats. Researchers believe that this is due to the gastroprotective effects of thymoquinone, which has been shown to inhibit acid secretion and help maintain the layer of mucus that lines and protects the gut. [2]
2. Supports the endocannabinoid system
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is the body’s “master regulatory system”. The ECS comprises a vast network of chemical signals and cellular receptors that are densely packed throughout our brains and bodies. It modulates several of our most critical bodily functions such as learning and memory, emotional processing, sleep, temperature control, pain control, inflammatory and immune responses, and eating.
Due to its phytocannabinoid content, the ECS can benefit from black cumin seed oil. Phytocannabinoids are beneficial plant compounds found in black cumin seed oil, hemp, hops, rosemary, and more. [3]
Specifically, black cumin seed oil contains a key phytocannabinoid called beta-caryophyllene (BCP). BCP binds exclusively to the CB2 cannabinoid receptor. This receptor dominates the peripheral nervous system, immune system, gut, liver, skin, and bones – so supporting it is important to maintaining optimal health in these systems. [4]
3. Promotes healthy skin and hair
Cleopatra, queen of Egypt known not just for her power, but her beauty, is said to have had a secret to her appeal – black cumin seed oil.
While it would be difficult – if not impossible – to fully prove this anecdote, thanks to modern research, it wouldn’t be surprising to find out that it’s true.
A 2015 review of studies found that black seed oil intake can significantly and positively affect acne after just two months, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. [5]
Other research has found that topical application of black seed oil speeds wound healing, which may help reduce blemishes and scarring. [6]
4. Aids in weight maintenance
If you’re looking to lose weight, black cumin seed oil can help. It’s not a magic bullet, but it can certainly provide some assistance.
For example, one eight-week study looked at women who were following a calorie-restricted diet. They were sectioned off into two groups, with one taking a daily dose of black cumin seed oil and the other taking a placebo. By the end, the black seed oil group experienced greater reductions in weight and waist circumference. [7]
If you’re on a routine to lose weight, adding black cumin seed oil into the mix can help you see faster results.
5. Fights seasonal allergies
Allergies can sneak up on you and be incredibly annoying. Right now, the season is changing, and maybe some things either inside or outside are giving you a tough time. Well, the good news is that black cumin seed oil can help!
In one randomized, controlled study, patients with hay fever were given black cumin seed oil on a daily basis. They experienced a positive impact on nasal congestion, nasal itching, runny nose, and sneezing attacks just within the first two weeks. [8]
These results are likely due to the fact that thymoquinone acts as an antihistamine.
6. Soothes aching joints
More and more studies keep being carried out to fully grasp the potential of black cumin seed oil. Another area that has been looked at is joint health.
In one study from 2011, women who were given a dose of black cumin seed oil twice per day experienced a positive impact on swollen joints and morning joint stiffness. [9]
A more recent study found that women who took black cumin seed oil had lower inflammatory markers – ones that typically inflamed the joints. [10]
How to get black cumin seed oil?
If you’re looking for a reliable, highly-absorbable form of black cumin seed oil so that you can soak in these benefits, I have just the thing.
See, the “Plus” stands for the other added compounds that are important for not just the health of your hair and skin, but your entire body! And one of these compounds is black cumin seed oil.
As always, it’s infused with EverBella’s patented micelle liposomal formula. This means that you can be confident that you’re getting the most black cumin seed oil out of every dose!
Support your health and beauty the same way Cleopatra did!
>>> Click here to learn more
The Benefits Of Collagen For Gut Health
When you think of collagen, you’re probably picturing smooth, firm, plump, and youthful skin. Or maybe it evokes the feeling of long, thick, strong hair. If you’ve been taking it for a while, it could also make you think of healthy, capable joints.
None of these are wrong.
This is because these are all common, well-known benefits of collagen. But there is something else that collagen can help with. One you probably didn’t think of right away, or wouldn’t have thought of at all!
As the most abundant protein in the human body, the health benefits of collagen extend to our bones, joints, connective tissues, ligaments, muscles, nails, and hair. It’s the glue that holds our body together and keeps it strong, healthy, and vital. But what else is this collagen doing for us that we may not even be aware of?
Collagen and the gut
Our gut is integral in determining the state of our immune health, metabolism, skin, brain health, and overall well-being. Maintaining a healthy gut is of the utmost importance. When we neglect our gut, we leave it – and ourselves – vulnerable to pathogens, infection, inflammation, and a range of digestive issues, like leaky gut syndrome.
Also known as intestinal permeability, leaky gut is a condition where the integrity of the intestinal wall has been compromised and, as a result, the immune system has been triggered. When the tight tissue of the gut wall becomes loose or “leaky”, endotoxins that are typically processed and eliminated are able to escape and be reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This triggers the immune system and causes a large influx in inflammation.
While many things can help support a leaky gut, collagen is a great way to ensure that our digestive system functions at an optimal level and avoids this issue.
How collagen soothes, repairs, and strengthens the gut lining
Collagen doesn’t just keep the cells of your skin strong and healthy. It supports the tissue of every organ in your body, including your gut. Collagen plays an integral role in rebuilding and strengthening the lining of our digestive tract as it contains the amino acids that are essential for its repair.
Research shows that collagen peptides can actually ameliorate gut barrier dysfunction and improve its tight junctions. [1]
A 2020 animal study also found an interesting correlation between a diet rich in collagen peptides and an altered microbiota with increased short-chain fatty acid production. Given that short-chain fatty acids carry powerful anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory benefits, this is a promising new area of research. [2]
Additionally, since gut inflammation is linked to inflammation elsewhere in the body, it’s undoubtedly beneficial to include an abundance of amino acid-rich compounds – like collagen – in our diet to help keep gut inflammation and overall inflammation at bay.
Collagen aids in digestion and nutrient absorption
When we experience digestive issues such as leaky gut, we are also at risk of impaired nutrient absorption as nutrients that would otherwise be properly absorbed in a healthy gut are instead able to escape through the intestinal lining. Since collagen can help support the integrity of the gut wall, it can mitigate the loss of nutrients from impaired gut function.
Collagen synthesis
As we age, our body’s ability to naturally produce collagen declines, so we must ensure we consume enough of the amino acids required to build, store, and synthesize collagen. But if you’re experiencing stomach issues, you may not be able to even properly bring in the amino acids that have the power to rebuild your gut’s health.
The good news is that EverBella’s Micelle Liposomal Complete Collagen Plus is designed to bypass these troubles, getting delivered directly to the bloodstream so that it can get to where it’s needed most in your body. Whether that’s the gut, your skin, or your joints, you can feel confident that you’re getting a full and pure dose of collagen with Complete Collagen Plus.
References:
Can You Get Too Much Biotin?
If you’re like me, you’ve been taking Complete Biotin Plus every day and reaping the benefits. Thick, split-end free hair, unbreakable nails, increased energy, and more. But you may have noticed that my formula has 1750 mcg of biotin in it. While this may seem high, if you check most other store-bought biotin supplements, you’ll notice they have FAR more – some of them up to 10,000 mcg!
For those store brand supplements, they jack up the dose so high because they know that hardly any of it will get absorbed. So, they heavily increase the amount, hoping that your body will take in at least some of it.
For EverBella, we’ve increased ours from the recommended daily intake (RDI) so that you can have biotin in your system at ALL times. That’s the best way to get its full benefits. And, the RDI is really only the amount to avoid a deficiency. If you get 100% of your RDI every day, you’re really just toeing the line.
But still, even with all of this being said, you still may wonder if you can take too much biotin. Is there such a thing as a biotin overdose or biotin toxicity?
Keep reading to find out! We’re going to cover these questions, as well as a few basics of biotin just as a refresher.
What is biotin?
Biotin (or vitamin B7) is one of the many water-soluble B-vitamins that are necessary for your body to function. One of its main roles in the body is to metabolize macronutrients in order to regulate your metabolism. Another key role of biotin is in the nervous system, by helping the brain transmit nerve signals. B vitamins protect your brain and improve your memory and concentration, and biotin is no exception.
Another major function of biotin is creating the protein that makes up your hair, nails, and parts of your skin – keratin.
What are the benefits of biotin?
Biotin plays an important role in metabolizing glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids. Its role as an enzyme in the metabolism of amino acids is crucial for protein creation – like keratin – which results in building strong, healthy hair and nails.
Clinical trials have shown that it can help reduce brittle nails that easily split or crack. [1]
And participants in a Switzerland study saw a 25% increase in nail plate thickness following biotin supplementation. [2]
The same goes for healthy hair. Studies show that individuals with a biotin deficiency can benefit from supplementing biotin to help with hair growth. [3]
And when researchers have looked at people who have hair that’s brittle, unhealthy, or just refusing to grow, they’ve found that most of them are low in biotin! [4]
Hair is easily damaged by sun-exposure, overwashing, and constant heat from the hairdryer or other styling tools. As mentioned above, biotin plays a role in building the protein that helps regrow healthy hair, which is why it has become such a popular hair and nail supplement.
What are the signs of a biotin deficiency?
Symptoms of biotin deficiency typically come on gradually. [5]
These symptoms include:
- Thinning hair and hair loss on all areas of the body
- Brittle nails
- A scaly red rash around the eyes, nose, and mouth
In the most severe cases, a biotin deficiency can lead to:
- Neurological conditions such as depression
- Lethargy
- Hallucinations
- Tingling of the extremities
Those with a genetic disorder for deficiency in biotinidase – an enzyme that helps recycle biotin to be reused by the body – are at a higher risk of deficiency. Pregnant and lactating women should also be mindful of their intake. At least a third of pregnant women develop a slight deficiency regardless of normal intake, because the process of lactation lowers biotin levels.
So, can you get too much biotin?
Biotin is water-soluble. This means that there’s no official upper limit for biotin because your body only stores what it needs. The rest is simply excreted in your urine.
The normal recommended biotin dosage for adults is 30 to 100 micrograms (mcg) per day. But as I mentioned earlier, this is quite low, especially if you’re looking to experience ALL of the benefits biotin has to offer. If your levels are just barely high enough, your body may use the little biotin it has to help with regulating the metabolism instead of growing your hair. While regulating your metabolism is good, you want it to do both, of course!
But while you could be getting too little biotin, there’s no evidence of high levels of biotin being harmful or causing toxicity. Research has suggested that even mega-doses of 300 mg (that’s 300,000 mcg) to help with treating multiple sclerosis have no adverse side effects. [6]
One caveat is that taking a lot of biotin can interfere with lab test results. The technology used to measure levels of thyroid hormones and vitamin D, for example, can show high or low test results. For this reason, it’s important to inform your doctor if you’re taking a biotin supplement. [7]
The other side effects of too much biotin are pretty nonexistent, but if you take too much of the biotin supplements beyond 10,000 mcg, you could potentially encounter digestive issues, as your body is working to flush out the excess biotin.
All of this being said…
You want to make sure you’re taking a biotin supplement that can actually get absorbed by your body and sent to where it needs to go. Why bother taking 10,000 mcg and crossing your fingers, hoping that your body not only takes it in, but allocates it properly?
EverBella’s Complete Biotin Plus is designed to be fully absorbed and used by your body. If you’re looking for results, this is it.
I’m so confident in my formula, that I give you 6 months to try it. If you’re not completely satisfied, simply return your order for a FULL refund.
>>> Click here to get started
What Is “Collagen Induction Therapy” (Or “Microneedling”)?
Have you ever been talking to someone about collagen and they bring up something called “collagen induction therapy” or “microneedling”?
Whether you have or not, let me explain what this process is, who it’s for, and how it works. That way, next time it’s brought up, you can say you already know all about it!
What is microneedling?
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure often carried out by dermatologists in an attempt to naturally stimulate collagen production in the skin, helping to reduce wrinkles, acne scarring, stretch marks, or other blemishes.
This is done by pricking the skin with small, sterilized needles. The idea is that by using these needles to damage the skin, your body will repair the area with new, collagen-rich skin.
To help you better understand this procedure, let’s go over a few things.
Fast facts about microneedling
Safety
- Microneedling isn’t very invasive and doesn’t usually require much recovery time.
- It’s considered safe for most people.
- However, those who have active acne, are on acne medication, or are suffering from a condition like psoriasis or eczema should avoid the procedure. [1]
- Minor redness and irritation may occur for a few days following the procedure.
Convenience
- Generally speaking, from start to finish, each session lasts about two hours.
- It’s best to see a board certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, cosmetic surgeon, or a supervised aesthetician for this procedure for best results.
- For best results, you will also need multiple treatments.
Cost
- Microneedling can cost anywhere from $200 to $800 per session.
- Considering you may need several sessions to start seeing results, this could run into the thousands.
- It’s typically not covered by insurance.
Efficacy
- Microneedling has been found to be somewhat effective in treating scarring related to acne, scars, stretch marks, and maturing skin. [2, 3, 4, 5]
- Skin may become brighter and firmer as well.
- Ideal results can be noticed after multiple sessions, however it may require long-term maintenance for consistent results.
Should you do it?
Microneedling has been found to be effective in facial treatments when consistently done, and there has been research showing that they can be effective in other areas of the body, such as stretch marks on the thighs and stomach. [6]
Whether or not you should try microneedling is up to you. A numbing agent is typically applied, so you don’t feel the pricking of the needles on your face or body.
However, side effects like bleeding, bruising, infection, or peeling are not unheard of and should be taken into consideration.
You also need to factor in the hefty cost and the regular visits to the clinic. This could bring you into the tens of thousands over a single year.
Personally, I prefer another way…
I don’t love the idea of having a bunch of needles poked into my face. I understand the idea of it – to promote the creation of collagen – however, I’d prefer to just send more collagen into my body.
You can do this with Complete Collagen Plus. The collagen peptides are protected by lipid molecules – micelles and liposomes – so you can trust that they’re actually making it into your system fully intact.
Not only can you pump up your collagen levels from the comfort of your own home, you can do it at a fraction of the cost you’d pay for microneedling, and it tastes amazing!
And when you ingest collagen, you get to send it to other parts of your body that may need it, like your bones, joints, and hair.
Complete Collagen Plus also contains other nutrients and compounds that even further support your health!
>>> Click here to learn what they are and how they serve your health
7 Health Benefits Of Selenium (Backed By Science)
When you think of important vitamins and minerals, selenium may not be on the top of your list.
But it should be.
After reading today’s article, you’ll understand the importance of this essential mineral. It plays a major role in many functions throughout your body and can only be obtained through diet or supplementation.
So let’s take a look at the 7 most important health benefits of selenium!
1. It’s a powerful antioxidant.
Free radicals are normal byproducts of bodily processes like metabolism. However, they can also be created by exposure to cigarettes, alcohol, processed foods, stress, and more.
Free radicals are unstable atoms that damage the cells of your body, causing what’s known as oxidative stress. [1]
Oxidative stress has been linked to several chronic conditions as well as premature aging, especially within the skin. [2, 3, 4, 5, 6]
Thankfully, we have antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals, greatly reducing the damage they cause. Selenium is one of these antioxidants that can help keep your body free from oxidative stress! [7]
2. May reduce the risk of cancer
On top of reducing oxidative stress, selenium can help lower the risk of certain cancers.
This is because selenium has been found to not just reduce oxidative stress, but DNA damage, it can boost your immune system, and actually destroy cancer cells. [8]
A review of 69 studies that involved over 350,000 people found a clear link between higher levels of selenium in the blood and a lower risk of breast, lung, colon, and prostate cancer. [9]
Selenium has also been found to help people undergoing cancer treatment. For example, one study found that selenium supplements improved quality of life and reduced symptoms of chemo in women with cervical and uterine cancer. [10]
3. Can protect against heart disease
Low selenium levels have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. As such, maintaining levels of selenium can help keep your heart healthy.
In a review of 25 observational studies, a 50% increase in blood selenium levels was associated with a 24% reduction in the risk of heart disease. [11]
Selenium has also been shown to reduce markers of inflammation in the body, which is a major risk factor for heart disease.
For example, an analysis of 16 studies which involved over 433,000 participants who had heart disease showed that daily selenium supplements decreased levels of certain inflammatory markers. Not only that, but it increased levels of glutathione – one of the most powerful antioxidants out there. [12]
This shows that selenium intake can help lower the risk of heart disease by decreasing both inflammation and oxidative stress within the body. This may greatly lower the risk of the buildup of plaque within the arteries, which has been known to cause strokes, heart attacks, and heart disease. [13]
4. Helps prevent mental decline
Oxidative stress is believed to be involved in both the onset and progression of neurological diseases like Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. [14]
Interestingly, several studies have shown that patients with Alzheimer’s disease have lower blood levels of selenium. [15, 16]
One study also found that eating Brazil nuts every day – one of the best sources of selenium – resulted in improved speech and mental functions in patients with mild cognitive impairment. [17]
On top of that, research has found that those on the Mediterranean diet – which is rich in high-selenium foods like nuts and seafood – have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. [18, 19]
5. Supports thyroid health
The tissue in your thyroid contains a higher amount of selenium than anywhere else in your body. This is because selenium is integral for the proper functioning of your thyroid gland. [20]
Selenium plays an essential role in the production of thyroid hormones while protecting the organ against oxidative damage.
You want to ensure that your thyroid is healthy, as it regulates your metabolism and controls growth and development. [21]
Selenium deficiency has been linked to thyroid conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, a type of hypothyroidism in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.
One study which included over 6,000 people found that low selenium levels were associated with a higher risk of thyroid conditions. [22]
On top of that, some research has indicated that selenium supplements may help those with thyroid conditions. [23]
6. Boosts your immune system
Your immune system keeps you healthy by targeting and eliminating anything that can threaten the health of your body, like bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
As an antioxidant, selenium plays an important role within the immune system, reducing inflammation and enhancing immunity.
Studies have found that high levels of selenium in the body enhances the immune response, while a deficiency actually harms immune cell function and leads to a slower immune response. [24]
Research has also indicated that selenium supplements may help bolster the immune system in those who are sick. [25]
7. May help reduce asthma symptoms
Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the airways that carry air in and out of the lungs. With asthma, these airways become inflamed and narrow. As such, the severity of asthma has been linked to increased levels of oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. [26]
Due to this, selenium may be able to reduce the symptoms of asthma,
In fact, research suggests that people with asthma have lower blood levels of selenium. One study even found that asthmatic patients with higher levels of selenium has better lung function than those with lower levels. [27]
Selenium has also been found to reduce asthma symptoms. For example, one study found that giving people with asthma daily selenium supplements allowed them to better control their symptoms. [28]
What’s the best way to get selenium?
Now you know the importance of ensuring that you get enough selenium. But it can be difficult to do so through diet alone.
For example, Brazil nuts are among the best sources of selenium. However, not all Brazil nuts are the same. One study looked at Brazil nuts from varying sources and found that some of the nuts had 288% of your recommended intake, while others only provided 11%. [29]
On top of that, you then have to hope that your body takes in all of that selenium so that it can actually benefit your health.
In my newest product, Complete Biotin Plus, the Plus stands for other compounds I’ve included other than biotin that can benefit not just your hair growth, but your health!
Selenium is one of these compounds!
And it’s infused with EverBella’s micelle liposomal formula so that you can be confident you’re getting enough of this important mineral each and every day.
To learn more about this, PLUS what other beneficial ingredients are in my Complete Biotin Plus formula…
14 Self-Care Tips For Migraines
If you suffer from migraines, then you know that they can be debilitating. Not only do they cause pain and throbbing in your head, but they can also make you feel nauseous and lightheaded. In some cases, migraines can even lead to vomiting or extreme fatigue.
I don’t want you or anyone you know to have to suffer through migraines. That’s why I wrote today’s article on how to help. If you want to try to prevent, reduce, or calm migraines, then follow these 17 self-care tips!
1. Spend time in nature
According to a study published in the journal Headache, spending time in nature can help to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines. The study found that participants who spent at least two hours per week in green space experienced fewer migraines than those who didn’t. The researchers believe that the peaceful environment and fresh air may help to relax the mind and reduce stress levels, which can trigger migraines. In addition, being in nature can also help to increase levels of serotonin, a chemical that helps to regulate mood. So next time you’re feeling a migraine coming on, head to your nearest park for some fresh air and relaxation!
2. Keep a symptom journal
For people who suffer from migraines, managing the condition can feel like a never-ending battle. There are a variety of potential triggers, and it can be difficult to identify patterns without keeping careful track. This is where a symptom journal can be an invaluable tool.
By taking note of when migraines occur, what symptoms are present, and what possible triggers may have been present, it becomes much easier to start identifying patterns. Once patterns are identified, it becomes possible to take steps to avoid triggers and minimize the frequency and severity of migraines. For many people, keeping a symptom journal is an essential part of effectively managing migraines.
3. Drink enough water
Migraines can be debilitating, and often seem to strike without warning. While there is no surefire cure for migraines, there are certain things that can help to lessen their frequency and intensity. One of the most important is staying hydrated.
Dehydration is a common trigger for migraines, so it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for eight glasses of water per day, and make sure to drink even more if you are exercising or sweating profusely. In addition, try to avoid dehydration by avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which can both contribute to dehydration. If you are susceptible to migraines, staying hydrated is essential in helping to prevent them.
4. Eat on a regular schedule
One of the most important ways to lessen the frequency and severity of migraines is to eat on a regular schedule. Skipping meals or going too long without food can trigger a migraine, so it’s important to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner at roughly the same time each day. This will help to keep your blood sugar levels stable and prevent hunger headaches. If you stick to a healthy, regular eating schedule, you may find that your migraines become less frequent and less severe.
5. Limit alcohol
Research has shown that drinking alcohol is a trigger for nearly one-third of people who experience migraines. If you’re trying to reduce your migraine attacks, limiting your alcohol intake can be an effective strategy.
It’s important to note that not all types of alcoholic beverages are equally likely to trigger migraines. For example, red wine is a common trigger, while vodka is less likely to cause problems. So if you enjoy the occasional drink, opting for clear liquor may be a good option.
Of course, the best way to prevent migraines is to avoid all triggers. But if you enjoy the occasional drink, knowing which beverages are more likely to cause problems can help you make choices that will minimize your risk of a migraine attack.
6. Have good sleeping habits
Most people don’t realize that the quality of their sleep has a direct impact on their migraines. In fact, studies have shown that having good sleeping habits can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines. Here are some tips to help you get a good night’s sleep:
First, make sure that your bedroom is dark and quiet. This will help your body relax and make it easier to fall asleep. Second, establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible. This means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Finally, avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, as these can interfere with your sleep.
By following these simple tips, you can help improve your sleep quality and reduce the incidence of migraines.
7. Consider acupuncture
Acupuncture is a 3000 year old Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into the body at specific points. According to traditional Chinese medicine, this helps to improve the flow of energy or “qi” in the body. While acupuncture has been used to treat a variety of conditions, recent studies have shown that it can be an effective treatment for migraines.
One study found that acupuncture was more effective than medication in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. In addition, acupuncture is believed to be a safe treatment with few side effects. This is important because many migraine medications come with a long list of potential side effects. Finally, acupuncture is a drug-free option for those who are looking for an alternative to medication. If you are suffering from migraines, talk to your doctor about whether acupuncture might be right for you.
8. Reduce screen time
Staring at a screen all day can cause eye strain, which in turn can lead to a migraine. Additionally, the blue light emitted by screens can disrupt your natural sleep cycle, making you more susceptible to migraines. Reducing your screen time can help to lessen the frequency and severity of migraines. By taking breaks throughout the day to give your eyes a rest, and avoiding screens for at least an hour before bedtime, you can help to reduce your risk of migraines.
9. Avoid lights and noise
One of the most effective ways to reduce the severity of a migraine is to avoid bright lights and loud noises. These stimuli can trigger a migraine or make existing symptoms worse. If possible, try to stay in a dark, quiet room until the migraine has passed. Additionally, you may want to consider wearing earplugs or an eye mask to further reduce exposure to potential triggers. While it is not always possible to completely avoid all light and noise, minimizing exposure can help to ease the discomfort of a migraine.
10. Stay active
Regular exercise has been shown to help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. Exercise helps to release endorphins, which have natural pain-relieving properties. In addition, exercise can help to reduce stress levels and improve sleep quality, both of which can help to prevent migraines. Even if you don’t suffer from migraines, being active is always a good idea!
11. Try a hot or cold compress
Another good treatment for migraines is the use of hot or cold compresses. Applying a warm compress to the forehead and temples can help to soothe migraine pain, while a cold compress can help to reduce inflammation. Some people find relief by alternating between hot and cold compresses, while others find that one or the other works best for them. Whichever approach you choose, be sure to wrap the compress in a towel to avoid causing any further irritation. With a little trial and error, you should be able to find a method that provides some relief from your migraines.
12. Deep breathing exercises
Slow, deep breathing helps to relax the body and relieves stress. In addition, it increases the flow of oxygen to the brain, which can help to reduce inflammation and ease pain. While deep breathing exercises won’t cure migraines, they can help to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. For best results, practice deep breathing exercises on a regular basis, even when you’re feeling well. That way, you’ll be prepared the next time a migraine strikes.
13. Cut down on caffeine
Caffeine is a common trigger for migraines, and cutting back on coffee, tea, and soda can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. Caffeine withdrawal can also cause headaches, so it’s important to cut down gradually rather than going cold turkey. If you typically drink a lot of caffeine, start by cutting back to one cup a day, and then eventually eliminating it completely from your diet. During headache episodes, avoid all forms of caffeine, as even small amounts can make the pain worse. By making this simple change, you can significantly reduce your risk of headaches.
14. Try magnesium
For many people, magnesium deficiency can actually trigger migraines. Magnesium is a mineral that’s involved in over 600 processes in the body, including muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and blood sugar regulation. It’s also thought to have a calming effect on the brain, which may explain why magnesium supplementation has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. If you’re suffering from migraines, magnesium may be able to help you.
In fact, research has shown that magnesium supplements can not only prevent migraines, but treat them as well! [1, 2]
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I hope these tips help!
If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from migraines, you know how debilitating they can be. The good news is that there are many things you can do to help prevent or reduce the severity of attacks. In this article, I’ve listed fourteen self-care tips that have been shown to be effective for migraine sufferers. I truly hope they’re able to help you or a loved one get through these painful and inconvenient episodes.